Rajasthan tourism: Shekhawati Tour

A trip to Rajasthan would be incomplete without visiting the stunning Shekhawati. Widely believed to be the land where the “Vedas” were written, Shekhawati has immense historical significance. The landscape here might not be too appealing and the weather might get a bit unpleasant but Shekhawati still manages to earn itself the sobriquet of the “open art gallery of Rajasthan” because it is the only region in the world with such an enormous concentration of frescoes.

Colorful-Shekhawati

These frescoes are influenced by the Persian and Mughal schools of painting. The motifs depicted are borrowed both from ancient mythology and popular culture. The exquisitely painted Havelis spread across four major towns: Jhunjhunu, Mandawa, Nawalgarh and Fatehpur.

Haveli in Mandawa

Notable among the Havelis would be: Gulab Rai Ladia’s Haveli in Mandawa, Podar Haveli in Nawalgarh, Modi Haveli in Jhunjhunu and Nadine Le Prince Haveli in Fatehpur.

Gulab Rai Ladia haveli

Podar Haveli in Nawalgarh

Haveli Le Prince Nadine in Fatehpur

Among the famous forts are: Mandawa Fort, which is now a heritage hotel; Dundlod Fort: it has been converted into a world famous library of European paintings and Mukundgarh Fort, which is a magnificent palace.

The fort of Mandawa was founded in the 18th century. The fort dominates the town with a painted arched gateway adorned with Lord Krishna and his cows

Dundlod Fort studded with monumental nostalgia of Shekawats, the warrior Rajputs who with stood the onslaught of Mughal hordes

Where do I Stay?

Shekhawati tourism is well-known for its world-class heritage hotels and its warm hospitality. The place offers a variety of options for accommodation. If you wish to experience the comfort and grandeur of a Maharaja’s lifestyle, check into the fabulous Alsisar Mahal. Situated at a distance of 23 kms from the district headquarters of Jhunjhunu, it has the perfect blend of modern luxury and age old culture. Besides, it is located at the heart of the region so that it becomes easier for you to explore different places without getting too exhausted.

Alsisar-Mahal

You can also engage in a delightful encounter with nature by staying at one of the eco-friendly resorts with mud huts and cottages.

So much to do!

During your stay at the Havelis, feast your eyes on the splendid frescoes, get mesmerizing view of the countryside and the Local Bawari (water tank) by taking camel cart rounds of the region, participate in bonfires and barbeques, enjoy bird-watching and kite-flying sessions with local people, dance to the tune of Ghoomar, listen to the musicians play the sarangi and discover yourself in this vibrant melange of history, art and culture.

Shekhawati-Village-life

Shopper’s stops:

Shekhawati is known for its brightly coloured Lac bangles which are made at small makeshift shops outside the Havelis. Other good buys would be the handmade puppets and postcards, Rajasthani shoes (jooties) etc. Shops in Mandawa, along the Sonthaliya Gate sell a lot of souvenirs which make pretty gifts. All the handicrafts are made by the rural women of the region.

Eat this!

If you are a vegetarian, Rajasthan is the place to be! Ranging from the traditional dal, bati and churma to the spicy lahsun ki kachori and the gorgeous street food, Rajasthani food will give you the best feeling under the soft palate! Though the predominant food is vegetarian, they also serve delightful non-vegetarian dishes.

Rajasthani-Dal-Bati-Churma

When to visit?

Shekhawati attracts a lot of tourists between the months of October and March, when the weather is quite amiable. It tends to get very hot during the months of May-June and so it’s best to avoid visiting the region during the summers.

Highlights of the Season:

The 17th Annual Shekhawati Heritage Festival is scheduled to be held from 9th to 12th February, 2013. The main venues are: Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Nawalgarh and Churu. Rural Rajasthan comes alive during this part of the year. There is a lot of firework, cultural events, games and competitions. Camel and jeep safaris are also organised as part of the main festivities.

Cultural-show-in-shekhawati

See also: 

The Unique Mosques, The Deer Sanctuary, Khatu Shyamji Temple.

A quick Tip: 

It gets quite chilly during winters, so do not forget to carry your woollens!

We hope that you find the above information helpful in planning your trip and give us a chance to answer more of your travel-related queries in the future. Best Wishes!

Rajasthan Tourism: Mehrangarh fort in Jodhpur

Mehrangarh fort in Jodhpur is a beautiful monument giving a sneak peek into India’s rich cultural history. Easily one of India’s most beautiful forts, it is tall and imposing in an almost invincible manner. So colossal are its proportions that Rudyard Kipling called it “the work of giants”. Today it has the distinction of being acknowledged as the finest living example of a Hindu fortress.

Mehrangarh-fort

Visitor guide gives you a run down of it’s history and all the essential information you need to plan your visit.

