History Mandawa Haveli in Shekhawati

The painted Walls of Shekhawati by Aman Nath and Francis Wacziarg inadvertently gave birth to a tourism fantasy coming true. Old havelis (mansions) were turned into hotels in Rajasthan. Dominique Lapierre having reaped in the success of his book Freedom at Midnight, wanted to treat his French publisher and co-writer to a unique holiday. Having learnt of the Shekhawati region from Aman’s book, he requested Randhir Singh Mandawa for a private lunch at his ancestral haveli. Randhir, keeping true to Rajput hospitality, made it special for them. There was the regal paraphernalia of traditional welcome by a procession of chariots, camel carts, horses, ‘dhap’ music and dance.

The guest went back home and wrote about the novel experience they had had. Nouvelle Frontiers, one of the biggest tour operators in France at that point, picked up the idea and a new trend was born. Randhir asked his grandparents for their blessings. They were, according to him, apprehensive about the fact that one from the family will ever want to go back to Mandawa. This idea came as godsend for them and they started with six rooms being let out at the Mandawa Haveli. It has grown to 85 rooms now and the haveli still maintains its charm. Every bit of the original interiors was used; they even kept the family colours – red and orange, playing with them their binding factors.

Apart from the mystical magic and romance, which pulsates through Mandawa, the place also speaks of a bygone era in all its quaintness. Driving into Mandawa is a typical experience, which runs common to any place in the Shekhawati region. It’s like being in Venice without the canals. The streets are in themselves works of art; you rub shoulders with history and despite the rude intrusion of urbanity, the streets have a feel that reconfirms continuity of old tradition – it is refreshing and invigorating.

Heritage Hotels in Rajasthan

• Devi Garh (Delwara) - The fort was built probably in the mid 18th century by the descendants of a certain Sajja Singh, who was honoured the principality of Delwara by Rana Pratap. Most of the forts was a series of black, dark interconnected chambers infested with bats and birds when it first acquired by Poddars in 1990. It took almost 6 years to restore the whole fort and ultimately 200 chambers fort converted into 39 luxurious suites. Each suite is specially designed with airy patio or veranda and rooms, sitting area decorated with marble and semi-precious stones. Devi Garh is an excellent example of luxury comfort and ancient heritage. The façade remain traditional but the rooms are ultramodern.
Website – www.deviresorts.com


• Alsisar Haveli (Jaipur) – The haveli is not too old traditionally but completely renovated in 1982, blends the Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. It is no more a medieval fort but it still oozes the reflection of royal heritage through antique furniture. Surprisingly, the bustling city of Jaipur right outside its doors remains just there – the haveli is a haven of calm in itself. In the central area of the haveli is a platform that was once meant for men’s get together and is today a setting for puppet and dance shows. The mansion’s 47 rooms have frescos and rug covered floors while the common areas have crystal chandeliers and hunting trophies.
Website – www.alsisarhaveli.com


• Castle Mandawa (Mandawa) – Tucked away in the dusty Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, Castle Mandawa, an amber-coloured fort, was built in 1755 by Thakur Nawal Singh to protect his principality, Mandawa. Today, Castle Mandawa run by Nawal Singh’s descendents as a heritage hotel and is an ideal base from which to explore Shekhawati. The turreted towers, winding staircases, terraces and canopied balconies of the castle are a throwback to its past. The spacious rooms are still hold the medieval charm with period furniture and colourful local furnishings. Each of the 70 rooms is different, with beautiful frescos, and some even boasting of tinkling fountains!
Website – www.mandawahotels.com


• Lakshman Sagar (Raipur, district Pali) – This hunting lodge was built in the late 19th century as a hunting rest place by Rajput Kunwar. It is now acquired by Sewara Hospitality & Development. As a continuation of the hospitality and traditions of the house of Raipur, present Kunwar fancied a heritage resort much like his great-great grandfather Thakur Lakshman Singh, though all manifested through timeless architecture and design. There are 12 luxury cottages and the unique experience in that isolated spot will be remembered by travellers who once go to the place. The heritage resort offers live cooking, music and fireworks, also travelling by bullock cart to near by Fatehgarh Fort and a private dine on the floating cruise on the Lakshman Sagar private lake.
Website – www.sewara.com



• Khimsar Fort (Khimsar) – Rao Karamsi constructed the Khimsar Fort in 1523 but it became the family’s living quarters only in the mid-18th century when they added a new women’s wing. At was the norm at that time; this section had finely carved windows and stone grills, the architectural equivalent of a veil. Now the fort has been converted into a hotel, but the royal family, including Rao Karamsi’s 21st descendant, continues to live in a part of the fort. It’s a beautiful place that offers guests a chance to go on camel and jeep safaris to the areas nearby and spot black bucks and gazelles.
Website – www.khimsarfort.com