Rajasthan · West India

Mandawa (Shekhawati) travel guide

The open-air art gallery of Rajasthan

Mandawa (Shekhawati)
Dhirad · CC BY-SA 2.5
Best time
Oct–Mar
How long
1–2 days
Stay a night
₹1,200–9,000
Food a day
₹300–1,400
Nearest railhead
30 km away
Nearest airport
170 km away

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About Mandawa (Shekhawati)

An offbeat region of painted merchant havelis — every wall covered in frescoes of gods, trains and Europeans — between Mandawa, Nawalgarh and Fatehpur.

Things to do in Mandawa (Shekhawati)

  1. Mandawa Havelis

    2 h · ₹100 entry

    Mandawa Havelis are traditional painted residences located around the castle in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. Visitors can explore these historic mansions showcasing detailed artwork and architecture.

    Tip: Keep small change ready as there is a small entry fee for each haveli

  2. Mandawa Castle

    45 min · Free

    Mandawa Castle is an 18th-century fort located in the town of Mandawa in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, India. It has now been converted into a heritage hotel.

  3. Poddar Haveli Museum, Nawalgarh

    1 h · ₹100 entry

    Poddar Haveli Museum in Nawalgarh is a carefully restored heritage mansion that showcases traditional Rajasthani architecture. Inside, you can explore numerous rooms adorned with hundreds of intricate frescoes depicting local heritage and mythology.

    Tip: Look closely at the detailed artwork to spot historical figures and traditional stories.

  4. Le Prince Haveli, Fatehpur

    1 h · ₹150 entry

    Le Prince Haveli in Fatehpur is a traditional haveli that has been beautifully restored by a French artist. Visitors can explore the unique blend of local Shekhawati architecture and European artistic touches inside this museum.

    Tip: Combine your visit with a walking tour of other painted havelis nearby.

Where to stay in Mandawa (Shekhawati)

  • Haveli hotels in Mandawa

    ₹2,500–8,000

    Stay in a restored painted mansion.

  • Nawalgarh

    ₹1,200–3,000

    Quieter havelis and homestays.

What to eat

  • Shekhawati thali

    local dish · veg

    Bajra roti, ker sangri and kadhi.

Good to know

  • Hire a local guide — the frescoes’ stories are half the fun.

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Mandawa (Shekhawati) travel guide: best time, things to do, how to reach · JrnyLoop Blog