History

The foundation of the majestic  Mehrangarh fort was laid down by the Rajput Ruler, Rao Jodha in 1459. History has it that at the time of foundation of the fort on the hill named “Bahuchera” there was only one single inhabitant, a loner named Cheeria Nathji. Upset at being forced to move Cheeria Nathji cursed the Rajput Ruler “Jodha! May your citadel ever suffer a scarcity of water!”. Rao Jodha managed to appease the hermit by building a house and a temple in the fort very near to the cave that the hermit had used for meditation. However even to this date the area suffers from a draught every 3-4 years. Although the Fort was made by King Rao Jodha, it has major contributions by successive rulers of Jodhpur .More information about the history of the fort can be found in books such as “The house of Marwar” by Dhananajaya Singh.

About the Fort

The Mehrangarh Fort has several gates, which had observed the many battles fought in ancient times. One of the gates is “Jayapol”, put up by Maharaja Man Singh to mark his triumphs over Jaipur and Bikaner armies. Another gate, “Fattehpol”, was built by Maharaja Ajit Singh as a festivity for conquering the Mughals.

Inside-mehrangarh-fort

The “Lohapol” located near the area where the wives of war martyrs observed ‘Jauhar’, by throwing themselves in the holy fire of their husband’s pyre, and the “Surajpol” which leads to the museum, are some of the attractive gates inside the Mehrangarh Fort.

Other attractions of Mehrangarh Fort include beautiful palaces and large open courtyards inside the fort. One of the palaces is the Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace), which holds the imperial throne, the Sringar Chowki. It is the place where the royal ladies held gatherings. The Phool Mahal was the palace where royal dances took place. The stained glasses not only preserve the glitter of the gold plated ceiling but also enhances the regal beauty of it.

The Sheesh Mahal has intricate mirror-works with dazzling mosaic of mirrors on its walls and ceilings. The palaces inside the Mehrangarh Fort with their undeniable lure, and the fort, with its mighty and imposing structure, is the finest example of the hard work and skills of the Jodhpuri sculptors.

Pigions-flying-outof-mehrangarh-fort

The Mehrangarh Fort also has a museum. This museum exhibits fine galleries and exquisite rooms with a wide display of lavish royal elephant carriages, palanquins, small canons, thrones, paintings, and even a giant tent. It also has an enthralling but very lethal weapons gallery.

Best Time to visit

The best time to visit the Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur is between October and March when the weather is cold and dry, with temperatures going down to 12 degrees Celsius.

Mehrangarh Fort Timings

The Mehrangarh Fort is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and is open to the public all 365 days of the year.

Mehrangarh Fort Entry Fees

Ticket costs are Rs. 220 for Indians and Rs. 250 for foreigners including admission, camera and audio guide. Please check the rates before entering as they may be subject to change. Taking the audio tour or hiring a guide is highly recommended to make the most of this experience. For further details visit www.mehrangarh.org

While you are visiting …

When in Jodhpur you should also visit the Balsammand Palace which was the summer pavilion of Maharaja Sur Singh of Jodhpur. Another interesting stop would be Mandore a town 9kms from Jodhpur. It used to be the ancient capital of the Mewar and makes for a good excursion.

Rajasthan Tourism: Bagore ki Haveli, Udaipur

Located in the city of Udaipur, Bagore ki Haveli is a beautiful mansion built during the 18th century. It has now been converted into a Museum. Its splendid architecture, delicate carvings, and excellent glass work make it one of India’s most beautiful museums.

History

Bagore ki Haveli has been built by Amir Chand Badwa who used to be the Chief Minister at Mewar Royal Court. After his demise it came into possession of the Mewar State. In the year 1878 the Haveli was made residenc e of Maharana Shakti Singh of Bagore and that is how it derives its name. Unfortunately, as the years passed, the mansion was left vacant for a period of 50 years and during this period it started to dilapidate. In 1986, the building was handed over to the West Zone Cultural Centre (WZCC). The WZCC in consultation with the members of the Royal Family and some experts has managed to restore the mansion in its former glory.

Udaipur-Bagore-Ki-Haveli

About the Haveli

The Haveli houses 138 rooms and has numerous corridors & balconies, courtyards and terraces. A visit to this Haveli gives a glimpse of the lives of the royalty. One can view the private quarters of the royal ladies : their bedrooms, living rooms, worship and recreation rooms. Also put up for display are jewellery boxes, dice games, rose water sprinklers, copper vessels amongst other knick knacks native to the Royalty.

Interior-of-Bagore-Ki-Haveli

Not to Miss

Every evening between 7 and 8 pm the Haveli stages a beautiful and traditional performance known an “Dharohar” It is a musical concert combining 7 traditional Rajasthani folk dances. Its a great experience to enjoy the live dances and puppetry shows. Commentary for the show is in both English as well as Hindi.

Cultural-show-in-Bagore-Ki-Haveli

This museum also houses the biggest turban in Asia having a length of 451 metres and a width of 82 inches.

Entry Fee & Opening Times

Bagore ki Haveli is open to visitors from 9 : 30am to 7pm. The entry fee is Rs 25. However, please check the rates before entering as they may be subject to change.

Best Season to visit

The best months to visit Udaipur are between September and March, as it gets rather hot during the Summer months.