Mandawa

Mandawa was founded by the Shekhawats in 1756, and is now the most tourist-oriented place in Shekhawati. Built in the 18th century by Thakur Nawal Singh, the medieval fort of Mandawa dominates the town with its painted arched gateway. The Fort Palace has now been converted into a heritage hotel. Built like a castle, it is adorned with beautiful frescoes and fabulous mirror work.

Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli - Located close to the main bazaar, this haveli is one of the finest in entire Mandawa. The interior of the haveli is entered via a grand ramp, with Belgian-glass mirror-work over the finely carved door leading into the zenana courtyard. It is said to have been built in 1870, and used to have some erotic images (which have been defaced).
Chokhani Double Haveli - It is a huge building and consists of two separate wings built for two brothers and has a fine door flanked with paintings of elephants. Chokhani Haveli is among the best surviving havelis of the region.

Bansidhar Newatia Haveli - It lies in the main bazaar in the centre of town. Come here for a look at some cool looking paintings, there’s mural of an aeroplane, a boy using a telephone, and a European woman in a car.
Nand Lal Murmuria Haveli - This modern looking haveli has frescoes and other paintings, the designs of which are said to be mainly influenced by Italian contemporary paintings. There are images of various scenes from Venice.

Goenka Double Haveli - Built around 1890, this haveli is one of the largest and grandest in Mandawa, with two separate entrances and paintings of elephants and horses on the façade.

Raghunath Temple - Dedicated to Lord Raghunath, this temple has stunning architecture and frescoes on the walls and ceilings; looks spectacular during sunset.

Other havelis of note are Bhagchandka Haveli and Chhatris, Thakur ji Temple, Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli, and Mohan Lal Saraf Haveli. Jhunjhunwala Haveli has gold painted ceiling fresco of Radha and Krishna.

Some of the finest accommodation in entire Shekhawati region is in Mandawa and suitable for all kinds of budgets.