Tourist Attraction in Shekhawati

The major attraction of the Shekhawati region are the magnificent havelis. These havelis were built by the Marwaris, the rich merchants of the region, and display a unique architectural style. These havelis were built to ensure safety and privacy of the women and protection from the heat of the long and harsh summers. The havelis were painted in the Shekhawati's fresco style, predominantly in the blue, maroon, yellow, green and indigo color and have beautiful wall paintings. The style of fresco painting is locally known as ala gila. The colours, mixed into a paste, were applied on to the damp wall with a plaster of lime paste through beating, burnishing and polishing. The painters and masons who were commissioned for the task undertook large panels together and work in teams so that joints in plaster, did not show. Binding agents such as tempera, gum and camel fat were also used. The pigments

were obtained from iron rich sediments (green, yellow, ochre), lampblack (black), indigo (blue), stone powder (red), saffron (orange) and chalk (white). The process of creating the frescos was tedious. Two layers of clay plaster were provided on the wall and later the third layer of mortar is provided into which the finely cut pieces of Hessian were added, followed by a coat of plaster using lime, gravel or brick dust. The final coat consisted of sieved lime dust made into a paste using sour buttermilk and jaggery. This was the main surface on which the painters had to draw and fill in colours while the uppermost layers is still wet. It was then polished with smooth agate, and dry coconut was rubbed in to seal in the paintings to ensure that the paintings lasted over centuries, and can be only damaged by nature. But as most of these paintings are out in the open, they were more damaged by the men.

The subjects of the Shekhawati frescos (1830 AD - 1900 AD) were based on the variety of themes, but changed over the period of time.

Floral: The early works were very simple, used very few colours, and consisted of floral motifs. Later, floral work was mostly reserved for the pillars and arches. The floral motifs were commonly used to create frames and unite a complete section, within which were canvases of paintings. In the few Muslim havelis, only floral representations of foliage can be found.

Religious: Around the main entrance and interior spaces in the havelis consisted of the mythical and religious images. The main subject was the Indian religious legends and fables, so that entire canvases could be covered with the marriage processions of gods, or their great wars with the demons, or from the Ramayana. The legends of Krishna, and particularly Ras Leelas, can be seen in the circular ceilings below domes.

Historic: Historical tales of rulers and scenes of great battles, and portraits of well known rulers were mainly painted in the chhatris of the wells, or in the castles of the Rajput feudal chiefs who controlled small feudatory states in this region.

Secular: Most of the external walls were painted with the aspects of daily life that were clearly inspirational and reflect their lifestyles. These consisted of scenes of processions, of caparisoned elephants, of celebrated lovers such as Dhola and Maru, and trompe I’oeil paintings that created a suspension of belief in disbelief. Some of the delightful representations are the women peeping out of windows, a camel straddling a small window, or a staircase turning into an elephant with the balustrade in its trunk.

The turn of the 19th century saw the appearance of new motifs, due to the British Raj’s influence upon the Indian culture. Trains, cars, balloons, telephones, gramophones, portraits of English men in hunting attires and their memsahibs, some walking their dog, and others engaged in needlework and portraits of the haveli owners were painted all over the walls. By 1930, the Shekhawati frescoes were degenerated and this resulted in the migration of the Marwari families. The murals and several examples of beautiful art were further devastated.

Major Places in Shekhawati 

The tourists can stay in any of several heritage hotels in Shekhawati that were once feudal castles. Many of these historic hotels are beautiful examples of the painted walls of the region. These are the true treasures of Rajasthan’s open air art galley. Some of the major places in Shekhawati are Mandawa, Lachhmangarh, Fatehpur, Khatu Shyamji, Shakambari, Jhunjhunu, Sikar, Nawalgarh, Mukundgarh, Chirawa, Dundlod and Pilani.

Fatehpur: Fatehpur was founded in the mid 15th century by Fateh Khan, a Kayamkhani nawab. The town is noted for unmatched frescoes and exquisite havelis. It is one of the richest sources for observing some of the finest art in the region. Its central location has attracted many wealthy merchants. Havelis offers a combination of the Indian and the western styles. Most famous havelis are the Chamariya and Singhania havelis.

