shekhawati rajasthan tourism

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Rajasthan's Shekhawati Region

Tripsavvy / Sharell Cook 

If you're an art lover, or even someone who's into architecture and history, the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is well worth including on your itinerary. Located in the triangle of Delhi, Jaipur and Bikaner, many people overlook it in favor of more popular destinations in Rajasthan . However, this unique region is often referred to as the world's largest open air art gallery.

The old havelis (mansions), with walls adorned with intricate painted frescoes, are the main attraction in the Shekhawati region. The region's background is fascinating. It was established in the 18th century along a caravan trade route, and ruled by the Shekhawat Rajputs. The region was a prosperous one, with over 100 villages, and 50 forts and palaces.

Over the next century, many people from the neighboring Marwar community migrated to Shekhawati and made it their home. These rich business people commissioned artists to paint frescoes on their homes as a sign of opulence. Painted havelis cropped up all over the desert landscape. The art was kept alive for nearly 300 years. However, eventually, more and more families settled elsewhere. These days many homes are abandoned, locked up, and neglected.

How to Get There

The Shekhawati region is best approached from Jaipur or Bikaner, in Rajasthan, or Delhi . If you want to take the train from Delhi, Indian Railways trains depart from Delhi Sarai Rohilla station and go via Churu (on the outskirts of the region) to Bikaner or Jodhpur. Travel time is approximately 4.5 hours. There are more frequent departures from Jaipur, and they conveniently stop at Nawalgarh. Travel time is approximately 3.5 hours. The nearest airport is in Jaipur, around 150 kilometers (93 miles) away.

Hiring a car and driver is recommended and facilitates easy touring of the region. From Jaipur, V Care Tours and Travel provide top quality car and driver services. Their cars are new and clean, and the very courteous drivers are uniformed and English speaking. If you don't have a car, you can explore by everything from horseback to bus.

For an in-depth experience of the Shekhawati region, this Straight from the Art trip from Breakaway is recommended, departing from either Delhi or Jaipur.

The main tourist season extends from October until March, when the weather is the coolest and driest. If you go in early February, you'll be able to catch the annual Shekhawati Festival that takes place in Nawalgarh. This festival is dedicated to showcasing the heritage of the region. Highlights include a handicrafts market, organic food court, cultural performances, and local games. Winter nights are cold though, so do pack warm clothing!

Best Places to See Shekhawati's Havelis

As the Shekhawati region is spread out over around 100 kilometers (62 miles), it's a good idea to choose a base for yourself, keeping in mind that the roads from north to south are in much better condition than the roads from east to west. You'll most likely find that a few days in the region are enough, as to be honest, the painted havelis are similar and some people find that viewing one after another becomes monotonous. If you feel like relaxing though, Shekhawati is a peaceful region for some time out.

Nawalgargh and Mandawa are two recommended bases. Mandawa is arguably the best choice, as it's centrally located for exploring the region and is popular with travelers.

• Nawalgarh : Nawalgarh is a vibrant town with a great blend of accommodation options (which are absent in smaller towns and villages) and painted havelis, which number in the hundreds. The finest frescoes can be found here. Some of the most attractive havelis are the Aath (eight) Haveli complex, Jodhraj Patodia Haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat Haveli, and Chokhani Haveli. Do check out the town's colorful bazaar and fort too. The Morarka Haveli Museum is a landmark and depicts the various motifs prevalent in the frescoes. The Dr Ramnath A Podar Haveli Museum, built in the 1920s on the eastern side of town, also has vibrant murals. If you want to get around the Shekhawati region on horseback, Nawalgargh is the place to start from.
• Mandawa : The small market town of Mandawa has more of a rural Rajasthani village feel and dozens of decorated Shekhawati havelis. However, some of them are sadly dilapidated. The town is dominated by an imposing fort, turned into a hotel. For a panoramic view over the town, head up to the terrace of the Mandawa Castle . There are plenty of attractive accommodation options in Mandawa.

Other Places Worth Exploring

• Jhunjhunu : The Old Capital and largest town in the region. Located in the north, it has a number of painted havelis, as well as an old palace and numerous temples. However, it lacks the charm of the smaller villages.
• Fatehpur : Fatehpur, founded in the mid 15th century and taken over by Shekhawati Rajputs in the 18th century, has many painted havelis. Unfortunately, again, many haven't been well maintained. Do have a look at the frescoes on the walls of the Devra and Singhania Havelis, which combine Indian and Western styles. Surprisingly, the mirror work at the entrance has Japanese tiles with images of Mount Fuji. The Nadine le Prince Haveli is also a major point of interest. This haveli was bought and restored by a French artist, and was recently converted to a boutique hotel. There are various art galleries inside. You can have a look around by paying an entry fee is 500 rupees, which covers the cost of the guided tour you'll be given by a French student.
• Ramgargh : This was once one of Shekhawati's wealthiest towns. The temples are particularly interesting and provide variation from the havelis.
• Mahansar : The lovely small town of Mahansar was settled by the prosperous Podder family who dealt in opium and chintz. The town flourished until one of the Podders lost his livelihood when ships carrying opium sunk. The two main attractions are the Mahansar Fort (there's a heritage hotel there where you can have lunch) and the Sone ki Dukan (Golden Shop) with its gold painted murals that tell the stories of Hindu mythology.
• Dunlod : To the south of Mandawa, towards Nawalgarh, Dunlod has a small number of havelis with impressive murals as well as a fort at its center.
• Mukundgarh : This town is a renowned craft center. In addition, you'll find one of the biggest havelis in the region there, as well as a fort.

Suggested Itineraries

If you base yourself in Mandawa, you can visit the surrounding towns in circuits. For example:

• Day One : Mandawa-Fatehpur-Ramgargh-Mahansar-Mandawa.
• Day Two : Mandawa-Mukundgarh-Dunlod-Nawalgarh-Mandawa.

Shekhawati Rajasthan Map

To enable you to plan your travels, this map shows most of the major towns in the Shekhawati region with Mandawa as the base. Do note that not all roads are drawn on the map.

Where to Stay in Shekhawati

One of the really appealing things about visiting the Shekhawati region is that you can actually stay in some of the beautiful old havelis and completely be transported back to the bygone era.

Budget travelers will be happy because in many cases, cheap is actually best value for money. Common complaints at the more expensive hotels include bad service, unclean rooms with inconsistent standards, and poor maintenance.

Best Hotels in Nawalgarh

• Roop Niwas Kothi (Palace) -- this grand country house located around one kilometer north of the fort was once the residence of the royal family. It received a full makeover in 1928, which added contemporary flare and architecture, and opened for guests in 1981. The hotel has a stable with around 60 horses, which you can take out riding. Expect to pay 5,000 rupees upwards for a double, per night.
• Apani Dhani Eco-Lodge -- something completely different, this hotel offers accommodations in attractively constructed mud huts surrounded by fields away from the city center. Plenty of activities are provided to help guests discover daily life and traditions of rural India. Rates start from around 1,500 rupees per night. Do be aware that there are a number of rules to be followed, such as no alcohol.
• Rajesh Jangid Tourist Pension -- guests rave about this sweet but simple place, which has the same owners as Apani Dhani. It stands out for its organic ingredients sourced from local farms, recycling, and cultural workshops lead by local artists. The eight rooms are located in a Brahmin home, so there's no meat or alcohol allowed. Rates start from about 1,000 rupees per night for a double.
• Shekhawati Guest House -- is an eco-friendly and homely guesthouse located on an organic farm outside the town. Rates range from 800 rupees per night for a standard double room up to 1,500 rupees a night for an air conditioned cottage. The home cooked food served in the garden restaurant is delicious.

Best hotels in Mandawa

• Vivaana Culture Hotel -- if you feel like splurging, then this is the hotel for you. This gorgeous property is a meticulously restored 19th century haveli located 10 kilometers from Mandawa. Rates start from about 6,500 rupees per night for a double, with breakfast included.
• Castle Mandawa -- a 240 year old fortress that's been converted into a hotel with a spacious courtyard, lofty domes, turrets, and cannons. It's a huge, rambling place that you can spend an afternoon exploring. However, this hotel is special for its atmosphere and setting, not for the rooms. Rates start from 7,500 rupees per night for a double.
• Mandawa Haveli -- this stunning decorated haveli has a very handy main street location. It's been lovingly restored and the walls of the inner courtyard are adorned with spectacular detailed frescoes with a Krishna theme. Staff are helpful and service is good. The hotel also offers a range of activities including camel cart rides. Rates start from 2,750 rupees per night for a double room. The Gopesh Suite, at 5,550 rupees a night is a treat, with arches, window seats, and countless windows overlooking the town. It also has a private courtyard.
• Hotel Shekhawati -- the best budget option at Mandawa. It has gorgeous painted frescoes in its spacious rooms, and very pleasant staff. Room rates start at a reasonable 1,000 rupees per night.
• Pawaana Haveli -- has a superb location in the heart of town with an organic rooftop restaurant overlooking Mandawa Castle and Raghunath Temple. There are 11 uniquely decorated and newly renovated rooms with frescoes to choose from, with rates starting from about 2,000 rupees per night (although some of the cheaper rooms don't have windows). Do book well in advance as this hotel fills up fast!
• Hotel Chobdar Haveli -- another newly and beautifully done up boutique hotel, the Chobdar Haveli has just five suites for guests, all individually themed in different colors. Room rates start from 3,500 rupees for double, per night.

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Shekhawati in Rajasthan: Exploring a treasure trove

It’s commonplace to hear travellers talk about certain destinations as “hidden gems”, but they use it often casually. However, Shekhawati region in Rajasthan has so many of these hidden gems in real sense of the term that I felt like finding a treasure trove! Hundreds of beautiful havelis built across the region by merchants hundreds of years ago still stand proudly in glory. Adds to this is the  unique charm of  the unadulterated, slow-paced rural life of Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Besides, the semi-arid, desert-like landscape of the region is a treat to the eyes.

{Further reading suggestion on a similar semi-arid travel destination in India:  Unique experiences in Kutch }

I have travelled across the region quite thoroughly a number of times in different seasons. And each time, I have come back with a feeling that travel is as much about marveling the wonders of the world as exploring the hidden gems. Here’s my account of what makes the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan so special. I will also throw light on the things to expect for an inquisitive traveller.

Believe me, Shekhawati is absolutely unique in many ways; let alone India, even Rajasthan doesn’ t   have a parallel. Especially for a lover of history and heritage, this is like paradise!

{More Rajasthan destinations:  Gagron Fort  ||  Lake city Udaipur

Shekhawati Region in Rajasthan

Shekhawati today comprises of the districts of Jhunjhunu, Sikar, and  Churu, to the north of Jaipur in Rajasthan. Further, some people also include parts of Nagaur, Bikaner and Jaipur districts as well.  

It was winter of 2015 when I first visited Chirawa, a small town in the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan. Though I stayed in a small haveli then, little did I know that it was just the tip of an iceberg! Yes, I loved its aesthetics, and its heritage value, but I was unaware that the region had so many of them! Retrospectively, I realize that it was an official trip, and exploring the area was not on the agenda. 

Later, my search for offbeat destinations in Rajasthan landed me on a page about the iconic havelis of Mandawa. So, I decided to explore the dusty little town last August with some close friends. On that trip, we were so enamored by what we saw that we went back this January to explore more.  

Chequered History of Shekhawati:

The history of Shekhawati region goes thousands of years in time. However for this article, let’s keep the duration limited to the time since the appearance Rao Shekha, a Rajput King who established this region as his kingdom. In 1471, Rao Shekha rebelling against the Kachhawaha rulers (under whom he was a chieftain) of Jaipur, moved north to establish an independent kingdom of his own. His kingdom later came to be known as Shekhawati.

Rao Shekha had divided his kingdom into 33 Thikanas (administrative divisions). These Thikanas are now small towns spread across the region, and have all the travel interests. Because it’s a semi-arid region, people in general are poor and struggle for their livelihoods. However, the traders of the region have always been smart, and amass a lot of wealth. Much of the richness came through their trade through the  historic  Silk Route.  {Know more about  Shekhawati   History }

Iconic Havelis of Shekhawati

Without a doubt, the main reason for traversing across the rough terrain of Shekhawati region in Rajasthan is its astoundingly ornate havelis. Earlier, I was fascinated by the beautiful paintings on the walls of forts and palaces across Rajasthan. But it was only last August that I noticed the same richness on the walls of old havelis in the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan.

How did the havelis come up!

Owing to its strategic location just on the outskirts of the Thar desert, the Shekhawati region in Rajasthan used to be a trading hotspot in the ancient Silk Route. During eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, much of the trade between Arab, India and China happened through this region. Local trading communities, especially the Marwaris and Banias used to rule the roost. Having high business acumen, they became very wealthy. And their richness reflected in the opulent houses (havelis) they made for themselves.

However, with the British East India Company focusing on trade through sea routes in the nineteenth century, these merchants migrated to port cities like  Kolkata  (click to read) and Mumbai. But their penchant for building beautiful havelis back home continued through the century and more. For most part, there was a kind of competition among the merchants to build the best one in the area!

Structure of the Havelis

Since these havelis were essentially statements of the status and wealth of their owners, the architects would barely leave any stone unturned in making them lavish affairs.  Some of the rich traders of the region were actually as rich as the small kings of the region. But they dared ever building any palaces comparable to the kings without having the wrath of the kings. 

Our guide in Nawalgarh told us that even the owners of the havelis often had to take permission from the king before installing anything grand. Thus, these havelis were lavish, but less in grandeur than the palaces.  The architecture of the havelis followed the most influential powers of the time- the Rajputs, the Mughals and the British.  

Apparently, these havelis were meant for the extended families, often all the brothers living together. The main attractions of the iconic havelis of Shekhawati in Rajasthan are their rich frescos, impressive front gateways and the grand courtyards. 

Havelis of Shekhawati in Rajasthan are especially known for their rich frescoes, a form of durable wall painting on wet plaster. If you love wall paintings, this is the place to go. In fact, the beautiful paintings are virtually everywhere! Inside the havelis, on the outer walls/ boundaries, in the streets, wherever the eye goes! No wonder people call it an  open air art gallery . 

In the beginning (when the first havelis came up) in late 18th century, the paintings depicted the local ethos- elephants, camels, portraits of royalties, etc. But by the turn of the 19th century, the paintings had a lot of foreign influence. Cars and airplanes and British portraits were added to the array of portrayals.  

As one enters the havelis through the grand doors/ gateways, it’s impossible for one to miss the ornate designs and carvings of the gateways. The front doors were often made of durable teak wood brought from as far as Burma. Most of the gateways were a set of two; a big imposing door, and a smaller door carved within the big one. The smaller door was generally kept open and used for day-to-day commuting. On the other hand, the larger one was used only when required.

Courtyards: 

Typically, there would be two courtyards in the havelis. As soon as one enters the haveli, there would be this courtyard called Mardana , mostly used for official purposes. The other courtyard was more private, mainly for the women of the household. All the rooms faced towards the courtyard. So, it served as the center of all activities in the haveli. 

The beautifully carved doors of the rooms and the rich fresco paintings all around made it a vibrant looking place. I can’t imagine in their heydays, how stunning they would be looking!

The Best Havelis in the region

If you love these havelis, you have a large number of them to explore across the villages and towns spread all over Shekhawati region in Rajasthan. Some of them are derelict and abandoned. My heart often sank to see them in such dilapidated condition. I felt like they are still waiting for their erstwhile owners (of course, their great grand children) to come back and love them again. 

Fortunately though, in recent times, some of them have actually got their owners come back and renovate them, either for hospitality business or for tourism. The major towns in Shekhawati in Rajasthan to explore havelis are: Mandawa, Nawalgarh and Churu. However, there are a few villages worth visiting as well, for example: Mukundgarh, Laxmangarh, Fatehpur, Ramgarh, Mahansar and Alsisar.

Since it’s generally difficult for one to explore all of them in one visit, let me list a few good ones for a traveller’s convenience.

The most prominent havelis not to miss:

Mandawa:  Perhaps the largest number of havelis are in Mandawa (I’m not sure though; Nawalgarh being the main competitor). Though all of the havelis are quite amazing, the most impressive ones are:

• Goenka Double Haveli
• Murmuria Haveli
• Jhunjhunwala- golden painting Haveli
• Chokhani Double Haveli
• Mandawa Haveli (now a hotel)

Nawalgarh:  Not far from Mandawa, just 28 kms away to the south, Nawalgarh is a worthy competitor. Like Mandawa, Nawalgarh also boasts of hundreds of havelis. The ones not to miss are:

• (Ramnath) Anandilal Podar Haveli and museum
• Bhagat (Banshidhar) Haveli
• Morarka Haveli and museum
• Aath Haveli Complex

Other notable Havelis around Shekhawati in Rajasthan:

• Piramal’s Haveli, Bagad, Jhunjhunu (now a hotel)
• Seth Arjundas Goenka Haveli and museum, Dundlod, Jhunjhunu
• Surana Haveli, Churu (Called the Hawa Mahal of Shekhawati)
• Malji ka Kamra, Churu (now a hotel)
• Sone ki Dukan Haveli, Mahansar
• Le Nadine Prince Haveli, Fatehpur (now closed due to legal issues)
• Saraf Haveli, Mukundgarh
• Ram Gopal Podar ki Haveli, Ramgarh
• Charchowk Haveli, Laxmangarh (closed for public now)

Beyond the Havelis of Shekhawati

For most tourists to the  Shekhawati region in Rajasthan,  the painted havelis are the main attractions. However, Shekhawati is more than just its Havelis. I particularly love its landscape. It’s sort of unique in India; it’s almost desert, but not quite so. There is enough vegetation to keep the green vibes alive. 

Shekhawati landscape:

Geographically, Shekhawati region in Rajasthan, especially Churu is gateway to the great Thar desert that spans western part of India and eastern part of Pakistan. The region doesn’t have expansive sand dunes like in Jaisalmer (read:  Reasons to love Jaisalmer ), but it has a typical landscape unique to this region. 

{Love sand dunes? Read:  Desert Safari in Dubai } 

Being a semi-arid region, Shekhawati landscape looks almost like a desert, but has enough greenery to make it look even more beautiful.  With whatever little precipitation the region receives, it shows off its green side mostly through its millet fields. But one cannot miss the omnipresent  Khejri  trees ( Prosopis Cineraria ). In winter, these  Khejri  trees without leaves stand all over the landscape in the expansive mustard fields. Believe me, it’s a sight to behold! 

On enquiry, the locals told us that the leaves of  Khejri  tree is a favorite among the goats. And goats are a favorite ruminant among the households. They take away every leaf that these trees have to offer, and in turn offer them to their goats. So, the leaves that come up in monsoon are gone by winter time. But these leafless trees make the landscape look absolutely fascinating!

Mini Jaisalmer near Churu:

Just 7 kms away from Churu on the highway #52, a small village is slowly but steadily becoming a tourist attraction, mainly because of its sand dunes. I guess that there was this small sand dune some entrepreneur noticed, and thought of a business idea. A little road side eatery and a camel were enough to attract the travellers’ attention. 

It’s a nice little stop over on the highway. Hike onto the sand dune, take a camel ride if you like, and have a street snack or a soft drink. All in 30 minutes, and then you are off either to Churu or Mandawa. Owing to its growing popularity, tourists have started referring to it as Mini-Jaisalmer.

On the flip side, I had a bit of concern to notice that this little new tourism opportunity is encouraging more entrepreneurs to set shop nearby. Actually, the problem is that they are cutting down large number of  Khejri  trees to make more sand dunes! More sand dunes means more desert-fun sports like hang-gliding. And more fun options means more tourists, which will lead to more cutting down of trees! Where does it stop! 

{Read my views in this regard:  Sustainable Tourism }

While it’s good for local economy, it’s not good for local environment at all. Here comes the role of the local government to step in so as to bring that balance between tourism and environment. 

{Further reading:  Role of government in sustainable tourism .}

Life and culture:

The quaint villages and small towns in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan don’t look like happening places. They have a very slow pace of life. Not only the havelis are  abandoned , but most of the households also face similar fate. The  young and educated people have shifted base for greener pastures leaving behind the old. 

Farming is not particularly prosperous due to scanty rainfall. But the old people keep farming for the meager harvests. Like most arid and semi-arid regions, animal husbandry is a dominant occupation in Shekhawati.

In recent times though, tourism has been picking up. Haveli owners are renovating their properties to open heritage hotels or museums for tourists. Even entrepreneurs from other parts of the country are taking these havelis on lease to run hotels. As a result, there are more jobs for the villagers now. Things are changing now!

It’s quite amusing to see horse carts, camel carts and donkey carts keep pace with with modern day fancy vehicles.  Further, I cannot highlight enough the richness of Rajasthani food, music and dance. Of course, it’s no different in the Shekhawati region. 

