Shekhawati Havelis, Rajasthan, India will amaze you at discovering of the Havelis (mansions) which are exquisitely painted. To do this, you must venture into the northeast roads of Rajasthan. Get ready to go out and stroll through the streets of the various villages in Shekhawati in a fabulous rickshaw
Activity/Place Highlights
Villages
Stroll through the narrow streets of several of the picturesque villages, such as Nawalgarh, Dundlod, Mandawa, Fatehpur, and Lakshmangarh. You will encounter a beautiful carved wooden door and a facade full of bright colors that will leave you open-mouthed. This is, nothing more and nothing less, than one of the great mansions for which the region is famous. Havelis are symbols of the success and prosperity of families, such as the Poddar’s and the Goenkas, who got rich.
Frescoes
The glorious gems of this splendid place are the frescoes (paintings). Blues, reds, indigos, garnets, and yellows riot through the walls, leaving you perplexed with such beauty, portraying Hindu gods and goddesses, local legends, portraits, animals and many more stories. In addition, the entrances of the amazing Havelis are adorned by beautiful balconies and carved doors with lattice screens.
Architecture
The imposing Havelis were built between 1830 and 1930 by members of the Marwari business community. On the other hand, the artists strongly influenced by Mughal architecture, made entries that generally open to two courtyards, an exterior one, used by men, protecting an interior one for the exclusive use of women. Then, if you are fond of art, this walking museum of architecture and colorful stories will leave you ecstatic.
How to get there
Jhunjhunu, the regional capital, is 110 miles (177 km) north of Jaipur. The nearest airport is Jaipur Airport (JAI), 2 hours and 50 minutes from Shekhawati. The main cities in the region have good road and rail connections.
When to go
From September to March, although the nights can be cold and central heating cannot be taken for granted.
How long
It is likely that a few days in the region are enough to know and enjoy this place. However, if you want to spend some relaxing days, Shekhawati is the perfect place.
Opening and closing hours
Most of the Havelis open their doors between 9 in the morning and 5:30 in the afternoon.
Planning
The most important thing is to book your flight in advance. In addition, there is a wide variety of hotels to choose from, including Mandawa’s walled fort, with a carved entrance door and painted with ornaments and exquisite frescoes inside, it has been restored and converted into a historic hotel, depending on what you are looking for and your budget. Certainly, book in advance at the hotel you want to arrive, to be safe.
Inside information
You can tour the region by taxi or rickshaw, and local buses serve many of the cities and towns. Also, remember to pack comfortable walking shoes and warm clothes for cold nights. Without a doubt, It is a good idea to have a map to avoid getting lost in the city. Similarly, it is best to hire a tour guide, to take you to the most prominent places.
History
Shekhawati is known as the largest outdoor art gallery in the world. In addition, it is full of amazing backgrounds. Certainly, its name comes from his rulers the Shekhawat Rajputs, established in the 18th century along a caravan trade route. Above all, It is a thriving region, with more than 100 villages and 50 fortresses and palaces. On the other hand, many wealthy businessmen from the neighboring community of Marwar, during the following century, emigrated to Shekhawati and they turned this site into their home. Meanwhile, the artists were hired by these entrepreneurs to paint frescoes in their homes as a sign of opulence. Most Importantly, the painted Havelis appeared throughout the desert landscape. In short, art remained alive for almost 300 years.
Websites
- www.travelrajasthan.net
- www.rajasthanindiatravel.com
- www.mandawahotels.com
Other nearby attractions
Jhunjhunu
This beautiful town was the ancient capital, also, the largest city in the region. You will find yourself surrounded by a series of painted Havelis. Also, you will run into an ancient palace and different temples.
Fatehpur
In this town discover the frescoes on the walls of Devra and Singhania Havelis, which combines the Indian and Western styles. The entrance mirror is amazing, it has Japanese tiles with images of Mount Fuji. You can not miss La Nadine le Prince Haveli, an important point of interest.
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