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A painted haveli in Mandawa, Shekhawati

The Open-Air Art Gallery · Rajasthan city guide

Shekhawati, the painted towns

A region of small towns whose merchant mansions are covered in frescoes, often called the open-air art gallery of Rajasthan.

Ideal stay1–2 nights
Best timeOctober – March
Main townsMandawa, Nawalgarh, Fatehpur
From DelhiAbout 260 km

About Shekhawati

Why visit.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, merchant families from Shekhawati made fortunes in trade and built grand havelis back home. They covered the walls with paintings of gods, legends, daily life and even trains and motor cars.

Mandawa is the most popular base, with heritage hotels in old castles and havelis.

01 / Things to do

Top things to do in Shekhawati.

  • MandawaPainted havelis and Mandawa Castle.
  • NawalgarhSome of the finest restored havelis, including the Poddar Haveli.
  • FatehpurThe Le Prince Haveli, restored by a French artist.
  • JhunjhunuHavelis, stepwells and the Khetri Mahal.

02 / Food & shopping

Eat, browse and take home.

  • Heritage hotel dinnersRajasthani meals in castle courtyards.
  • Local bazaarsBangles, textiles and village crafts.

03 / Getting there

How to reach Shekhawati.

  • By airJaipur airport is about 170 km away.
  • By railJhunjhunu and Nawalgarh have rail links.
  • By roadAbout 6 hours from Delhi, 4 hours from Bikaner.

04 / Good to know

A few friendly tips.

Which town in Shekhawati should I visit?

Mandawa is the easiest base. Nawalgarh has some of the best-restored havelis.

Can I go inside the havelis?

Some are museums or hotels. Others are private homes and are seen from outside.

How long do I need?

One night is enough for Mandawa and a nearby town.

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