Heritage wells of Shekhawati:

One more thing that attracted my attention through out Shekhawati region in Rajasthan is the heritage wells. Since Shekhawati is a semi arid region, water has always been premium. So much so that wells were as important as temples! They built proper foundation with four minarets around the well, and had enough space for people to sit or gather. Unlike the stepwells, people had to use ropes to draw water from the well. The water was used both for drinking and irrigation purposes. 

{Further similar reading:  Stepwells of India }

Other monuments: Temples, Palaces, Heritage Ponds, etc

Though Shekhawati is not especially known for its palaces and forts, there are a few good one none-the-less. Among the important palaces of Shekhawati are: 

• Alsisar Palace in Alsisar (now a heritage hotel)
• Castle Mandawa, Mandawa (now a heritage hotel) 
• Khetri Mahal in Jhunjhunu (now in dilapidated condition)
• Dundlod fort in Dundlod near Jhunjhunu (was under renovation when we visited)
• Badalgarh/ Faizalgarh fort
• Laxmangarh fort, Laxmangarh 
• Surajgarh fort, Surajgarh
•  Mahansar fort, Mahansar near Churu
• Sethani Ka Johara, Churu

Apart from forts and palaces, there are innumerable cenotaphs (Chhatris), temples, royal heritage ponds, stepwells, etc. If you have time, keep exploring them. For religious people, among the important Hindu temples of the region are: 

• Salasar Balaji temple (Lord Hanuman), Salasar, Churu
• Khatu Shyam ji temple, Sikar
• Rani Sati temple, Jhunjhunu
• Raghunath ji temple, Mahansar

How to explore the Shekhawati region

As said above, the Shekhawati region comprises mainly of three districts- Churu, Jhunjhunu and Sikar in north-east Rajasthan. However, it’s such a large area, one feels confused about how to explore the area. So, here are some pointers:

• Best time: The weather is good from beginning of autumn (Oct) to end of spring (Mar). Within this period, if you are a landscape lover, plan for winters. Because, the landscape becomes especially beautiful during the winter months of January- February.
• Landscape differences: Though landscape is similar all over the Shekhawati region, there are subtle differences. For example, while Churu gives more desert vibes, Jhunjhunu is greener. So, head to Churu if you want to see some sand dunes.
• Haveli hopping: Please look above for the major locations of Havelis. However, if you don’t have much time, just head to Mandawa; it has good number of amazing havelis.
• Look beyond havelis: Apart from the havelis, the region has a good number of temples, heritage wells, cenotaphs, forts and palaces as well.

Travel Tips: Shekhawati in Rajasthan

How to reach:.

• Jhunjhunu is the gateway to Shekhawati region in Rajasthan.
• By flight:  Nearest airport is Jaipur, 180 kms north of Jhunjhunu. One has to take some other means (see below) to reach there.
• By train:  Jhunjhunu has a railway station; regular trains from Jaipur and some other cities.
• By bus:  Shekhawati region is well connected by bus from major cities of Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi. But these are basic buses, not luxury ones.
• By taxi:  Jhunjhunu is 250 kms away from Delhi, and 180 kms from Jaipur. So, it’s quite convenient to take the road trip.
• For weekend trips from Delhi, I think driving down or taking a taxi is the best option.  

Where to stay:

One may choose to stay in any of the towns of Jhunujhunu, Churu, Mandawa or Nawalgarh. But I would suggest to stay in or near Mandawa, as it has the largest number of things to explore. Besides, it’s central to the whole of Shekhawati region. Here are a few good suggestions that I know of:

• Luxury Heritage Hotels:  Castle Mandawa || The Legacy Mandawa by Machan || Malji ka Kamra || Alsisar Mahal || Dera Mandawa
• Budget Heritage Hotels:  Hotel Mandawa Haveli || Hotel Heritage Mandawa || Hotel Radhika Haveli || Piramal Haveli by Neemrana || Hotel Shekhawati
• Resorts:  Desert Nights Cottage || The Desert Resort
• For low budget accommodation, there are enough guesthouses/ homestays, often housed in old havelis.

How to move around:

• Best way to move around in the Shekhawati region is having a car/ taxi. Because the whole area is dusty and if it’s not winter/ spring, the heat can be unbearable.
• For budget travellers, local buses are frequently available though.

Where to eat:

As the region is not that highly developed, or very popular among tourists, there aren’t many great restaurants. So, it’s best to eat at the properties only; most of them prepare decent Rajasthani cuisine. However, if you would definitely like to try out a few places outside, here is a small list:

• Mandawa: Mandawa Pavilion roof-top || Mona Lisa roof-top || Monica || Gwala roof-top || Hotel Radhika Haveli
• Churu: Cloud9 cafe || Malji ka Kamra || Hotel Krishna
• Jhunjhunu: Laziz restaurant || Jhunjhunu Haveli || Radhe Rani restaurant

Concluding Thoughts

I must say visiting Shekhawati region in Rajasthan, I felt as much joy as sorrow. The whole region has so much beauty that I can keep going back every year. How much I love driving through its villages, towns and semi-desert landscapes! I just love its quaint, sleepy and peaceful vibes. I still remember my morning walk with a friend around a village exploring the farmland, the village, and chitchatting with the locals.  

However, my heart pained to see most of the stunning havelis in dilapidated condition. The rich paintings are peeling off the walls. And the walls themselves are falling down. Nobody is really taking care of them! Such sad state of affairs! Anyway, let me keep this subject for another day. 

If you love offbeat destinations to explore at leisure, Shekhawati in Rajasthan is the place for you. If you love heritage havelis/ monuments or fresco paintings, this is the place for you. And if you love semi-arid landscapes, Shekhawati is for you.

Wanna know more? Do write to us.

8 Responses

Santosh Gupta

As someone born and brought up in Rajasthan, even i was not aware about such charm, heritage and beautiful havrlies of Shekhavati.

This reading has inspired me to plan a trip to Jhujlnjhunu and the region to explore this hidden treasure.

Thanks Suvendubhai for drafting this and sharing with us.

stampedmoments

Yeah, it’s such a hidden gem! You see! This place has my heart. I’ll go back time and again. However, it needs authorities/ govt. to take serious conservation measures. Thanks Santosh.

Abhishek Tiwari

Me being a part of this journey, really liked the way you explored the places and gained information about the things, and in other hand sharing these experiences with others through your blog is really very phenomenal.

Anyone planning to visit these places and going through you blog before their thrip starts, will be really and insightful for them.

That trip was awesome, Abhishek! Let’s plan another trip somewhere 🙂 Thanks for your appreciation.

Sarita Hevia Iphone

Wow!!, it is a stunning place, your description is wonderful If i have knowed about this place when i visited Jaipur last november, i take a car to go It will be for the next time Rajhastan is incredible Congratulations for your blog

Hey Sarita! Nice to hear from you! Yes, it’s lovely place, and very close to Jaipur. Of course, there’s always a next time! Thanks a lot for connecting with us.

Such a nice article! Very useful information. I will visit some day. Thanks.

Happy that you liked. Yes, you should visit 🙂

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• 15 Places to Visit in Shekhawati

Shekhawati Tourist Places

Here is a list of places to visit in shekhawati:, quick navigation.

Mandawa is a small town in the state of Rajasthan and lies in the Shekhawati region. It lies approximately 190 kilometers away from the capital of Rajasthan, Jaipur, and approximately 240 kilometers from the National Capital, New Delhi. The town was essentially occupied by traders in the late 18th and the early 19th Century, which has now been transformed into a tourist attraction due to its beautiful history. The town of Mandawa is also known as the open-air art gallery due to the numerous architecturally and artistically beautiful historical structures in the town. Most of the Havelis of Mandawa are famous for their paintings, murals, and various other beautiful artifacts. This amazing town is a must-visit for all the history, architecture, as well as art lovers out there. The major attractions of the city are its iconic Havelis, most of which have now been restored into Heritage Hotels. Some of the Havelis that you can not miss out on your visit to Mandawa include the Murmuria Haveli, Chokhani Double Haveli, and the Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli. Some other beautiful attractions of Mandawa are the Harlalka Well, Saraf Haveli, and the Bansidhar Newatia Haveli. There are a whole lot of amazing and exciting activities in Mandawa that a tourist can indulge in. The first and foremost thing that one needs to do is take a walking tour of the historical lanes of this small town and explore its ancient palatial residences, some of which have been restored, whereas, others still remain unattended. Tourists can also try out making a wish at the Harlalka Well, which is believed to come true by the local residents. The city experiences hot and dry weather, which does not make it comfortable to be visited during the summers or monsoons. The best time to visit this art hub is during the winter season that starts from the months of October and stretches till March.

Top Experiences To Do in Mandawa

Best of Jaipur

Nawalgarh, a small town that is also known as the “land of the Havelis”, is located in the Jhunjhunu district in the state of Rajasthan, a short distance away from Jaipur. It is an important part of the famous Shekhawati region and is the perfect place to check out the many Shekhawati frescoes and artworks that adorn the walls of the town of Nawalgarh. It is located at a distance of 39 km from Jhunjhuna and can also be accessed from Sikar, which is 30 km away.

While the natural beauty of Nawalgarh City is quite sparse, it is a town that is abounding in natural beauty in terms of its scenic buildings and structures and the colourful artwork that surrounds you. The town itself is surrounded by accessible hills and forests, which make for the ideal places to go hiking and exploring.The main attraction of the town of Nawalgarh is, of course, its many stunning Havelis and buildings that have been built with care and ingenuity, that reflect the artistic nature of its inhabitants. In fact, the whole town is referred to as an open-air gallery because you are surrounded by paintings, frescoes, inlay work and other beautiful forms of art that have been depicted on the walls of the Havelis.

One of the best activities you can enjoy when you are here includes walking through the secluded lanes of Nawalgarh, exploring the Havelis and their majestic courtyards, and hearing the many interesting stories about their pasts.Nawalgarh experiences extreme weather conditions throughout the year. The summers are scorching when the temperature during the day rises to 45 degrees Celsius. Winters are the best time to visit this town when the temperatures range from 6 to 24 degrees Celsius.

Top Experiences To Do in Nawalgarh

Best of Udaipur

Best of Delhi

Jhunjhunu is a beautiful city in Rajasthan known as the copper and textile producing district in India. Brimming with major attractions for sightseeing and is conveniently accessible through public or private transportation. This city is located in the Shekhawati region and is known for the gorgeous murals and frescoes on the walls of the havelis located here. The unspoilt beauty of this city is something worth witnessing as it possesses some of the most magnificent and glorious architectures known in the history of Rajasthan. Encapsulated with historical monuments and splendid architectures, Jhunjhunu is worth witnessing and exploring. There are numerous attractions in Jhunjhunu and it is quite famous for some of the temples located here. Rani Sati Temple here is a blend of history and beauty and is an epitome of the femnine valour. Khetri Mahal and Aath Havelis are also two of the most significant attractions here known for their remarkable architectures, huge corridors and royal finesse. Apart from these, Khemi Sati Temple, Kamruddin Shah Dargah are some of the attractions worth witnessing. With a wider range of things to do in Jhunjhunu, the best are the sightseeing tours. Visiting Sone Chandi Ki Haveli or Badalgarh Fort will enlighten you with plenty of intriguing insights from the past. You can also go shopping in Jhunjhunu as there are various famous markets to shop handicrafts, local jewellery, tie and dye sarees and so much more. Not only this, you cannot afford to miss out on the experience of staying in a fort or a palace while in this enchanting and royal city. The weather of Jhunjhunu is the most pleasant during the months of October to March as the blazing heat of the summer has passed and the winters are approaching during this time. The weather remains pleasing letting you witness the attractions and explore the city at your pace. You can escape the sweltering summers and enjoy your vacation in good weather.

Top Experiences To Do in Jhunjhunu

Best of Jodhpur

Located in the north-eastern part of Rajasthan, Sikar is a historical city boasting of its magnificence and allure. The city lies midway between Bikaner and Agra on the National Highway 52 and attracts tourists from all across the globe for its rich heritage, culture, and serenity. It carries historical significance for being the capital of the state Thikana Sikar and was known as Beer Bhan Ka Bass during the times of Shekhawati kings rulings. The beauty of Sikar is visible through its remarkable traditional places, gorgeous ancient temples, artistically landscaped gardens, and grand forts that make it not only eye-catching but interesting and exciting too. Its historic magic is proven by its surrounding gigantic walls that envelop the city and allow entry only through seven grand entry gates. It is also a place to learn about Rajasthani's colourful culture, traditions, and friendliness. Sikar allures tourists from all across the world for its daunting beauty of fresco painted Havelis, temples, forts and surrounding attractions that highlight the exuberance of Indian traditions. Laxmangarh Fort,  Danta Fort, Devgarh, Harshnath Temple, Ganeshwar, Jeenmata, Khatu Shyam Ji Mandir, etc. are a few of the top highlights of the city that make it a dream destination for the history lovers or spirituality seekers. With a plethora of enthralling activities available in and around the city, Sikar also gains the attraction of adventure buffs and thrill-seekers. Zipline, Camel Safari, Desert Camping, Hot-Air Ballooning are some of the thrilling activities available near the city, which are perfect to enjoy a rush in adrenaline. Also, tasting traditional Rajasthani cuisine, watching a puppet show, folk dance or music performances, or doing some souvenir shopping are some of the fun-filled activities that must not be missed while on a trip to the Sikar City. Being located in Rajasthan, Sikar has hot plus semi-arid summers and the temperature can reach up to 50 degrees Celsius. With an annual average temperature ranging around 24.6 °C, winters (October to February) feature pleasant and tourist-friendly climatic conditions and prove to be the ideal time for excursion and sightseeing. Don't miss this charming destination and enjoy the grandeur and elegance with 'Padharo Mhare Desh' hospitality.

Top Experiences To Do in Sikar

Best of Jaisalmer

Best of Pushkar

People Also Ask About Rajasthan

Which are the best shekhawati tourist places to visit with family, what are the best things to do in shekhawati, how far is jhunjhunu from sikar, which are the best forts to visit in shekhawati.

Rajasthan Top Attractions

The fort is a pearl on the crown of Jaipur. Over five thousand tourists visit the fort every day to bask in its royal splendour. The Amer fort has also been inducted into the UNESCO world heritage list along with five other forts of Rajasthan. Explore the royal heritage of Amer with our Jaipur packages, encompassing the majestic Amer Fort and a cultural journey through history.Amer Fort is a beautiful Rajput architecture on the top of Cheel Ka Teela in Jaipur. Built in the 16th century, it has splendid palaces, courtyards, and the famous Sheesh Mahal. This historical gem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers spectacular views. It is a jewel in the crown of Jaipur that attracts over five thousand visitors daily. The entire structure of the Amer Fort is well-known for its Hindu-inspired architecture. They are made of pink and yellow sandstones, which reveal the royal elegance of Rajasthan. It has grand parapets and ornate gateways. You can take an elephant ride around the fort and enjoy sound and light shows within the fort.On your visit to the attraction, you can admire the colourful carvings and paintings of Ganesh Pol and Suraj Pol. You can also walk through the Jaleb Chowk, which is lined with horse stables on one side. After taking the staircase to the top, you will come across Sila Devi Temple and Diwan-e-Aam. If you want to see the private quarters of the king and his associates, you can enter the Sukh Niwas. Once you have explored the interiors of the fort, you can walk around the Sheesh Mahal and witness the setup of Royal Rooms through glass windows.

City Palace is situated right in the middle of Old Jaipur which covers one-seventh of that area. The construction of the palace dates back to 1732, but it still looks fresh and crisp as it always would have been. Visit City Palace Jaipur on exclusive Jaipur travel packages for royal indulgence.The City Palace of Jaipur is a masterpiece of Rajput and Mughal architecture. It is also a testament to the royal heritage and craftsmanship of the bygone era. Built back in the 18th century by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, this historic complex occupies a large part of Jaipur's heart. The palace also showcases an exquisite blend of European and Rajputana architectural styles. Its grand structures, including the Chandra Mahal and Mubarak Mahal, are adorned with intricate carvings, mirrored walls, and ornamental gates. The palace and its attractions reflect the magnificence of the royal nature of Rajasthan.As you step through the Virendra Pol or the Udai Pol, the majestic gates lead you into a world where every corner whispers tales of bravery, romance, and opulence. The inner courtyards, lush gardens, and decorated chambers, such as the Diwan-i-Aam and Diwan-i-Khas, offer a glimpse into the lives of the rulers who walked these halls. The City Palace is not just an architectural marvel but also a cultural hub. It houses museums that exhibit royal costumes, armouries, and artefacts, allowing visitors to journey through time.Moreover, the palace continues to be a residence for the royal family, adding a living chapter to its historical saga. The City Palace, with its rich history, architectural beauty, and cultural significance, remains an iconic symbol of Rajasthan's royal legacy.History of City Palace - Jaipur is considered to be the first-ever city from medieval times, which was planned well. The City Palace is the one-seventh part of the entire old Jaipur. The idea of constructing this beautiful palace erupted in the mind of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. He called the Bengali architect Vidyadhar Bhattacharya and Sir Samuel Swinton Jacob to design the Jaipur city. They infused Mughal and European style of architecture with the traditional Rajputi architecture. The construction began in the year 1729 and lasted till 1732. The entire palace has small palaces, well-maintained gardens, beautifully carved courtyards, open terraces and more.Further Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar were added in the premises along with the outer walls of the palace. The complete structure represented the rich culture and heritage of the ancient state. Though this palace was completed, the process of making it more beautiful lasted until the early 20th century. It is still preserved carefully along with all the belongings inside the palace put on display.Architecture of City Palace - The City Palace is a marvellous blend of Rajputi, Mughal and European style of architecture. The design of the property follows the ‘Vastu Shastra’ which is said to be facilitating the art of living and the atmosphere inside the house. The entire palace is structured in ‘Grid Style’ having four gates to enter and exit, namely ‘Tripolia Gate’, ‘Udai Pol’, ‘Virendra Pol’, and ‘Jaleb Chowk’. It also consists of various palaces, gardens, courtyards, temples, terraces, balconies and patios which are beautified by latticework, jali work, carved marbles and inlaid ornamentations. The walls reflect the authentic Mughal style which features distinct murals, mirrors and latticework. A unique feature found in Pritam Niwas Chowk is that it has four gates, which depicts all the four seasons. First one is Mor Gate which portrays Autumn Season, then it is Leheriya Gate which represents spring season followed by Rose gate drawing winters and Lotus gate painting a picture of the summer season. All this makes the entire palace a remarkable structure left behind by history.

Also known as Sonar Quilla or Sone ka Quilla (golden fort) Jaisalmer fort stands high showcasing its beauty and elegance as it is one of the world’s largest forts located in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Sonar Quila is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan. Explore the majestic Jaisalmer Fort on our tailored Jaisalmer tour package, immersing yourself in its rich history, intricate architecture, and cultural allure.Its extensive yellow sandstone walls are bright yellow during the day and fade to honey-gold as the sun sets and due to this, it is also called the Golden fort. This dessert beauty has seen many battles while standing amidst the sandy stretches of the great Thar Desert on Trikuta hill. Jaisalmer itself is known as the golden city and offers the cultural fusion of nomadic desert and royalty which will let you experience something different.You will be amused by the architectural beauty of Jaisalmer Fort and other sites of the golden city. Built by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD this UNESCO World Heritage site is the pride of the Thar desert and is a symbol of strength. Jaisalmer Fort has played a vital role from the glorious past to the present. It has been part of many amazing cultures of the different dynasty ruling.It has kept the traditions of past safe by preserving their designs and visions. This place will never fail to surprise you from its majestic beauty and will give you a different vision towards the history, traditions, and culture of the country.History of Jaisalmer FortThe Golden fort is said to be established by Raja Rawal Jaisal, who was a Bhatti Rajput ruler, in approximately 1156 A D. He selected the Trikuta hills located at the great Thar Desert for his fort to stand and symbolize the dominance and power of the royal Rajput's.Sonar Quila is known as the second oldest fort in Rajasthan and has seen and been part of many legendary battles but even today it holds the same charm and positive vibes which will leave you aw-struck when you will witness this great structure. So, one can notice the fusion of Islamic and Rajput architecture. It has also been part of the silk trade route from the 16th to the 18th century. Sonar Quila is a legendary structure and holds a great significance in the grand history. The fort has four grand entrance Ganesh Pol, Akshaya Pol, Suraj Pol, and Hawa Pol which have their own significance like Suraj pol named was given to one because the first sun rays over the city used to hit this very gate similarly other gates also have interesting stories related to them and are very beautifully carved and designed in a way that it is a combination of power and beauty.The Architecture of Jaisalmer FortThe Jaisalmer Fort is also famous for its architectural beauty. With the amazing measurement of 1,500 ft (460 m) long and 750 ft (230 m) wide it is built on a hill that rises above a height of 250 ft (76 m). You will be delighted to witness the essence of Rajasthani architectural touch with beautiful designs and patterns. Built with the gorgeous yellow sandstone the entire fort has an amazing look and shines like gold when the sun-rays fall on the walls.With the glorious sunrise and majestic sunset, this structure changes color from tawny lion yellow to honey- gold. You will be amused to see the four entrances to the fort which are named Hawa Pole, Akshay Pole, Suraj Pole, and Ganesha Pole. There are many other places that add their importance to histories such as Akhai Vilas, the Rang Mahal, Sarvottam Vilas, Gaj Mahal, and the Moti Mahal.The Moti Mahal is also known as Salam Singh Ki Haweli and is extremely beautiful with the amazing architecture, built-in 1815 with a peacock-shaped roof & numerous balconies this place will give a jaw-dropping view. These places too have been formed by keeping the designs, patterns, and texture at the priority and has been taken utmost care that they stand to showcase the royalty and energy of Rajput's and taking Rajasthani style on another level.

