Popularly known as the open art gallery of Rajasthan, Shekhawati is an invaluable contribution of the Marwari traders of Rajasthan. This semi-desert region is known for its colourfully painted havelis (mansions) that are commendable pieces of the great artistic tradition of Shekhawati. The name Shekhawati literally translates into ’the land of Shekha’s clan’—a name derived from Rao Shekha of the 15th century and a scion of Kachhwaha family of Jaipur.

The region extends over two districts of Rajasthan, namely, Jhunjhunu and Sikar. Most of the havelis were constructed between AD 1750 and 1930 by the Marwaris, but successive droughts forced many of these families to leave the state. For a long period, these havelis remained in sheer neglect and started crumbling when one or two wealthy Marwaris took the initiative in restoring them. The money flowed in the next few decades and the entire region attained great touristic value.

The architectural style of the havelis or mansions here evolved mostly around the courtyard. This was done to ensure safety and privacy of the womenfolk from the extreme summers of the region. Most of the havelis are painted in many colours like indigo, yellow, green, maroon, and blue and beautiful wall paintings adorn the walls.

No other region in Rajasthan is perhaps so rich artistically as Shekhawati. Creating beautiful images by using vibrant colours is not a hobby or professional practice but a way of life. Mandawa is a small town founded in the 18th century by the wealthy Marwari businessmen. Nawalgarh, not far away, is known for some curious images painted on the walls of havelis.

Apart from the rich tradition of frescoes seen in Mandawa and Nawalgarh, there are many other lesser-known places in the region. Jhunjhunu and Sikar are the district headquarters known for their palaces and havelis. Dundlod is a beautiful town famous for its fort and palaces. Fatehpur was founded by the Muslim Nawabs, but the Rajputs later took over the place and developed it to their taste.