The semidesert region of Shekhawati is a colourful fantasy having a fascinating uniquely of its own. The open air art gallery, as it is popularly called is famous for its plethora of painted havelis, all commendable pieces of the rich artistic traditional of this region. ‘Shekhawati’, meanings the land of Shekhs clan derives its name from Rao Shekha (1433 A.D.-1488 A.D. ) a section of the Kachhwaha family of Jaipur. Earlier a part of the former Jaipur state, it now comprises of the districts of Jhunjhunu and Sikar. Initially the region had a blank monochromatic look but with subsequent historical and social development it has blossomed into a colourful profusion of art and life for almost 2 centuries from 1750 A.D. to 1930 A.D.

Shekhawati’s magnificent havelis or mansions, built by rich merchants of the region, display a unique architectural style that evolved around the courtyards to ensure safety and privacy of the women folk and protection from the heat of the long and harsh summers.

The havelis, painted predominantly in the blue, maroon, yellows, green and indigo have beautiful wall paintings that adorn their walls.

The earlier wall paintings (1830 A.D. -1900 A.D.) were largely based on the mythological themes, depicting local legends, animals, portraits, hunting and wrestling scenes and a glimpse of everyday life.

The turn of the 19th century saw the appearance of new motifs, an outcome of the Raj’s influence upon the Indian culture. Now cars, replaced elephants and traditional Indian miniatures mingled with naturalism of western paintings to produce interesting hybrid results. The mythological themes depicting gods, lithographs and photographs.

Trains, cars, balloons, telephones gramophones, English men in hunting attires and portraits of the haveli owners primely dressed were painted all over the walls-thus making the havelis interesting for both Indian and foreign travelers.

Sikar: Founded in the late 17th century, Sikar was the largest ’thikana’ (Feudal state) under Jaipur. The fort and temples of Gopinath, Raghunath and Madan Mohan with commendable frescoes are worth visiting. The jubilee Hall, Madho Niwas Kothi, Biwani Havelli, Sodhani Haveli, the Jain temple and a large market are other places of interest.

Harsh Nath Temple (11 km): An ancient 10th century temples situated on the Harsh Nath hills.

Jeen Mata Temple (29 km): Believed to have been built a thousand years ago,the temple is the venue of a colourful fair held twice in a year during ‘Navaratras’.

Lachhmangrh: One of the most imposing forts in the Shekhawati region, Lachhmangarh commands a bird’s eye view of the town modeled to resemble the city plan of Jaipur. Founded in the early 19th century by Raja Lachhman Singh of Sikar, the town has some lovely havelis.

Rambagh: Founded in the late 18th century by the Poddars. The Shani Temple of the Saturday God has delicately painted frescoes. Marvellous cenotaphs of the Poddars have exquisitely painted ceilings. The Ganga Temple and some beautiful havelis add interest to the town.

Fatehpur: Founded in the mid 15th century by Fateh Khan - a Kayamkhani nawab the town is noted for unmatched frescoes. Its central location attracted many wealthy merchants and has some exquisite havelis a combination of the Indian and the western styles. Of particular note among these are the Chamariya and Singhania havelis.

Khatu Shyamji : The village is famous for the Shri Shyamji Temple,built in white marble.

Sakambhari :Famous for its 7th century temple dedicated to Sankari Mata, the town is surrounded by hills on three sides.An ideal picnic spot.