Tiny alleyways, stunning havelis, and a quintessential Rajasthani feel are what describe Mandawa the best. The town, located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, makes for a great weekend getaway from Delhi-NCR as well as cities such as Jaipur, especially for those who love learning about history and culture. Here’s your guide to exploring the beautiful town. By Anushka Goel
If you love road trips that take you to regions of India rich in history and culture, Mandawa is a place that should be on your must-visit list. While you may or may not know the town by name, there’s no way you haven’t seen it yet. Mandawa has been featured in movies such as PK, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Paheli, Jab We Met, Bajrangi Bhaijaan and many more, providing a rustic, traditionally Rajasthani backdrop for these films.
The town is also called an open-air gallery due to the rich history and architecture it houses. The place has several stunning havelis, some of which have been restored while many remain untouched and exude an old-world charm. These havelis boast of paintings, murals, jharokhas and traditional artifacts, and make for a great place to visit near Delhi, which will surely excite the history buff in you!
Everything to know about Mandawa
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The small town in Rajasthan lies in the Shekhawati region, in the Jhunjhunu district. It was essentially occupied by traders in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, and is now a local tourist spot. The destination is approachable by well-maintained roads, for the most part, and makes for a stunning destination in the spring, autumn and winter seasons. It also boasts of rich history and culture, and is a must-visit for those who love learning about art, architecture and art.
What to see in Mandawa
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The town is home to several havelis – some restored and some in shambles – which make it a great place to explore. Do visit the Mandawa Haveli, Murmuria Haveli, Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli and Chokhani Double Haveli, among others. Each of these places offers a unique experience and offers different architecture, decorations and more. Be sure to also visit the Mandawa Fort, which was built by Thakur Nawal Singh Bahadur, and serves as a hotel today (Castle Mandawa hotel).
Once done, explore the small lanes and try to identify spots that you’ve seen in various movies over the years. You can also try making a wish at the Harlalka Well, where locals believe all wishes come true!
Best time to visit
The town experiences hot and dry climate, due to its location in Rajasthan and the lack of enough water resources. So, the best times to visit are the monsoons and winters, as well as spring. Plan a trip betweewn September till mid-March, before the weather starts to get too hot.
How to reach
The best way to reach Mandawa is by road. However, trains are available to the nearby town of Churu, from where you can board a bus or a taxi to take you to this quaint town.
Distance from Delhi: 255 kilometres
Distance from Jaipur: 168 kilometres
Where to stay: Hotels in Mandawa
Castle Mandawa
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Radhika Haveli Hotel
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Hotel Mandawa Haveli
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Vivaana Culture Haveli
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Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Related: These Workation Destinations In Rajasthan Will Brighten Up Your Work Days
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Answer: Apart from havign been featured in several movies including PK, Bajrangi Bhaijaan and Jab We Met, Mandawa is known for its stunning havelis which are complete with an old-world charm, jharokhas, artifacts and more.
Answer: The town boasts of an old-world charm. Most of the Havelis in Mandawa, which is also called an open-air gallery, are known for their their paintings, murals, other beautiful artifacts.
Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument.
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