Mandawa Fort is a stunning heritage gem located in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, renowned for its exquisite frescoes and painted havelis. Set in the heart of the old trade town of Mandawa, this fort is both a symbol of aristocratic elegance and a gateway into the colorful culture of merchant royalty that once flourished here.

Quick Overview

Feature	Details
Location	Mandawa, Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan
Founded	Mid 18th Century
Founder	Thakur Nawal Singh
Architecture Style	Rajput-Mughal, Fresco Art
Entry Fee	₹100 for adults / Free for locals
Best Time to Visit	November to February

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History of Mandawa Fort 📜

Foundation

• Built around 1755 AD by Thakur Nawal Singh, a descendant of the Shekhawat Rajputs.

• Intended as a fortified palace and trading hub.

• Mandawa was a prominent stopover for silk, opium, and spice caravans traveling between Delhi and Gujarat.

Trade and Fresco Heritage

• Merchants built exquisite havelis (mansions) around the fort and adorned them with paintings.

• Fort evolved into a cultural nucleus of Shekhawati with influences from Mughal, British, and Rajasthani styles.

Modern Use

• Currently converted into a heritage hotel managed by the royal family.

• Continues to be a museum of art, tradition, and hospitality.

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Why Visit Mandawa Fort? 💼

• UNIQUE FRESCOES: Walls inside the fort and nearby havelis are masterpieces of Indian wall painting.

• CULTURAL IMMERSION: Get a glimpse of Shekhawati's merchant legacy and Rajput lifestyle.

• FILMING LOCATION: Featured in many Bollywood and Hollywood movies like ‘PK’, ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’, and ‘The Fall’.

• STAY IN A PALACE: Live like royalty in the converted heritage hotel.

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How to Reach Mandawa Fort ✈️🚄🚌

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (180 km)

By Train:

• Nearest Railhead: Jhunjhunu Railway Station (30 km)

By Road:

• Direct buses/taxis from Jaipur, Delhi (250 km), and Bikaner.

• National Highway 11 provides smooth access.

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Trekking and Exploring Routes 🥾

No Mountain Trekking, But:

• Explore on foot around the fortified town, narrow lanes, and fresco-adorned streets.

Walking Route:

Route	Duration	Points of Interest
Fort to Main Bazaar	20 min	Havelis, murals, local artisan shops
Circular Trail	45 min	Goenka Haveli, Hanuman Prasad Narsinghdas Haveli

What to Carry 🎒

• Water bottle

• Scarf for sun protection

• Camera (essential for murals)

• Walking shoes

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Gates and Towers 🏰

Name	Significance
Main Pol (Entrance Gate)	Grand arch with Rajput carvings
Watch Tower	Viewpoint over Mandawa town

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Things to Do 📸

• Take a heritage walk through the lanes of Mandawa.

• Stay at Mandawa Castle Hotel.

• Enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

• Participate in folk music/dance evenings at the fort.

• Visit nearby Havelis for exclusive mural art.

Things to Avoid ❌

• Avoid exploring during peak heat (12–3 PM).

• Don’t touch or damage mural paintings.

• Refrain from climbing closed towers.

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Best Time to Visit 🌞

• November to February: Ideal weather, cultural fairs.

When to Avoid

• May–July (Summer): High temperatures up to 45°C.

• August–September (Monsoon): High humidity and muddy roads.

Whom Should Avoid

• People with dust allergies (old architecture and dry winds).

• Those expecting modern tourist infrastructure (basic amenities).

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Fascinating Facts About Mandawa 📌

• Known as the ‘Open Art Gallery of Rajasthan’.

• Murals depict British soldiers, trains, gods, and airplanes.

• A favorite of art historians and documentary makers.

• Mandawa Fort is still partially occupied by the descendants of the royal family.

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Accommodation Nearby 🏨

Hotel Name	Type	Distance from Fort
Castle Mandawa	Heritage	Inside Fort
Hotel Mandawa Haveli	Mid-Range	300 m
Desert Resort Mandawa	Luxury	1.5 km

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Travel Tips 🧭

• Hire a local guide for haveli history.

• Visit in the morning for best light on murals.

• Carry cash – many local shops don’t accept cards.

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Summary Table

Section	Highlights
History	1755 AD, founded by Thakur Nawal Singh
Exploration Time	1–2 hours walking tour
Must-Carry Items	Water, camera, sunhat, walking shoes
Main Attractions	Painted havelis, murals, fort architecture
Best Time to Visit	November to February
Avoid	Summer heat and rainy days

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Conclusion ❤️

Mandawa Fort and the Shekhawati region offer a living canvas of Indian heritage. It is the perfect blend of Rajput valor and merchant opulence, preserved in frescoes, alleyways, and royal hospitality. Every corner tells a story, every wall displays art.