In the heart of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan lies the beautiful small town Mandawa, known throughout the state for its forts and havelis. Mandawa is one of the larger towns in the Shekhawati region and it is a good place to be based when exploring this region. Here it is possible to visit local havelis with a guide.
Mandawa Castle is a curious mix of the old and new. Medieval turreted towers and balconies are a feature and a the magnificent view of the whole village can be seen from the rooftop. Religious life and the sounds of worship reverberate in the stillness when sitting on the rooftop of the castle in the evening.
This compact and busy little market town of Mandawa was settled and fortified in 18th century by the dominant merchant families of the region. The wealthy businessmen of the village constructed many havelis and baolis with coloured frescoes on the walls. The migration of these merchant families has meant that their homes are now monuments to a bygone age with caretakers holding the fort incase they return.