Shekhawati Tourism

Rajasthan is a land of amazing heroic tales, rich culture and tradition that lie deep rooted in the customs of the people. Almost the entire Rajasthan has something unique to offer to the tourists including majestic havelis, forts and palaces to exquisite golden sands of the deserts and a diverse wildlife. The region of Shekhawati is quite fascinating and is popularly known as "open art gallery" for its painted havelis and traditional arts and crafts, all admirable pieces of the wealth of the region. Most of the havelis date back to the 18th century and 20th century and feature walls and ceilings decorated with various forms of fine art. Some of the paintings depict mythological themes and the images of huge animals.

This is a semi desert region in north Rajasthan and it is situated entirely in the triangle between Delhi-Bikaner-Jaipur. Shekhawati is a region and not just a town or fort; it takes its name after its ruler Rao Shekha. Shekhawati means the garden of Shekha. The towns of Shekhawati are eminent for their amazing painted havelis. Such is the appeal of the havelis that this region is dubbed as "open art gallery of Rajasthan".

The plethora of painted Havelis in rich artistic tradition makes it commendable and fascinating. Most of the buildings are dated from 18th century to early 20th century. The Shekhawati landscape is dotted with so many havelis that tracking them is something like a treasure hunt. Various forms of fine art adorn the walls and the ceilings of these structures, complimenting the otherwise flat and barren land. The havelis are noted for their frescos depicting mythological themes and that of huge animals.

Some later day frescos shows the arrival of the British and highlighting steam locomotives and train doubtlessly for the benefit of those members of the household who did not travel to distance places by train or see this newly introduced mode of transport.

This semi-desert region comprises the districts of Jhunjunu and Sikar. There are a number of tourist attractions in Shekhawati that have something remarkable in store for the tourists and include Mandawa and Nawalgarh. Besides, there are a number of other attractions that are also worth catching a glimpse of during the short excursions and include Jhunjhunu, Dundlod, Fatehpur, Ramgarh, Lakshmangarh, Sikar and Mukundgarh. You will also come across a number of forts, minor castles, mosques, step wells called baoris and chattris (cenotaphs) on your tour. The theme of Rajput art and culture concentrated mainly on the tales of the heroes while the Marwaris emphasized on the religious aspects in their art and architectural endeavors.


Shekhawati is one of the most famous tourist destinations of Rajasthan and hence is well-linked by air, rail and road transport. Jaipur is the nearest airport and offers many flights for the other towns of India. Rail transport is also viable as the broad gauge line connecting Jaipur, Bikaner and Delhi passes through the Shekhawati region. The transport within the region is quite good and one can easily travel to this place from the other destinations of India.