Khatu Shyamji: Khatu Shyamji is famous for the Shri Shyamji Temple, built in white marble.

Shakambari: Shakambari is famous for its 7th century temple dedicated to Shakambhari Mata. The town is surrounded by hills on three sides. It is an ideal picnic spot.
 

Jhunjhunu: Jhunjhunu, the capital of Shekhawati is one of the largest town of the district. The town was founded by the Kayamkhani Nawabs in the mid 15th century AD and remained under their control until it was taken over by the Rajput ruler Sardul Singh in 1730 AD. The district town has some splendidly painted havelis. Easily accessible of these are those of Nar Singh Das Tibriwal, Ishwar Das-Mohan Das Modi and the Khaitans. The most interesting monument is the Khatri Mahal (the Wind Palace) dating back to around 1760 A.D. with elegant lines. Rani Sati temple is the most famous temple of Jhunjhunu. The Sri Bihariji Temple is noted for its lovely murals.

Other Places

Mukundgarh: Mukundgarh is known for its fine havelis. The fort of Mukundgarh is now a heritage hotel. It is a small settlement which is easy to walk around when viewing fresco art.

Dundlod: Dundlod is known for its fort, palace and chhatri frescos. The palace of Dundlod is now running as a heritage hotel. Havelis of the Goenka family are also famous in Dundlod.
 

Churu: Though, Churu is not a part of the Shekhawati region, but it has havelis which are mainly known for their flamboyant architecture.

Harsh Nath Temple: Harsh Nath temple, an ancient 10th century temple is situated on the Harsh Nath hills and is about 10 km from Shekhawati town.

Jeen Mata Temple: Jeen Mata temple is believed to have been built a thousand years ago. The temple is the venue of a colourful fair held twice in a year during ‘Navaratras’.

Chirawa: Chirawa is a popular trading town between Churu and Loharu. Chirawa is famous for huge havelis. Dalmias, Kakranias and Nemanis Havelis and Poddar wells are worth visiting places in Chirawa.

Pilani: Pilani is the home of the Birlas, the leading industrialists of India. It has a large campus of the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) which is famous all over the world. A beautiful Saraswati Temple, BITS museum, Panchwati and Birla Havelis are various places in Pilani.

Surajgarh and Kajara: Surajgarh has an impressive 18th century fort, painted temples and havelis. Some beautiful 19th century havelis can be seen in Kajara.

Alsisar and Malsisar: Alsisar was founded in the late 18th century while Malsisar was founded in the mid 18th century. Both these towns lie at the northern edge of Shekhawati. The angular style of frescoes in various colours make the trip to these town a memorable one. These two towns are distinguished by the blue and red colour of their frescos. Beside the fort, the Jhunjhunuwala havelis, a well complex and temples are other interesting places in Alsisar.

Bissau: Bissau was founded in the mid 18th century. Bissau has splendid chhatris of Thakurs and finely painted havelis of Khemka, Tibrewals, Jhunjhunuwala and Kedia that contains high quality of frescos. Bissau also has a fort and the Chhatri of Hammir Singh, with paintings.

Mehansar: Mehansar was founded in the mid 18th century. The Sone-Chandi ki Haveli and Raghunath temple with beautiful paintings of the Bikaner School of Art are worth visiting places in Mehansar. The finest interiors can be found here in a former jeweller’s showroom and are rich in their use of colours and gilding.

Shekhawati  Tour

16 Days / 15 Nights
Delhi - Mandawa - Sikar - Ramgarh - Fatehpur - Bissau - Churu - Lachmangarh - Nawalgarh - Mahansar - Dundlod - Mukundgarh -    Mandawa - Bikaner - Jaisalmer - Osian - Jodhpur - Jaipur - Delhi    

Day 01: Delhi
Around midnight arrive in Delhi. The cosmopolitan City and capital Delhi is the main gateway for travelers. Upon arrival, you will be met our representative and transferred to the Hotel.

