SHEKHAWATI

The realm of lovely havelis, harking back to the yester years, epitomizes the beauty of Shekhawati – a region that comprises of Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Churu. It is a major landmark tourist destination of colourful Rajasthan. Once the bastion of Rao Shekha, this magnificent land, located on the North of Rajasthan, derives its nomenclature from the former.
Shekhawati is a tourist's paradise. The land is laced with innumerable beautiful havelis or grand mansions that are guaranteed to capture one's imagination. It is a haven for a true connoisseur of art and architecture. A riot of colours encapsulates the spirit of this vibrant landscape. Exquisitely embellished havelis mushroomed during the eighteenth century and former half of the twentieth. Mythology and fauna lies at the very core of this wonderful art. Tales narrating the valour of Lord Rama and the miracles of Lord Krishna unfold on a journey of these marvellous mansions. The region also houses towering forts, baoris, and shrines, besides the ubiquitous havelis.

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Come explore the wonders and sites that Shekhawati has to offer you. There’s always something to see in Rajasthan.

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  SETHANI KA JOHARA

  Sethani Ka Johara lies on the north side of the road perhaps 5 km west of Churu along the Ratangarh road. It is perhaps the finest johara (reservoir) in the area in that it is not only attractive but also efficient, holding a store of water, often from one monsoon to the next. It was built in 1899 by the widow of Bhagwan Das Bagla as part of the famine relief projects that the merchants financed in those terrible years of the close of the century. A peaceful place, it attracts various birds and animals, including Nilgais, in winter.

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  KANHAIYALAL BAGLA HAVELI

  Kanhaiyalal Bagla Haveli is a beautiful structure, which stands on the south of the main bazaar. Constructed in around 1880, the haveli represents the finest lattice work and architectural styles in the entire Shekhawati region. The murals and wall paintings of the haveli depict Dhola and Maru, the romantic couple from folk tales, on a camel. The walls of the haveli are also adorned with the episodes of Dhola- Maru, the lovers fleeing on their camel.

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  AATH KAMBH CHHATRI

  Aath Kambh Chhatri, one of the buildings possessing great historical significance, is an eight pillared dome that stands on the northern side of the town. Lying between the premises adjoining the western side of the vegetable market, the chhatri is believed to be constructed in 1776. Over the years, the windblown sand has virtually buried the base of the structure, while the interiors are still adorned with beautiful murals and stone carved paintings.

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  RATANGARH FORT

  Located on the Agra-Bikaner Highway, the Ratangarh Fort was built in the early 18th century by Surat Singh, who named it after his son Ratan Singh, and boasts imposing gateways, several monuments (which are mostly in ruins today) and a clock tower, which is also known as Ghantaghar. The Ratangarh Fort makes for a lovely tourist destination, surrounded by several ethnic villages.

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  LAXMINARAYAN TEMPLE

  Soothing to the eye, this temple is simple from the outside but has a grand architectural splendour from within. The entrance has a projected foliated arch adorned with beautiful mural paintings. It is easily accessible from all parts of Churu, and the serenity of this temple makes it a must-visit in your itinerary.

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  DIGAMBAR JAIN TEMPLE

  The Jain Temple is a 150-year-old structure and can be described as piece of art in itself. Its interiors resemble a lavish royal court than a temple courtyard. This temple has some of the best paintings painted in gold, centred mostly on moral living suggestions. The walls and the interior are adorned with glass works characteristic of the magnificence of the Rajput era.

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  TAL CHHAPAR SANCTUARY

  Renowned for being a safe haven black bucks and a variety of birds, this sanctuary is named after the Chhapar village. Located in the Sujangarh Tehsil of Churu, it is 210 km from Jaipur. Its open grasslands scattered with trees give it the appearance of a savannah. The sanctuary is a bird watcher’s paradise as it is home to birds such as eastern imperial eagle, black ibis, demoiselle cranes, skylarks, ring doves and more. One can also spot the desert fox and desert cat here.

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  LAXMANGARH FORT

  Fort Laxmangarh stands tall as the most impressive building in town, looming majestically over the well laid township on its western side. An exceptional specimen of fort architecture in the entire world, Laxmangarh Fort is built upon scattered pieces of colossal rocks. The top of the ramp offers a fascinating bird's eye view of the Laxmangarh town modeled to resemble the city lay out of Jaipur – Rajasthan's bustling capital city.

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  MANSA DEVI TEMPLE

  Mansa Mata Temple is situated in the hills of Khoh-Guda village, about 25 km from Udaipurwati of district Jhunjhunu. Mansa Devi Temple is situated in the lap of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of life, in the hilly area, about 5 km from Khoh village in the west. Thousands of devotees visit the temple of Mata during Navratras.

