Mandawa Tour and Travels

Mandawa Tour and Travels is a prominent town among the trio of Jhunjhunu, Sikar and Mandawa in Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Collectively, this region is called the Open Art Gallery. Apart from its fort, the town of Mandawa is known around the world for its frescoes that can be found in mansions, temples and just about everywhere else.

Mandawa has been in existence from 188th century onwards. It started out as a Thikana (estate) of the Shekhawat Rajputs and gradually grew in size and stature to an important town. The fort at Mandawa was initiated by Thakur Nawal Singh, son of Shardul Singh. The castle is decorated with frescoes, paintings that have Lord Krishna as a theme, exquisite carvings and amazing mirror work. The Durbar Hall is also decorated with valuable paintings and antiques.

Mandawa was an important part of the trade route to China and the Middle East. As a result, several wealthy merchants lived here. These merchants built fancy mansions, called havelis that were decorated with paintings on their walls and ceilings. These havelis are now a part of the cultural heritage of Rajasthan.

Summers are hot here and winters are cold, like in the rest of Rajasthan so the best time to visit is during October to March. Jaipur, a 167 km away, is the nearest airport. Jaipur is also the nearest railhead while good quality metal roads connect Mandawa with the rest of the country. There are numerous budget hotels apart from the Fort that is now a Heritage Hotel.

There are also several excursions in and around Mandawa. These include Nawalgarh famous for its fort, Parsurampura having the best-preserved and oldest paintings in the Shekhawati region, Mukundgarh and Dundlod for their forts and Havelis, and Fatehpur for its havelis.

Mandawa Fort-Foundation of the Town
Located amidst the Aravalli hills, the famous fort is the cynosure of the city’s centuries-old history. It has been turned into a heritage hotel by the Rajasthan tourism department. The building is decorated with beautiful frescoes and is an example of unique Rajasthani architecture. As you explore the place, you’ll be mesmerized with the mirror work done on the interiors, which augments the grandeur of the fort. Inside the Durbar, you will find a range of ancient artifacts and exquisite paintings. The fort has a lingering medieval ambiance and royal Rajputana charm. The old-world antiques of the fort will take you back to the bygone era of Rajput rule.

Bansidhar Newatia Haveli- The Old-World Tech Park
The haveli was built in the early 20th century around 1920. The haveli is most famous for its paintings that depict the art, culture, and technological developments in that era. While walking down the hallways, you’ll come across paintings that showcase Wright brothers’ first flight being witnessed by a saree clad women, a European woman sitting in a car, and a boy using a telephone. The pictures are assumed to have been copied from the magazines of those times. These unique paintings give the haveli an ethereal charm and will give you a memorable experience. You must visit this haveli on your trip to the town to witness regality and grandeur as it was in the era of the Rajput kings.

Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli- Essence of Rajputana
The Haveli has preserved the very essence of the Rajputana era. It boasts of the creativity and originality of Rajput artisans of the 18th century. As you enter the beautifully carved wooden gates and peek through the mesh-framed windows, you’ll see true architectural finesse. The Haveli has unique paintings that adorn its walls. Some of the pictures and murals depict imagery such as a woman giving birth, a bird tending to her eggs, and much more. There is a painting featuring the mirror images of a tiger and a horse. While walking in the halls, you’ll find yourself completely immersed in the world of kings and royalty.

Murmuria Haveli-Historical Gem
Built in the 1930s, The haveli is a splendid example of 20th-century Rajput architecture. It is a tale of Rajputana glory in itself. Its long halls, humongous doors, and vibrant wall-paintings will linger in your memories. The windows overlook the busy streets. The paintings in the haveli are made using warm colors and rustic shades. There are images of royal elephants on either side of the main entry. Some of the paintings depict modern imagery like train engines and cars. You will also come across portraits of some famous political leaders of that time, like Nehru, George V, and Venice. Murmuria Haveli is an enthralling experience for travelers.

The Harlalka Well- A Peaceful Getaway
This rugged and beautiful site is just a stone’s throw away from the Murmuria Haveli. It has four rustic minarets carrying an other-worldly charm. There is a camel ramp going towards the well, but no railings are present, making it slightly risky but thrilling. Amidst the calming sound of water, you will enjoy some peaceful moments away from the crowded markets of Mandawa.

How To Reach
By Air: The nearest airport is at Jaipur, which is 168 km from Mandawa.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Jhunjhunu, which is well connected to the main cities of India like Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner etc.
By Road: Mandawa is easily accessible from all parts of Rajasthan by road.