Top 5 Places to Visit in Shekhawati

This historic place is located in the north of the state of Rajasthan, bordering the state of Haryana. One may often find this place stated in many history books or other historical references, such is the momentous importance of this town. Named after the former king and founder of the place – Rao Shekhar ji.  Shekhawati has been historically run by chieftains but many times in history the district has been ruled by various kings who have left behind their marks. Classified as a Historical Region of Northern India by the government of India, Shekhawati has a lot in store for anyone who visits the town. Here we have compiled a list of the Top 5 places to Visit in Shekhawati, Rajasthan:

1. Laxmangarh Fort

Laxmangarh Fort
Photo by Mukul pareek, Public Domain

Overlooking the entire town, is the fort of Laxmangarh. The legendary fort is built on such a height that it is visible from anywhere in the city. Built almost 200 years ago, what differentiates this fort from others is that unlike most forts which are built on complete hills, Laxmangarh Fort has been built on scattered rocks despite which it is completely architecturally stable. The fort also has lovely garden which is an excellent hang out place during the evenings. Now, privately owned this fort remain open to the public. There is also a temple at the top of the fort which also is a lovely, calm and serene place.

2. Le Prince Haveli

Le Prince Haveli
Photo by Behenjara, CC BY-SA 4.0

People often get confused that why this Haveli in the dead centre of Rajasthan has a name which sounds French in origin. The answer to this question is that this Haveli was renovated by a famous French designer by the name of Nadine Le Prince, before which the Haveli was totally dilapidated and destroyed. Located right in the heart of the city, the haveli has now been converted to a beautiful and royal hotel. The Le Prince Haveli has wonderful and vibrant engravings which adorn the walls. The hotel offers a great spread of traditional Rajasthani as well as authentic French food along with many luxurious rooms which promise that you have a lovely time and a great stay.

3. Mandawa Fort

Mandawa Fort
Photo by Daniel Villafruela, CC BY-SA 3.0

Another one of Shekhawati’s forts which has been converted into a hotel for better conservation, safekeeping and revenue generation. Mandawa Fort is a plush and an opulent hotel.  The architecture of the fort is a blend of Mughal style and the Rajasthani style which makes for interesting viewing. With expansive plots of green and a lovely pool at your disposal, the hotel is a lovely place to stay. The fort has many beautifully painted Havelis which make for an exciting exploration. The hotel also has many historic artefacts and antiquities related to the state of Rajasthan that will teach you more about the lovely state. All in all, a wonderful place, to be enjoyed with family and friends.

4. Shekhawati Horseback Riding

What better way to experience Rajasthan than on horsebacks? Here you would get to fulfil that wish of yours. On the outskirts of the town a group of locals take you on around the streets on horsebacks. It is a truly wonderful encounter when you experience the feeling. You get to see the crude and raw culture of Rajasthan when you see local merchants and extra ordinary Havelis during the tour. This horseback riding is a fun activity to do along with family as it allows you to soak in the surroundings at your own comfortable pace.

5. Nawalgarh

Nawalgarh
Photo by Doris Antony, CC BY-SA 3.0

This fort lies just outside the main town. Almost the size of a hamlet, this small town has very rich culture and architecture. In Nawalgarh, there are two forts of prime importance one being the Roop Niwas Palace and the other being Sheesh Mahal. Both these elegant palaces have many wonderful havelis but what increases their aura is that they have a large collection of beautiful paintings. The forts are rich in coloured paintings done by extremely skilled artists. Every painting has an intriguing story behind it which will be explained to you by the local tour guide. A must visit for art lovers.

It is known and proven that the people of Shekhawati are epitomes of bravery and chivalry but believe you me they are very welcoming and loving too. Shekhawati boasts so many tourists place, that a place would do well even to have half as many. You would love travelling in the celebrated and renowned city. This fun filled and action packed whirlwind of a trip should definitely rank the highest among your planned sojourns. And as they say in Shekhawati: “The kab aa rhiya ho?” (When are, you coming?)

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About Rohit

An architect by profession, Rohit Agarwal is a curious traveller, seeking out the minutest detail about the places he travels to, and that’s what one will find in his writings. His writings have appeared in various blogs, he’s currently trying to bring forth as many different places a traveller who shares the same level of curiosity like him would like to visit through his writings.

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