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  RAGHUNATHJI MANDIR

  Raghunathji Mandir, also known as Bara Mandir, is located in the vicinity of the Ratangarh town. Dedicated to Lord Raghunath or Rama, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the temple is believed to be constructed in early 19th century. It is a single storied temple with an elevated entrance. The top of the temple has a series of cupolas. The temple is believed to liberate one from the pains of life.

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  FATEHPUR

  The city of Fatehpur was established by Kayamkhani Nawab Fateh Mohd in 1508 AD. He also constructed the Fort of Fatehpur in 1516. The city once served as the capital of Sikar. Today, Fatehpur is popularly known as the culture capital of Shekhawati. It is full of stunning sights to visit, of which, the Dwarkadheesh Mandir, Singhania Haveli, Nadine Le Prince Cultural Centre and Fatehchandka Haveli are the more notable ones.

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  RAMGARH

  Ramgarh was founded in 1791 by the Poddar family, and back then, was considered one of the richest towns in 19th century India. Ramgarh is famous for its paintings, old temples, cenotaphs and havelis. While Ramgarh has a lot to offer in terms of sightseeing, the Ramgopal Chhatri (cenotaph) and Poddar’s Haveli are especially popular among tourists.

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  KHETRI MAHAL

  Khetri Mahal in Khetri, Jhunjhunu is one of the most excellent instances of fine art and structural design of Shekhawati region. It is also known as the Wind Palace of Jhunjhunu. Khetri Mahal was built in the year 1770. A surprising factor is that Khetri Mahal has no windows or doors even though it is named as the Wind Palace. The inimitability of Khetri Mahal lies in the uninterrupted stream of wind which perpetually makes this construction unique from countless buildings. Almost all rooms of the Mahal are linked with each other through an ingenious chain of pillars and arches that offer a gorgeous proportioned vision to the fortress.

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  SUNSET POINT MODA PAHAR

  Moda Pahar of Jhunjhunu city is a popular place to watch the sunset. This place adjacent to the banks of Ajit Sagar Lake is home to many migratory birds. The raw beauty of this spot makes it a favourite with the tourists.

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  RANI SATI MANDIR

  Rani Sati Mandir is a well-known temple situated in Jhunjhunu district in the Rajasthan. This temple has a history of more than 400 years and is an indication to feminine bravery and spirit. It is also famous for its magnificence, and extraordinary paintings. It is also part of one of the oldest presented Indian pilgrimages.

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  HAZRAT QAMRUDDIN SHAH'S DARGAH

  West of the Khetri Mahal, at the foot of the Nehara Pahar, lies the Dargah of Kamaruddin Shah. It is an atmospheric complex comprising a mosque and madrasa arranged around a pretty courtyard (still retaining some of its original murals), with the ornate dargah (tomb) of the Sufi saint Kamaruddin Shah in the centre.

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  PANCHDEV MANDIR

  The famous Shri Panchdev Temple is situated in Jhunjhunu district in Shekhawati. The temple's architecture, drawings and evergreen gardens make it a pleasing destination for visitors.

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  BANDE KA BALAJI TEMPLE

  BANDHE KA BALAJI TEMPLE is a modern temple situated in the Jhunjhunu district headquarters, around which is surrounded by hills. It is one of the popular Hanuman temples in India. The idol of Balaji is different from other idols of God Hanuman. Unlike other Hanuman idols, Balaji is shown to have a circular face, which makes it the most unique idol in the world.

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  MANDAWA

  In ancient times, Mandawa was a main center of the ancient trade route between the Middle East and China. Goods were exchanged from here. Here Thakur Nawal Singh ruled over Nawalgarh and Mandawa. Built a fort in Mandawa and built a city around the fort. Many big traders came and settled here, who laid the foundation of unique, wonderful havelis and made this city a tourist attraction. Today this small town is famous for its havelis. Different types of paintings are found on every wall of the havelis here. Mandawa has also emerged as a very popular place for film shooting.

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  DUNDLOD

  Dundlod, a village in Jhunjhunu is famous for its fort and havelis. This fort was built in 1750 by Keshari Singh, son of Rajput ruler, Sardul Singh. Dundlod is easily accessible by road from Delhi, Jaipur, and Bikaner. The Dundlod fort is a blend of the Rajput and Mughal art and architecture. The Chhatri (cenotaph) of Ram Dutt Goenka, located near the fort is also a popular tourist attraction. Built in 1888, the dome of the cenotaph is decorated with floral motifs with banners extending from the centre. The Marwari breed of horses, that are now finding their own identity across the world, are bred in Dundlod.

