Overview

Mandawa is an important town of Shekhawati. The entire region comprising of several towns like Mandawa, Jhunjhunu, Sikar and Mukundgarh is collectively referred to as an Open Art Gallery. The town is a place with old world charm and luxury. Mandawa was a feudal principality of Rajputs and a trading outpost. Thakur Nawal Singh, a Rajput ruler of Mandawa, built a fort here in 1755 and grew the town. Mandawa has a medieval Fort that has beautiful frescoes, mostly depicting scenes from the life of Lord Krishna. The Fort is now a heritage hotel.

The painted havelis (mansions) of Mandawa were the contribution of wealthy merchants to this town’s architectural wealth. These merchants belonged to the Marwari community. Through their travels related to trade, they gained an exposure to the outside world that is reflected in the beauty of their havelis. These mansions were lived in butt now several of them have been converted into hotels and some are tourist attractions.

Tourist attractions in Mandawa

Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli

The Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli is one such interesting tourist attractions in Mandawa. Here, you can see beautiful paintings depicting Indian mythological characters like Indra Dev and Lord Shiva. The Goenka Double Haveli is known for its beautiful portico decorated with paintings of elephants and horses.

Murmuria Haveli

Murmuria Haveli was built during the 1930s with a traditional Rajasthan architecture. It has paintings depicting political leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru besides scenes from daily life like a train at a level crossing. The haveli showcases a painting of Jawaharlal Nehru sitting on a horse with the tri color in hand.

Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli

Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli is one of the most palatial mansions of Mandawa. This wonder of art and architecture creates some exotic imaginaries. The haveli has beautifully maintained its ancient charm and vintage brilliance till date.

Mandawa Fort

This ancient wonder is located in the midst of Aravalli Hills. It was founded in the 18th century. People come here to unearth the history of Madawa and to explore the richness of Rajasthani architecture. Mandawa Fort displays impressive frescos of Lord Krishna apart from exquisite carvings and amazing mirror work. The Durbar Hall of Madawa Fort is its most charming attraction with numerous antiques and paintings.

Open Air Art Gallery

Mandawa is known for being the most beautiful open art gallery. Every nook and corner here displays an unmatched fort of art from the history. It was the most renowned stopping point for merchant’s crossing over through this route during ancient times. They constructed various havelis here for their stay and adorned them with some of the best painting collection.

Mandawa Haveli

Mandawa is also known for Mandawa Haveli situated near Sonthaliya gate. This mansion is the first frescoed haveli lying en route to the old town and is known for its exquisite architecture. It is now a popular hotel. A beautiful, small and intimate property, it is reputed for personalized service and true Rajasthan hospitality that pampers its guests. The Mandawa Haveli hotel has been upgraded to include modern comforts. Large rooms with period furniture and objects de art make a stay here a memorable experience.

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