Famous for its forts and havelis, Mandawa is a town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan. It is a part of Shekhawati region. The town of Mandawa is worth a visit as it has some wonderful attractions to offer such as beautiful frescoes, stunning havelis adorned with mesmerizing paintings, carved chahatris (cenotaphs) and temples. Some of the havelis have been converted into heritage hotels to offer a royal experience to tourists. At one point of time Mandawa was a station on the caravan route connecting India with China and the Middle East.
Mandawa Fort
Built by Thakur Nawal Singh in the 18th century, Mandawa Fort is one of the mesmerizing attractions of Mandawa. Its arched gateway decorated with the painting of Lord Krishna and his cows is a treat to the eyes. The fort has now been converted into a luxurious heritage hotel offering state-of-the-art facilities. The interiors of the fort are decorated with shimmering mirror work and royal paintings. The open terrace of the fort offers picturesque views of the town.
Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli
Located near the Mandawa Fort, Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli is a magnificent haveli with a wonderful depiction of Lord Indra on the back of an elephant. The haveli is adorned with beautiful images of elephants and horses.
Jhunjhunwala Haveli
This haveli is renowned for one of its rooms painted with gold leaves. Binsidhar Newatia Haveli, Lakshmi Narayana Ladia Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli and Chokhani Double Haveli are some of the other well known havelis in Mandawa. Each of these havelis are decorated in a royal style offering enchanting views to visitors. The paintings add charm to the fort, and the havelis are based on various themes such as local legends, animals, royal portraits, hunting and wrestling scenes, trains, balloons, telephones, gramophones etc.