Shekhawati
Located in Rajasthan Shekhawati is the most artistic region of India. It is the region that h
ouses some of the world's most stunning intricate and artistic frescos.The Shekhawati belt covers townships like Sikar, Fatehpur, Lakshmangarh, Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu. It has many heritage havelis that shows the true Indian ambiance of the town Rao Shekha, the founder of Shekhawati, came to power at the young age of 12 and established a region that lasted 43 years. His power grew steadily and he became a force to reckon with in a very short period. The Rajput nobles who ruled over the small thikanas, or fiefdoms, became great patrons of art and financed the frescoes on their havelies. Up to the early 19th century the themes were largely religious. Other historical events, personages, battle scenes, and folk heroes were also painted in great detail. These paintings were a record of those times. By the end of the 19th century, there was a slight change in the patronage. The business community, Marwaris, found itself in a position of strength. When the East India Company began to make its presence felt in this part of Rajasthan, it opened several avenues for the hardworking and enterprising Marwari. The volume of trade increased and the Marwaris began to spread their branches all over the country. Even after spending several years away from their homeland, these now successful and wealthy businessmen remained true sons of the soil. While they lived austerely in their adopted cities, they sent back huge sums of money to their families. They spent large sums on the welfare of their community - wells, reservoirs, schools, colleges, dharamshalas and gaushalas were financed.
Exploring Shekhawati
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.
Mandwa
Mandawa Founded in th
e 18th century, this is a compact and busy little market town. It was fortified by the dominant merchant families and its fort dominates the town with a painted arched gateway adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows. The Chokhani, Ladia and Saraf havelis are some of the splendid examples of this region's havelis. A Shiva temple with a rock crystal lingam is also worth a visit. The fort is now converted into a heritage hotel.
Fatehpur
This town was establish
ed in 1451 as a capital for Muslim Nawabs but was taken by the Shekhawati Rajputs in the 18tha century. Some of the main havelis of interest are the Mahavira Prasad Goenka haveli, Geori Shankar haveli, Nand Lal Devra haveli and the Harikishan Das Sarogi haveli. there is also the remains of a 17th century baoli (step well).
Nawalgarh.
Getting There
Airways
Sangner Airport at Jaipur. The area could be easily accessed through Jaipur airport.
Railways
Well connected to cities in Rajasthan. Shekhawati Express connects Delhi to Shekhawati
Roadways
The Shikar and Jhunjhunu are connected to Rajasthan. The distance between Sikar and Jaipur is 114 kms.