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States › Rajasthan › Shekhawati

Shekhawati Travel Guide

The abode of ingenious and unparalleled profusion of wall paintings, Shekhawati is one of the best places that reflects those rare and forgotten art skills of Rajasthan that can be seen intricately executed in its numerous temples, havelis, forts. Once used to be the home of the Marwari community, Shekhawati has been the backbone of commercial entrepreneurship of India for more than a century. Churu, Jhunjhunu, Sikar and Nagaur are the districts that comprise the affluent Shekhawati region.

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An Insight into Shekhawati Tourism

Less explored than other parts of Rajasthan, Shekhawati is appreciated for its incredible painting work on havelis (ornately decorated traditional residences enclosing one or more courtyards). Accentuated with dazzling and whimsical, murals, the region is applauded for this extraordinary artwork being found in small towns linked to each other by single-track roads that run within arid, lonely, countryside. Today we wonder and become curious that such attention, care and money were showered on these out-of-the-way houses. However, it is worth noting that on the caravan routes, Shekhawati’s towns were important trading posts from Gujarati ports, 14th century onwards. Popular tourism places in Shekhawati combine together numerous small and medium sized villages and towns that were once inhabited by people who loved to paint scenes and events on walls. Today, the Shekhawati region encompasses within its boundaries some extremely valuable historical and cultural heritage that should be visited before it is lost in the dust of time. Exclusive tourist attractions in Shekhawati include visit to some of the enchanting places like Sikar – known for its clock tower, painted Biyani havelis and large market. Explore the beautiful Nawalgarh with its finest frescoes, some exceptionally beautiful havelis and prosperous Marwari era of 19th century.

Marvel at Laxmangarh, featuring grand Laxmangarh Fort, lavish havelis and famous Radhi Murlimanohar temple. Then there is Dundlod, a small charming town which has now been converted into a plush hotel for tourists. Among other notable sightseeing places there are Mukundgarh where you can shop for some local handicrafts; Khetri for its marvelous frescoes; Mandawa for its picturesque town; Mahansar for its ancient temple; Chirawa for its huge havelis and Bagar being the home of Rungtas and Seth Piramal. Exclusive tourist attractions in Shekhawati include visit to some of the enchanting places like Sikar – known for its clock tower, painted Biyani havelis and large market. Explore the beautiful Nawalgarh with its finest frescoes, some exceptionally beautiful havelis and prosperous Marwari era of 19th century. Marvel at Laxmangarh, featuring grand Laxmangarh Fort, lavish havelis and famous Radhi Murlimanohar temple. Then there is Dundlod, a small charming town which has now been converted into a plush hotel for tourists. Among other notable sightseeing places there are Mukundgarh where you can shop for some local handicrafts; Khetri for its marvelous frescoes; Mandawa for its picturesque town; Mahansar for its ancient temple; Chirawa for its huge havelis and Bagar being the home of Rungtas and Seth Piramal.

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Alsisar Mahal Shekhawati

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Neemrana's The Piramal Haveli

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Deshnok (216 Kms)

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What to eat, see, and do in Shekhawati, Rajasthan

By Priya Pathiyan

How does the intertwining tale of a Hindu Rajput ruler and a Muslim pir make for travel inspiration? Well, the story goes that the queen of a feudal province in the 15 th century consulted a holy man called Sheikh when she was trying to conceive. The child that came with his blessings was named Rao Shekhaji (named for the pir in gratitude). He went on to establish a kingdom in northern Rajasthan that came to be known as Shekhawati , made up of many small towns and villages in the modern-day districts of Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Churu, and parts of Nagaur and Jaipur . The undeniable lure of Rajasthan royals, with ancient forts and palaces, is only one reason to visit Shekhawati. The subsequent centuries have also marked it as a fascinating area for those who are interested in art, architecture, anthropology, and just plain picturesqueness!

Havelis of Shekhawati

Handmade puppets for sale, Mandawa, Rajasthan India

A brief history of Shekhawati

Perhaps the most Instagrammed town in Shekhawati today, Mandawa was once just a small trading stop on the ancient caravan routes that connected China and the Middle East. It gained importance when Thakur Nawal Singh built a fort in 1755 AD to protect the outpost and keep a check on marauding bandits. Traders from the surrounding areas moved in and the community flourished. These prosperous families – such as the Chokhanis, Dhandhanias, Goenkas, Harlalkas, Ladias, Sarafs, Sonthalias, and many others – built lavish mansions, brought in artists to create frescos on the plastered walls, and embellished the interiors with the finest Belgian glass, crystal chandeliers, and French furniture. At the confluence of trade and culture, stand these traditional homesteads of the rich Marwari merchants of the Shekhawati region. The sheer number of stunning structures in such proximity (the entire region of Shekhawati is less than 14,000 sq kms and some say there are about 2,000 such magnificent mansions here) makes them a must-visit.

Mandawa - Asia's largest open art gallery

Inside of an old haveli in Mandawa

The famed havelis here are not just bewitchingly beautiful, but also symbolic of a changing India in the 18 th and 19 th centuries. When the British redirected trade to their new ports and incentivised local traders to relocate to Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai, the businessmen that once profited from the Silk Route moved to these more lucrative locations. While some kept their havelis, coming back for important celebrations, many abandoned them or left them to the mercies of caretakers. Despite this dereliction and disuse, these havelis caught the imagination of international art and culture aficionados, and soon, places such as Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Ramgarh, Fatehgarh, Lachmangarh, and Mukundgarh started to attract tourists from across the world for their famed frescoes.

Art and architecture

What’s also really remarkable is, that apart from religious and mythological themes and folk love stories that were the traditional motifs painted in frescoes, many of these havelis also gave glimpses of what the affluent merchants considered part of their daily lives (or perhaps aspired to) – from telephones to gramophones, from bowler hats to horse-drawn carriages and bicycles to trains and even airplanes! As the owners travelled abroad, their vision expanded to encompass technological advances and different landscapes. This translated into the glorious mix of global imagery that we can still see today.

Aishwarya Venkatraman

Arundhati Ail

Shalba Sarda

Muskaan Chandrapota

The main entrance of an old haveli in Mandawa, Rajasthan

From something as exciting as a hot-air balloon ride to something as significant as a trade treaty, it was all recorded for posterity. In some murals, you can even find an almost-surreal meld of the mythological and the modern, with Lakshman chauffeuring Lord Ram and Sita in a stylish convertible, like in the Neemrana Group’s Piramal Haveli in Baggar or more European-inspired frescoes and wall erotica at The Gulab Haveli , which once belonged to a diamond merchant named Gulab Rai Ladia. Apart from the imagination and innovation, the intricacy of detail and vibrancy of hues in the murals are stunning. Initially, the pigments used were natural, and hence vermillion, indigo, ochre, and lamp black, as well as dyes made of everything, from flowers to cow urine. From the late 19th century, German paints came into fashion and English brands soon followed.

Architects who have studied the construction have found that the basic walls are made of stone fragments, brick, and coarse lime. The exteriors are decorated using wet plaster, or what the locals call ‘alagila’, while a Secco technique of painting on dry plaster is used for the interiors of the havelis.

Haveli hopping

You’ll need about two to three days to get your heart’s content of the havelis. There are heritage hotels with modern amenities to suit every budget. And if you’re lucky like us, you’ll get a comfortable, beautifully decorated room with a complimentary ghost who talks too! As we did, you could base yourself in Mandawa and then explore the area with short drives and walks.

Alsisar Mahal

Interiors, Alsisar Mahal

There are forts and painted havelis almost everywhere you go and all you need is the time, energy, and patience to appreciate them fully. In Mandawa, we were floored by the 200-year-old Jhunjhunwala haveli which has the most intricate frescoes embellished with liquid gold as it once belonged to a family of sarafs (goldsmiths), and the sheer scale of the Goenka and Chokhani ‘double havelis’. If you have enough time, explore the Gulab Rai haveli and try to spot the scene of a woman giving birth or the Thakurji temple for the unlikely scene depicting the uprising of 1857 with soldiers being shot from the mouths of cannons!

In Nawalgarh, we recommend visiting the Aath (eight) haveli complex , the Jodhraj Patodia haveli , and the Bansidhar Bhagat haveli . In Mahansar, locals tell tales of the legendary Podder family with a flourishing business in Indian chintz and opium, who had some really impressive mansions here too. In Fatehpur, look out for the Devra and Singhania havelis , which boast of Japanese tiles and frescoes that fuse Indian and Western styles. The prosperous temples of Ramgarh are worth a pit stop. Mukundgarh, known for the Kanoria and Ganeriwala havelis , is also famous for the Khetri Mahal ’s blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture, and the Rani Sati temple. While the havelis in Jhunjhunu were a bit difficult to access, the original capital of the region gave us a chance to stop at a gaushala (cow shelter) and coo over cute newborn calves. Chirawa has some beautiful havelis too, although beware of being a tad distracted as we were, eating the delicious pedas we picked up en route!

Shekhawati today

Castle Mandawa , dating back to 1755 AD, and part of the Mandawa Group of Hotels, is owned by the royal family, descendants of the original Shekha Rao and Thakur Nawal Singh. Thanks to the efforts of this family, Mandawa has been on the inbound tourism circuit since they first started marketing it way back in 1975. While it has had many international visitors over the decades, Indian tourists were not as keen to visit such places. The locals observe that this has changed in the past two decades, as interest has grown, and domestic tourists have started exploring more offbeat destinations.

Seth Arjun Das Goenka Haveli courtyard, Rajasthan

“In recent years, thanks to its proximity to Jaipur (168 kms) and Delhi (260 kms), Mandawa has become a popular weekend getaway. It has helped that in 2020, the Government of Rajasthan designed a new policy with an emphasis on developing and promoting lesser-known spots in the state among domestic travellers,” says Virendra Shekhawat, co-founder of the Mandawa Art Village . He believes that Bollywood has played a vital role in boosting domestic tourism to this region too, with popular Hindi films such as Ghulami (1985), Paheli (2005), Jab We Met (2007), PK (2014), Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), Mirzya and Sultan (2016), being shot here.

Shekhawat is passionate about preserving Rajasthani culture, which is vanishing as more and more people move to the cities in search of work. Along with French artist Amita Jessica Prem D’alessandro, he has set up the art village in Jeetas, four km from Mandawa, where he blends an appreciation for the traditional artwork with the infrastructure for modern creativity through wall painting, sculpture, photo exhibitions, functional art, etc. Since 2018, they have hosted more than 30 artists from across the globe, created more than 50 art installations and empowered more than 600 local households. They have partnered with Rajasthan Tourism as well as the Latin American embassies of Mexico, Ecuador, and Peru. Shekhawat shares, “We are planning to set up a restoration school soon, which will give the existing local mural painters who currently work as daily wage earners the support they need to take on contracts of entire havelis. They will use the original, time-honoured techniques and materials so that the restoration is as authentic as possible.” The art village’s Morbagh Residency, which will promote long stays and immersive art experiences for the art-inclined, has just been launched too.

Tal Chappar Blackbuck Sanctuary

Top 10 must-dos when you’re in Shekhawati

• Museum: At museums such as the Seth Arjundas Goenka Haveli in Dundlod, which has 20 rooms filled with artefacts showcasing merchant life from a 100 years ago, or the beautiful Dr Ramnath A Podar Haveli and the Morarka Haveli Museum in Nawalgarh.
• Wishing Well: The 150-year-old Harlalka Well is worth visiting as it is said to make wishes come true.
• Music Festival: The Magnetic Fields Festival has been a celebration of international underground music at Alsisar Mahal every December since 2013. The last weekend saw fresh EDM by the likes of I.Jordan or the completely unpredictable Belgian DJ Nosedrip and scores of other international acts across the twin stages by Budweiser, which attracted creatives and lovers of music and dance like never before in the annual event’s decade of existence.
• Eat: Apart from ker-sangri and daal-baati-choorma , which are the specialities of the region, try the special Chirawa pedas from Lalchand Pedawala
• Pray: The Shree Satta Dada Mandir in Ojatoo, a temple dedicated to one of the very rare male satis. Of course, we don’t condone sati in any form, but this one has a unique story, where a man sacrificed his life after the death of his brother.
• Paint: To your art’s content at the Mandawa Art Village
• Read: The Painted Town of Shekhawati by Ilay Cooper and Abandoned India: The Mansions of Shekhawati by Kip Scott.
• Spot: Black buck, desert foxes and many migratory birds of prey at the Tal Chappar Sanctuary.
• Stay: At the 18th-century fort turned into a luxury hotel, Castle Mandawa right where the Shekhawati story started!
• Shop: The Shekhawati Festival in Nawalgarh every February, which features a vibrant market for handicrafts and food, and performances by local artists.

Dal Baati Churma

Shekhawati - The Painted World

Shekhawati tourism and travel guide.

Situated at the northern end of the Rajasthan , Shekhawati once remained the stronghold of Rajput ruler Rao Sheka. One of the best cities to visit in Rajasthan, the tourism in Shekhawati revolves around magnificent 18th-century aristocratic homes (havelis) and mansions from the era gone by. The city is seventh heaven for art and architecture enthusiasts. No wonder Shekhawati is a tourist’s paradise as it offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of rich and famous Rajput rulers that ruled the lands of Rajasthan. Apart from the havelis, Shekhawati also attracts tourists for its forts, baoris, and temples.

Shekhawati: Of Baolis, Forts and Havelis

The regal city of Shekhawati is probably best known for the presence of a handful of reservoirs (or Baoli) in the region. Built-in 1899, Sethani ka Johara is a famous tourist place in Shekhawati that is known for not only its elegance but also for its functionality.

It is easily one of the finest Baolis in Shekhawati and a popular tourist attraction. The majestic Laxmangarh Fort overlooks the city of Laxmangarh from its vantage. Built on the scattered colossal rocks, the fort is one of the best specimens of fort architecture in the entire world.

Ratangarh Fort is another majestic tourist destination in Shekhawati known for its colossal size and imposing gateways.

Erected in 1888, the elegant Kanhaiyalal Haveli boasts of finest latticework and architecture in the entire Shekhawati region with walls and murals adorning paintings of Rajasthani folklore.

Khetri Mahal located in the Jhunjhunu near Shekhawati is nicknamed ‘Wind Palace of Jhunjhunu’ even when there are no doors and windows! Fatehpur Fort, which was built in 1516, is another famous sightseeing destination in Shekhawati.

Once the richest town during the 19th century, Ramgarh is renowned for its paintings, shrines, chattris, and havelis with Ramgopal cenotaph and Poddar’s Haveli being famous tourist attractions.

Besides havelis and forts, some venerated temples are also present in Shekhawati. The 400-year old Rani Sati Mandir is a magnificent shrine dedicated to feminine bravery and grit.

Also known as ‘Bada Mandir’, Raghunathji Mandir is the 19th-century shrine in Shekhawati dedicated to Lord Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Things to do in Shekhawati

Apart from the haveli and temples, tourists can also take a leisurely walk at Churu which is home to some of the beautiful aristocratic homes and other architectural delights.

A morning or evening stroll amidst the town offers a glimpse into the rich heritage.

Best Time to Visit Shekhawati

The Best time to visit Shekhawati is from October to March. Tourist visiting during this season can fully enjoy the visit to the historic Shekhawati region.

Weather of Shekhawati

The Climatic condition of Shekhawati is very Harsh and extreme. The summer brings hot waves of air called loo and temperature ranges from 0°C to 50°C. During the months of July and mid September is the monsoon and it experiences a rainfall of around 450 to 600 mm. The climatic conditions of Shekhawati, Rajasthan in the winter season are cooler, but again dry. The average temperature falls in the range of 30° C (max) to 10.5° C (min) and considered to be the best time to visit Shekhawati.

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Tucked away in the northern desert reaches of Rajasthan, Shekhawati remains suspended in time, dotted with grand havelis with beautiful frescos and murals, and ancient temples and stepwells adorned with intricate carvings. A reflection of the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy merchants of the region, Shekhawati boasts the legacy of the traders who bestowed it with its architectural gems. A photographer's dream, every nook and cranny of the district is alive with the vibrancy of colourful paintings that are almost like a picture story, revolving around religious legends, folklore and highlights of its lavish past. Most of these havelis were abandoned by their owners, when they migrated to other parts of the country for trade. Today, they have been restored and turned into museums, heritage resorts and hotels.

The history of Shekhawati is rooted in the Matsya kingdom and has also been mentioned in the ancient Indian texts of Rig Veda and Manusmriti. Rao Shekha from Dhundhar established Shekhawati with its capital at Amarsar. He divided the region into 33 villages that were fortified with mud and stone forts. A prominent trading centre of the 14th century, Shekhawati is now a tourist hub in Rajasthan.

Attractions In Shekhawati

Sethani ka johara.

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Ratangarh Fort

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Mandawa Fort

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Kanahiyalal Bagla Haveli

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How to get there

The nearest airport is at Jaipur, about 2.5 hours away.

The place is well-connected with State Highway 8, 37 and 41 that provide direct routes to Jaipur, Delhi and Bikaner.

The nearest Railway station is the Jhunjhunu Railway station that is connected to major cities like Jaipur, Delhi, Indore etc.

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🗓 Best Time To Visit: October to March

⏰ Open Hours: N/A

🏞 Things To Do: Explore Fresco paintings, Visit Havelis and Forts, Shop for local handicrafts, Experience rural tourism

💰 Budget: Variable, depending on activities chosen and accommodation

🧳 Traveller Types: History Buffs, Art Lovers, Culture Enthusiasts, Adventure Seekers

📍 Known For: Fresco Paintings, Heritage Havelis, Vibrant Culture, Intricate Architecture, Local Handicrafts

🚉 Distances: From Delhi - 250 km, From Jaipur - 150 km, Nearest Railway Station - Jhunjhunu (30 km)

🕌 Major Attractions: Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Dundlod, Jhunjhunu, Sikar

🛍 Shopping: Handicrafts, Paintings, Textiles, Wooden Furniture

🍽 Local Cuisine: Rajasthani Thali, Dal Bati Churma, Ghevar, Lassi

💡 Tips: Hire a local guide for a detailed understanding of the region's history and art

Shekhawati is a region in the north-eastern part of Rajasthan, India, that comprises the districts of Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Churu, and Nagaur. It is known as the "open-air art gallery" of India, as it boasts of hundreds of havelis (mansions) adorned with exquisite frescoes (paintings) that depict the history, culture, and mythology of the region.

Shekhawati is also home to some of the most impressive forts, palaces, temples, and wildlife sanctuaries in Rajasthan, offering a glimpse into the glorious past and the natural beauty of the state. Shekhawati is a perfect destination for those who love art, architecture, history, and adventure, as it offers a variety of attractions and activities to suit every taste and preference.

Shekhawati Havelis

The havelis are the main attraction of Shekhawati, as they showcase the artistic and architectural brilliance of the region. The havelis are large mansions built by the wealthy merchants and traders of Shekhawati, who commissioned local artists to decorate their walls and ceilings with intricate and colorful frescoes. The frescoes depict scenes from Hindu epics, legends, folklore, social life, and even British and European influences. The havelis are a testament to the prosperity and culture of Shekhawati, and each one has its own unique style and theme. Some of the most famous havelis in Shekhawati are:

Mandawa Haveli: Located in the town of Mandawa, this haveli was built in the 18th century by Thakur Nawal Singh, the founder of the town. It features a beautiful courtyard, a museum, and a terrace that offers a panoramic view of the town. The haveli is now a heritage hotel that allows visitors to experience the royal lifestyle of the past.

Nawalgarh Haveli: Located in the town of Nawalgarh, this haveli was built in the 19th century by Thakur Nawal Singh II, the grandson of the founder of Mandawa. It is one of the most ornate and well-preserved havelis in Shekhawati, with exquisite frescoes depicting Krishna's life, floral motifs, and geometric patterns. The haveli also has a museum that displays antique furniture, costumes, and paintings.

