History of Mandawa

One of the beautiful towns in Rajasthan is Mandawa located 167 kilometers from Jaipur. Nestled in the rugged and arid Aravallis, Mandawa is one of the beautiful historical towns that is famous for its grand Havelis and Forts. 

Situated in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, Mandawa has preserved its Rajasthani charm and grandeur. From the paved archways, deigned forts and intricate craftsmanship of the Rajput artisans Mandawa is the ideal destination for tourists on their tour to Rajasthan. One of the busy market towns Mandawa was the stronghold of the Rajput merchants.

Founded by the influential and affluent traders and businessmen of that era, Mandawa is famous for its grand and splendid Havelis that bear testimony to the bygone eras. Though the traders worked in different parts of the country, they built the palatial mansions in their hometown as a mark of their wealth and prosperity.

The history of Mandawa is all about these beautiful forts and Havelis. One of them being the Mandawa Fort. Built by the Shekhawati ruler, Nawal Singh, Mandawa Fort till today has preserved its glory and grandeur. Beautifully painted murals and paintings, arched doorways, pictures depicting mythological characters and domed structures recreate the vintage medieval ambience.

It was around this Fort that the township of Mandawa slowly developed and tourists from all over come to visit this town in Rajasthan. Today the fort has been renovated into one of the heritage hotels of Rajasthan.

The history of Mandawa states that it was Mandu Jat who founded the Mandawa village. He was the one who founded this little village and dug a well over here which was completed in the year 1797. Previously Mandawa was called the “Mandu ki dhani”, then it became Mandu ka bas and finally it was changed to Mandawa.

The history of Mandawa is quite colorful. From beautifully painted murals and paintings to the intricately crafted designs, History of Mandawa speaks volumes about the Rajput craftsmanship. Also known as an open air art galley, Mandawa in Rajasthan in India is considered to be one of the artistically enriched Indian cities.

There are a number of interesting Havelis in Mandawa which include the Bhagchandika Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli and Lakshmi Narayan Ladia Haveli and the Newtia Haveli. The other major tourist places are Harlalka Well, Thakurji Temple, Raj Well, Tanu Manu Saraf Haveli, Harlalka Chattri, Murmuria Haveli, Chowkhani Double Haveli, Akhramka Haveli, Sonthalia Gate, Goenka Double Haveli, Goenka Chattri and the Saraf Haveli.

The closest airport to Mandawa is Jaipur which is just 167 km from Mandawa. The nearest railway station to Mandawa is Jhunjhunu which is accessible from Jaipur, Bikaner and Delhi. You can take a drive from Jaipur to reach Mandawa. Mandawa is also accessible through a good network of roadways that connects it to the rest of the state.