Beautifully painted Havelis, colorful murals and grand mansions welcomes you to the Shekhawati Region of Rajasthan. Nestled in the northeast part of the royal state, it is a treasure of history, heritage and architecture. The creative plethora of frescos and castles take you back to the bygone days of Rajputana glory.
Deriving its name from the Rajput Kachwaha chieftain Rao Shekha Ji, Shekhawati was the largest Nizamat of the former princely state of Jaipur. Comprising of districts like Churu, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and parts of Jaipur and Nagaur, the region features baoris, towering forts, and shrines, besides the plentiful havelis which have now been transformed into heritage hotels in India.
Also, because the area houses the largest concentration of frescoes in the world, it has been bestowed with the epithet ‘open art gallery of Rajasthan’.
Shekhawati region is spotted in the very popular triangle of Delhi-Jaipur-Bikaner and is a dreamscape for all those wishing to sneak peek into the past.
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Shekhawati region of Rajasthan has an indelible mark in the pages of history. The very first mentions of the region were in the epic of Mahabharata. Moreover, a common belief prevails here that The Vedas, holy texts of Hindus, were written here.
During the epoch of Mahabharata, Shekhawati was popular as Matsya Kingdom and was divided into many Janapadas. The founder of beautiful Shekhawati region was MahaRao Shekha Ji, a descendant of the illustrious Kachhawaha Rajput clan. The region became the largest Nizamat in the royal state of Jaipur.
During the 18th to the 20th century Shekhawati region prospered with intricately beautified havelis. The Marwari merchants took pride in the imposing edifices. The interiors and exteriors of the temples, homes and step wells were lavishly adorned with painted murals.
Today, the Shekhawati region houses some treasures of history that are a must visit before it’s too late.
Top attractions of the Shekhawati Region of Rajasthan
Numerous small and medium-sized towns and villages teaming up with other attractions come under the must-visit attractions in Shekhawati. However, Rajasthan Temples are so impressive that you can’t take your eyes off them.
Nawalgarh – A small town, Nawalgarh is also known as ‘the land of Havelis’. The charming place features two grand Havelis – Morarka Haveli and Podar Haveli, which have been transformed into museums. Bhagton ki Choti Haveli and Khedwal Bhavan are other top places to visit in Nawalgarh.
Sethani Ka Johara – Johara means ‘reservoir.’ The finest reservoir holds water from one monsoon to the next and fascinates several animals, birds, and Nilgais.
Kanhaiyalal Bagla Haveli – A beautiful haveli showcases the region’s intricate latticework and architectural designs. Feel the love in the air while watching the romantic scenes of Dhola and Maru, a loving couple from folklore.
Sikar – Sikar has a plethora of outstanding temples and havelis like Bansidhar Rathi Haveli, Ram Chokhani Haveli, Kedia Haveli, Sanganeria Haveli, Mirijamal Kyala Haveli, the Jeen Mata temple, and Radha Murli Manohar temple. A clock tower is another added attraction here.
Mandawa – Get a feel of the village life and inspect the painted Havelis of the Shekhawati at the small market town. Mandwa Castle offers scenic views from its terrace. Mandawa is dotted with impressive forts which have been transformed into hotels.
Ratnagarh Fort – The 18th-century fort boasts many monuments, a striking gateway, and a clock tower.
Khetri Mahal – Khetri Mahal is exemplary of the region’s structural design and fine arts. Despite having no doors or windows, the Mahal is known as the ‘Wind Palace of Jhunjhunu.’ This is because a continuous wind stream makes it stand out amongst the rest.
Jhunjhunu – the largest town, grabs attention because of the sacred temples, old palace, and abundance of painted Havelis.
Tal Chhapar Sanctuary – The Sanctuary safely shelters the black bucks and various birds.
Fatehpur – ‘Cultural capital of Shekhawati’ houses Singhania Haveli, Dwarkadheesh Mandir, Fatehchandka Haveli, and Nadine Le Prince Cultural Center. These remarkable spots will enthrall you to the core.
Dundlod – A small picturesque town turned into a lavish hotel. One can spot black ibis, skylarks, and imperial eagles as a paradise for bird watchers.
Sri Bihariji Temple – Get insights about the Mahabharata, the Ramayana, and Hindu Mythology by looking at the paintings in this temple.
Ajit Sagar Lake – One of the best places to visit. Don’t forget to bask in the beauty of sunset and sunrises from Moda Pahar nearby.
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Shekhawati Festival – Shekhawati Festival is celebrated in February yearly to promote tourism in the Shekhawati Region. The fiesta is marked by various events, ranging from folk programs, countryside games, fireworks, and haveli competitions. The heritage and culture of the place are showcased in the festival and are hosted at various points around the region.
Teej – The festival marks the arrival of monsoon. Women sway on the decorated Jhulas, singing folk songs and dressed in traditional attire.
Gangaur – Married women worship Mata Parvati, the better half of Lord Shiva, by carrying the wooden idols of the Goddess through the streets and singing folk songs. The women celebrate the festival to seek Ma Parvati’s blessings while praying for their husbands’ well-being. This is a famous festival in the Shekhawati Region of Rajasthan.
Holi – the festival of colors is celebrated with great enthusiasm. Shekhawati Holi is famous in the entire Rajasthan.
Chang Dance – Performed from Maha Shivratri to Holi.
Best time for Shekhawati Tour, Rajasthan
The best time for the Shekhawati tour in Rajasthan is from October to March because of the pleasant weather. If you’re planning a visit during this time, you should check out our Rajasthan tour packages that can efficiently meet your requirements.
Where to Stay in Shekhawati?
Shekhawati is home to various havelis of Rajasthan. There are multiple options to stay in the region, like resorts, budget hotels, and premium and mid-range hotels to heritage properties. To get a feel of village life, choose comfortable mud huts.
How to Reach Shekhawati, Rajasthan?
The Shekhawati Region of Rajasthan is well connected via different modes of transport.
- Nearest Airport – Jaipur Airport (113 km)
- Nearest Railway Station – Jaipur Junction
- Nearest Bus Stand – Shekhawati can be reached from different parts of India via bus services from Rajasthan.
Conclusion
Shekhawati is one of the most exciting offbeat destinations in Rajasthan. This city has the finest Havelis and grand mansions that reflect the essence of art and architecture. So if you are looking for a great vacation in Rajasthan to explore the palaces and ancient Havelis, Shekhawati is an ideal place. You can plan your vacation here by booking our well-designed Shekhawati tour packages.
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Diksha Khiatani
A writer by day and a tsundoku at night. Emerging from an Engineering background, Diksha is a travel freak and anxious to explore different cultures and religions. Inclined towards the off-beat places, she wishes to uncover the secrets on her Scooty (if possible). She always grabs some time to take a quick nap, listen to music, skating and eat a brownie.
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