Dundlod Haveli: Located in the village of Dundlod, this haveli was built in the 18th century by Thakur Kesri Singh, the ruler of Dundlod. It is a fusion of Rajput and Mughal architecture, with domes, arches, and columns. The haveli has a library, a drawing room, and a dining hall, all decorated with elegant frescoes and furniture. The haveli is also a heritage hotel that offers horse safaris, camel rides, and cultural programs.

Shekhawati Forts

The forts in Shekhawati are another attraction that showcase the history and heritage of the region. The forts were built by the Rajput rulers of Shekhawati, who defended their lands from the invaders and the Mughals. The forts are a symbol of the power and glory of the Rajput dynasty, and they display the finest examples of Rajasthani architecture and craftsmanship. Some of the most impressive forts in Shekhawati are:

Junagarh Fort: Located in the city of Bikaner, this fort was built in the 16th century by Rao Bika, the founder of Bikaner. It is one of the few forts in India that has never been conquered, and it houses several palaces, temples, and museums within its walls. The fort is famous for its intricate carvings, mirror work, paintings, and silverware.

Khetri Mahal: Located in the town of Jhunjhunu, this palace was built in the 18th century by Bhopal Singh, the ruler of Khetri. It is also known as the "Wind Palace", as it has no windows and is ventilated by the wind. The palace is a masterpiece of Rajput architecture, with arched balconies, courtyards, and pillars. The palace is also adorned with beautiful frescoes and sculptures.

Alsisar Mahal: Located in the village of Alsisar, this palace was built in the 19th century by Thakur Guman Singh, the ruler of Alsisar. It is a splendid example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, with domes, turrets, and lattice windows. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens and fountains, and it has a swimming pool, a spa, and a bar. The palace is now a luxury hotel that hosts the famous Magnetic Fields Festival, a music and arts festival, every year.

Shekhawati Wildlife

The wildlife in Shekhawati is another attraction that offers a contrast to the arid landscape of the region. Shekhawati is home to some of the most diverse and rich flora and fauna in Rajasthan, and it has several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that protect and conserve the natural habitats and species. Shekhawati is a paradise for wildlife lovers, as it offers a chance to witness the exotic and endangered animals and birds in their natural environment. Some of the best wildlife attractions in Shekhawati are:

Tal Chhapar Sanctuary: Located in the Churu district, this sanctuary is a haven for blackbucks, the state animal of Rajasthan. The sanctuary covers an area of 719 hectares, and it has a flat saline depression that supports the growth of grasses and shrubs. The sanctuary is also home to other animals, such as chinkaras, nilgais, foxes, and jackals, and birds, such as harriers, eagles, and larks.

Ranthambore National Park: Located in the Sawai Madhopur district, this park is one of the largest and most famous national parks in India, and it is known for its tigers. The park covers an area of 1334 square kilometers, and it has a variety of terrain, such as hills, lakes, rivers, and forests. The park is also home to other animals, such as leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and deer, and birds, such as peacocks, kingfishers, and owls.

Sariska Tiger Reserve: Located in the Alwar district, this reserve is another popular destination for tiger sightings in India. The reserve covers an area of 866 square kilometers, and it has a dry deciduous forest that supports the growth of dhok, salar, and khair trees. The reserve is also home to other animals, such as hyenas, wild dogs, monkeys, and boars, and birds, such as partridges, quails, and eagles.

Shekhawati Festivals

The festivals in Shekhawati are another attraction that add color and vibrancy to the region. Shekhawati celebrates a number of festivals throughout the year, that reflect the cultural and religious diversity and richness of the region. The festivals are a time to enjoy the music, dance, food, and art of Shekhawati, and to witness the traditions and customs of the people. Some of the most popular festivals in Shekhawati are:

Gangaur: This is a festival that celebrates the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and it is observed in the month of March or April. The festival is especially important for women, who worship the idols of the divine couple and pray for the well-being of their husbands. The festival is marked by processions, songs, dances, and fairs, and the women dress up in colorful attire and jewelry.

Teej: This is another festival that celebrates the love of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, and it is observed in the month of July or August. The festival is also significant for women, who fast and pray for the longevity and happiness of their husbands. The festival is marked by swings, mehndi, bangles, and sweets, and the women wear green clothes and accessories.

Holi: This is a festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil, and the arrival of spring, and it is observed in the month of February or March. The festival is famous for its colors, as people smear each other with gulal (colored powder) and water, and express their joy and love. The festival is also marked by bonfires, songs, dances, and delicacies, and the people wear white clothes and caps.

Diwali: This is a festival that celebrates the return of Lord Rama from his exile, and the triumph of light over darkness, and it is observed in the month of October or November. The festival is famous for its lights, as people decorate their homes and streets with diyas (earthen lamps) and candles, and display their creativity and artistry. The festival is also marked by fireworks, prayers, gifts, and sweets, and the people wear new and bright clothes and jewelry.

Shekhawati Travel Tips

Here are some useful tips to help you plan your trip to Shekhawati, and make the most of your time and money in the region.

How to reach Shekhawati:

The nearest airport to Shekhawati is Jaipur International Airport, which is about 180 kilometers away. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach Shekhawati. The nearest railway station to Shekhawati is Jhunjhunu Railway Station, which is connected to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Bikaner. You can also take a train to Sikar, Churu, or Bikaner, and then take a taxi or a bus to Shekhawati. You can also drive to Shekhawati by road, as it is well-connected to other parts of Rajasthan by national and state highways.

Best time to visit Shekhawati:

The best time to visit Shekhawati is from October to March , when the weather is pleasant and cool, and the region is in full bloom. This is also the time when most of the festivals are celebrated, and you can enjoy the cultural and religious fervor of the region. You can also visit Shekhawati in the monsoon season, from July to September, when the region receives moderate rainfall, and the landscape becomes green and fresh. However, avoid visiting Shekhawati in the summer season, from April to June, when the temperature can soar up to 45°C, and the region becomes dry and dusty.

Where to stay in Shekhawati:

Shekhawati offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. You can choose from heritage hotels, resorts, guest houses, and homestays, and experience the hospitality and charm of the region. Some of the best places to stay in Shekhawati are:

Mandawa Haveli: A heritage hotel that offers a royal stay in a historic haveli, with luxurious rooms, a museum, a terrace, and a restaurant.

Roop Niwas Kothi: A heritage hotel that offers a comfortable stay in a former palace, with spacious rooms, a swimming pool, a garden, and a bar.

Vivaana Culture Hotel: A heritage hotel that offers a cozy stay in a restored haveli, with cozy rooms, a spa, a library, and a cafe.

Hotel Shekhawati: A budget hotel that offers a decent stay in a modern building, with clean rooms, a rooftop, and a restaurant.

Shekhawati Homestay: A homestay that offers a homely stay in a traditional house, with simple rooms, a kitchen, and a courtyard.

What to eat in Shekhawati:

Shekhawati offers a variety of cuisines to satisfy your taste buds, from local Rajasthani dishes to continental and Chinese dishes. You can try some of the regional specialties, such as dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, ker sangri, bajre ki roti, and lassi. You can also indulge in some of the sweets, such as ghevar, halwa, and malpua. Some of the best places to eat in Shekhawati are:

Mandawa Restaurant: A restaurant that serves delicious Rajasthani and Indian dishes, with a rooftop and a garden.

Chokhi Dhani: A restaurant that serves authentic Rajasthani and Indian dishes, with a cultural program and a puppet show.

Poddar’s Restaurant: A restaurant that serves tasty Rajasthani and Indian dishes, with a cozy and elegant ambiance.

Pizza Hut: A restaurant that serves mouth-watering pizzas, pastas, and salads, with a modern and lively atmosphere.

Shyam Sweets: A sweet shop that serves scrumptious sweets, snacks, and beverages, with a friendly and hygienic service.

Shekhawati is a region that offers a unique and unforgettable experience to its visitors, as it showcases the art, architecture, history, and culture of Rajasthan. Shekhawati is a place where you can admire the beauty and craftsmanship of the havelis and forts, witness the diversity and richness of the wildlife, and celebrate the color and vibrancy of the festivals. Shekhawati is a place where you can enjoy the hospitality and charm of the people, and taste the flavors and delicacies of the cuisine. Shekhawati is a place where you can discover the hidden gems of Rajasthan, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your tour, safari, or hotel in Shekhawati today, and experience the land of havelis and frescoes. You can also visit Tripoto.com to find more information, reviews, and tips on Shekhawati, and to plan your perfect trip.

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Havelis, arts and places to visit in Shekhawati

It was not the Taj Mahal, the holy Ganges or the beautiful Indian desert cities that were the highlights of my India trip. The highlight turned out to be a group of small, little-visited villages in northern Rajasthan named Shekhawati. The peaceful Shekhawati region is over around 100 kilometers and its villages are known for their exquisite painted havelis (‘mansions’). Below are some of my favorite places to visit in Shekhawati!

Updated in 2019

The Shekhawati havelis 

Shekhawati is famous for its fascinating havelis. The grand havelis were built by rich merchants for their families in the 18th and 19th century. The rich merchants wanted to show off their fortune and hired artists to paint colorful frescos on their walls with mythological and historical themes. A haveli typically has two courtyards, an outer one for the men and an inner one for the women. These days, Shekhawati still feels like an open-air art gallery, despite some havelis have crumbled away. There about 2000 havelis in Shekhawati, but not all are open to visitors. Some have been converted into museum or hotels.

Places to visit in Shekhawati: Nawalgarh 

There are two main villages in Shekhawati: Nawalgarh and Mandawa. Nawalgarh has many accommodation options and hundreds of painted havelis. Some of the best havelis include:

• Jodhraj Patodia Haveli
• Chokhani Haveli
• Bansidhar Bhagat Haveli
• Aath Haveli complex

Nawalgarh also boasts a vibrant market, a fort and a few museums. It is an excellent place to base yourself for your visit to Shekhawati.

Places to visit in Shekhawati: Mandawa

Peaceful Mandawa is much smaller than Nawalgarh (and more village-like), but also has some good accommodation options and is home to at least 175 havelis. I stayed in ‘ Hotel Shekhawati ’, a budget accommodation in Mandawa and I absolutely loved this hotel with its rooftop breakfast, absolutely gorgeous rooms and friendly staff. Recent 2019 experiences on Trip Advisor are also positive. In Mandawa you can visit the C hokhani Double Haveli and the Snehi Ram Ladia Haveli . The Mandawa castle offers the best views over the village. Mandawa is also an excellent place to start when exploring the region.

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Places to visit in Shekhawati: Fatehpur 

Other places to visit in Shekhawati include Fatehpur and Nadine Le Prince. Fatehpur is a sleepy, but incredibly charming town which has many havelis including the haveli of the French artist Nadine le Prince .  The Haveli was built in 1802 by the wealthy Devras family and these days houses the most beautiful murals in the region, an art café and a cultural center that organizes art exhibitions and regional walks. The entrance fee is 200 rupees.

Other good places to visit in Shekhawati include the villages of Mahansar, Dunlod, and Mukundgarh.

Tourism in Shekhawati – Still a village life experience

More and more travelers have discovered Shekhawati. Even in this remote region, ‘touts’ wander the streets offering you tours and hotels. Despite this, it still remains one of the least visited regions of Rajasthan, making a more unique and authentic experience. For all you art lovers out there and for those who would like to experience Indian village life in Rajasthan, I would highly recommend visiting slow-paced beautiful Shekhawati.

How to get go Shekhawati from Jaipur

Shekhawati is a short 3-hour bus ride from Jaipur. From Jaipur you can take a local bus or train to Nawalgarh. Beware of the fact that the buses are often Indian style (which means completely packed including passengers on the roof). In my case, our bus broke down, which meant all passengers we stoved into another (already full) bus! You can also opt for public transportation.

Final tips for your visit to Shekhawati

– Wander the streets outside the ‘main center’ and experience the peaceful village life. – Remember that not all havelis are open for tourists and many of them are homes. Therefore, always ask permission to enter and/or to take photos. – Visit Shekhawati for at least two days to really experience the region. – Bring enough cash money (there is only one ATM that doesn’t always work). – Read these tips from one of my favorite India blogs on how to travel on Indian trains, planes, and automobiles!  – Also: check out the excellent India travel forum ‘India Mike’

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Wat gaaf dat dit jouw highlight van India was. Wij gaan in december voor de 5e(?) keer naar India, dit keer met onze 2 kids en we gaan onder andere een week in dit gebied doorbrengen. O.a. slapen in een oud paleis, wat onze oudste vast geweldig gaat vinden. Zelf kijk ik t meest uit naar al die fantastische dorpjes… o, ik hou echt van Indiase dorpjes :)

Rajasthan is cover with sand. If you go to Rajasthan at every location you will the art everywhere. Last year we have booked Rajasthan Holiday Package From Kesari Tour. The Places to see in Rajasthan is Jaipur,Udaipur,Jaislmaeir,Jodhpur,Mt Abu and many more cities to see.

I’ve always wanted to go to Rajasthan! It looks like such a unique experience!

it will be nice to indicate the name of the Havelis under the photo.. Most of them are the Le prince Haveli in Fatehpur.. You can have a look of the website: leprincehaveli.com

I would also recommend visiting the Chhatris of Ramgarh too while you are in the Shekhawati region.

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Places To Visit In Shekhawati

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41 km from city center 1 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Sikar is one of the most preferred excursions away from Shekhawati. It is host to plenty of prolific havelis and temples namely the Ram Chokhani Haveli, Bansidhar Rathi Haveli, Mirijamal Kyala Haveli, Kedia Haveli, Sanganeria Haveli, Radha Murli Manohar temple and the Jeen Mata temple are the relatively more famous ones.

76 km from city center 2 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Churu is another jaunt a few km away from the town of Shekhawati located in the district of Shekhawati itself. Like many other towns in this area, Churu is also known for its Rajasthani architectural techniques clearly seen in its havelis and forts.

3. Nawalgarh

28 km from city center 3 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Nawalgarh is a miniature town situated at a short distance from Shekhawati. Fondly known as "the land of Havelis" or "open air art gallery", this miniature town of Nawalgarh is located around 30 km away from the town of Jhunjhunu and does absolute justice to the name given to it.

47 km from city center 4 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Mandawa is a tiny township in the centre of the Shekhawati region, famous for trade and commerce. In the 18th century, the Rajput ruler of Mandawa and also the builder of the Roop Niwas Palace in Nawalgarh, built a lavish fort called here.

Top Hotels In Shekhawati

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5. Badalgarh Fort

61 km from city center 5 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Badalgarh Fort situated in the Jhunjhunu district of the Shekhawati region was constructed under the regime of a Muslim ruler, Nawab Fazal Khan in the early 16th century.

96 km from city center 6 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Pilani is a small city, mainly renowned for being home to one of the most prestigious educational institute of the country namely BITS Pilani (Birla Institute of Technology and Science). However, other aspects of the town prove to be worth every visit.

32 km from city center 7 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

While Nawalgarh is famous for its havelis and forts built in the 20th century, this town of Dundlod is famous for the edifices built in the 18th century.

8. Horseback Riding

105 km from city center 8 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

A breathtaking experience it is to take a ride through Shekhavati, which still reverberates of old Rajasthani culture, and takes one through the glorious past of the merchants of the Silk Road, all on horseback. On the back of exclusive Marwadi horses, one can soak in Rajasthani life, culture and havelis.

9. Laxmangarh Fort

25 km from city center 9 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Situated at a distance of 147 kms from Jaipur, Laxmangarh Fort was built by Rao Raja of Sikar, Laxman Singh in the 19th century. Built on large scattered rocks, the fort is now partly owned by private party and hence is only partially open to tourists.

10. Mandawa Fort

47 km from city center 10 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Mandawa Fort is striking example of unique Rajasthani style architecture. Built in the 18th century by Nawal Singh, the fort is situated 170 kms from Jaipur and boasts of beautiful archways, mirror works and paintings.

11. Ratangarh Fort

11 out of 11 Places To Visit in Shekhawati

Built in the 19th century by Maharaja Ratan Singh of Rajasthan, Ratangarh Fort is situated at a distance of 200 kms from Jaipur. Dotted with imposing gateways and elaborate designs, the fort also has a clock tower known as Ghantaghar.

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Things to Do in Shekhawati, India - Shekhawati Attractions

Things to do in shekhawati, explore popular experiences, tours & sightseeing.

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Exploring the artistic Mandawa Havelis in Shekhawati, Rajasthan

At almost 170 km from Jaipur , my drive culminated at what was referred to as the open art gallery of Rajasthan. Every tiny lane I turned into had at least one opulent mansion luring me into its gates. The little hamlet of Mandawa was filled with the famed Shekhawati havelis I had seen only in pictures. The sight of these frescoed beauties filled me with frenzy – so much that I decided to skip a meal and get started with my much-awaited tour of Mandawa.

Quite like the other painted towns of the Shekhawati regions , Mandawa is famous for its frescoed havelis – most of which were built in the 18 th century . A lot of them have been abandoned and are in a dilapidated state. Despite that, as I discovered, they are well worth a visit – for their magnificent details. There are so many tiny stories that have been etched forever on the walls of these Shekhawati Havelis Mandawa.

In this blog post, I will guide you to the best of the Mandawa Havelis and their key highlights. There are a lot of insider tips on how you can visit the havelis of Mandawa, the best time to get here, entrance fees if any, where you can get a guide and where you can stay. Besides the frescoed beauties, I will be sharing the other places to visit in Mandawa . In short, there are enough details to help you with your own Shekhawati and Mandawa trip.

Quick links for your Mandawa Trip

Here are some links that will help you with your Mandawa and Shekhawati trip. You can click through them and book the ones that appeal to you.

• Booking.com has several good Mandawa Hotels listed on their site. You could use  this link  to browse and book the same.
• From Delhi: Overnight Guided Tour of Mandawa by Car
• Private Day Trip: The Havelis of Mandawa
• 2 – Day Mandawa Tour From Jaipur With Bikaner Drop
• Same Day Incredible Shekhawati Tour From Jaipur
• From Jaipur : Private Transfer To Mandawa
• The Heritage Havelis of Shekhawati Tour
• Mandawa Frescoes, Murals and Havelis From Delhi
• Private 2-Day Tour to Shekhawati & Mandawa Havelis from Jaipur
• For any of your travel needs or general shopping, consider using  Amazon  through  this link.
• 1 Where is Mandawa? | About Mandawa
• 2 History of Mandawa in Rajasthan
• 3 The current state of the Mandawa havelis
• 4 Typical layout of Shekhawati havelis Mandawa
• 5.1 Jhunjhunwala Haveli with its golden room
• 5.2 Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli in Mandawa
• 5.3 Mohan Saraf Haveli
• 5.4 Murmuria Haveli – one of the key Mandawa attractions
• 5.5 Goenka double haveli – the supposedly haunted haveli of Mandawa
• 5.6 Seth Dayaram Dedraj Goenka Haveli
• 5.7 Bansidhar Newatia Haveli – one of the key Mandawa tourist attractions
• 5.8 Chokhani double haveli
• 5.9 The Legacy by Machan
• 6.1 Harlalka Well
• 6.2 Mandawa Castle
• 6.3 Mandawa Market
• 6.4 Paardarshi Shivling mandir Mandawa
• 7 Mandawa Havelis Map
• 8 Should you hire a local guide for your Haveli Hopping tour in Mandawa?
• 9 Other places to visit near Mandawa
• 10 Practical tips for visiting Mandawa Village
• 11.1 What is the best way to reach Mandawa?
• 11.2 What is the best time to visit Mandawa in Rajasthan?
• 11.3 Where can you stay in Mandawa?
• 11.4 How much time do you need to see the Mandawa Havelis?
• 11.5 What to eat when in Mandawa?

Where is Mandawa? | About Mandawa

Mandawa village is located in the state of Rajasthan and is around 170 km from Jaipur. It is one of the 25 key places in Shekhawati – known for its majestic havelis that are painted with frescoes. It falls under Jhunjhunu district and has been a popular backdrop for Bollywood movies like Bajrangi Bhaijan and PK .  

History of Mandawa in Rajasthan

If you have seen my earlier post on Nawalgarh , another Shekhawati town, you would have heard of Thakur Nawal Singh . He was one of the administrators of the Jaipur royal court and was granted a lot of land in the Shekhawati region. Mandawa and Nawalgarh, were both under his jagir (land grant).

In the early 18 th century, when the silk route from Central Asia to China was active, Mandawa was developed as a trading outpost. This is when rich merchants decided to settle into the village and thus, built lavish bungalows that were covered from top to bottom by colorful frescoes. This is where the first of the Mandawa Havelis history can be traced.

