Haveli is a traditional townhouse or mansion in India usually one with historical and architectural significance.
Bikaner town is famous for these Havelis. Many of the Havelis of India were influenced by Rajasthani architecture. They usually contain a courtyard often with a fountain in the centre.. The havelis were status symbols for the Marwaris as well as homes for their extended families, providing security and comfort in seclusion from the outside world. The havelis were to be closed from all sides with one large main gate.
The typical havelis in Bikaner consisted of two courtyards — an outer one for the men which serves as an extended threshold, and the inner one, the domain of the women. The largest havelis could have up to three or four courtyards and were two to three stories high. Most of the havelis are empty nowadays or are maintained by a watchman, while many others have been converted into hotels and places of tourist attraction.
