Mandawa Fort Shekhawati The Painted Fortress of Merchants and Royals

Prabhuling jiroli

May 5, 2025 4:41 am

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

FeatureDetails
LocationMandawa, Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan
FoundedMid 18th Century
FounderThakur Nawal Singh
Architecture StyleRajput-Mughal, Fresco Art
Entry Fee₹100 for adults / Free for locals
Best Time to VisitNovember to February

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.


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.


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.


Trekking and Exploring Routes 🥾

No Mountain Trekking, But:

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

Walking Route:

RouteDurationPoints of Interest
Fort to Main Bazaar20 minHavelis, murals, local artisan shops
Circular Trail45 minGoenka Haveli, Hanuman Prasad Narsinghdas Haveli

What to Carry 🎒

  • Water bottle

  • Scarf for sun protection

  • Camera (essential for murals)

  • Walking shoes


Gates and Towers 🏰

NameSignificance
Main Pol (Entrance Gate)Grand arch with Rajput carvings
Watch TowerViewpoint over Mandawa town

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.


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).


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.


Accommodation Nearby 🏨

Hotel NameTypeDistance from Fort
Castle MandawaHeritageInside Fort
Hotel Mandawa HaveliMid-Range300 m
Desert Resort MandawaLuxury1.5 km

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.


Summary Table

SectionHighlights
History1755 AD, founded by Thakur Nawal Singh
Exploration Time1–2 hours walking tour
Must-Carry ItemsWater, camera, sunhat, walking shoes
Main AttractionsPainted havelis, murals, fort architecture
Best Time to VisitNovember to February
AvoidSummer heat and rainy days

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.