Shekhawati is a historical region in the northern part of the Rajasthan, India. This region consists of districts such as Nagaur, Churu, Sikar and Jhujhunu. History of these places dates back to 18th and 19th centuries. Grand Havelis in this region was constructed by Marwari Merchants. Shekhawati is derived from Rajput Kachwaha Chieftain Rao Shekha Ji. Rao Shekha ji decedents ruled this area. They were called as Shekhawats. This region is famous for hard working and brave people. Worth buying things of this place are metal utensils, Paintings, tie dye fabrics, wood carvings etc. Gangaur and Teej are the major festivals of this region.
What to see in Shekhawati:
Sikar: This is the major district of Shekhawati. Major Havelis of the town are Sanganeria, Kedia Haveli, Mirijamal Kyala, Bansidhar Rathi, and Sawant Ram Chokhani. Khatu Shyamji Temple is most famous in the village Khatu Shyamji. This temple is famous for shaving off the children’s hair for the first time. Other attractions of this district are jeen Mata Temple and Radha Murali Manohar Temple.
Churu: This place is famous for forts and Havelis. Traditional Rajasthani architectural style can be seen here. Major attraction is fort built by Thakur Khushal Singh. Other attractions are Raghunathji Temple, Aath Kambh Chhatri, Laxminarayanji Temple etc.
Nawalgarh: It is Golden city of Rajasthan. Major attractions of this place are Roop Niwas palace, Bansidhar Bhagat, Chokhani, Anandi Lal Poddar, Jodhraj Patodia etc.
Mandawa: Worth seeing havelis are Ganeriwala and Kanoria. It has good handicraft market.
Fatehpur: This place is famous for Singhania and Devra havelis. These were constructed in Western and Indian style. Other havelis of this place are Bharatiya, Jalan, Hukmi Chand Choudhri, Goenka.
Baggar: Piramal Haveli is famous here. Rajasthani Colonial style can be seen here.
Dundlod: This place is well known for havelis and forts. Impressive library and stained glass windows of the forts Diwan I Khas antiques are other attractions. Visitors should not miss to see Goenka haveli.
Lachhmangarh: Worth visiting place here are Sanganeria, Kedia, Rathi, Kyala, Chokhani Havelis.
Khetri: In Jaipur, this is the second wealthiest Thikana. Major attractions of this place are Panna Lal Shah Ka Talab, Bhopalgarh and Raghunath Temple.
Other attractions of this place are Churi ajitgarh, Parasrampura, Mehansar, Alsisar and Malsisar, Chirawa, Jhujhunu.
What to see around Shekhawati:
Chittorgarh: It is the ancient city in Rajasthan. A major attraction of this place is fort of Chittorgarh. It was built in 7th century AD. Height is 180metesrs tall. Other attractions are Rani Padmini Palace, Rana Kumbha Palace, Kalika Mata Temple.
Udaipur: It was founded by Maharana Udai Singh in 1559. Foreign tourist rush is more at this place. This place is known for its Palaces, Havelis and Temples. Other attraction is Azure Lakes.
Mount Abu: It is the only hill station in Rajasthan. Major attractions of this place are Dilwara Jain Temple which was constructed between 11th and 13th centuries. Other places are Achalagarh fort, Dattatreya Temple, Adhar Devi Temple, Ambika Mata Temple etc.
Getting to Shekhawati: Shekhawati is well connected with road and railways. Direct buses are available from Delhi. Places of Shekhawati are well connected with other cities. Trains are available from Jaipur and Delhi. It is easy to reach Shekhawati form Bikaner and Jaipur. Nearest airport is located at Jaipur which is 150kms away from Shekhawati.
Getting around Shekhawati: Private and government buses are available to visit the town and surrounding places of Shekhawati. Taxis and Autos are also available to visit in and around places of Shekhawati.
Best time to visit Shekhawati: Best time to visit Shekhawati is between October and March.
Where to stay at Shekhawati: Plenty of accommodations are available to stay at Shekhawati including luxury hotels. Resorts are also available to stay at this place.
Where to eat in Shekhawati: Plenty of eateries are available here. Though restaurants provide non vegetarian, Rajasthanis were basically vegetarians. Famous food is Lahsun Ki Kachori.