Painted Havelis of Shekhawati
About
Mandawa is a small heritage town in Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region, famous for its beautifully painted havelis, fresco-covered mansions and old merchant architecture. Once an important stop on historic trade routes, Mandawa prospered through wealthy merchant families who decorated their homes with elaborate wall paintings and ornamental façades. Today, Mandawa offers travellers a quieter Rajasthan experience centred on architecture, local streets and traditional town life. Walking through its lanes reveals richly decorated havelis, carved doorways, courtyards and fading frescoes that reflect the artistic heritage of Shekhawati.
Highlights
Mandawa Fort
Visit the historic fort at the heart of Mandawa and discover traditional architecture, painted interiors and views over the surrounding town.
Painted Havelis
Explore beautifully decorated merchant mansions featuring colourful frescoes, carved balconies, courtyards and ornate façades.
Murmuria Haveli
See one of Mandawa’s notable havelis, known for its distinctive frescoes and traditional Shekhawati architectural details.
Jhunjhunwala Haveli
Admire another fine example of the region’s merchant architecture, with decorative paintings and historic interiors.
Old Town Streets
Walk through narrow lanes lined with traditional homes, small temples, local shops and everyday town life.
Shekhawati Frescoes
Discover the unique wall-painting tradition that made the Shekhawati region famous as one of Rajasthan’s richest areas for painted architecture.
Things to Do
Take a Heritage Walk
Explore Mandawa on foot and discover hidden havelis, painted façades, old courtyards and historic neighbourhoods.
Photograph the Frescoes
Capture colourful wall paintings, architectural details and traditional streets throughout the old town.
Visit Local Havelis
Step inside selected historic mansions to appreciate their courtyards, carved doorways and decorative artwork.
Explore Shekhawati Culture
Learn about the merchant families, trade routes and artistic traditions that shaped this distinctive region of Rajasthan.
Experience Local Town Life
Spend time in the bazaars and residential streets to see a slower, more traditional side of Rajasthan.
Combine Mandawa with Rural Rajasthan
Use Mandawa as a base for exploring nearby Shekhawati towns, villages, havelis and countryside.