Shekhawati, meaning the garden of Shekha, derives its name from Rao Shekha, its former ruler. Situated in the Delhi-Bikaner-Jaipur triangle, Shekhawati is a semi desert region in north Rajasthan. Known as the "Open art gallery of Rajasthan", this region is mainly famous for its amazing havelis richly painted and decorated. These havelis of Shekhawati in Rajasthan, India were built by the wealthy merchants of the past. They served as a measure of the prosperity and success of the merchants. The grander the haveli, the more prosperous the merchant was believed to be.

There are numerous havelis in Shekhawati, some of them dating back to the 18th century. They are in rich artistic tradition and the latest one were built in the early 20th century. From painted murals to carvings to mirror work, these havelis have their walls and ceilings adorned with numerous forms of fine art. The frescos of the some havelis even depict mythological themes as well as images of huge animals. With the passage of time the themes changed. Some havelis have frescos showing the arrival of the British and some others highlight steam locomotives and train.

Apart from the havelis, other highpoints of Shekhawati travel and tourism include forts, minor castles, mosques, step wells (baoris) and royal cenotaphs (chattris), etc. There are also a number of excursion places near Shekhawati that add to the tourist appeal of the region. A visit to Shekhawati will take you back to the bygone era of the city. The massive havelis, beautiful paintings and other amazing monuments will make your trip worthwhile.

» Major Attractions of Shekhawati

Havelis : The beautiful and fascinating havelis of Shekhawati have proved to be a major tourist appeal. Striking architecture, graceful interiors and massive parapets of the havelis stand witness to the wealth and prosperity of the Marwari merchants. Adorned with exquisite murals and delicately latticed and carved windows, these havelis present an awe-inspiring sight. Almost every havelis is decorated with magnificent mirror work and paintings festooned with gold or silver leaf. During the old days, these wooden carvings and gold and silver paintings were assumed to be symbolical of the owner's status and wealth.


Dundlod : Amongst the other places to see in Shekhawati, is the town of Dundlod, situated in the center of the Shekhawati region. The main attractions of the town are its fort and havelis, dating back to the 18th century. The famous havelis of Dundlod are Jagathia and Goenka havelis.

» Places to Stay in Shekhawati

The RTDC has done a lot to retain the traditional flavour in its hotels in and around Shekhawati. Hotels like RTDC's Khadim, come with AC Deluxe rooms as well as ordinary rooms, which give a comfortable stay in the city. There are also Sarai facilities for the pilgrims. The government sponsored paying guest scheme makes the visitor feel at home.

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» How to Get there

Air : Indian airlines operates flight to Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur and Mumbai.

Rail : Shekhawatihas travel links with Ahmedabad, Ajmer, Udaipur, Kota and Delhi.

Road : Shekhawatiis on the main bus and train route. By road its well connected with Ajmer and Udaipur. There are frequent connections to these places.

» Shopping of Shekhawati

Often called as an Open Air Art Gallery, Shekhawati provides an amazing experience to those with an eye for art and paintings. Shekhawati shopping destinations are mostly famous for their excellent handicrafts. Amongst the numerous handicrafts, the paintings of Shekhawati are quite popular. You will find some amazing paintings to use as decoration pieces for your home or even take back as gifts. Especially, the frescos painted on paper and cloth are truly amazing

» Climate of Shekhawati

Shekhawati weather experiences hot and dry summers. The average temperature remains in the range of 41.2° C (max) to 29° C (min). The climatic conditions of Shekhawati, Rajasthan in the winter season are cooler, but again dry. The average temperature falls in the range of 30° C (max) to 10.5° C (min). Max 41 ºC, Min 29 ºC (summer); Max 30 ºC, Min 10.5 ºC (winter)