Covering an area of about 300 sq about on the often aride and rock – studded plains to the northwest of the Arivali mountain range, Shekhawati is the homeland of the Marwari community. The area is particularly rich in painted havelis. Sikar district in the southwest and Jhunjhunun in the northeast form an ‘open – air gallery of painting  dating from the mid-19th century. Although a day trip gives you an idea of its treasures, it is better to spend two are three nights in Shekhawati to see some good example of temples, frescoed forts, chhatris and step-wells at lei-sure. There are other diversions laid on such as horse or camel safaris and treks into the hills, for visitors who can spare a little more time.

Getting There You can get to the principal Shekhawati towns by trains but road access is easier. A car comes in handy to see the area, though there are crowded buses from Delhi, Jaipur and Bikaner to some towns. Buses leave every 30 mins from Jaipur’s main bus station and take about 3 hrs. You can get from one mere pass  Shekhawati town to another by local bus which run every 155 to 20 mins, and take about an hour. Getting around Be prepaered for very rough roads between the towns. Within each town it is best to enlist the help of a local person (possible from the hotels listed below) to direct you to best havelis. See below for unusual alternative safaris.