Renowned business families like the Goenkas, Chokhanis, Sarafs settled in to make Mandawa village their home. It continued to be so till the route vanished. The merchants and their families slowly moved to other business hubs and gradually the ornate Mandawa mansions were shut down and abandoned. Today, these havelis – in whatever state they are in – are the key Mandawa tourist places that draw visitors from far and near. They are the reason why this town has been called an open art gallery or the painted town of Shekhawati.

The current state of the Mandawa havelis

The story of the Mandawa havelis is quite similar to that of the Chettinad mansions in Karaikudi. With the expanding families and shift of business centers, almost all the Mandawa havelis were locked up and abandoned. Most of them have fallen into disrepair and their rich frescoes are slowly fading. Doors are falling off and the rich woodwork slowly decaying.

Though these mansions are the key places for sightseeing in Mandawa, there are no maintenance or restoration attempts being made by the tourism authorities. I am told that the authorities claim that they are unable to do much as these havelis are still privately owned.

Despite this, the Mandawa havelis tourism is slowly on the rise – largely owing to their spectacular artwork and designs. Given this, a few families have either sold their ancestral homes to well-known chains of hotels or hired contractors to restore them. These are now converted to heritage stays and in some form, are being revived.

Personally, I feel that the state of the Mandawa Havelis as compared to its neighboring Shekhawati towns like Nawalgarh is quite sad. This itself is paradoxical, given that there are more places to stay in Mandawa as compared to Nawalgarh. I guess, it is more of an onus of the owners of these heritage havelis than really the authorities. A good trust fund or heritage project should be undertaken to preserve these centuries-old abodes and their legacy.

Another under-rated open air gallery of mansions is in South India. Popularly called as the Chettinad region, this one has a tale similar to the Shekhawati region. Check these ghost mansions here.

Typical layout of Shekhawati havelis Mandawa

Most people usually head to Mandawa first and then explore the surrounding Shekhawati towns like Nawalgarh. I did too. However, given my experience and learning, it is best to start with Nawalgarh and then come to Mandawa . The reason – after visiting Podar Haveli museum in Nawalgarh , you will be in a better state to understand the various elements and layout of any Mandawa Haveli.

To help you understand better, I am sharing the key elements of a typical Shekhawati haveli. You can always read my earlier post on Nawalgarh museum for details.

• Courtyard-styled homes – There are at least 2 courtyards in every home around which the rooms are built. The common courtyard is where the Baithak (drawing room), Diwan Khana (accounts office) and other offices are. This is where visitors are allowed and received. The inner courtyard is restricted to family members only. Some have a third courtyard called Nohra that is used for animal shelters and vehicle parking.
• Most of the havelis have at least one storey
• The Mukhya Dwar or the main door is usually a grand entrance. It is more of a gate that is not usually open. People enter through a smaller door in this main door called the Toran Darwaza.
• Every inch of a typical Shekhawati haveli is covered with frescoes. There are three main types – Descriptive frescoes (elaborate scenes), Portraits and Decorative frescoes (fillers like flowers, plants etc).

It is usually the unique frescoes that lend a character to any haveli. In the next section on the best havelis to visit in Mandawa, I will be specifically pointing out the creative paintings that each of these homes has. Consider this as your treasure hunt clue – one that you will hunt for in the myriad frescoes that you will see. Trust me, it isn’t that easy.

Which are the best Mandawa Havelis to visit?

Mandawa is a very small village and you can actually finish all the tourist places in Mandawa in a single day. However, I recommend staying here and using it as a hub for visiting the other Shekhawati towns.

It is best to go on a walking tour of Mandawa as most of these havelis are located in tiny lanes. You can always hire a bicycle but in my opinion, given the short distances, going on foot is the best. You can go inside most of the Mandawa havelis by paying the caretaker a small token entry fee. This ranges from INR 100 – 150 per person, per haveli. There is no standard fee, you just have to negotiate.

Among the havelis to visit, these are the unmissable ones. Check them out along with the key frescoes or architectural elements that you would want to capture when visiting them.

Jhunjhunwala Haveli with its golden room

This was the first of the Mandawa attractions that I saw. Built-in the 19th century, this haveli is renowned for its Golden room – the frescoes in the room have been done using actual gold paint . I am told that around 3 kgs of gold was melted and used in this room which functioned as the Diwan Khana and Baithak. Sadly the haveli is in bad shape with many of its paintings faded. Even so, you will be able to spot many marvels.

The frescoes include the famous Ragmala style of paintings – a type of miniature art t hat depicts the mood of various ragas. This art represents poetry and music in the form of a painting. In the golden room of the Jhunjhunwala haveli, you will see numerous descriptive frescoes of Lord Krishna and his partner. Besides his story, there are many other Gods and Goddesses etched here. Look carefully and you will even spot a British soldier amidst the frescoed ceilings.

Don’t miss the colorful Belgian glass that was procured from the traders from Belgium in exchange for clothes and spices from Mandawa.

Jhunjhunwala haveli has its share of gorgeous lattice windows with jharokhas and stunning doorways. The Toran door is made of an alloy of five metals. As our guide told us – “ The door is resistant to rust and can be made to sparkle by using a mix of lemon juice and the native desert sand. Most havelis in Mandawa have such doors. ”

Though locked, our guide got the inner courtyard opened by the caretaker so that we could climb the upper floors and take in the fresco-covered mansion. From the terrace, you get a lovely view of Mandawa village and can even spot a few cenotaphs and havelis.

Insider Tip : The main courtyard and the golden room are locked and you will have to pay INR 100 per person to the caretaker . He stays in the third courtyard whose entrance is on the main road, next to the grand entrance of Jhunjhunwala haveli in Mandawa.

Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli in Mandawa

This 18th-century mansion was supposedly one of the key havelis of Mandawa. A massive two-storeyed mansion on one of the main lanes of Mandawa, is being converted into a 76-room hotel. Hopefully, that will breathe life into its fading frescoes.

Some of the key ones that you must try and spot include a steam train that runs along its exterior side walls ( (see the small panel below the elephant in the picture below) . In one of those steam engine frescoes, you will see a couple having their romantic tryst.  There are massive elephants just above it to symbolise luck along with horses that stand for power and camels that indicate love.  There is also a birthing scene as well as a fresco of a Greek man.

The haveli was being restored and renovated for its new role and hence, I could not visit inside. Hopefully, by the time you are reading this, it will be in better shape.

Mohan Saraf Haveli

This is yet another haveli that is going to be converted into a hotel. Close to the Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli, this one belonged to a liquor merchant. It has now been renamed as Joshi Haveli after the new owner who bought it.

Though I could not get inside the gate to get a closer look at the frescoes, I did spend some time admiring the pretty windows that were framed in carved wooden work . The entire window setting was set in pretty arches, each with a different colored glass. The tile work on the walls shimmered like mirrors or wait – maybe they were mirrors.

Zooming in the camera, I could see elaborate frescoes of royal kings stroking their mustaches and a warrior Rajput with his dagger. In the same line, there were a few mythological paintings like that of Ram and Lakshman shooting their golden deer. I sure would not have minded a closer look.

Murmuria Haveli – one of the key Mandawa attractions

Among all the havelis of Mandawa, the Murmuria haveli stands out in terms of the theme of its frescoes. It is a classic case of where East meets West. On one hand, you have frescoes of freedom fighters like Nehru, Bal Gandhar Tilak and Mahatma Gandhi, on the other hand you have King George V and British soldiers.

There are mythological paintings of Lord Krishna as well as scenes from Venice in Italy. I am told that the frescoes were done in the 1930s by a local artist – Balu Ram who blended the western themes with the Indian.

Murmuria haveli by itself, even without the fresco is not built in a typical Rajasthani style. While you will see the same grand entrance and the courtyard-style layout, when you observe the windows, you will spot the Victorian influence.  Definitely one of the most unusual of the Mandawa Havelis.

Goenka double haveli – the supposedly haunted haveli of Mandawa

There are two reasons why you should not miss out on the Goenka double haveli, which is right next to the Murmuria haveli. Firstly, this haveli is one massive one with two buildings that are mirror images of each other – right from its layout to its frescoes. Each of the buildings has its own grand entrance that leads to its own residential courtyard with its upper floors and rooms. Simply put, there are two mini havelis inside a compound.

Built by the Goenka family, each one is separately owned by the two brothers of the family. They have their own separate kitchens but are interconnected by a small passage within. That way, each one of them has their own privacy,

However, neither of them stay here and you can, in fact, enter the haveli on your right for a very spooky experience. This becomes your 2 nd reason to add this to your list of Mandawa havelis to visit . Cobwebbed passages lead you to a solitary courtyard with a very creepy-looking tree. Creaky doors dare you to step inside and have a look at the rooms – trust me at twilight (which is when I went), they do give you shivers.

As if the effect is not enough, the caretaker has added her own spin to this spooky mansion by adding a mannequin head to one of the niches. I honestly, could not but applaud her creativity. The haveli is not haunted but because it has been closed, it has just become dusty and fits the image of a ghostly abode. It is kind of fun to go through it, climb its upper floors and spot some of its faded frescoes. While you are on this tour, try to look for Queen Victoria (or so depicted) smelling a rose.

Despite the dusty state of the haveli, it has some very vibrant frescoes, especially after you enter and walk through the small passage separating the inner courtyard and the main entrance. Even the wooden doors have beautiful carvings – that are enhanced further by its frescoes.

Insider Tips:  The keys for Goenka Double haveli, Seth Dayaram Dedraj Goenka Haveli and Murmuria haveli is with the same caretaker who resides in Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli, She will charge you a nominal entrance of INR 150 – 200 per person.

Seth Dayaram Dedraj Goenka Haveli

This merchant family deals with newspapers and runs buses between the various Shekhawati towns. The Haveli is right opposite Murmuria haveli and has a very unique fresco – a hybrid painting that when viewed from one side shows Indra riding his white elephant while from the other side, you can see Lord Shiva on his Nandi. Since I visited the place almost at sunset, I could not avoid the bright light falling on the fresco. Hopefully, you will get a better picture.

This one is near the caretaker’s home, so you can ask for her or his help in spotting it.

Bansidhar Newatia Haveli – one of the key Mandawa tourist attractions

Currently housing the State bank of India, this Shekhawati haveli in Mandawa stands out with depicts from the modern era. Built-in the 1920s, the artists decided to cover the walls and ceilings with the latest developments in those times. You can see the first flight by Wright brothers, a person on a telephone, and steam trains. There is also, a bird man as well as a man driving a European car.

You don’t have to go inside the bank to see these. They are present on the left wall of the bank.

Chokhani double haveli

There is one more Double haveli in Mandawa and this one will appear white-washed and well-maintained from the outside. Called the Chokhani Double haveli, this was built in the 20 th century and is owned by two brothers. Quite like the Goenka double haveli that I have described earlier, this one has two mini havelis that are mirror images of each other. They are interconnected inside by a passage but otherwise have their own courtyards and rooms.

One of the Kolkata-based Chokhani brothers has renovated his side of the haveli and you will see brighter paintings that have been touched up. In contrast, the other one has faded old frescoes. It is sheer coincidence that at the time I visited this Mandawa haveli, the owner was around, getting repair work done. He kindly allowed us inside and proudly showcased his heritage home.

In the baithak area of his part of the haveli, there are pictures of his ancestors who originally built the place. The frescoes as well as the architecture are a blend of European and Rajasthani designs. On one had you will mythological scenes, on the other you will be treated to portraits of British soldiers in their Western attires.

The haveli has an open terrace from where you can clearly see its mirrored counterpart. Behind the haveli, there are some old cenotaphs that lie in disrepair. I am glad that I at least saw them from the terrace.

It is likely that this haveli is converted to a party or a marriage hall -or at least that is the plan that the owner had. He intends leasing it out for shoots and movie settings. Hence, it is likely you will be able to see it too, from inside. You will be easily able to identify this haveli when you enter Mandawa. It’s walls have large frescoes (now paintings) of elephants and horses on a battle field.

The Legacy by Machan

It is one thing to just see these magnificent Shekhawati havelis and another to stay in one. I was fortunate to have booked in The Legacy Mandawa by Machan which is a traditional haveli converted into a hotel. Originally built by the Harlalka family who dealt in spices, it now has 11 rooms available for a stay. The frescoes have been restored and the courtyards refreshed with fountains.

The outer courtyard is now a baithak with its open-air dining area while the inner courtyard is where the rooms are. You have the same narrow staircase leading you to the upper rooms, which is where I stayed.

One of the key things to see here is in their mini dining room. You have portraits of the original owners as well as few of Gods and Goddess like Lakshmi and Saraswati. The Goddess paintings have some gold paint on them.

Also, the niche over the inner courtyard door, has the typical Shekhawati frescoes in round circles. In most other Mandawa havelis that I have seen, these are just portraits. In case of The Legacy Mandawa, they sport scenes from the life of Lord Krishna.

Even if you are not staying here, drop by to see the place and grab a cup of coffee.

Other places to visit in Mandawa, Shekhawati

It isn’t just the Shekhawati havelis of Rajasthan that you will see in Mandawa. The other tourist places in Mandawa include a temple, a well and even a castle. There are a few cenotaphs as well but they are either in complete disarray or are locked up by the families. Either way, here are the three other attractions in Mandawa.

Harlalka Well

You would have heard this name – Harlalka when I described The Legacy – the heritage haveli turned into a hotel. I am not sure if it is the family that built this community well in Mandawa village or another. However, whoever it is, did an amazing job. Initially, when I saw the well, I thought that it was a cenotaph or a community center. The latter turned out to be true to some extent and I will explain how.

Given the low water tables, the community well was built really deep – to the extent that it was humanly not always possible to reach that deep. Though there were stairs to the bottom, the water supply was pulled up using a l arge pulley (the tall minarets) and a pair of camels that walked down a steep ramp . The water was regularly stored in the reservoirs built around the well.

The canopied enclosures that you will see around the well were seating areas for the villagers or travelers who might have passed by on the Silk Route. There is smaller stepwells that double up as bathing and washing areas. There was a separate one for the men and the women – the latter being a little covered.. Naturally, the Harlalka Well became a community center of sorts in Mandawa.

Rajasthan and Gujarat are known for its elaborate well system. Vavs as they are called in Gujarat were built for travelers as well as residents. They offered shelter and a space for gathering. One such amazing one is right in Ahmedabad and has quite a melancholic tale attached to it. Check it out.

Mandawa Castle

Mandawa Castle is currently known as the most popular and luxury hotel in Mandawa , Shekhawati. However, that wasn’t what it was earlier. Built by Thakur Nawal Singh in 1735, this is a mini fortress built to maintain peace and calm in the Silk Route city.

The place has ove r 85 rooms and still has its original antiquities . You can see the cannons kept around the place. They say that interiors have been inspired by Sheesh Mahal or the mirror palaces of Jaipur and it has its own share of beautiful carvings and frescoes centered around the life of Lord Krishna.

One can tour this for free if they are staying there but for the others, there is a charge of INR 250 per person. Truthfully speaking, I chose to avoid it for I was already overwhelmed with the mansions and their art.  Maybe on another day, I might have gone ahead and spent the amount. For now, I was content by exploring its exteriors, arched gateways and catching a glimpse of it from the various havelis of Mandawa.

Mandawa Market

It is not a big market but shopping in Mandawa can be fun. Check out their handicrafts store for the wooden Shekhawati furniture and artifacts or try their colorful jewelry and the bandhini (tie and dye) clothes . Most of all, stop at the Shekhawati miniature art shops and carry home a memoir of the fresco paintings – from framed paintings to postcards. There are a variety available and the artisans are more than happy to explain the authentic art of miniature paintings.

The Mandawa market is also, known for its patchwork dhurries and bedspreads. There are also, metal handicrafts available here. Just make sure you bargain well – though you will definitely find the prices lower than the city shopping in Rajasthan.

Paardarshi Shivling mandir Mandawa

Paardarshi means see-through. This is a very unique temple that has a spastic Shivlinga (crystal or transparent one) that was established here by one of the Mandawa families. It is over 200 years old though the structure around it is well maintained and renovated.  The new structure has this gorgeous prayer area with a high ceiling – different from the otherwise frescoed vaults that you would see in the Mandawa havelis.

What I loved about the place besides its mystical Shivalinga was the serenity. It is a perfect place to spend a moment or two and let your frazzled senses with the haveli hopping cool off. The green lawn of the temple has small seats and if you are lucky like me, you will find peacocks walking around. Definitely a great way to end your trail of Mandawa Havelis.

Mandawa Havelis Map

Here a map of Mandawa havelis and the other places to visit that I have described in this guide. You can use this to embark on your own self-guided tour of Mandawa or keep it as checklist for your visit.

Should you hire a local guide for your Haveli Hopping tour in Mandawa?

While it is not very difficult to embark on this Mandawa Haveli hopping tour on your own, I would advise hiring a guide. The local guide will be able to point out the key frescoes as well as other points of interest better and also, give you a good explanation of the place. Given that they are locals, they know the caretakers of these havelis better and can help get the place unlocked faster. (If you don’t know where the caretaker or the keys are, you might end up waiting).

You can get these guides through your hotel desk. They are easily available and can speak multiple languages – English, Hindi and French are the most common. You can even hire one guide to cover not just Mandawa but the other villages that you might want to visit from Mandawa. The local guide charges in Mandawa range from INR 500 for half a day to INR 1200 for a full day of sightseeing. The entrance fees are charged at actuals.

Here is the number of the guide Shikandar, who took me around Mandawa, Fatehpur, Ramgarh and Mansar – +91 9799988494.

Other places to visit near Mandawa

As explained to you, though Mandawa is just a small village, it is a hub to visit other Shekhawati Villages. It has good hotels for your to stay and move around for your painted villages tour. Here are some other Shekhawati towns that you can do as a daytrip from Mandawa. The day trip can actually cover 2-3 of these towns in one go.

• Dundlod – This is just 20 km from Mandawa. You can visit the Dundlod fort, Goenka haveli and the Goenka cenotaph in this town.
• Ramgarh Shekhawati – 27 km from Mandawa, this Shekhawati town is full of frescoed cenotaphs.
• Fatehpur –The most popular attractions of Fatehpur include Mohan Saraf haveli and Le Nadine haveli. It is located at 26 km from Mandawa.
• Mahansar – This is around 25 km from Mandawa and besides the havelis and a grand cenotaph, has a golden haveli -rather shop. It is made in pure gold paint.
• Nawalgarh – one of the biggest hub of Shekhawati havelis is just 30 km from Mandawa. This town has better-preserved havelis. You can start your Shekhawati journey from this town with the Podar Haveli Museum and then do the other havelis of Nawalgarh. It is best to give this time a complete half-day of sightseeing.
• Churu – This is around 42 km from Mandawa, towards Delhi. It is yet another town that is filled with the frescoed havelis of Shekhawati. Some of the most popular ones here include the 1100 room Surana haveli, Malji ka Kamra and Kanhaiya Lal Bagla Haveli.

Practical tips for visiting Mandawa Village

I have put together some practical tips that you should keep in mind when you are on your Mandawa Havelis tour. These will help make your sightseeing in Mandawa better and definitely more satisfying.

• If you are planning more than a day’s trip in the Shekhawati region, you might want to consider Mandawa as your nerve center and stay option. There are a lot of good hotels here as compared to the other Shekhawati towns. Also, the distance to the other towns is manageable as day trips.
• Though Mandawa can be a hub, do not miss out on Nawalgarh. In fact, if possible start with Nawalgarh’s Podar haveli . Read this post as to why I recommend this.
• I highly recommend hiring a local guide to tour the Shekhawati region.
• After some time, the frescoes of the various havelis can get really overwhelming. So, go slow and take breaks between two or three havelis. Grab a snack along the way. Consider this akin to smelling coffee while you attempt to buy perfume.
•   Carry some cash for the entrances to the haveli. Some of them accept UPI payments but most don’t.
• If possible, hire a car in Mandawa for your day-trips. Relying on public transport will definitely eat up some of your time.

FAQs about Mandawa Havelis tour

What is the best way to reach mandawa.

The closest airport to Mandawa is Jaipur at 170 km. It takes around 3 hours by road to get to Mandawa from Jaipur. You can either hire one of the self-drive vehicles or rent a cab from Jaipur. There are numerous public buses that ply between Jaipur and Mandawa throughout the day. These are however, not direct buses and Mandawa is just a stop on the way.

From Jaipur, if you wish to travel by train, then you can either opt to go to Nawalgarh or Jhunjhunu railway station. Both these are around 30 km from Mandawa and will require you to either catch a public bus or hire a cab.

Delhi on the other hand is 255 km from Mandawa and it takes around 5 hours to reach here by road. This is yet another option for an airport.

What is the best time to visit Mandawa in Rajasthan?

I would recommend visiting Mandawa between September to February when the temperatures are slightly lower and it is easy to walk around the town. Avoid the summer months – April to June when the temperatures go over 40 degrees Celsius.