Day 02: Delhi
In the morning we have sightseeing in Old Delhi. We take a Rickshaw Ride parallel to the Red Fort through the old city and famous Silk Road and Silver Bazaar. Sightseeing of Old Delhi includes "Rajghat", the site where Mahatma Gandhi was cremated and Jama Masjid, the great mosque of old Delhi. Today we also visit the famous "Humayun Tomb" which is the first substantial example of Mughal architecture in India and "Qutub Minar". "Qutub Minar" is 71 meter high and consists of five stories. In 1199 work began on this tower which was intended to be the most glorious tower of victory in the world. This tower was damaged twice and repaired in 1326 and 1368. Before we proceed to the Hotel we drive through the embassy area in New Delhi where we visit the India Gate and see some impressive Government Buildings.

Day 03: Delhi - Mandawa (about 250 km)
After having breakfast we drive to Mandawa in the Shekhawati region. One of the major place in the Shekhawati region is Mandawa. Mandawa was founded in the 18th century. The Chokhani and Ladia havelis and the street with Saraf havelis are some of the splendid havelis in Mandawa. A medieval fort dominates the town of Manadwa. This fort has a painted arched gateway which is adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows. The fort is now converted into a heritage hotel. Arrive in Mandawa in the evening

Day 04: Mandawa (Excursion to Sikar and Ramgarh) 
In the morning we drive to Sikar. In Sikar we would visit the Gopinath, Raghunath and Madan Mohan temple. We also visit the Biyani Havellis. In the afternoon we drive to Ramgarh. In Ramgarh we visit the Shani Temple as well as the Havellis of Poddars. In Ramgarh we can have a look at the rustic wood furniture which is unique in this area.

Day 05: Mandawa (Excursion to Fatehpur, Bissau and Churu) 
In the morning drive to Fatehpur. Fatehpur is famous for its frescoes in the Indian as well as western styles. The most interesting Havellis in Fatehpur are the Havellis of Chamariyas, Singhaniasm, Goenka and Jalan Havellis. Afterwards we visit the town of Bissau. Bissau was founded in the mid 18th century. Bissau has splendid chhatris of its Thakurs and well painted havelis of Khemka, Tibriwals, Thakurs, Jhunjhunuwala and Kedia. Bissau also has a Fort and the Chhatri of Hammir Singh, which has paintings on it. After visiting the town of Bissau we visit the town of Churu which is famous for havelis of Kothari and Kanhaiya Lal Bagla with marvellous life-size paintings of Dhola Maru, Sassi Punu etc. The Surana haveli has more than eleven hundred doors and windows.

Day 06: Mandawa (Excursion to Lachmangarh and Nawalgarh) 
Today we will visit the Fort of Lachmangarh which is one of the most impressive fort in Shekhawati area. It is worth going up to the top to get a view of the town below. The town planning seems similar as Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan. Nawalgarh was a central point for many of the trader families who decorated their havellis with the fresco paintings. Some of them are Poddar Haveli, Roop Niwas, Saat Haveli. One can also visit a few temples and the fort of Nawalgarh.

Day 07: Mandawa (Excursion to Mehansar)
The morning is at leisure in Mandawa. In the afternoon drive to Mehansar. Mehansar was founded in the mid of 18th century. In Mahansar we will visit the Sone-Chandi-ki-Haveli (Sone Ki Dukan Haveli) and Raghunath temple with beautiful paintings which seem to have their origin from the Bikaner school of paintings. 

Day 08: Mandawa (Excursion to Dundlod and Mukundgarh)
Today we will visit Dundlod. Dundlod is famous due to its palace which has been now converted into hotel. The Goenka Havellis of Dundlod are also worth visiting. It is an amazing feeling going through the Suraj Pol, Bichla Darwaza, Uttar Pol of Dundlod Fort. Then we will drive further to Mukundgarh. Mukundgarh is more known for its fort than the havelis. The Mukundgarh fort has been converted into heritage hotel and is worth visiting.

Day 09: Mandawa - Bikaner (about 180 km)
In the morning after having breakfast we drive to Bikaner. After a break we visit the Junagarh Fort constructed of red sandstone (1571-1611 AD) and marble with kiosks and balconies embellishing the structure at intervals. This imposing fort and its palaces will be an unforgettable experience for us. 

