The land of Shekha (Rao Shekaji 1433-1488) – Shekhawati is today known as the ‘open-air art gallery’ of Rajasthan.
Previously a part with the former Jaipur State and now comprising the districts of Jjunjhunu & Sikar in north eastern Rajasthan, the Shekhawati region is noted for its human and artistic enterprises.
This region has been the home of the Marwari community, which for more than a century has been the backbone of commercial entrepreneurship in India.
The geneology of the trading & industrial houses with the country indicate, that most of them have their roots in some town or village of Shekhawati.
The area being totally arid and local opportunities extremely limited, enterprising men moved out their luck, and the rest is history recorded on the picturesque walls of Shekhawati : a history of wealth and a lively, ostentatious lifestyle.
There are also forts, minor castles, mosques, wells called baoris and chattris to discover. The Rajputs mostly depicted the themes of historical events, personages' folk-heroes and the prominent war scenes, while the Marwaris concentrated more on religious themes but with the passage of time the themes too began to divert towards the modern views.
Places of interest
Mandawa
A small elegant town inside the heart of Shekhawati region. The abode is dotted with number of palaces and havelis. The exquisite structure of the Haveli showcases the cultural and social importance region from the past. Some from the important Haveli from the region are Chokani, Ladia, Binsidhar and Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli.Binsidhar Newatia haveli is known for its curious paintings. On the other hand, the Gulab Rai Ladi Haveli is famous for its erotic images, now defaced mostly.
Jhunjhunu
This is the Largest city of Shekhawati region and is the district headquarters. Founded in 15th century by Kaimkhani Nawabs, the abode was under the throne of Rajput ruler Sardul Singh in 1730 A.D.. The Khetri Mahal, the Bihariji Temple, the Modi Haveli, and the Kaniram Narsinghdas Tiberwala Haveli attracts tourist attraction
Dundlod
This town is located 8km from Nawalgarh and is located around 30 south east of Mandawa Haveli such as Jathia Haveli and Tunganram Haveli. Dulod fort made in 1750 showcases the traditional blend of rajput and Mughal architecture. Another attraction in the place is the Satyanarayan temple that has 100 ft deep well
Nawalgarh
This is also the placed to find some with the finest frescoes while in the entire region. Tourist come here for Roop Niwas, Poddar haveli, Saat Haveli, a few old temples, and forts and a heritage hotel
How to Reach
By Air
Sangner Airport at Jaipur. The area could be easily accessed through Jaipur airport.
By Rail
Well connected to cities in Rajasthan. Shekhawati Express connects Delhi to Shekhawati.
By Road
The Shikar and Jhunjhunu are connected to Rajasthan. The distance between Sikar and Jaipur is 114 kms.