Where can you stay in Mandawa?

Being a Shekhawati hub, you will find lots of hotels in Mandawa. A lot of these are heritage homes turned into stays. You can opt for mid-priced budget stays like The Legacy Mandawa (where I stayed) or Mandawa Haveli. Castle Mandawa is another popular place but is at the higher end of the budget.

How much time do you need to see the Mandawa Havelis?

Mandawa can be easily done in a day. However, if you wish to visit the other Shekhawati towns and their havelis, keep aside another day in Mandawa. So, in total, that would be 2 days.

What to eat when in Mandawa?

Mandawa has amazing Rajasthani food. You should definitely try the Daal Baati Churma at the Mandawa Pavilion restaurant. This dish in particular has to be ordered in advance. Our guide had called them ahead of time and arranged for it. Of course, there are other Rajasthani delicacies on their menu that you can order on the spur.

Mona Lisa roof top restaurant and Monika restaurant are two other places that are highly recommended. They are multi-cuisine restaurants and you can choose from Western food to Indian food here.  

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Popularly referred to as a Restless Ball of Energy. My Mom refuses to entertain my complaints about my equally restless daughter & assures my husband that I was born with a travel bug.

I am a Post-Graduate in Marketing by qualification and a travel blogger by passion. Besides travel, I enjoy photography and if you don’t find me at my desk, I would be out playing badminton or swimming or just running. I believe in planning for every long weekend through the year. And when I cannot travel physically, I travel virtually through this travel blog. My travel stories have also, got published on various websites and magazines including BBC Travel, Lonely Planet India and Jetwings. I have recently published my first book – When Places Come Alive – a collection of stories that are based on legends, landscapes, art and culture of a place which is available in both ebook and paperback format.

You might also like these posts –

• A guide to Nawalgarh Rajasthan | Nawalgarh havelis & places to see, stays & tips
• Podar Haveli Museum – The prized Shekhawati haveli in Nawalgarh
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• Rani Ki Vav Patan (The Queen’s Stepwell) – A tribute for him, from her
• Jaipur City Palace Royal Tour: Experience the Grandeur of Royalty
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Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is famous for its rich heritage and beautiful architectures full of fresco paintings, hence also known as “open air art gallery”.

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The realm of lovely havelis, harking back to the yester years, epitomizes the beauty of Shekhawati – a region that comprises of Sikar , Jhunjhunu , Mandawa and Churu . It is a major landmark tourist destination of colourful Rajasthan. Shekhawati is a tourist's paradise. The land is laced with innumerable beautiful havelis or grand mansions that are guaranteed to capture one's imagination. It is a haven for a true connoisseur of art and architecture. A riot of colours encapsulates the spirit of this vibrant landscape. Exquisitely embellished havelis mushroomed during the eighteenth century and former half of the twentieth.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Shekhawati is accessible throughout the year though the climate is at the extremes here. The summers are excruciatingly hot with temperatures reaching up to 45 degrees Celsius. The winters are relatively cooler with the days having an average temperature of 26 degrees Celsius while the nights are as cool as 9 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit this place would be during the months of November to March .

One must not leave the Shekhawati region without tasting the lip smacking delicacies like Dal Bati Churma, Moong Dal Ka Halwa, Ghevar, Rabdi and a few more as they are appealing and at the same time can satisfy your hunger. The beautiful hotels and restaurants finely decorated with fresco paintings serve food that is extremely tasty. Sampling the snack dishes and the sweet treats will tickle the taste buds of every individual and turn them to be a great food lover after the trip to Shekhawati. If you are fond of non vegetarian food then  Laal Maans  (Royal Mutton Recipe) is the best thing to try.

Shekhawati, often called an open art gallery , is a superb place for shopping in Rajasthan. Shekhawati shopping destinations are mostly famous for their excellent handicrafts and are well known for their miniature paintings . The frescos painted on paper and cloths are truly amazing. Other shopping items of Shekhawati include some excellent furniture. Carved and decorated chests, chairs, cradles, low tables, stools, etc. Buying textiles, tie-dye fabrics, brass and iron scissors, metal utensils and bangles is quite worthy in Shekhawati.

On your visit to Shekhawati, you can buy some miniature paintings, carved and decorated chests, chairs, cradles, low tables, stool, textiles, tie-dye fabrics, brass and iron scissors, metal utensils and bangles .

Shekhawati , a dialect of Rajasthani language, is mainly spoken here.

THINGS TO DO

1. SPOTTING MURAL PAINTINGS

Numerous structures in and around Shekhawati are famous for mural paintings. The best place to enjoy this is the havelis like Bhagtonki haveli, Anadilalpoddar haveli, Khedwal Bhawan and others. These mural paintings are an expression of the artisanship of yesteryear Rajasthani people.

2. VISIT TO ANCIENT STRUCTURES

Shekhawati is famous for its link with the history of the land. You can find numerous ancient structures like forts, temples, havelis, Jagannath Singhania Chattri and others. The best place to enjoy the architecture is Fatehpur. Do not confuse it with Fatehpur Shikri of Agra.

3. TEMPLES OF THE LAND

A little away from Fatehpur, you can find a small town, rich for its temples. Fortunately, the ancient people did not see the temples as a way of spirituality alone. They bombarded these structures with their art fever. You can find ceiling paintings, fresco painting, mural painting and much more. The best of all temples of the region are Ganga temple, Ganesh temple and Shani Mandir (a temple for Saturn). Those who are undergoing series of misfortune, pray to the deity in Shani Mandir to get a new start. It is an important activity of the Hindus in the region. Other temples of Shekhawati are Jain temples, Jeen Mata temple, Madan Mohan temple, Raghunath temple and others.

4. STAY AT A HERITAGE HOTEL

Mukundgarh is a small region in Shekhawati, which holds Mukundgarh Fort, which serves as a luxury heritage hotel. If you are looking for a luxurious vacation, you ought to visit this hotel for a stay during your vacation. If you wish to enjoy the luxury throughout your vacation, span Rajasthan with Palace on Wheels or other luxury trains.

5. ENJOY JEEP SAFARI

The region of Shekhawati consists of a few small towns that are filled with many attractive constructions. One can enjoy seeing the whole region by taking a jeep safari which offers a chance to see various things closely.

6. SHOPPING

A vacation in a heritage site is best known for shopping unique items and souvenirs. The same goes for Shekhawati too. This small town is famous for shopping unique souvenirs like handicrafts, iron articles, brass statues, textiles, artefacts and others.

PLACES TO VISIT

Known for its very popular Mandawa Fort, Mandawa is a quaint little town in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan. Popularly known as the Open Art Gallery, the town is replete with paved archways and magnificent havelis and fortresses. It is located in the heart of the Shekhawati region and is dotted with palaces and splendid mansions (havelis). The aura and vibe of the place reflect the social and cultural environment of the place in the bygone era. Owing to its royal rendition, it is also a hot spot for movie shoots and is filled in by media on and off the year.

Dundlod, a town in Jhunjhunu is famous for its fort and havelis. This fort was built in 1750 by Keshari Singh, son of Rajput ruler, Sardul Singh. Dundlod is easily accessible by road from Delhi, Jaipur, and Bikaner. The Dundlod fort is a blend of the Rajput and Mughal art and architecture. The Chhatri (cenotaph) of Ram Dutt Goenka, located near the fort is also a popular tourist attraction. Built in 1888, the dome of the cenotaph is decorated with floral motifs with banners extending from the centre. The Marwari breed of horses, that are now finding their own identity across the world, are bred in Dundlod.

3. NAWALGARH

Located midway between Jhunjhunu and Sikar, Nawalgarh is well-known for its stunning havelis. It is also a favoured spot for film makers and many Indian and International movies have been shot here. A famous attraction here is the Nawalgarh Fort, which was built by Thakur Nawal Singh. The Roop Niwas Palace, located one km from Nawalgarh fort is a charming palace with beautiful gardens and fountains. It is now a heritage hotel.

Alsisar, a small town in Jhunjhunu is surrounded by arid dessert. Alsisar was awarded to Thakur Samarth Singh by his father, Thakur Pahad Singh of Heerwa, who made it his capital in 1783 AD. The famous Alsisar Mahal, a fine example of Rajput architecture with its fresco carvings and depiction of historical events on its walls, was built by Shekhawat Thikanedars. Alsisar is renowned for its Rajasthani hospitality, and tourists flock here to get a taste of that along with its famous castles, havelis and cenotaphs. Make sure you pay a visit to the Kejriwal Haveli, Laxmi Narayan temple, Thakur Chaatu Singh’s cenotaph, Ram Jas Jhunjhunwala Ki Haveli among others.

Bissau, a village in Jhunjhunu, was originally called Vishala Jat Ki Dhani. It was awarded to Thakur Keshri Singh by his Father MahaRao Shardul Singh Ji. Keshari Singh constructed a war fort and a defensive boundary wall for defence. He named it Bissau in 1746 AD. The rulers of Bissau belong to the Bhojraj clan of Shekhawats, and were the descendants of the famous ruler Maharao Shekha.

6. KHATU SHAYAM TEMPLE

Khatu Shyamji Temple (55km) One of Rajasthan’s most revered pilgrimage destinations, the village of khatu, home to the Khatu Shyamji shrine attracts devotees for its Krishna temple. Krishna is worshipped as Khatu Shyam. The 10-day Khatu Shyamji Fair is also held in February/March. During the Khatu Shyamji’s mela, many devotees start their padyatra from the Bhairuji Temple (Ringus).

7. JEENMATA TEMPLE

Jeenmata temple is situated near the hill 10 km away from village Rewasa. The temple of Jeen Mataji is around 108 km from Jaipur and 30 km from Sikar . It is surrounded by thick forest. The temple was constructed around 1000 years ago. The temple of Jeen Mataji was a place of pilgrimage from early times and was repaired and rebuilt several times. Jeen Mata's main followers and kuldevi of  Acharya / Brahmins,  Yadavs  /  Ahir , Khandelwal,Agarwal, Sonawane, Kasliwal, Bakliwal, Meena, Jats, Shekhawati Rajputs (Shekhawat & Rao Rajputs and other Rajput residing in Shekhawati area) and Jangir, of Rajasthan.

8. LAXMANGARH FORT

Laxmangarh stands tall as the most impressive building in Laxmangarh town, looming majestically over the well laid township on its western side. An exceptional specimen of fort architecture in the entire world, Laxmangarh Fort is built upon scattered pieces of colossal rocks. The top of the ramp offers a fascinating bird's eye view of the Laxmangarh town modeled to resemble the city layout of Jaipur – Rajasthan's bustling capital city.

9. SETHANI KA JOHARA

Sethani Ka Johara lies on the north side of the road perhaps 5 km west of Churu along the Ratangarh road. It is perhaps the finest johara (reservoir) in the area in that it is not only attractive but also efficient, holding a store of water, often from one monsoon to the next. It was built in 1899 by the widow of Bhagwan Das Bagla as part of the famine relief projects that the merchants financed in those terrible years of the close of the century. A peaceful place, it attracts various birds and animals, including Nilgais, in winter.

10. KHETRI MAHAL

Khetri Mahal in Khetri, Jhunjhunu is one of the most excellent instances of fine art and structural design of Shekhawati region. It is also known as the Wind Palace of Jhunjhunu. Khetri Mahal was built in the year 1770. A surprising factor is that Khetri Mahal has no windows or doors even though it is named as the Wind Palace. The inimitability of Khetri Mahal lies in the uninterrupted stream of wind which perpetually makes this construction unique from countless buildings. Almost all rooms of the Mahal are linked with each other through an ingenious chain of pillars and arches that offer a gorgeous proportioned vision to the fortress.

11. TAL CHHAPAR SANCTUARY

Renowned for being a safe haven black bucks and a variety of birds, this sanctuary is named after the Chhapar village. Located in the Sujangarh Tehsil of Churu, it is 210 km from Jaipur. Its open grasslands scattered with trees give it the appearance of a savannah. The sanctuary is a bird watcher’s paradise as it is home to birds such as eastern imperial eagle, black ibis, demoiselle cranes, skylarks, ring doves and more. One can also spot the desert fox and desert cat here.

12. FATEHPUR

The city of Fatehpur was established by Kayamkhani Nawab Fateh Mohd in 1508 AD. He also constructed the Fort of Fatehpur in 1516. The city once served as the capital of Sikar. Today, Fatehpur is popularly known as the culture capital of Shekhawati. It is full of stunning sights to visit, of which, the Dwarkadheesh Mandir, Singhania Haveli, Nadine Le Prince Cultural Centre and Fatehchandka Haveli are the more notable ones.

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Painted land of Rajput Art & Culture.

Shekhawati region of Rajasthan consists of the areas falling under Sikar, Jhunjhunu and some parts of Churu, Nagaur and Jaipur. There are thousand of Villages & Towns which falls under this region. Shekhawati is famous for its rich heritage and beautiful architectures full of fresco paintings , hence also known as “open air art gallery”. Now a days Shekhawati is the most favorite tourist destination for those visiting India to experience her rich heritage.

Shekhawati is truly a blessing for all art lovers who are in to architecture and old painted sculptures. Shekhawati style of architecture is unique in itself. The Mansions ( Havelis ) , Step Wells (Bawadi) , Charitable Inns (Dharamshalas), Cenotaph (Chhatris )  and Forts made by Shekhawat Rajput rulers and Marwari community is beautifully painted with divine and contemporary pictures ranging from Hindu Gods to British Raj to Trains to Telephones and more..

Many of the old heritage Havelis and other buildings (Mansions, Forts) are now converted in to hotels and guest houses.

Shekhawati – Rajasthan, India

Table of Contents

Shekhawati Fresco Painting

History of Shekhawati

Shekhawati, as the name suggests is the land of Shekhawat Rajputs. The term Shekhawati directly relates to its founding father MahaRao Shekha Ji . The literal meaning of word Shekha+ Wati in local language means the garden of MahaRao Shekha. Descendants of MahaRao Shekah Ji are called Shekhawat Rajputs. The noble Shekhawat Rajputs ruled this area for more than 500 years. Other than the Rajput community, Marwaris (the business class) and agrarian communities like Jats and Malis have an important role in growth and  prosperity of Shekhawati. You can read more about History of Shekhawati at this page ..

People of Shekhawati

The region is home for most colorful people of India. You will witness different kind of colorful dresses of both men and women, men often wear neatly tied colorful turbans. This area gives maximum soldiers to Indian military services, sometimes called as Veer Bhoomi (Land of Braves). Military, Agriculture and business are the main source of earning for Shekhawati people. Marwari community established itself as the most prosperous social group in the world by venturing in all big and small trades. Birlas , Khaitans , Piramals , Poddars , Modis , Mittals , Dalamias , Roongtas,  Singhania are very prominent name in business world. You can read more about life of  Shekhawati people at this page..

Shekhawati Tourism

Until two decades back Shekhawati was almost an unknown place among the tourists due to lesser media coverage. Now the aggressive marketing by tour operators, good connectivity, liberal policies of government have changed the scenario all together. There are many hotels, guest houses and resorts catering the tourist’s needs. Internet technology have further revolutionized the momentum. More and more people are coming to Shekhawati every year. In the fast paced life and improved modes of transportation, Shekhawati projected itself as a weekend excursion for people of Delhi NCR and Jaipur. We have consolidated Shekhawati tourism information on this page to give an overview.

Places to visit in Shekhawati

There are many towns to see in Shekhawati and roam around to witness the beauty of this painted land. Here we have listed the best places to visit in Shekhawati, the main points of attraction in the region are Alsisar , Mandawa , Dundlod , Fatehpur , Ramgarh , Bissau , Mahansar , Khandela , Jhujhunu , Sikar , Khetri , Nawalgarh , Mukundgarh , Bagar , Chirawa and many more…We also covers parts of Churu and other adjoining districts of Shekhawati region where the art and culture attraction points are relevant to the visitors traveling this area of Rajasthan. Read More….

How to reach Shekhawati

You can reach Shekhawati by air, rail and road. The nearest airports are of Jaipur and New Delhi. The area is well-connected by Road.. Read more here to understand the routes to reach Shekhawati. We also have created a Distance Calculator for your ease to calculate the distance and understand the route map to reach Shekhawati. Please check with Railway Authorities before commencing your journey as a meter gauge to broad gauge conversion going on in the region and trains are not operating due to this up-gradation activity started in year 2012. Location of Shekhawati is in North-West Rajasthan.

Shekhawati Travel Guide

We have curated a quick Shekhawati travel guide for you at this link  . This is a detailed ready reckoner for tourists visiting the region. We have covered all the aspects which a traveler need to know before planning a visit to Shekhawati.

Map of Shekhawati

We have provided a detailed tourist guide map of Shekhawati region of Rajasthan on our website to help you plan your upcoming tour to colorful Shekhawati circuit of Rajasthan. You can access the detailed map at this link.

Weather of Shekhawati

The best time to visit Shekhawati are the months from October – March every year. The temperature varies from very low to high depending upon the months you are visiting this place. In summers the mercury goes up to 45-47 degree Celsius in the region, but still the nights are relatively cool in the summers. One should carry a lot of packaged water in summers to avoid dehydration. Monsoon is moderate, you would not face heavy rains or like that. Here is the detailed climate report of Shekhawati.   As mentioned earlier winters are the best time to visit this beautiful land

Festivals of Shekhawati

This area of Rajasthan is famous for celebrating festivals with grandeur and in full spirits. The main festivals celebrated here are Teej , Gangaur , Holi, Diwali, Navratri (twice in a year). There is one annual event namely “Shekhawati Festival”  which is organised by Morarka foundation every year in the month of February. Shekhawati Festival is being held from last 18 years in Nawalgarh . Shekhawati festival hosts organise rural tours, arts and crafts fair, cattle fair, organic food court and concludes with an award ceremony to recognize local craftsmen and artisans.

Newspapers of Shekhawati

Shekhawati Bhaskar   is a regional news paper published in Hindi, it is a subsidiary supplement of Dainik Bhaskar daily news paper. Shekhawati Bhaskar   is a famous news paper in Sikar, Churu and Jhunjhunu. Rajasthan Patrika is another leading Hindi Daily. Tourists can access English News Papers and Internet connectivity in hotel rooms to read news in language of their choice.

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October 12, 2014 at 10:06 PM

shekhawati in rajasthan is famous for its rich culture and havelis .

October 12, 2014 at 10:34 PM

shekhawati is famous for its rich culture and heritage,tnaks to give such an valuable information about shekhawati.

February 21, 2015 at 10:29 PM

I am an architect and having liking to history and art. PLease let me know better month to move I eatern rajasthan. kindly let me know ccities to be visited. Thanks

February 23, 2015 at 11:01 AM

The best season to visit this region is between October to March, the places of interest are Mandawa, Ramgarh Shekhawati, Fatehpur Shekhawati, Jhunjhunu, Bissau, Mahansar and many others. You can check this website for more information.

April 5, 2015 at 2:38 PM

Hi, I am Abhishek from Noida, we are two person planning to visit Shekhawati region for 2 night and 3 days. Our tour will starts on thursday night from delhi and 1st we will reach bikaner. Whoel friday, we will explore bikaner with overnight stay there.. next morning i.e. saturday and even sunday too. we wants to explore ramgarh, dunlold, churu, i mean maxmum part of shekhawati region.

Finally we have train from churu to delhi on sunday late night.

Kindly assist for my exploratioon of shekhawati region for saturday and sunday.

Thanks Abhishek

April 6, 2015 at 2:55 PM

Thanks for writing to us Abhishek, Please check your mailbox for details.

August 16, 2016 at 11:48 PM

can please forwrd me the details too on :[email protected]

May 26, 2015 at 6:47 PM

Please let me know the whole biodiversity of shekhawati and also what is the reason behind the less number of trees in shekhawati

May 29, 2015 at 4:36 PM

please let me know the whole biodiversity of shekhawati region of rajasthan and also what is the reason behin the less number of trees and plantation in shekhawati…thanks

June 29, 2015 at 1:01 AM

Hello, We are a small group travelling to Churu from Delhi in mid August. We plan to visit Ramgarh and Mahansar from Churu.

We have kept one full day for sightseeing of Nawalgarh, Fatehpur a short stop at Mandawa for lunch and then Dundlod before returning from Churu. Please guide us with what could be the best route to take from Churu to visit all the above and then return to Churu. Is it too much to cover in one day?

June 30, 2015 at 2:22 PM

One day is too short for covering all these places. You should keep at least 2 full days .

The route should be Churu>Mahansar>Ramgarh>Fatehpur>Nawalgarh>Mandawa.

For route details you can refer : https://shekhawati.in/map for proper view of locations.

September 5, 2015 at 1:49 AM

Hi, I have been following Indian art for some time now and would really like to tour the shekhawati region. I will b traveling alone. Please guide me with the places to visit, transport and places to stay. I will be reaching Jaipur on the 8th of September.

