Jhunjhunu

Jhunjhunu is founded by Jhujhar singh nehra Jat This city is in the northern state of Rajasthan, India and the administrative headquarters of Jhunjhunu District. It is located 180 km away from Jaipur, 220 km from Bikaner and 240 km from Delhi. The city is famous for the frescos on its grand havelis. Khetri Mahal, known as Wind Palace, inspired Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh of Jaipur that he was so intimidated by this unique structure that he built the grand and historical hawa mahal located in jaipur.

History:- Jhunjhunu district is part of Shekhawati Region. Jhunjhunu was founded and ruled by the Kaimkhani Nawabs till 1730. Nawab Rooh Ullah Khan was the last Nawab of Jhunjhunu. The Nawabs ruled over Jhunjhunu for 280 years. Rooh Ullah Khan had imposed great faith in Shardul Singh and he acted as his Diwan. Shardul Singh was a bold and efficient administrator but he deceived to Nawab. He occupied Jhunjhunu after the death of Rohilla Khan in 1730. It was by dint of his subtle political demeanour that Maharao Shardul Singh occupied Jhunjhunu & ruled over it for 12 years. After his death the estate was divided equally among his five sons. Their descendants continued to rule over it till Indian Independence in 1947.

Badalgarh Fort:- The Badalgarh Fort was built by Nawab Fazal Khan, towards the end of the 17th century. Though it is considered one of the popular forts of Shekhawati, it was basically built as a stable to protect the camels and horses. Therefore, this palace lacks the ‘Sheesh Mahals’ or mirror palaces and ‘Baradaris’ or pavilions that is usually found in other palaces. Apart from providing views of the surrounding areas, the fort has three tombs or ‘Makbaras’ of the Kaimkhani Nawabs. The tomb of Nawab Samas Khan is situated to the east of the town and the tomb of Bhawan Khan that was built by Rohella Khan is situated to the west of the town. The Rohella Khan’s tomb is like a solid block that is topped by a dome.

Mukundgarh Fort:- Mukandgarh in Jhunjhunu district has a 300-year-old magnificent fort, which is now converted into a resort hotel, with all modern amenities. There are havelis of Kanoria, Ganeriwal and Saraf, which are a fine example of fresco paintings. Mukundgarh Fort is a heritage property, a grand construction and has amazing detailing of the famous Shekhawati frescoes on the walls. The hotel offers beautifully furnished rooms with a view of the fort's courtyard or the green vegetation beyond.

Khetri Mahal:- The Khetri Mahal, also called the Wind Palace was built in the year 1770 and is known for its architectural heritage. This palace was built by Bhopal Singh, the grandson of Sardul Singh and the founder of Khetri. The palace consists of marble pillars instead of walls, thereby facilitating the maximum flow of air through the building. From the entrance, a ramp is ascended through the palace, which was used by the Rajputs to ride up their horses. The palace comprises of large halls with pillars and arches. This palace inspired Sawai Pratap Singh of Jaipur, who built the Hawa Mahal in 1799.

Zorawargarh Fort:-The Zorawargarh is a fort built by Zorawar Singh, the eldest son of Sardul Singh, in the year 1741. The fort consists of numerous buildings and the Zenana complex. Though most part of the fort is in ruins, the better buildings are used for housing the town jail and government offices.

Lohargal:- The holy shrine of Lohargal is situated at the foot hills of the Aravali ranges. It is famous for its natural scenic beauty. The wild and prolific nature captivates the heart of the visitors. It is miraculous that a perennial stream of water trickles down from the hill and falls into the suraj kund. Its water is crystal clear, pure and wholesome which is said to be the malady for many diseases. There runs an anecdote that the pandawa's after winning the bettle of Mahabharta repented for the heavy bloodshed of their own kiths and kins. They also washed their blood satined weapons. Consequently the weapons melted. It was a great miracle. Since then it has been named as Lohargal (that which melts iron). Thetefore it has become a place of pilgrimage of the Hindus. A large fair is held every year from krishana janmaashthami to Amawashya. Besides above, Malket. barkhandi. Gyan Bawari, Bhim Kund, Chetan Das Bawari and many other temples of Gods and Goddesees are worth visiting monuments in the Lohargal area. 

Ajit Sagar Lake:- To the farthest north of Jhunjhunu is the picturesque artificial Ajit Sagar Lake, built by Jitmai Khaitan in 1902. The Lake filled by rain water comes running down from the sides of the Moda Pahar and very seldom dries up. Pavilions are constructed on each corner of the lake where paintings are carved beautifully beneath the dome. Peoples generally quench their thirst from the lake.

