Shekhawati
Travel Information
Shekhawati lies in the triangular area between Delhi, Jaipur and Bikaner
and comprises Jhunjhunun, Mandawa, Fatehpur, Ramgarh, Churu, Mahansar,
Mukundgarh, Dundlod, Nawalgarh, Lakshmangarh and Sikar districts of
Rajasthan. The semi-desert region of Shekhwati is popularly known as the
'open-air art gallery' of Rajasthan. This land of 'Shekha's clan' got its
name from Rao Shekha (1433-1488), a cousin of the Kachchawalas of Jaipur.
Shekhawati owns hundreds of haveli's, temples, cenotaphs, wells and forts.
However, the region is particularly famous for the high quality frescoes
(1750-1930) which are based on traditional mythology, local legend and
folklore, Rajput lifestyle, personalities from the epics and historically
traceable personalties. Besides, there is a rare blend of traditional Indian
and Europen styles and subjects.
Attractions in Shekhawati
Havelis
Shekhawati’s magnificent havelis or mansions, built by rich merchants
of the region, display a unique architectural style. Built primarily to
ensure safety and privacy of the women folk and protection from harsh summer
heat, the havelis were painted predominantly in the blue, maroon, yellow,
green and indigo color with alluring paintings on the wall.
Major Places in Shekhawati
Mandawa
Founded in the 18th century Mandawa houses the Chokhani and Ladia havelis
and the Saraf havelis. One should visit the Shiva temple here with a rock
crystal lingam. There is also a medieval fort dominating the town of Mandawa
which has now been converted to a Heritage hotel. The fort is famous for a
painted arched gateway which is beautified with Lord Krishna and his cows’s
paintings. The fort is now converted into a heritage hotel.
Lachhmangarh
Lachhmangarh was founded in the early 19th century by Raja Lachhman Singh
of Sikar. The fort here is an important landmark in the Shekhawati region
and offers a great view of the town that was built on the lines of the plan
of the city of Jaipur. Besides the fort, the place is adorned with some of
the breathtaking havelis.
Fatehpur
Founded in the mid 15th century by Fateh Khan, a Kayamkhani nawab, the town
is known for unmatched frescoes and exquisite havelis. There are some of the
most appealing havelis here which offer a blend of the Indian and the
western styles. Chamariya and Singhania havelis are the two most famous
havelis here.
Khatu Shyamji
Khatu Shyamji is famous for the Shri Shyamji Temple which is built in white
marble.
Shakambari
This ancient town is encompassed by hills on three sides and is an ideal
picnic spot. Besides being famous for its scenic charm, the town is famous
for its 7th century temple dedicated to Shakambhari Mata.
Jhunjhunu
Founded by the Kayamkhani Nawabs in the mid 15th century AD, Jhunjhunu is
both the capital of shekhawati and its largest town. There are some
splendidly painted havelis here like those of Nar Singh Das Tibriwal, Ishwar
Das-Mohan Das Modi and the Khaitans. Khatri Mahal (the Wind Palace) dating
back to around 1760 A.D. is the most appealing monument here. Besides these,
Rani Sati temple and Sri Bihariji Temple are the most revered temples here.
Sikar
Sikar was founded in the late 17th century and was the largest Feudal state
under Jaipur. The fort and temples of Gopinath, Raghunath and Madan Mohan
with commendable frescoes are worth visiting. The jubilee Hall, Madho Niwas
Kothi, Biwani Haveli, Sodhani Haveli, the Jain temple and a large market are
other places of interest.
Nawalgarh
Founded in the 18th century, Nawalgarh owns the finest of Shekhawati’s
frescoes. It has two old forts, palace hotel with garden, fountains along
with a host of temples known for their architecture and frescoes make the
place interesting. Poddars, Bhagats and Dangaichs are the prominent havelis.