Thank you so much

September 10, 2015 at 1:33 PM

Sorry for the late reply, I think you have already started your visit.

September 23, 2015 at 5:09 PM

Hi, I am planing a shewati trip from jaipur on 19th nov’2015.On 22 nov’2015 I have to reach Delhi.What will be the best trip plan?Where to stay in night?I want to minimize the time taking journey. Please help me..

October 3, 2015 at 7:36 PM

You can start on 19th from Jaipur to Mandawa, the Journey will be of 3 Hrs. maximum. There after you can see the different places in next 2 days. For stay, there are plenty of hotels of different budgets, you can choose from lodges to luxury hotels and resorts. I will recommend you to stay in some heritage hotel to experience the beauty of the place.

You can take a train on 22nd Nov. from Churu to Delhi, there are 2 express trains from Churu (first at 12 noon and another at 5 PM) . The journey time is 5 Hrs.

November 21, 2015 at 2:36 PM

Located 10 minutes away from Salasar mandir,Shekhawatii Haveli offers luxurious,air conditioned,fully equipped and traditionally designed havelis for rent.

It offers the perfect blend of age old Shekhawati architecture and modern facilities. Styling cues at ‘Shekhawatii Haveli’ have been derived from the original structures, in the form as they belong to Shekhawati region. Also, each haveli is equipped with modern equipments to ensure a comfortable stay.

• Located close to famous religious places like Salasar Balaji (10 minutes), Jhunjhunu (1 hour 20 minutes), Khatu Shyamji (1 hour 30 minutes), Shakambari Mata and Jeen Mata Mandir. • Four Havelis (3BHK each) ready and 4 more near completion. • Each haveli is air conditioned with three-bedrooms, a living and dining room,fully operational kitchen, ‘chowk’ (open court) and a personal lawn. • There is separate staff/ driver accommodation. • The havelis are fullly furnished with built-in beds, side tables, sofas, dining table, chairs etc. • Each haveli has power backup, geysers, fans, light fixtures, T.V., fridge, etc. • The kitchens are fully equipped with toaster, electric kettle, cutlery, crockery, etc. • There is facility for private parking. • Housekeeping and turn down services are available. • Food facility is also available. • There is a ‘Chopad’ (open courtyard) in the complex were one can relax, enjoy and spend time with friends and family.

February 4, 2016 at 11:01 PM

nice information about shekhawati is shared above ,I love my shekhawati

July 11, 2016 at 12:50 AM

i’ lle be in Shekawati 2 days. One day i d like to visit Haveli in Nawalgarah, Dunlod and Mandawa. The other day i’d like to visit villages and experience rural life (farmer, handicraft, ….).

Some suggestion about villages? Any guide can keep us somewhere? We are with a driver! Thanks

August 18, 2016 at 1:47 PM

i am planning a tour of sekhawati havelis in December 2016 … need help in planning the tour … thank you

October 26, 2016 at 2:30 PM

we proud of our city fatehpur and may contry.. becous it’s our burth land.. Jai Hind..

October 26, 2016 at 2:35 PM

We proud our city faehpur shekhawati and our happyness country INDIA. Jai Hind…..

October 26, 2016 at 2:39 PM

We proud our city Fatehpur Shekhawati and our happyness country INDIA. we proud of our city fatehpur and may contry..becous it’s our burth land..Jai Hind.. Jai Hind…..

January 21, 2017 at 1:46 PM

Hi, I am a big admirer of Shekhawati culture, I am a Geherwar Rajput (UP) myself and feel proud to propagate the Rajput culture through my Startup. Please send me the details of all the hotels and guest houses in the Shekhawati region so that we can send them the details for listing on our website, which is totally free of cost, and start booking with guests who want to discover more of this region. Our website is in the development phase but we are listing properties, and we will be up and running in 7 days.

March 22, 2017 at 2:26 PM

excellent work by shekhawati team.

April 18, 2017 at 9:54 PM

i will be going to Bikaner via churu. i want to visit sekhawati region. please late me know the best rout plan, and days required,etc.. so that i can program for the Rajasthan tour..

May 25, 2017 at 11:31 AM

sir, i want the sekhawati tour to be completed within 2/3 days stationed at churu/mandawa. please indecate the best route to be followed & safe car rentals s.l.pakrashi

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Mandawa and fatehpur – tourist hub of shekhawati.

Mandawa is the most popular town when it comes to the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. A typical tourist town buzzing with tourists from all around the world. It is one of those places where you see more tourists than locals and the economy revolves around them. It is also a favorite of the filmmakers who have shot many films in the colorful lanes of this town. I wonder if the decision was driven by the colorful Havelis or the ready availability of hotels around.

Mandawa is an 18th CE town, a contemporary of other Shekhawati towns like Nawalgarh . It falls in the district of Jhunjhunu and in character it is just like them, but a lot more vibrant. I visited the town from Bagad near Jhunjhunu which was my base for exploring the colorful Havelis of Shekhawati.

Mandawa & Fatehpur of Shekhawati, Rajasthan

Come with me to explore the tourist town as I saw it.

Mandawa Fort

The Mandawa Fort is now converted into a heritage hotel. So you have to stay with them to have access. Else, there is a hefty cover charge to enter the premises.

Like any royal palace in Rajasthan, you see a lot of paintings, old portraits, and vintage furniture here. There is a swimming pool bang in the middle of all the heritage.

What I remember most from the fort is the courtyard with a Chowk in the middle. This is an open space that is bare earth with no flooring, decorated with auspicious designs. This kind of space is typically used for conducting rituals like weddings. I remember even my ancestral home had a place like this.

Another is a small narrow room with some exquisite paintings in a predominantly blue color. It has the 10 avatars of Vishnu painted in a series of panels.

Read More –  Shekhawati Haveli Paintings – Open Air Gallery Of Rajasthan

There are some lovely examples of composite art. Where the body of one living being mostly an elephant or a horse is created using many other living beings. This is not very common on the walls of Shekhawati Havelis.

Mandawa Haveli

It is one of the most visited Haveli-turned hotels in the town. Built in 1890 CE, this Haveli has been lately restored and converted into a hotel with a rooftop restaurant. The management is open to showing you the Haveli. Even if you just want to admire the paintings on its two floors.

You can see an airplane, a train, human life, and royal processions in the paintings. Krishna and his Leela of course dominate the scenes painted on the Haveli walls. Since this Shekhawati Haveli is in use, you see furniture all around, rooms that are being used, and windows overlooking the streets used by the guests. The Ganapati on top of the entrance has a fresh flower garland on it. This all brings the Haveli alive for a visitor. Unlike other uninhabited Havelis, which are either lying empty or have been converted into museums. It is also interesting to see how the rooms and other spaces have been reworked to make them into guest rooms. Smaller spaces have been made into sit-outs.

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From the rooftop, you can see the town of Mandawa, with a mélange of rooftops with some artistic expression peeping in from here and there. The fort with its tall walls and temples with their shikharas cannot be missed.

Raghunath Temple

A flight of steps leads you to Raghunath temple, close to Mandawa Haveli. It is built like another Haveli. But the boards and the flag on top give away that it is a temple. Just like the Gopinath Ji temple in Nawalgarh, this temple also has lively paintings on the ceiling of the temple porch. What I found interesting is the small labels on the paintings that explain the scene painted. You of course need to know the characters to understand the story. How I wish some guides would be available to do some storytelling.

Golden Room at Jhunjhunwala Haveli

Jhunjhunwala Haveli looks like many other Havelis in the neighborhood with fading paintings on its walls, except that it advertises its golden room in English and French. I entered the gate to land in an open courtyard, the left part of which was inhabited and the right one had a painted porch. A man took a small fee and opened the door to the painted porch. This was the golden room, where the paintings have a dominant golden hue.

This room is maintained like a museum in an otherwise neglected Haveli. There are board games and vintage furniture. The best-preserved paintings are the ones on the ceiling and the ones higher up on the walls. Mostly the Krishna Leela is painted here. But I also saw Shiv Parvati, Devi, and Ram Darbar. Windows have colorful stained glass, adding its own color to the room.

Harlalka Well of Mandawa

This a well located at the far end of the road from Jhunjhunu Haveli. The well is reached by a flight of steps where the well is guarded by two pillars. There are small canopies around it. They say the well is very deep. I assume so because it is a desert, and water is not too easy to find. In the good old days, this must have been a place where women came to get water from all the Havelis nearby.

Walking around the lanes leading to the well, I was admiring the paintings on the walls around me. The children playing there told me about all the Bollywood films that have been shot here.

Chaukhani Double Haveli

There are many double Havelis in Mandawa. I visited the Chaukhani double haveli as I saw the board announcing the name and the word ‘Double’ intrigued me. I entered and the caretaker agreed to show me the big Haveli for a small fee. On a small guided tour, he explained two co-joined identical Havelis. The logic being the wealthy man has two sons looking into the future. So, the two Havelis are built for two sons in a way that if they get along, it is a single large Haveli. If they don’t, well, just close the doors on the wall in the middle and live independently.

What I would remember is the sheer size of the Haveli with large courtyards.

Murmuria Haveli

Murmuria Haveli has the aura of being an Italian mansion. It has subtle colors like pale pistachio instead of the usual bright ones of the region. The highlight of this Haveli is a painting that shows Nehru riding a horse, a portrait of George V. A board outside the Haveli duly announces it.

Inside I found a curious mix of a Shekhawati Haveli and a European mansion. The walls have a collage of contemporary paintings in large squares. There is a portrait of Bharat Mata along with scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharat. A panel on the wall has portraits of all the leaders of the Indian independence movement like Gandhi and Tilak.

Surrounded by many typical Havelis, this Haveli stands out for its unique fusion style.

Goenka Haveli

It is another nicely preserved Haveli with colorful Saris hanging all around it. Making it look even more colorful. I saw a rare Yamraj painting on its walls.

The streets of the town belong to the time when the city must have come up. They proudly flaunt their era in their architecture.

Fatehpur Havelis

Fatehpur is another Shekhawati town, not too far. It is famous for its French Haveli.

Nadine Le Prince Cultural Centre

This is like any other Shekhawati Haveli, built two hundred years ago by Nandlal Devra. It was purchased by French artist Nadine in 1998. She worked on conserving the Haveli. So now, it has a French name and a hefty ticket to see it. I liked the giant elephant paintings in indigo blue. The caretaker was rude, probably looking only for white-skinned tourists. Apparently, European art school students come to study the paintings here. Ironically, most people in India are not even aware of these wonderful painted Havelis.

Walking around the town of Fatehpur, one can see streets lined with painted Havelis. Each is unique in its own way.

Temples in and around Fatehpur

Goenka Shakti Temple – This was the first Dadi Sati temple I visited in Shekhawati. Biran Barji – the ancestors of the Goenka clan are worshipped here in a beautiful temple. The deities are worshipped in the form of a Trident or Trishul. There is a temple dedicated to sixteen forms of Shakti or divine feminine. This opened up another window for me to explore the region.

Just outside the Goenka temple, I found a signboard pointing to the Kuldevi of Bindals. Basically, the Kuldevi temples of all the Gotras of Agrawal are found in this region.

Panchmukhi Balaji Temple is a lovely temple dedicated to Hanuman. The term Balaji in this region is used for Hanuman. There are quite a few Balaji temples in this region.

Janti Balaji Temple is another very popular temple where I saw a wall of offered coconuts.

Here and there one sees wells that are well-marked and preserved. Indicating their relevance for the people of the town. What is interesting is that each well and each water storage place has a unique name. Mostly named after the person who built it. You can shop for Rajasthani souvenirs like Lac Bangles here.

Roaming around the city is like time travel to the times when aesthetics ruled architecture.

The tourist town is well equipped to handle tourists. You would not have any problem finding a hotel or a restaurant.

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I first visited Mandawa in 1989. There was only 1 Hotel there, the Mandawa Castle and come Winters the city was full of foreign Tourists. But since there was no other Hotel at that time, Locals out numbered the Tourists. This was a walk down the Memory lane. I don’t know if you also discovered this unique Painting in fatehpur of Lord Krishna and Radha being chauffeured around in a car? That for me was the Highlight of my Trip.

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Demystifying The Havelis Of Shekhawati Region | A Weekend Trip

Over the last couple of years, the Shekhawati Haveli has gained immense attention in the Rajasthan tourist circuit. Among travelers, the Shekhawati regions rank quite high among the places to visit in Rajasthan. Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer have been stalwarts of the tourism industry of Rajasthan. Places like Pushkar, Mount Abu, Ranakpur, and Ranthambore joined much later to complete the offering. Shekhawati region completes the offering. The Shekhawati region is one of the most popular short weekend trips from Jaipur. I never had the motivation to visit places like Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Ramgarh, and Churu. The reasons stemmed largely because it wasn’t something novel for me. I have undertaken innumerable trips to the ancestral town since childhood which falls on the fringes of Shekhawati yet not making it to the tourist circuit. Havelis never excited me as it does to most travelers because of lack of novelty; being a “ Marwari ” I have been visiting our ancestral Haveli since childhood.  Here is a picture of Havelis from my ancestral town. It is not a typical Shekhawati Haveli rather a beautiful fusion of different styles. 

Shekhawati Haveli | The Art on the Wall in The Shekhawati Region

Having explored many other areas in Rajasthan, I decided not to be unfair to this region; I contemplated a trip to Shekhawati. It is impossible to cover the entire belt on a single trip as the number of towns runs in two digits. I decided to traverse this region during multiple road trips. Let me uncover Shekhawati Haveli in this travel blog.

Read another post from Shekhawati – Lohargal Rajasthan

Where is the Shekhawati region?

The Shekhawati falls in three districts – Sikar, Churu, and Jhunjhunu. For centuries, the Rajasthan region was administered by a few major states. These were Jaipur, Shekhawati, Jodhpur, Mewar or Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner. A large portion of the Shekhawati region consisting of Jhunjhunu, Fatehpur, and Singhana was governed by Kyamkhani or Qaimkhani Muslim rulers with a power center concentrating around Jhunjhunu in the 1300s-1400s. Qaimkhanis were Muslims converted from Rajputs.  Towards the middle and end of 1400, Rao Sheka Ji, a Kacchawa Rajput from the clan of Amer (Jaipur) declared independence from Amer. He established his principality in Amarsar near Shahpura after he had refused to pay tribute to Amer rulers. Rao Shekha belongs to the descendent of Baloji who was the third son of Maharaja Udai Karan of Amer (1366-1388). After the fall of the Mughal empire post- Aurangzeb , the Shekhawat clan started making inroads towards the west and north of Aravali hills which was ruled by Muslim Nawab rulers. The Aravali hills range ends near Udaipurwati, Sikar, and Khandela. The first one to be snatched was Jhunjhunu in 1730 AD, subsequently, it became the capital of the Shekhawati region. Previously, the Shekhawat paid tribute or taxes to the Mughals but Maharajah Sawai Jai Singh II acquired the right to collect tax from the Mughals in the form of Ijara. From then on, the Shekhawat rulers started paying taxes to Jaipur state.

The Shekhawati region was further divided into a sub-principality called Thikana. It was the usual practice in Rajputs of this region to divide the territory or estates among their own clans i.e. sons; it was referred to as Thikana. Hence Shekhawati region was ruled by family members of Shekhawat clans. Some of these important Thikanas were Dhundhlod, Nawalgarh, Mandawa, Khetri, Sikar, and Khandela. This led to a large area like Jhunjhunu into many small segments reducing its importance. These Thikanedars were in alliance with the Jaipur state after the Jaipur state acquired the right to collect tribute from the Shekhawati region. Shekhawat has played a critical role in shaping the history of Jaipur. All these states maintained their presence in Jaipur city by way of mansions like Dundhlod House, and Khandela House, to name a few.

History of Shekhawati Haveli & Region in Rajasthan

Shekhawati Haveli built by the Marwari merchants long before the British colonial rule established major trading ports of Calcutta, Bombay, and Chennai; Shekhawati was an important trade route on the ancient silk route. It connected the trade route between Agra and Delhi with Surat as well as Gujarat. Jaisalmer and Sind were important trading towns too and this region connected with these as well. The camel caravans took goods to the Middle East and China. It facilitated the movement of goods on the Silk Route . The commodities traded were spices, cotton, silk, and opium. One of the reasons for the emergence of Shekhawati as a route for caravans was the low tax rate. In the neighboring states like Bikaner and Jaipur, the tax to be paid by the traders was considerably higher. This was because of political instability in Jaipur which required them to collect a massive amount of funds by way of tax. The Shekhawati rulers played this to their advantage and invited traders to settle in their newly founded towns. The trade flourished from 1822 to 1825 AD. The relationship between traders and rulers was also financial. The former would lend money to the latter to tide over any shortfalls. This relationship was not always amicable. There have been tussles about interest and tax rates between both sides. The Rajput rulers would protect the traders from dacoits in this region. It was only after this region came under the rule of the British that a separate regiment was formed to counter these dacoits. Later this regiment called the Shekhawati regiment also fought in the World War for the Allies.

The traders amassed enormous wealth from trade and started investing in decorating the Havelis to flaunt their wealth. Some say the painting of Havelis was inspired by the palace and court of the rulers of this region-Thikanedars. Among the traders of this region were primarily Agarwal and the Maheshwari Bania community. Many of these traders came from other regions of North India like Haryana and Uttar Pradesh as the riches grew in this region. Goenkas, Poddars , Morarka, Birlas , Ruias, and Parasrampuria comprise a few common family names of traders from this region.

After 1825-30, the ports of Calcutta, Mumbai, and Chennai gained prominence with the rise of British colonial rule. The trade was shifting from the silk route to the British shipping ports. It became evident to the traders that the future in Shekhawati was bleak and money could be made by shifting to these towns. Sizeable traders from this region migrated to Calcutta and other eastern ports. They came to be known as Marwaris.

Who are Marwaris?

Marwari word is a misnomer. The word Marwari indicates a person from Marwar. Marwar refers to the region consisting of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Bikaner. In common parlance, any person belonging to the business community from North India is referred to as Marwari; in practice, this is not accurate. This would be similar to calling any South Indian person Tamil. The word Marwari is derived from the Maroo which means sand referring to the desert of Rajasthan. In Hindi, this would be मरू स्थल or मरू प्रदेश. The business acumen of the Marwari people is well-placed. However, some of the leading business houses in India have their origins in the Shekhawati region like Birlas, Lohias, and Piramal to name a few. The Marwari businessmen were contemporaries of other leading Indian trading communities of those times like Gujratis, Sindhis, Chettiyars, and Parsis. Many business communities like Baghdadi Jews , Armenians , Chinese, Portuguese, and Persians were well-known for their business skills, the world over. They were proactive in carrying on trades beyond their home country. Marwaris on the other hand did not venture beyond the Indian subcontinent. Marwari communities predominantly comprised of Agarwal, Maheshwari’s, and Jains. Some historians believe that Marwari businessmen moved eastwards with the expansion of the Mughals along the Gangetic plains. But it was in greater undivided Bengal where they reaped the benefits most. It was one of the most fertile lands of the subcontinent, and a huge amount of trade took place from Calcutta. They rapidly displaced the Bengali business community with their foresight and astuteness.

Once the families moved to these new trading ports, they never came back to the towns of Shekhawati. This is a reason why many call these abandoned towns of Shekhawati. In reality, while the traders shifted, many of these towns were bustling small towns as the people from neighboring villages moved here for a better future. Not all are equal though, Nawalgarh, Fatehpur, and Jhunjhunu are the most buzzing whereas places like Dundhlod, Mukundgarh, Bissau, and Khandela retain a small world charm.

The layout of Shekhawati Towns.

Although not every town is laid out in the same way, there are some similarities. Typically, the center of all the towns is a fort, known in the local language as Garh. The dwelling units are spread all around the fort. In many towns, there is no fort, so the palace or Mahal was the residence of the Thikanedars.

In some towns, the Mahal was part of the fort. One also finds fortified walls surrounding the town along with entry gates.

This provided safety and respite from the bandits abound in this region lured by the wealth. People from specific communities were allocated zones called Mohalla a usual feature during those times. The main roads are broader and meant for commercial activities called Bazaar. Usually, the road leading to the fort passed through the market.

Rajasthani Haveli Architecture

The Haveli word originates from Persian implying an enclosed space. Haveli means mansion implying private residence. It follows a familiar architectural pattern. The most distinguishing feature is an inner courtyard called Chowk.

The Havelis facade is dominated by the huge gateway called Pol with two sit-outs on either side. In most Shekhawati Haveli, there are two Chowks.

The first one is reserved for males and guests. The second one is usually bigger than the first and is more private.

Access to this area was restricted to relatives and close friends. Some term this area of Haveli-Zenana because this area was meant for women.

All the rooms open into the courtyard and a Tibari or semi-open sit-out area can be seen right opposite the entrance to this space.