Badani Chand Well:- The well is placed on the North West side of the town surmounted by four imposing minarets. It was treated like a temple since water is of immense importance in the desert. There is a small sacred temple for the Hindus at this well and it is named after Hanuman. The well was decorated with rich paintings and one of the four pavilions was erected nearby so that women folks could gather and exchange news. Nearby is an old inn for the caravans to take a halt during their journey.

Mertani Ki Baori Well:- The Mertani ki Baori is the oldest and finest of Jhunjhunu's step wells. It was built by Sardul's widow in 1783. Step wells are real architectural feats in the desert state of Rajasthan and building them was considered a great act of generosity and benevolence. They served as community centers, where people gathered to help themselves to the most precious commodity water. The Mertani Baori is a beautiful structure with flights of steps descending through arches.

The Modi and Tibrewala Haveli:- The Modis were affluent traders of Jhunjhunu. The Modi Haveli in Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan. The Modi Haveli, Jhunjhunu was used by the Modi family for centuries as their residence. Like all havelis, the Modi Haveli in Jhunjhunu Rajasthan opens into a courtyard surrounded by corridors that lead to rooms. The interiors of the Modi Haveli in Jhunjhunu in India are covered with intricate frescos in vibrant colors. A mad riot of red, golden, green set the walls ablaze as if. Intricately carved filigree screens, locally known as jharokas, are to be seen amply. These were meant to let the ladies of the house have a peek at the outside world, the doors to which were closed to them. In fact it is quite clear from the layout of havelis that to keep women away from the public glance was much of the intention that went behind the planning of these buildings. The Modi Haveli, Jhunjhunu has a common meeting hall that used to welcome guests on the ground floor.

Sone Chandi ki Haveli: - Sone Chandi ki Haveli also called the treasure of art is a haveli located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan. It is a small place in terms of area, but the Sone Chandi ki Haveli   Jhunjhunu is loved by almost every Indian. The place is considered to be approximately 150 years old, and is full of paintings and frescoes. All those people who are big fans of the paintings and all these stuff must for sure visit Sone Chandi ki Haveli. The rooms of the Haveli are full of these works and the most amazing thing about every painting is that, each tells a story. For example, there are many paintings related to Lord Ram, Lord Ganesha and so on. The main tourist spot of Jhunjhunu Sone Chandi ki Haveli is not kept open for everyone to visit at any time. It is locked and the keys have to be taken by a person who sits in the shop nearby. A tip to that person is always appreciated by the people there. Well a wonderful fact about this haveli is that every single part of the ceiling is covered with extraordinary beautiful frescoes and paintings which all relate to Hindu mythology. People fall in love with all such things and thus make a visit very often to the Sone Chandi ki Haveli.

Shekhawat Rajput's Cenotaph:- The Shekhawat Rajputs, too, put in their bit to build Jhunjhunu. The cluster of memorial chhatris of Sardul Singh's sons is now used as a school. They've whitewashed the place which, sadly, has erased some of the historic murals. The inscriptions, too, have been obliterated. However, there still are some remains of paintings on the inner walls of some of these. Sardul Singh's eldest son, Zorawar Singh, built a fort for himself. This was Zorawargarh, built in 1741. Most of the fort is in ruins, but the better buildings house government offices and the town jail. The Zenana Complex in which dwelled the lovely royal ladies now lies bare and broken.

Forsterganj- A British Establishment:- After the Shekhawat Rajputs had their high time in the power game, came the British and with them came Major Henry Forster to Jhunjhunu. He built a mosque and a temple in the part of the town which he created Forsterganj. This lies in the east of Jhunjhunu and was the headquarters of the Shekhawati Brigade. Forster's Jama Masjids painted in white and green, and is a pretty fresh looking structure. There are other reminders of the well-loved Major in town, like the stone tablet installed by the Major himself.

Rani Sati Temple:- Ranisati Mandir in Jhunjhunu has a history of more than 400 years and is a commanding testimony to feminine bravery and motherhood with rich tales of history that captivate the fancy of all tourists. Billions of worshippers and followers, not only in India but worldwide too come visiting Jhunjhunu's Rani Sati Temple. Devotees from all over offer their prayers and puja everyday almost ritualistically. A splendid portrait of the Rani Sati is located in the Pardhan Mand with the imposing Shikhar. The entire edifice in white marble is charming. The main Temple of Shri Rani Sati is the place for the main sanctum sanctorum. The temple also boasts colorful wall paintings. The temple is graced with fine murals which bear the unmistakable imprint of bearing the brunt of time.

Dargah of Kamaruddin Shah:-The dargah or shrine of Kamruddin Shah is a complex located at the foot of the hill, known as Kana Pahar. This dargah is the tomb of the Muslim saint, Kamruddin and was built in the mid-19th century. It consists of a mosque, Madrassa or Koran school, Mehfilkhana or concert hall and a ramp that leads to the imposing gateway. Around the courtyard, some traces of murals of floral motifs are still visible. Within the complex, a little pyramid like structure was erected for the infant son of Major Forster, who died in 1841.