Day 10: Bikaner - Jaisalmer (about 330 km)
Today we drive through the desert and proceed for Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is famous for its carved havellis (grand mansions). In medieval times, its prosperity was due to its location on the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Africa and the West. Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and this city remains one of the most exotic city not only in Rajasthan but in the whole of India. We arrive in Jaisalmer in the evening.

Day 11: Jaisalmer 
Today we have sightseeing of the medieval city of Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer's crenellated golden sandstone walls and its narrow streets lined with exquisitely carved buildings makes this city unique. Some of the visitors called this city “a living museum”. We have a walk through the old city and visit the Fort and the Jain temple. In the afternoon we drive around 40 km away from Jaisalmer to Sam dunes where we enjoy the sunset before we drive back to Jaisalmer.

Day 12: Jaisalmer - Osain - Jodhpur (about 290 km)
In the morning drive to Jodhpur via Osian. Osian is a great centre of Hindu and Jain religions. The oldest Temple here was constructed in 1178 AD. After visiting the temple we proceed further for Jodhpur. Jodhpur was once the capital of the princely state of Marwar (Land of death). Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan. Jodhpur is also known as the blue city as most of the houses of the old city are painted blue. The old city is surrounded by a huge 10 km long wall which has 101 bastions and seven gates. We will visit the Mehrangarh Fort (majestic fort). Mehrangarh Fort was built on a steep hill and is among the best in India with exquisitely latticed windows in residential apartments within. We also visit the Jaswant Thada, a royal cenotaph built in white marble. 

Day 13: Jodhpur - Jaipur (about 335 km)
Today we drive to the Pink City, Jaipur. This city owes its name, foundations and careful planning to the great warrior and astronomer, Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and famous for its handicrafts and precious and semiprecious stones. 

Day 14: Jaipur 
After breakfast we drive to the ancient capital of Amber, laying 11 km away from Jaipur. Amber was the ancient capital of Kachhawaha dynasty for 6 centuries before it was moved to newly created Jaipur. We will ascend to the Palace Fortress on the back of an Elephant. Enroute to Amber we will visit the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds), built in 1799 AD, it contains 953 small casements with each having its own balcony. The windows enabled cool air to circulate and the ladies to watch processions below without being seen. In the afternoon we have a walk through the colourful Bazaar of Jaipur and visit a factory to see the famous block printing work being done since centuries in Jaipur. In the evening we drive through the new city of Jaipur and visit "Laxmi Narayan Mandir", a Hindu temple made out of white marble. We might have an opportunity here to observe a prayer ceremony. Today we have dinner with a presentation of Indian music and dance.

Day 15: Jaipur - Delhi (about 260 km)
In the morning after having breakfast we visit the City Palace which is still the formal residence of the royal family, built in a blend of the Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. In the museum of the city palace we visit the private collection of the Jaipur Maharajas. We continue to Jantar Mantar, a stone observatory, the largest of Jai Singh's five remarkable observatories. It's complex instruments reveals us the secrets of medieval Indian astronomy. After having the sightseeing we drive to Delhi. Arrival in Delhi in the evening. The rest of the day at leisure. 

Day 16: Flight to home destination
Around midnight flight to home destination.

Inclusions:
      Accommodation in double rooms on twin sharing basis with bath and WC in the  
          chosen category.
      American/Continental Breakfast.
      Elephant ride in Amber (Jaipur).
      One Dinner will be with a presentation of Indian music and dance during your stay  
         in Jaipur.
      Services of qualified local English Speaking or any other language guide at every  
         city.
         of sight seeing.
      All Transfers and departures on arrival and departure by Indo Vacations
         representative.
      All Transfers and Sightseeing throughout the tour by an individual 
         air-conditioned vehicle (car/Jeep etc.) with driver (reliable, experienced and 
         English speaking - have a look at the references on our website from all over the 
         world).

Exclusions:
      Any Kind of Personal Expenses such as Tips, Laundry, Telephone Bills, and   
         Alcoholic beverages.
      Camera Fees (Still or Movie).
      Any Flight Charges.
      Monument Entrances.
      Unspecified Meals etc.