Most Havelis are double story and stairs from the inner courtyard provide access to the second floor. In many rooms, storage was also present called Ducchati.

The architecture and the style of Havelis varied from town to town. Nawalgarh has some of the biggest Havelis in the Shekhawati region. A few Havelis in Laxmangarh and Churu are also quite big. Here are two pictures of Havelis of Fatehpur. Both these Havelis have strong European influence.

Painted Havelis of Shekhawati

The painted Havelis received impetus from wealthy traders. Some say painted Havelis of Shekhawati were inspired by the palaces and buildings of the Thikanedars or Rajput lords who in turn were motivated by the Jaipur/ Amer court. These historians further add that the primary inspiration for painted walls & ceilings came from the Mughal court.

Experts are of the opinion that initially, artisans who painted these Havelis came from Jaipur. As the demand increased, many from the area also came forward to acquire the skills of this art. In many ways, the Havelis built by the merchants were driven by competition from each other.

Everyone wanted the build a bigger and more beautiful Haveli. This also spilled into the building of temples, Johara, wells, Dharamshala/Sarai (inns), and Baori/ Stepwells in these towns. The wells were built for the use of locals and were named after the family name of traders commissioning them like Poddar Ka Kua(well).

Double Haveli architecture. In many Shekhawati towns, one can find double Haveli. It essentially is two symmetric Havelis in one compound. Chokhani double Haveli in Mandawa is one such example. Here is a picture of double Haveli.

Another variation was four and eight Havelis in one compound. In Nawalgarh, Aath Haveli represents one such example having eight Havelis in a single compound.

The prevailing themes in the paintings are Krishna , Indian mythological tales, gliders, trains, kings, and queens.

Intricate Doors.

Intricately carved wood doors are the hallmark of the Shekhawati region. It was not merely the door even the door frames were beautifully carved. In most cases, the local wood was used for the door and frames.

While the outer door, called Pol was huge, the doors leading to the private area of the Haveli were usually small which required a person to bend before entering. The walls around the door frame were adorned with beautiful frescoes. The geometric pattern was the most common design element in the door. In many Havelis, the brass sheet was used on the door. This saved the wood from direct exposure to the vagaries of nature.

Beautiful Windows

A striking feature of the Shekhawati Haveli was the use of a variety of windows. The windows were not always of identical size. It was dependent on the use. Traditionally, the windows in this region were small. With the European influence, the bigger windows were additionally included in the Havelis.

Frescoes in Shekhawati Haveli

The Havelis were painted with frescoes depicting scenes from Lord Krishna’s life, mythology, and contemporary life. Like Amer, some of these paintings from the initial years were made using natural colors and dyes. During later years, with the availability of imported paints and pigments from Europe, it was utilized in the frescoes. In most places, the paintings were done on the entire surface -walls, and ceilings.

In other cases, it was done on selective surfaces. The fresco subjects and style also vary across the towns of Shekhawati, They are not uniform. Like in some towns, red and blues are overwhelmingly dominant. In some Havelis, other decorative elements have also been used like mirrors and tiles. Mirrors have been a hallmark of Mughal architecture. The Sheesh Mahal in Amer Fort must have been the original inspiration.

The frescoes in these Havelis were painted with two different techniques Buon fresco and Secco fresco style. The former is used when frescoes were painted on wet plaster. Later, the varnish was applied to the murals and left to dry. It is not a problem in this region since humidity is low in this semi-arid region.

This technique allowed longevity as well as the durability of the frescoes. It was extensively applied on exterior walls that were exposed to sunlight, cold, and water.

In Secco fresco style, the painting was carried out on dry plaster and used in interior walls since it was unexposed to vagaries of nature like the sun, rain, etc. This technique was more suitable for places that were less prone to damage.

The Future of Shekhawati Haveli?

The overall scenario for the Havelis is bleak with the migration of the owners in search of greener pastures. The chances of them returning to these towns are almost nil due to a lack of viable business opportunities. Many Havelis are locked for 50-100 years. Some are in a ruinous state and on the verge of crumbling. A few sensitive owners have rented out portions of the building, and others have a caretaker to look after the property. Maintaining a huge Haveli remains an expensive affair and not everyone can afford such expenses.

However, there is a silver lining. Some of these Havelis have been converted into museums like Morarka Haveli and Poddar Haveli in Nawalgarh. In other places like Mandawa, while the Havelis haven’t been converted into a museum they generate a paltry sum by way of entry charges.

Routinely, Rs 100 is a standard fee. It doesn’t generate a huge revenue but covers the expense of a caretaker.

Restoration of Havelis

A short time ago, a Haveli in Nawalgarh was restored by an architect and turned into a museum highlighting the built heritage of the region. The organization responsible for restoration is called the Centre for Advancement of Traditional Building Technique & Skills (CATTS). A brainchild of Ar. Urvashi Srivastava, she is working to raise awareness about the architectural significance of this region and its priceless built heritage through ‘Shekhawati Virasat Abhiyan.’

It was coincidently that I found a Havelis restored by her. She had displayed before and after pictures of restored Havelis. She is seeking individuals, institutions, trusts, and organizations that can contribute to her efforts to conserve this precious heritage of the region.

Several Havelis have been converted into heritage hotels in Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Fatehpur, to name a few. A lot many are in the pipeline. It is certainly a good way of generating money and a unique experience for travelers. However, the Havelis have limited capacity in terms of room inventory.

Even now, Shekhawati doesn’t attract tremendous tourists like Jaipur, Jaisalmer, or Udaipur. In many ways, this allows for a more immersive experience for travelers. The tour operators generally plan a day for this region as a stopover in transit from Jaipur to Jaisalmer or Bikaner.

Shekhawati Haveli For Sale

Many Shekhawati Havelis are also available for sale and are being bought by investors. A few hoteliers buy Havelis and turn them into a hotel. The rate for which these Havelis are sold can vary from Rs 50 Lakh to Rs 4 Crore. Many of these Havelis are also being brought but then razed down to build a new residential house. Here is a picture of Haveli in Mandawa that was recently sold and is undergoing restoration. It has been turned into a hotel.

Places to visit in Shekhawati

Shekhawati comprises a vast area and it is difficult to cover the entire region in one go unless you plan to spend 8-10 days minimum. Ideally, it is best to make a single town as a base and cover neighboring towns. Like if you choose Nawalgarh which is one of the most convenient locations in terms of logistics, you can easily cover Mandawa, Dundhlod, Mukundgarh, and Jhunjhunu. Identically, another option is Churu. Mandawa has sizeable stay options. However, I prefer Nawalgarh because of its location advantage.

Where to stay in the Shekhawati Region?

In Nawalgarh, Roop Niwas Kothi, a heritage property run by the erstwhile rulers of Nawalgarh is one of the best options. Its expansive feel is a welcome break from city life. Among many things, they have a horse stable and offer the legendary Marwari horse rides in the region.

Mandawa has many Havelis and even Mandawa Fort for stay options. The tourism industry in Mandawa is well developed offering more stay options.

If you wish to visit Fatehpur, Churu, and Nawalgarh,  Mandawa remains another good option.

Among the most popular options in Shekhawati, Vivana in Churi Ajitgarh and Maalji Ka Kamra in Churu are the most sought-after.

Inderpura near Lohargal is a good option if you prefer a rather modern type of stay rather than a Haveli or a fort. Read Inderpura Resort

How to reach

Jaipur to shekhawati.

Jaipur is an ideal place to visit the Shekhawati region in terms of accessibility. It is approximately 100-150 km from Jaipur by road. Only a few towns are connected with the train network, hence the road trip is the best option. To cover multiple towns,  it is best to travel by car or taxi. All these towns are covered by the bus network. However, Volvo or similar bus service connections are limited to a few towns. Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Churu are significant hubs for further connection in this area as far as bus services are concerned. Do note there are many options to choose from when it comes to bus services among private and state buses. Jaipur is well-connected with all major cities in India with trains and flights. Therefore, Jaipur makes for an ideal starting point for Shekhawati.

Delhi To Shekhawati

Train services from Delhi are limited to a few towns. Also, the train frequency is restricted to certain specified days. You can fly to Delhi and then hire a taxi to cover the Shekhawati region. Delhi is well connected with all major cities in India and the world via flights. Delhi is also connected with major towns in Shekhawati by buses. There are many private and state-owned bus services.

Best Time to visit

The best time to visit Shekhawati is in the winter between October to March. Do note the days tend to be shorter between December to February.

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86 thoughts on “ demystifying the havelis of shekhawati region | a weekend trip ”.

very well written article and beautifully composed… it increased y attention to reach that place.. hope to visit as I’m coming Jaipur on 12th of April!!

Like Liked by 1 person

Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts, Utkarsh. I hope you will enjoy your trip to Jaipur.

Yes… It’s pandemic but I’m scared.. But than too I’m ready to take the risk…. Today’s my train at 00:15 am 12 th of April

Utkarsh, stay safe. Avoid busy areas. Certainly, not the best times to travel. How many days you are planning to stay in Jaipur?

I’m here only till 15th … But I’m taking all the precautions… Nay God do all the things perfectly… Well whatever hoping for the best.. 🤘

Thanks.. And I’m safe… Now at my home back.. ❤

That’s great. Take care, Utkarsh. 😊

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LOVED your detailed write up. Having lived in India for2 1/2 decades – I never knew about this place. Is definitely now on my bucket list when I go back to India someday. Great pictures and history 🙂

Sutapa, I’m not sure about the period you have lived in India but this is quite popular these days. This region became prominent only during the last 2 decades. I’m hoping you will be able to visit Shekhawati someday and experience it in person.

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This is such a resourceful post. Love that you share they history and details of the regions/towns…as well as a potential guide to form an itinerary for a visit. Thank you! I can’t wait to visit now that I have some background knowledge as a baseline.

I’m glad you enjoyed this post and found it useful. Will await for what you have to say after experiencing it in person. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Priya.

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Tourist Places in Shekhawati

Shekhawati is a region that is located in the Indian state of Rajasthan. This region is famous for housing the Shekhawati murals that are simply awe-inspiring. It is said that Marwari traders built the havelis in this deserted area and painted the captivating murals on the exterior as well as interior walls. It has emanated as a well-known tourist site in Rajasthan. Shekhawati is located in the isolated region of Thar. It is surrounded by the golden sands in all the 4 directions. Undoubtedly, the climate of Shekhawati is described as arid in nature. It faces flaming summers as the temperatures scale up to 50°C on an average. During the winter season, the temperatures fall down at zero degrees. Shekhawati receives a scanty rainfall with an annual average of 600 mm. One can enjoy memorable holidays in Shekhawati. The enticing havelis ensnare the tourists on a large scale due to the miniature as well as Shekhawati paintings. If you’re an adventure aficionado then head towards the Thar Desert and enjoy the camel ride and desert safari amid the golden sands. History of Shekhawati Shekhawati, as the name suggests is the land of Shekhawat Rajputs. The term Shekhawati directly relates to its founding father MahaRao Shekha Ji. The literal meaning of word Shekha+Wati in local language means the garden of MahaRao Shekha. Descendants of MahaRao Shekah Ji are called Shekhawat Rajputs. The noble Shekhawat Rajputs ruled this area for more than 500 years. Other than the Rajput community, Marwaris (the business class) and agrarian communities like Jats and Malis have an important role in growth and prosperity of Shekhawati. Places to visit in Shekhawati There are many towns to see in Shekhawati and roam around to witness the beauty of this painted land. Here we have listed the best places to visit in Shekhawati, the main points of attraction in the region are Alsisar, Mandawa, Dundlod, Fatehpur, Ramgarh, Bissau, Mahansar, Khandela, Jhujhunu, Sikar, Khetri, Nawalgarh, Mukundgarh, Bagar, Chirawa and many more…We also covers parts of Churu and other adjoining districts of Shekhawati region where the art and culture attraction points are relevant to the visitors traveling this area of Rajasthan. Read More…. Famous Shekhawati Places Nawalgarh - Named after its founder Thakur Nawal Singh (son of the most successful ruler of Shekhawati, Shardul Singh), Nawalgarh was a prosperous town in Shekhawati region. Some of the affluent business clan of India today trace their origin from Nawalgarh. Prominent among these is the Goenka family. The havelis of the town - Aath haveli, Murarka Haveli, Khedwal Bhawan, Bhagton ki Haveli and Anandi Lal Poddar Haveli - are its prime attraction. The frescoes and mural paintings are extremely attractive and reflect the skills of the workmen who created them. Other attraction of Nawalgarh is Ganga Mai Temple. Dundlod - A small village in the Shekhawati region is known for a small fort built in the 18th century by Kesri Singh, youngest son of Sardul Singh. The fort has a Diwan Khana with portraits and period furnitures as well as a small library. The fort now serves as a hotel. Other attractions to be visited here are Tuganram Goenka Haveli, SatyaNarayan Temple and Jagathia Haveli. This village is 7 kms north of Nawalgarh. Fatehpur - Established by Fateh Khan, a Muslim Nawab in 15th century, Fatehpur was captured by the Shekhawat Rajputs in the 18th century. The place boasts of some of the best fresco paintings of the region, however, unfortunately, the havelis housing them are more often locked. The worth seeing havelis in this place are Geori Shankar Haveli, Mahavir Prasad Goenka Haveli, Nand Lal Devra Haveli and Jagannath Singhania Haveli. There is also the Jagannath Singhania Chattri with beautiful garden which is worth visiting. Ramgarh - Around 20 km from Fatehpur lies Ramgarh which was founded by a group of affluent Poddar merchant in the 18th century. The primary attraction of the town is Ram Gopal Poddar Chhatri that has beautiful scenes of Ramayana painted on its ceilings. Fresco paintings in Shani Mandir (Saturn Temple) are also eye catchers. Other attraction of the place include Ganga Temple, Ganes Temple, Tarachand Ghanshyamdas Poddar Haveli and Baij Nath Ruia Haveli. Jhunjhunu - Currently a district head quarter, Jhunjhunu was founded by Kaimkhani Nawabs in the 15th century. Places worth visiting in this town are Badani Chand Well, Mertani Baori, Ajit Sagar, Dargah of Kamrud-din Shah, Badal Fort, Khetri Mahal, Bihariji Temple, Rani Sati Temple and Forest Ganj. The significant havelis of this place are Modi Haveli, Kaniram Narsingh Das Tiberwala Haveli, MohanDas Ishwar Das Modi Haveli and Narudin Farooqi Haveli. Bissau - Nearly 32 km north west of Jhunjhunu is a small town known as Bissau. The town was founded by Kesri Singh and has seen numerous ups and down. Important attractions here include Chhatri of Hammir Singh, Haveli of Girdarilal Sigtia and Motiram Jasraj Sigtia Haveli. The last one today serves as a junior school. Mahansar - Around 6 km from Bissau is another small village, Mahansar which was founded by Nawal Singh in the 18th century. The village does not overflows with attractions, yet some of the havelis with their fine paintings are worth visiting. Prominent among these is the Sona ki Dukan Haveli which has exquisite meenakari work to delight the visitors. Sahaj Ram Poddar Chhatri is also worth visiting. Mandawa - One of the most visited destinations in the Shekhawati region, Mandawa came into limelight in the 18th century. It has an imposing fort, Castle Mandawa that serves as a heritage hotel today. Other attractions of the town include the havelis of Chokhanias, Goenkas Nevatia & Ladia and Saraf. Parasrampura - The tiny village preserves some of the oldest and most beautiful paintings of the Shekhawati region. The paintings on the inner portion of the dome of Thakur Shardul Singh cenotaph, Shamji Saraf Haveli and Gopinathji Mandir is worth appreciating. Sikar - Now a district headquarters, Sikar was once the largest thikana (feudatory) under the Jaipur State. Important attractions here are the havelis of Biyani, Murarka, Somani, Sagarmal Sodhani and Madho Niwas. The Sikar Fort, Jublee Hall, Jain Temples, Gopinath Temple, Raghunath Temple, Jeen Mata Temple and Madan Mohan Temple in and around Sikar are also worth visiting. Mukudgarh - Mukundgarh is a small town developed around a temple square. The Mukundgarh Fort serves as a heritage hotel. Tourists can pay a visit to the Kanoria and Ganeriwala Havelis and also shop for local handicrafts. Mukundgarh is highly known for its brass, iron scissors and textiles. Churu - Though Churu does not come in the Shekhawati region strictly, yet its history of traders and caravan outpost connects it with other places in Shekhawati. Place worth visiting here are the Kanhaiya Lal Bagla Haveli, Kothari Haveli, Surana Haveli, Poddar Haveli, Jain Temple, Balaji Temple, Ganga Temple, Taknet Chhatri and not to forget the Churu Fort. Khetri - The second richest feudatory of the Jaipur state, Khetri was established in the 18th century. Prominent places worth visiting are Raghunath Temple, Bhopagarh Fort, Panna Lal Sha ka Talab, Ram Krishna Mission, Sukh Mahal and Hari Singh Temple. Pilani - This small village gained prominence as the home of wealthy Birla family. Today, the place is more known for its educational significance. For tourists sightseeing, there is BITS museum, Shiva, Ganga, Sarswati Temple and the Panchwati Temple. How to reach Shekhawati You can reach Shekhawati by air, rail and road. The nearest airports are of Jaipur and New Delhi. The area is well-connected by Road..Read more here to understand the routes to reach Shekhawati. We also have created a Distance Calculator for your ease to calculate the distance and understand the route map to reach Shekhawati. Please check with Railway Authorities before commencing your journey as a meter gauge to broad gauge conversion going on in the region and trains are not operating due to this up-gradation activity started in year 2012. Location of Shekhawati is in North-West Rajasthan.

Shekhawati Tour Packages

Jaipur Jodhpur Mandawa Tour

Duration : 6 Days / 5 Nights Destination : Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Mandawa

Delhi Jaipur Mandawa 9 Days

Duration : 9 Days / 8 Nights Destination : Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Mandawa

Jaipur Pushkar Mandawa Tour

Duration : 4 Days / 3 Nights Destination Covered : Jaipur – Pushkar – Mandawa

Golden Triangle Mandawa

Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days Destination : Delhi, Jaipur, Agra, Mandawa, Delhi

Jaipur Mandawa Bikaner Tour

Duration : 08 Nights / 09 Days Destination : Jaipur, Mandawa, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Pushkar, Jaipur

Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Destination : Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Pushkar, Mandawa, Delhi

Rajasthan Shekhawati Tour

Duration : 08 Nights / 09 Days Destination : Delhi, Jaipur, Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Dundlod, Ratangarh, Jaipur, Delhi

Jaipur Jaisalmer Mandawa 6 Day Trip

Duration : 05 Nights / 06 Days Destination : Jaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Mandawa, Delhi

Jaipur Mandawa Bikaner 9 Day Trip

Duration : 08 Nights / 09 Days Destination : Jaipur, Mandawa, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Pushkar, Ajmer, Jaipur

Shekhawati Festival Rajasthan

The Shekhawati Festival or Shekhawati Fair is one of the most significant fairs & festivals of Rajasthan . This festival is celebrated annually in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan with great fervor, zeal, and enthusiasm.

This festival is held on 10th and 11th February every year. It is an organized jointly by the State Department of Tourism, District administration of Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Churu, and the M.R. Morarka- GDC Rural Research Foundation.

Shekhawati region of Rajasthan is globally famous for beautifully painted Havelis and exquisite frescoes. Also, it is fast becoming a popular destination for rural destinations.

Rightly Shekhawati Region is fondly described as the Open Air Art Gallery of Rajasthan. Horse safari in Shekhawati is a unique and cheery experience. Traveling on horseback, the tourists get a close view of the countryside and the people.

During the Shekhawati Festival, tourists or travelers have a wonderful opportunity to visit splendid Havelis of the region and explore beautiful frescoes.

Visitors have an opportunity to enjoy a broad-based discovery of Shekhawati’s culture that is rich and appreciating. Nawalgarh, Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Churu are popular venues of Shekhawati fair and festival.

Cultural programs, processions, dance, music, etc are a specialty of celebration in Rajasthan. During this fair & festival, various programs are organized such as camel races, horse races, folk performances, haveli competitions, fireworks, etc .

During this fair & festival travelers also have the opportunity to enjoy horse safari in the region to explore beautiful Havelis and frescoes.

Nawalgarh is the central venue of the Shekhawati Fair & Festival . It has some of the finest frescoes of Shekhawati. Nawalgarh is conveniently accessed by train or road. The Clock Tower is a famous landmark and the Roop Niwas Palace hotel occupies a place of pride in the town.

My self Dev Satish. I’m an Author and Founder of tourism-rajasthan.com. I’m from Rajasthan and If I talk about my Education then I’m Law Graduate. I love doing work that makes me happy, that’s why I love traveling. you will find Rajasthan travel ideas & tips on this blog.

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