Mandawa:- Mandawa is a town in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan in India. A Part of the Shekawati region of Rajasthan, Mandawa is a town which is highly renowned for its majestic and imposing fort. Apart from the magnificent Mandawa fort, the town is also famous for its fascinating Havelis (Mansions). So vivid is the art and heritage of Mandawa, the town is referred to as an open art gallery of Rajasthan. The history of Mandawa dates back to the 18th century when this city was used by the Bhojraj Ji Kaubsub clan of Shekhawat Rajputs. Later on, Mandawa was converted into a trading outpost for the ancient caravan routes coming from the Middle East. Major tourist attraction in this ancient city is the medieval Mandawa fort, which is adorned with beautiful frescoes. The fort boasts of exquisite carvings of Lord Krishna on the painted arched gateways. Besides, the fort is highly appreciated for its collection of antiques and paintings in the Palace’s Durbar hall. Mandawa is best known for its beautifully decorated Havelis as well. The prominent ones are Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli, Murmuria Haveli, Jhunjhunwala Haveli and Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli.

Mandawa Fort:- The Mandawa Fort is one of the most famous forts in Mandawa. It is located in the midst of Aravalli Hills in Rajasthan. Mandawa was founded by the Rajputs in the 18th century. During that time they build a number of structures in this place. These structures bear a lot of historical significance. The Mandawa Fort was built by Nawal Singh. He was the first direct descendant of the Shekhawati rulers. This fort also has helped in the development of a little township around the area. The painted archways in the fort are a visual treat. There are a number of paintings in the fort as well. A number of paintings in this fort depict Lord Krishna. The variety of décor and theme in the rooms of the fort are also a great attraction for the tourists. The rooms also boast a number of beautiful paintings and mirror work. A medieval ambience and charm is mainly prevalent in the fort. The fort also has a number of portraits on its walls. The antique collection of the fort is also something to look out for. A careful look of these items will take you back to the Rajput era of Rajasthan.

Jhunjhunwala Haveli:- A beautiful town in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, Mandawa is a center of art and culture. The place is dotted with a number of havelis which feature the most amazing murals and architecture. Of all the havelis in Mandawa, Jhunjhunwala Haveli is the most beautiful and most visited attractions. Built back in the year 1859, Jhunjhunwala Haveli is best known to feature traditional Rajasthani art. The architectural beauty of the structure leaves every visitor spellbound. The haveli has latticed windows and beautiful wooden doors which make it stand out among the rest. The creativity of Rajasthani artists can be seen through the decoration on the walls of the haveli. People from all over visit the haveli to have a look at its intricate architecture, which makes them, flip back the pages of the Rajputana era.  It is easy to the Jhunjhunwala Haveli as Mandawa is well-connected to different parts of the country.

Bansidhar Newatia Haveli:- Best known for its attractive and colorful paintings, Binsidhar Newatia haveli is among the major tourist attractions in Mandawa. The place holds a great historical importance alluring thousands of history buffs and tourists to this place. Settled in Shekhawati region, Mandawa is a small town which boasts of several brilliantly designed havelis and forts. In fact, these striking havelis and forts constitute major portion in Rajasthan tourism. Put up in 1921, Binsidhar Newatia haveli in Mandawa takes you to the past glory of Rajasthan. The architectural design and the elegant patterns mark the old world charm. The spotlights of the haveli are its eye-catching paintings which include- a European woman in a car driven by a chauffeur, a man on a bicycle, a boy using a telephone, a bird-man flying in a winged device and a strong man hauling along a car. Therefore, come and familiarize yourself with the rich culture of the place and the get the glimpse of lifestyle of royal families. 

Murmuria Haveli:- Dating back to 1930s, Murmuria haveli is located in the small town, Mandawa in Rajasthan. The striking haveli is best known for its attractive paintings which mainly depict the political leaders of ancient era. The elegant architecture of the haveli familiarizes you with rich art and culture of Rajasthan. Representing the wealth and prosperity of Rajput merchants, Mandawa is well-known for its beautifully designed forts and havelis. In fact, these exquisitely adorned havelis and forts play a key role in Rajasthan tourism. Built by a Rajput merchant, Murmuria haveli in Mandawa boasts of number of paintings which are main attractions of the place alluring thousands of history buffs and tourists. The beautiful paintings include paintings of cars, trains, George V and Venice. There are pictures of Lord Krishna with his cows and Jawaharlal Nehru on a horse back holding National flag. You also get to see a long wall-painting depicting a train with a crow flying above the engine. In-addition to colorful paintings, there is also a sandy courtyard in front of the haveli from where you can enjoy an amazing view of southern wall that is adjacent to the haveli.

