Shekhawati

This little-visited region lies in the semi-arid northeast of Rajasthan and is known for its many painted havelis (traditional-style residences) that are found in the small towns sprinkled across Shekhawati. Some of the best frescoes are seen in the towns of Jhunjhunu (Shekhawati's district headquarters), Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Fatehpur, Churu, Ramgarh, and Parasrampura.

How to Get There
Most of Shekhawati's towns can be reached by bus, with Jaipur and Bikaner being particularly well connected. There are limited rail connections.

How to Get Around
It's easy to get around by foot in many areas, but within most towns there are autorickshaws. Private taxis are also available and are recommended if you intend to tour the region extensively.

Attractions
The predominant attraction of this region is its frescoes, found on the walls (inner and outer) of private residences and other buildings. Many of the painted havelis are open to visitors, but for those that aren't, you can often see at least some frescoes on the outer walls. The paintings, some of which are in a tragic state of disrepair, depict a curious range of topics, from mythology to modern gadgets.

Places to Stay and Eat
There's limited accommodation in the towns of Shekhawati; hotels are usually the best places to dine.

In Jhunjhunu, recommended options include the Hotel Jamuna Resort and the Hotel Shiv Shekhawati, both of which have clean, pleasantly furnished rooms at mid-range prices. The Jamuna Resort has a pool. Both properties are run by the same owner, who is a gold mine of information. Jhunjhunu; tel. +91 (0)1592 232651.

In Nawalgarh, the budget-priced Ramesh Jangid's Tourist Pension (Nawalgarh; tel. +91 [0]1594 224060) is recommended. The large rooms are well-maintained and the owner is happy to share his knowledge of the region. The owner also runs the award-winning Apani Dhani (Nawalgarh; tel. +91 [0]1594 222239), an eco-friendly resort that has accommodations in comfortable mud huts.

In Mandawa, a popular choice is the mid-priced Hotel Mandawa Haveli, which is a beautifully restored old haveli with pleasing rooms (the suites are best) around a courtyard. Mandawa; tel. +91 (0)1592 223088.

For More Information
Tourist Reception Center, Jhunjhunu Churu bypass, Mandawa Circle, Jhunjhunu; tel. +91 (0)1592-232909.
Rajasthan Tourism