Nawalgarh
boasts of some of the finest frescoes in the Shekhawati
region. The town exudes an old world charm and the
colourful bazaar has the largest number of painted
havelis in Shekhawati. The fort, now a little
disfigured, is yet worthy of attention. There are
numerous havelis worth seeing.
Prominent among them are the Aath (eight) Haveli
Complex, Anandi Lal Poddar Haveli, Jodhraj Patodia
Haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat Haveli, Chokhani Haveli, and
Hotel Roop Niwas Palace. The havelis still bear witness
to the rich and prosperous Marwari era of the 19th
century. The stone walls, split by four gateways, were
erected to encircle the town.
PRIME
ATTRACTIONS
FORTS
AND PALACES
Nawalgarh Fort: The main building in this town is
the fort, founded in 1737 AD but today it stands largely
disfigured by the modern accretions. Now it houses two
banks and a few government offices.
Roop Niwas Palace: About one km from the fort is
the salubrious Roop Niwas Palace. The palace is
enchanting with a well-laid garden and fountains. It has
now been converted into a heritage hotel.
Anandi Lal Poddar Haveli: This haveli, built in
the 1920s, houses a school, but has many fine paintings.
It is the only haveli in the whole Shekhawati, which has
been restored by its owner.
The Aath Haveli Complex: The complex consisting
of the eight havelis is worth a visit.
Sheesh Mahal: It is an astounding building with a
ceiling mural that includes maps of Nawalgarh and Jaipur.
Murarka Haveli, Bansidhar Bhagat Haveli, Chokhani Haveli,
Gangamai Temple are also important sites that one cannot
afford to miss.
OTHERS
The Bazaar: The bazaar is amazingly colourful,
with the largest number of havelis, showcasing the most
beautiful frescoes.
EXCURSIONS
CITIES
Dundlod: Its a tiny village around 8-km from
Nawalgarh. Its fort, now converted into a hotel, dates
back to 1750 AD. The attractions include Goenka Haveli,
Jagathia Haveli and Satyanarayan Temple.
Mandawa: This 18th century town predominated by
the fort and the rugged hills, is notable for the
Chokhani, Ladia, and Saraf Haveli.
Mukundgarh: Built around a temple square, this
town is famous for brass and iron accessories.
HOW
TO GET THERE
Air:
Jaipur
is the nearest airport, 142-km away.
Rail: There is a railway station at Nawalgarh and
is well connected to the surrounding areas by train.
Road: Jaipur is 142-kms from Nawalgarh by road.
Local Transport: Jeeps and auto rickshaws are
availabe for within the city commutation.
PLACES
TO STAY
Apani
Dhani or Eco-Farm is situated on the west side of the
main Jaipur Road and is best for those who look for a
traditional style stay. There are several budget hotels
also available for those with shoe-string budge