Romance of the Desert13 Nights / 14 days Delhi- Agra-Jaipur- Udaipur- Jodhpur - Jaisalmer- Bikaner- Mandawa- Delhi
Colorful Rajasthan
13 Nights / 14 days Delhi - Agra- Jaipur - anthambore - Kota- Chittaurgarh - Dungarpur- Udaipur- Bombay
The Heritage Rajasthan
18 Nights / 19 days Delhi - Agra -Ranthambhore - Jaipur- Pushkar - Udaipur - Mt Abu- Jodhpur - Jaisalmer - Bikaner - Mandawa - Delhi
Shekhawati
| Shekhawati, the land of murals, is a semi-arid region located within the triangle made by Bikaner, Jaipur and Delhi in the northeast part of Rajasthan. It is a fantasy of colors littered with beautiful havelis lacquered in rich and varied hues, vestiges of its prosperous trading past. Thus it is fondly referred to as the "open art gallery of Rajasthan". Location : Situated in North-East Rajasthan, Distance : New Delhi (163 km), Jaipur (150 km), Population : 25,000, Clothing : Summer-light tropical/Winter light woollen, Languages : Hindi Covering an area of 13784 sq kms, the region derives its name from its erstwhile ruler Rao Shekha. For administrative purposes, it has been divided into two districts, Jhunjhunu and Sikar. Attractions Havelis: In Shekhawat, frescoes were introduced by Shekhawat Rajputs in their forts and palaces but they were bettered and refined by the wealthy Marwari merchants. The havelis are breathtaking with their fresco paintings and exquisitely latticed and intricately carved windows depicting mythological themes and huge animals. Reflecting the status and wealth of the owner (greater the detail richer the owner), they feature intricate mirror works and paintings in gold or silver leaf. Most of the buildings are dated from 18th to early 20th century.Mandawa: This 18th century town is also famous for its havelis. The most famous ones being Chokhani, Saraf, Goenka, Ladia and Gulab Rai. Apart from these, there is a magnificent fort now used as a hotel cum museum with excellent paintings on display. The town is also famous for its painted archway decorated with Lord Krishna and his cowherds. Dundlod: This town is recognised for its 18th century fort with a beautiful hall, Diwan-e-Khana done up in stained glass windows and paintings. It also boasts some beautiful havelis such as the Jagathia and Goenka adorned with frescoed courtyards. Nawalgarh: This town has some of the finest frescoes in the region. Out of the many great ones, do not miss the Aath Haveli, Anaadilal Poddar Haveli, Jodhraj Patodia Haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat Haveli, and Chokhani Haveli. Jhunjhunu: Also well-recognised for its havelis such as the Modi Haveli considered as having the best paintings in the area, and the 19th century Tibrewala Haveli splashed with murals and adorned with coloured glass windows. Other should-see is the 18th century Khetri Mahal, Bihariji Temple and intricately painted Mertani Baori (step-well). Churu: Apart from its Fort, it is worth your time also for its excellent havelis. The Surana Haveli with over 1,100 doors and windows, the Kanhaiya Lal Bagla Haveli (1870) and the Kothari Haveli (1915) are some of the best. Fatehpur: Out of the many beautiful havelis, the Devra and Singhania are a must-see for its fresoes done in a unique combination of Indian and Western styles. The painting on the wall of Goenka Haveli is also worth checking out. |
