Best Tourist Places to Explore in Mandawa
Mandawa, a small town in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, is renowned for its grand havelis and intricate frescoes. Known as an open-air art gallery, Mandawa offers a glimpse into the opulence and rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan's merchant class. Located just 190 kilometers from Jaipur, Mandawa is the perfect destination for history enthusiasts and art lovers. In this blog, we will explore the best tourist places to visit in Mandawa.
Whether you're drawn by the historic havelis or the charm of Mandawa Fort, this town has something for every traveler. Let’s dive into the top attractions of Mandawa.
Mandawa Fort
The Mandawa Fort, a 200-year-old structure, is one of the main attractions of the town. Built by Thakur Nawal Singh in the 18th century, this fort offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas. The fort is now converted into a heritage hotel, allowing visitors to experience the royal lifestyle of Rajasthan. The walls of the fort are adorned with beautiful frescoes that depict mythological scenes and hunting adventures of the Rajput rulers. A stroll through the fort’s grand courtyards and ornate halls takes you back in time to the era of Rajput royalty.
Goenka Double Haveli
Among the many havelis that grace the town, Goenka Double Haveli is particularly famous for its elaborate frescoes. The Goenka family, prominent merchants of the region, built this haveli in the 19th century. The haveli features detailed paintings of horses, elephants, and camels, as well as images of British colonizers, giving insight into the life and culture of that era. A visit to this haveli offers a perfect opportunity to admire the intricate artwork that makes Mandawa a hub for Shekhawati frescoes.
Murmu Ki Haveli
Another magnificent haveli in Mandawa is the Murmu Ki Haveli. This structure is famous for its intricate architecture and artistic frescoes, showcasing the wealth and taste of its original owners. The colorful paintings that adorn the walls depict a variety of themes, including mythological stories and daily life in Rajasthan during the 19th century. The haveli is a great example of the fine craftsmanship of that period, making it a must-visit for history buffs and art lovers alike.
Jhunjhunwala Haveli
Built in 1859, Jhunjhunwala Haveli is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Mandawa. The haveli is known for its striking facade and detailed frescoes that cover every inch of its exterior walls. Inside, you’ll find elaborate artwork, with rooms featuring delicate mirror work and painted ceilings. The haveli is a perfect example of Shekhawati’s artistic legacy and showcases the influence of Rajasthani culture blended with European architectural styles.
Bansidhar Newatia Haveli
The Bansidhar Newatia Haveli is a prominent landmark in Mandawa, famous for its humorous and quirky paintings. One of the most interesting frescoes on the haveli walls features a man riding a bicycle – one of the earliest depictions of a bicycle in Indian art. Other paintings include scenes of European lifestyle, reflecting the influence of the British during that time. This haveli offers a unique mix of traditional Rajasthani and contemporary European art, making it a fascinating place to explore.
The Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli
The Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli is another must-visit haveli in Mandawa. This beautiful mansion features impressive frescoes of Lord Shiva on Nandi, Indra Dev on an elephant, and other mythological figures. The haveli stands as a testament to the skilled artisans of Shekhawati who created masterpieces of art that have stood the test of time. Visitors will be captivated by the detailed paintings and the sheer scale of this architectural gem.
Seth Dayaram Dedraj Goenka Haveli
Seth Dayaram Dedraj Goenka Haveli is famous for its vibrant frescoes depicting everything from Rajasthani royal life to modern machinery of the early 20th century. The exquisite artwork found here portrays the social life of Mandawa’s wealthy merchant families. A tour through this haveli allows visitors to delve deeper into the intricate details of these timeless artworks, while learning about the history and culture of Mandawa’s elite families.
Mandawa’s Open Air Art Gallery
Mandawa is often referred to as an “open-air art gallery” because of the many frescoes found on the walls of its streets, buildings, and havelis. Walking through the lanes of Mandawa, you’ll come across various frescoes that depict scenes of Indian mythology, daily life, animals, and the colonial period. These frescoes are a testament to the artistic tradition of Shekhawati, and each one tells a unique story. The open-air art gallery of Mandawa is perfect for those who wish to explore the town’s artistic heritage at their own pace.
Thakurji Temple
Thakurji Temple is a small but beautiful temple in Mandawa, dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple is known for its intricate artwork and frescoes, which depict various episodes from Lord Krishna’s life. Visitors can admire the temple’s architecture, which features detailed carvings and painted ceilings. The temple offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of exploring the town.
Conclusion
Mandawa is a gem in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, offering visitors a unique blend of history, art, and architecture. Its grand havelis, stunning frescoes, and historic fort make it a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or someone simply looking to explore offbeat destinations, Mandawa promises an unforgettable journey through time.
Plan your Mandawa sightseeing tour and experience the charm of this open-air art gallery firsthand. Each haveli, fresco, and narrow street of Mandawa narrates a story of its glorious past, making it one of the most fascinating places to explore in Rajasthan.