10 Days Horse Safari Tour of Shekhawati

 10 Days / 9 Nights
(Delhi - Nawalgarh - Dundlod - Mandawa - Mehansar - Desert Resort - Naharsingani - Nawalgarh - Delhi)

Day 1: Flight to India (Delhi)
Around midnight arrival in Delhi. The cosmopolitan city and capital New Delhi is the main gateway for the travellers to India. Upon arrival, you will be met by our representative and transferred to the hotel.

Day 2: Delhi - Nawalgarh
In the morning drive from Delhi to Nawalgarh in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Nawalgarh is known for the havelis of its wealthy merchant class, the Marwaris. The drive to Shekhawati is through picturesque village and farms. Nawalgarh was founded in 1737 AD by Thakur Nawal Singh, a warrior statesman. The town exudes an old world charm and the colourful bazaar has the largest number of painted Havelis in Shekhawati. In the late afternoon meet up at the stables, where the riders will be introduced to the safari team and the lovely ‘Marwari’ horses and can also have a ride. The riding leader Shri Devendra Singh will advise about the horses and give the details about the tour and introduction talk on the arid region ecology.

Day 3: Nawalgarh
In the morning you will ride on the horses to the country side. In the afternoon you will visit the havelies.

Day 4: Nawalgarh - Dundlod
Today, you will start your horse safari from Nawalgarh to Dundlod Fort. After traveling through sandy tracks of Shekhawati, you will enter the village of Dundlod. The village is known for its two impressive Goenka Haveli and its painted Goenka chhatri or cenotaphs. Overnight stay in Dundlod.

Day 5: Dundlod - Mandawa
Today you will ride on your horses from Dundlod to Mandawa in the Shekhawati region. Today you will ride through the town onto dry sandy tracks and farmlands. Lunch at churi. Shekhawati lies in the north east region of Rajasthan and is the homeland of marwaris. The marwaris form one of the most important merchant and business groups in India, they developed their business acumen on the trade routes between Delhi and the coast between India and Central Asia. Marwaris enjoyed protections by Maharajas and many of them built grand havellis. The havellis are mansions, elaborately and attractively decorated with a strong main entrance. The walls are often covered with murals, local legends and religious scenes from Hindu Mythology. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 6: Mandawa - Mehansar
Today you will ride from Mandawa to Mehansar. On the way you will pass through the dry sandy tracks and farmlands. You will have lunch near Nangli on a high sand dune "Gogameri". Here there is a temple dedicated to famous folk hero "Gogaji". The area has a large population of peacocks in the wild. Mehansar was founded in mid 18th century. It is one of less visited towns of Shekhawati. Sone Chandi ki Haveli (‘Mansion of Gold and Silver’) which belonged to the Poddar family of jewelers, has the finest frescoes in Shekhawati. The Raghunath temple with beautiful paintings resembles the Bikaner school of art. Overnight stay in Mehansar.

Day 7: Mehansar - Desert Resort
Today you will ride from Mehansar to Desert Resort. The Desert Resort is recreated in the style of a typical Rajasthani Village. The mystery and romance of the desert are captured in the unusual architecture of the Resort. The cottages are built by the local craftsmen using mud and brick and reflect the traditional harmony between man and nature. Each cottage and rooms are furnished in a distinctive style. The exteriors are decorated with traditional lime paste mandana or rice flour patterns which are redone daily by women from the village, while the interiors are ornamented with mirror-work and glass beads in myriad colors. Overnight stay at Desert Resort.

Day 8: Desert Resort - Naharsingani
Today you will ride from Desert Resort to Naharsingani. This ride will take you through the typical shekahawati landscape, fields dotted with Khejri trees, low sand dunes, small villages with common grazing woodlots with desert flora and fauna. Overnight stay at the farm house.

Day 9: Naharsinghani - Nawalgarh
Today you will ride from Naharsinghani to Nawalgarh. Overnight stay in the hotel.

Day 10: Nawalgarh - Delhi
In the morning drive to Delhi. In the evening you will reach Delhi and transfer to the airport for the flight to home destination.

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