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The Shekhawati region is known as the “ open air Art gallery” of India.
In the 18th century, prosperous merchant families whose trade activities in the region generated substantial wealth built lavish, palatial mansions (Havelis) as a display of their success. Today, it is these ancient and lavishly constructed Havelis and courtyards that attract visitors and tourist form across the globe. The walls and facades of these havelis are decorated with colourful depiction of the region’s folk tales, culture, history, social & religious themes. These towns have some of the most beautiful Havelis, chattris and water reservoirs of the region.
The Harshnath Temple is an ancient temple built during the reign of Chahamana king Vigharaja II (971-998 CE) situated at a distance of 80 kms from Mandawa.
This grassland expanse is home to the largest population of the endangered blackbuck antelope. Situated at a distance of 98.6 kms from Mandawa, this small but rich wildlife sanctuary is flush with the myriad colours of migratory birds such as the Harriers, alongwith commonly sighted Imperial Eagles, Tawny Eagles, Short-toed Eagle, Sparrow Hawks, Skylarks, Crested Larks, Green Bee-eaters, Black Ibis and Demoiselle Cranes.
Situated in the Sikar district in the midst of a dense forest, Jeen Mata Mandir is an ancient temple, constructed approximately 1200 years ago. This temple has been a pilgrimage site for centuries and is dedicated to Shree Jeen Mataji (the Goddess of Power).
Salasar Balaji Mandir, in Churu district lies at a distance of 64 kms from Mandawa and is a site of great religious importance for the locals. People from across the state and even beyond flock to this temple dedicated to the deity Hanuman. Locals believe offering their prayers at this spiritual site leads to their wishes being fulfilled.
Situated in Sakarai Dham, near Udaipurwati, Rajasthan, the Shakambari Mata Temple is the abode of two lion-riding, eight-armed goddesses—Brahmani and Rudrani. Shakambari Mata is the incarnation of Goddess Parvati and is referred to as “The Bearer of Greens” as she emerged before the rishis who meditated upon the Supreme Devi, with fruits, vegetables and cereals during a time of drought.
Built in 1027 AD, the Khatu Shyam Ji Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Rajasthan. Located in Sikar district, the temple lies at a distance of 100 kms from Mandawa. The temple was built by the erstwhile ruler of Khatu village, Roopsingh Chauhan. According to legend, Khatu Shyam Ji is the incarnation of Barbarika, the son of Ghatotkacha, who committed the ultimate sacrifice of offering his head to Shri Krishna before the battle of Mahabharata.
The fresco trail in Mandawa leads through the town’s historic lanes, abounding with richly-painted havelis. Take a walk around town, marvel at the architectural magnificence and watch as tales of years gone by come alive on the walls of the Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli with its exceptional murals, Lakshminarayan Ladia Haveli, Mohanlal Saraf Haveli, and Chowkhani Haveli.
Guests can go for a sundowner to the family owned Castle Mandawa, a pioneering heritage hotel of India
Take a trip to the local town market where small shop owners offer a range of products—from beautiful brass items and colourful textiles to handicrafts, and even antique furniture.
The oasis is fed by recycled water and attracts migratory birds and local animals. Situated within the resort’s compound, the oasis allows our guests to soak in the local terrain and habitat. It is also a perfect spot for bird watching. Some of the birds that can be spotted are Bulbul, Sparrow, Woodpecker, Hummingbird, Dove, Blue Jay, Ducks, Koyal, Owl, Spotted owlet, Parrot, Eagles, Kite, Lapwing, Brown Partridge, Black Partridge, Quail, Fand Grouse, Crow, Hoopoe, Peacocks, Myna, Thrush, Bat, Green Pigeon, Coucal, Indian Roller, White browed wagtail, brown rock chat, Black Drongo, Desert Wheatear among others.
The Desert Resort encourages sustainable living, leading by example.
The resort houses a dairy farm within its premises, where the cows are milked every morning and evening, supplying fresh milk and milk products to our kitchen. Guests can visit the dairy farm upon request.
The in-house organic farm supplies all seasonal vegetables and pulses to the resort’s kitchen.
Guests can visit the organic farm to understand the cultivation methods and traditional organic farming techniques that help maintain an ecological balance while simultaneously providing fresh, healthy produce.
The stables within the premises are home to Marwari horses. Spend a pleasant evening sipping tea, watching the stable hands groom and dress the horses against the shifting desert sand.
Set out on an exciting camel ride across the dunes. Alternatively, a camel cart ride can also be organized for you to experience the bylanes of Mandawa through a different perspective.
Horse riding and camel safaris can be organised for you to take in the sprawling expanse of the desert. You can also take a jeep safari over the dunes for a thrilling experience of the tricky terrain.
Watch an enthralling performance of local puppet masters that skilfully narrate the folklore of Mandawa. We can also organise a brief workshop for our guests to learn the art of puppet-making, pottery and kite-making.