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  ALSISAR

  Alsisar, a Village in Jhunjhunu is surrounded by arid dessert. Alsisar was awarded to Thakur Samarth Singh by his father, Thakur Pahad Singh of Heerwa, who made it his capital in 1783 AD. The famous Alsisar Mahal, a fine example of Rajput architecture with its fresco carvings and depiction of historical events on its walls, was built by Shekhawat Thikanedars. Alsisar is renowned for its Rajasthani hospitality, and tourists flock here to get a taste of that along with its famous castles, havelis and cenotaphs. Make sure you pay a visit to the Kejriwal Haveli, Laxmi Narayan temple, Thakur Chaatu Singh’s cenotaph, Ram Jas Jhunjhunwala Ki Haveli among others.

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  BISSAU

  Bissau, a small town in Jhunjhunu, was originally called Vishala Jat Ki Dhani. It was awarded to Thakur Keshri Singh by his Father MahaRao Shardul Singh Ji. Keshari Singh constructed a war fort and a defensive boundary wall for defence. He named it Bissau in 1746 AD. The rulers of Bissau belong to the Bhojraj clan of Shekhawats, and were the descendants of the famous ruler Maharao Shekha.

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  NAWALGARH

  If you are an art lover then you must visit Nawalgarh. Situated between Jhunjhunu and Sikar, Nawalgarh is famous for its beautiful havelis. You can see some of the best frescoes in the havelis here. The famous havelis here are Bhagato Ki Haveli, Morarka Haveli, Grand Haveli, Koolwal Kothi, Roop Niwas Palace, Aaath Haveli etc. Many films have also been shot here, including some Indian and some foreign films. Dr. Ramnath A. Poddar Museum is a fascinating museum located in the city of Nawalgarh.

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  Jeenmata Temple

  Jeenmata temple is situated near the hill 10 km away from village Rewasa. The temple of Jeen Mataji is around 108 km from Jaipur and 30 km from Sikar . It is surrounded by thick forest. The temple was constructed around 1000 years ago. The temple of Jeen Mataji was a place of pilgrimage from early times and was repaired and rebuilt several times. Jeen Mata is the kuldevi of many clans of shekhawati.

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  Khatu Shayam Temple

  Khatu Shyamji Temple (55km) away from Sikar .One of Rajasthan’s most revered pilgrimage destinations, the village of khatu, home to the Khatu Shyamji shrine attracts devotees for its Krishna temple. Krishna is worshipped as Khatu Shyam. The 10-day Khatu Shyamji Fair is also held in February/March. During the Khatu Shyamji’s mela many devotees start their padyatra from the Bhairuji Temple (Ringus).

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  Harsh Nath

  Harsh Nath Temple is 14 Km. away from Sikar is an ancient site famous for the ruins of old Shiva temple located on the high hills of Aravali. Embraced by the natural beauty of Aravalli Hills, this architectural marvel is said to be constructed in the 10th century during the reign of Chauhan King named Vigraharaja. The finely carved sculptures of different Hindu Gods and Goddesses within the temple, make it more breathtaking. Every year during Navratri and MahaShiv Ratri , thousands of devotees visit Harshnath Temple to offer prayer.

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  Shakambhari Mata

  Shakambhari Mata temple is situated in sakrai village which is near Udaipurwati . The idols here are of Brahmani and Rudrani both the idols are lion riding goddess in the poster of killing Mahishasura . Only difference between the two is of the stone that of Brahmani is made of Marble and Rudani is made of blackstone .In Hinduism shakambhari is an incarnation of Ishwari concert of Shiva. She is divine mother "The Bearer of green ." It is said that in times of famine Goddess Durga comes down and gives vegan food. Ambari means vegetables and vegan food. (Ambari means one who wears or Bears) , to the hungry . That is why she is called Shaka+ Ambaro = SHAKAMBHARI . Sadhus of Nath cult have been the priests of this temple. The Shikhar of the temple bear highly artistic statuettes of gods and goddesses. Shakambhari temple situated in the basin of Araavali hills which is 51 km away from Sikar. Lots of devotees visits here to pay their homage . In Navratris many pilgrims visits here from all corners of India.

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  Government Museum

  The Building of Goernment Museum is situated near Bara Talab and Rani Sati Mandir on sawali Road which is about 3 km. away from bus stand and about 4 km. from railway station . This culture is dated about 3000 B.C. based on antiquities found from the archaeological at site Ganeshwar, Gurara(Khandela). Various galleries have been constituted in the museum. Antiquities found from excavation, sculptures of Harshnath temple.

