A trip to Rajasthan would be incomplete without visiting the stunning Shekhawati. Widely believed to be the land where the “Vedas” were written, Shekhawati has immense historical significance. The landscape here might not be too appealing and the weather might get a bit unpleasant but Shekhawati still manages to earn itself the sobriquet of the “open art gallery of Rajasthan” because it is the only region in the world with such an enormous concentration of frescoes.
These frescoes are influenced by the Persian and Mughal schools of painting. The motifs depicted are borrowed both from ancient mythology and popular culture. The exquisitely painted Havelis spread across four major towns: Jhunjhunu, Mandawa, Nawalgarh and Fatehpur.
Notable among the Havelis would be: Gulab Rai Ladia’s Haveli in Mandawa, Podar Haveli in Nawalgarh, Modi Haveli in Jhunjhunu and Nadine Le Prince Haveli in Fatehpur.
Haveli in Mandawa (Photo: Lucas Parsch)
Gulab Rai Ladia haveli (Jose Manuel Echevarría and Pilar León)
Podar Haveli in Nawalgarh (Photo: Navi Aamir)
Haveli Le Prince Nadine in Fatehpur (Photo: Skyscraper City)
Among the famous forts are: Mandawa Fort, which is now a heritage hotel; Dundlod Fort: it has been converted into a world famous library of European paintings and Mukundgarh Fort, which is a magnificent palace.
The fort of Mandawa was founded in the 18th century. The fort dominates the town with a painted arched gateway adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows.
Dundlod Fort studded with monumental nostalgia of Shekawats, the warrior Rajputs who with stood the onslaught of Mughal hordes.
Where do I Stay?
Shekhawati tourism is well-known for its world-class heritage hotels and its warm hospitality. The place offers a variety of options for accommodation. If you wish to experience the comfort and grandeur of a Maharaja’s lifestyle, check into the fabulous Alsisar Mahal. Situated at a distance of 23 kms from the district headquarters of Jhunjhunu, it has the perfect blend of modern luxury and age old culture. Besides, it is located at the heart of the region so that it becomes easier for you to explore different places without getting too exhausted.
Shekhawati tourism is well-known for its world-class heritage hotels and its warm hospitality. The place offers a variety of options for accommodation. If you wish to experience the comfort and grandeur of a Maharaja’s lifestyle, check into the fabulous Alsisar Mahal. Situated at a distance of 23 kms from the district headquarters of Jhunjhunu, it has the perfect blend of modern luxury and age old culture. Besides, it is located at the heart of the region so that it becomes easier for you to explore different places without getting too exhausted.
You can also engage in a delightful encounter with nature by staying at one of the eco-friendly resorts with mud huts and cottages.
So much to do!
During your stay at the Havelis, feast your eyes on the splendid frescoes, get mesmerizing view of the countryside and the Local Bawari (water tank) by taking camel cart rounds of the region, participate in bonfires and barbeques, enjoy bird-watching and kite-flying sessions with local people, dance to the tune of Ghoomar, listen to the musicians play the sarangi and discover yourself in this vibrant melange of history, art and culture.
Shopper’s stops:
Shekhawati is known for its brightly coloured Lac bangles which are made at small makeshift shops outside the Havelis. Other good buys would be the handmade puppets and postcards, Rajasthani shoes (jooties) etc. Shops in Mandawa, along the Sonthaliya Gate sell a lot of souvenirs which make pretty gifts. All the handicrafts are made by the rural women of the region.
Eat this!
If you are a vegetarian, Rajasthan is the place to be! Ranging from the traditional dal, bati and churma to the spicy lahsun ki kachori and the gorgeous street food, Rajasthani food will give you the best feeling under the soft palate! Though the predominant food is vegetarian, they also serve delightful non-vegetarian dishes.
When to visit?
Shekhawati attracts a lot of tourists between the months of October and March, when the weather is quite amiable. It tends to get very hot during the months of May-June and so it’s best to avoid visiting the region during the summers.
Highlightsof the Season:
The 17th Annual Shekhawati Heritage Festival is scheduled to be held from 9th to 12th February, 2012. The main venues are: Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Nawalgarh and Churu. Rural Rajasthan comes alive during this part of the year. There is a lot of firework, cultural events, games and competitions. Camel and jeep safaris are also organised as part of the main festivities.
See also: the Unique Mosques, the Deer Sanctuary, Khatu Shyamji Temple.
A quick Tip: It gets quite chilly during winters, sodo NOTforget to carry your woollens!
We hope that you find the above information helpful in planning your trip and give us a chance to answer more of your travel-related queries in the future. Best Wishes!
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