13/03/2014
Mandawa History
The city of Mandawa, founded in the mid 18th century, was once a town inhabited by the rich merchant families. The wealthy and dominant merchants constructed massive havelis, adorned with beautiful wall paintings, for the purpose of their residence. However, with time, the merchants moved on and migrated to other areas, leaving the beautiful havelis in the shadows of anonymity. Still, the magnificence of these havelis did not diminish and now they have become a major tourist attraction of the city. Read on this Mandawa city guide to get further information about this city:
The beautiful wall paintings that decorate the havelis of Mandawa in Rajasthan, India, have seen the themes changing from time to time. In the earlier days, mythology dominated the themes of the frescoes, displaying local legends, animals, portraits, hunting and wrestling scenes, etc. 19th century saw the themes being changed to reflect the British (Raj) influence on the Indian culture. The traditional subjects were exchanged for cars, trains, balloons, telephones, gramophones, English men in hunting attires and portraits of the haveli owners immaculately dressed, etc.
Apart from the havelis, another major feature of Manawa is its massive fort, now converted into a heritage hotel. The archway of the fort is painted with fascinating paintings, depicting Lord Krishna and his cowherds. Displaying architectural brilliance, each wing of the fort is set up with a different theme. Exquisite wall paintings and amazing mirror work adorn the rooms of the fort. Mandawa travel and tourism will take you on a ride of architectural brilliance and artistic genius. Even if you do not have a penchant for art, you will still marvel at the beauty and splendor of the various monuments in the city.
How to Reach Mandawa
by Air: The nearest airport from Mandawa is Jaipur. Being the capital of the state of Rajasthan, it is a notable domestic airport. You can reach Jaipur directly by air from cities like: Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and so on.
by Road: A convenient network of roads covers Mandawa. You may reach Mandawa by road from several cities in Rajasthan and North India like: Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner.
by Rail: The nearest railhead is Jhunjhunu. The station is serviced by several important trains and is linked to major stations like, Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner.
Places of Tourist Interests
Mandawa Fort Mandawa is a small town in the heart of Shekhawati region. The place is known not only for its havelis but also for its Fort Palace. The structure of the palace reminds of the cultural and social importance of this region in the past. Of the havelis, the most important are the Chokhani, Ladia, Binsidhar Newatia, and Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli. Another haveli, the Binsidhar Newatia Haveli, is known for its curious paintings. There is a painting of a boy holding a telephone and a European woman in a car driven by a chauffeur.
Haveli's: The Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli,The Thakur Dedraj Tarmal Haveli, Neowatia Haveli, Laduram Haveli,Chokhani Haveli are famous for its erotic images, for there colourful frescoes.
Temperature Max 40.5 ºC (Summer) Max 10 ºC (winter)
Languages English, Hindi, and Marwari
Ideal Time October to February