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  Shekhawati Utsav

  Shekhawati Utsav is organized by the department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan in the month of March every year. The 3 days utsav is organised to promote tourism, to explore the beautiful rich cultural heritage of this reign.

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  Gaj Kesari Haveli

  The Gaj Kesari Haveli is located in Ratannagar town of Churu district (Rajasthan), It is also the gateway to the great Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, where the vast Thar Desert begins.The planned city was laid out according to Vastu in a grid pattern in four sections located in the wall. For the city's protection, bastions were built at all four corners. This Haveli is widely known for its 1500 wall frescoes and corridors. The monumental Haveli was built in 1899 in all its grandeur and beauty with various architectural styles like Rajput, Shekhawati, Persian, and European Neo-Classical. With 24 carat gold fitting, brocades, mirror work, 3d paintings, hand-painted frescoes, stucco, crystal chandeliers, antiques, and priceless artifacts.

Be a part of the festivities and traditions that Shekhawati has to offer. It’s always a celebration in Rajasthan.

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  Shekhawati Handicraft and Tourism Fair

  Shekhawati Handicrafts & Tourism Fair, Abusar, District Jhunjhunu A ten-day fair is organized every year in the month of January-February at Grameen Haat of Abusar village, located at a distance of 4 km from Jhunjhunu. In this fair organized by the District Administration and Industries Department, two cultural evenings are organized by the Tourism Department, in which attractive presentations of various Rajasthani folk artists are given. It is a perfect showcase for the culture and heritage of the Shekhawati region. More than 100 stalls are being set up by weavers, artisans and small handicraft industrial units from the Shekhawati region and other states of the country, which truly provides the best opportunities for shopping.

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  Khatu Shayam Mela

  Khatu Shyamji Temple (55km) One of Rajasthan’s most revered pilgrimage destinations, the village of khatu, home to the Khatu Shyamji shrine attracts devotees. Legend has it that once Lord Krishna asked for the head of Barbarika, the grandson of Bhima. He was endowed with teen ban (three arrows) by Lord Shiva and agni Devi (Fire God) gave him a bow, so that he could conquer all the three worlds. Owing to the fabulous chivalry and prowess of Barbarika, Krishna did not want him to participate in the great war of mahabharata. Barbarika readily obliged and sacrificed himself. The pleased Lord had his head placed upon a hillock, to be worshipped in Kaliyuga like him. Some 975 years ago the wife of Roop Singh Chauhan saw in her dream that deity is instructing her to take his image out of the earth. The indicated place, when dug up, yielded the present idol of Shri Shyam ji, which was enshrined in the temple. That spot is now known as Shyam Kund. Lord Shyam is worshipped as Krishna. Krishna is worshipped as Khatu Shyam. The 10-day Khatu Shyamji Fair is also held in February/March. During the Khatu Shyamji’s mela, many devotees start their padyatra from the Bhairuji Temple (Ringus). Ekadeshi of shukla paksha. Thousands of Shyam followers visit to pay their homage.

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  Jeenmata Mela

  Jeenmata is a village in  Sikar district  of Rajasthan, India. It is located at a distance of 29 km from Sikar town in south. There is an ancient Temple dedicated to Shree Jeen Mataji (Goddess of Power). Millions of devotees assemble here for a colourful festival held twice in a year in the month of  Chaitra  and  Ashvin  during the  Navratri . A large numbers of Devotees visit to pay theirs homage to Jeenmataji at that time .There are a number of  dharamshalas  to accommodate large number of visitors.

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  Shekhawati Festival

  The Shekhawati region in Rajasthan comprises of three districts of Rajasthan – Jhunjhunu, Sikar and Churu which includes a number of places like Laxmangarh, Fatehpur, Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Ramgarh etc and is most well-known for hosting the famous Shekhawati festival , which is celebrated in Second and Third Week Of March. The fair is one of the most popular attractions of the region, and is marked by numerous events; starting from heritage walk, shobha yatra. Many games like Rangoli, Mehandi , Painting, KhoKho, Matka Race, Turban Tie and different cultural programs organized. It is a perfect showcase for the culture and heritage of the Shekhawati region, many activities, and culture activities and compition with the aim of promoting tourism and showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage, the Shekhawati Festival

Engage in the many activities, tours and adventures that await you in Shekhawati .There’s always something to do in Rajasthan.

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  HERITAGE WALK

  The old city of Churu is home to some very beautiful frescoed havelis, narrow by lanes and archaic heritage structures. Go on a leisurely morning or evening stroll here to get a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of Churu.

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