Goenka Double Haveli:- With paintings of camels and horses, the façade of Goenka Double Haveli is embellished and looks extremely attractive. There are two entrances here, both an epitome of grandiose. Rajput Merchants founded the haveli in 18th century. In its every nook, a flawless display of Rajasthani art is put into display. Frescoes, motifs, paintings, carvings and other designs have been carefully embedded. There is a perfect mesh of Indian and European style of decoration; evident through paintings of Rajasthani women and European men wearing hats. Luxury has inspired the designs of the rooms. This mansion is considered as a popular tourist attraction of Mandawa.

Goenka Chattri:- Regarded as an open air art gallery, Goenka Chattri monument is datable to 18th century. Its name has been given after the Goenkas, who once lived in this mansion. The walls are embellished with paintings and frescoes having semblance of Rajasthani heritage. Yesteryears’ opulence is still untouched and intact. Spacious and arched doorways are insignia of grandeur, and a display of artisans’ precision. Many images of Lord Krishna are found in this haveli, suggesting immense faith in god, by the people of bygone era. A visit to Goenka Chattri will make it clearer to you why this is considered to be one of the best tourist attractions of Mandawa.

Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli:- Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli is a popular tourist attraction of Mandawa. The attraction is a must-visit for history buffs and art lovers. Hanuman Prasad Goenka Haveli is the perfect example of Rajasthani art and heritage. The haveli is well-known for its beautiful artwork which reflects the creativity of the artists from the bygone era. The intricate carvings and designs which feature on the walls and pillars of the haveli take us back to the glorious time of the Rajputs. While walking through the haveli, you will find figures of elephants, Lord Shiva on the revered Nandi Bull and paintings of many mythological characters on the walls. These paintings tell us about the religious beliefs and inclination of the Rajputs towards the Gods and Goddesses of Hindus.

Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli:- The Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli is one of the most palatial mansions of Mandawa. The haveli is considered an exceptional piece of art and architecture for its exotic imagery. Even today, the haveli is known to hold the old vintage charm and ambiance. Every nook of the haveli holds the true essence of the Rajputana era. While walking through the corridors of haveli, one can have a look at the creative work of art by Rajput artisans. The walls of the haveli reflect the glory and wealth of the past era. The haveli features exceptional murals in varied themes. One can find images on the walls of the haveli which depict different scenes like a woman giving birth, mirror images of tigers and horse, bird tending her eggs and many more. The main attractions of the haveli are its beautifully carved wooden gates and latticed windows which talk of the originality of the artisans of those times. Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli allures people from all over who wish to have a look at the royalty of the Rajputana Kings. The attraction is a must-visit for those who wish to experience the aesthetic feel of the royal art and heritage.

Thakurji Temple:- Decorated with the images and paintings of Lord Krishna, Thakurji Temple is a significant religious shrine in Mandawa. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and displays a beautiful convergence of art and spirituality. Some of the paintings depict the scenario of the Sepoy Mutiny that took place in 1857. On the western ends of the temple, there are chattris and staircase. The chattris are embellished with paintings and ornamental corners.

Main Bazaar:- Tucked in the Shekhawati region in the state of Rajasthan, Mandawa was established during the 18th century. During this time, a number of rich merchants constructed havelis and mansions in Mandawa. This helped Madawa become one of the planned towns of Rajasthan. Mandawa is one of those regions of Rajasthan that has retained the old charm of the state. The different structures especially the lavishly made palaces which were once the residences of the Rajput traders are the crowd pullers of Mandawa. In addition to these, the different shopping areas of this town that appeal to a number of tourists. Main Bazaar Mandawa is crowded with numerous shops which are perfect for buying souvenirs. Shopping in Main Bazaar mainly involves purchasing a variety of art related products. A perfect place for the art lovers, a visit to Main Bazaaar will let the tourists know about the tradition and culture of the state. The most popular products found in the shops of Main Bazaar include paintings which are crafted on papers or cloth, decorated chests, cradles, chairs, low tables, metal utensils and stools. For the women tourists, the best buy would certainly be the fabrics of tie and dye and bright colored bangles.

Dundlod:- Dundlod is a small town located in Jhunjhunu District in the state of Rajasthan in India. This particular town is perfectly situated in the region of Shekhawati of Rajasthan. Forts and Havelis are dotted in this town. This place is located in the heart of Shekhawati region. It is nearly seven kilometer away from Nawalgarh. This town is known for its Chhatri of Ram Dutt Goenk and its adjacent wells.

Dundlod Fort:- The Dundlod fort was constructed by Keshari Singh in 1750. The fort includes a huge collection of antiques and a big library. The art and architecture of the Rajput and Mughal are blended perfectly in Dundlod Fort. The attractive factors of this fort are grand hospitality with the horse guards and the traditional dress code of the state.

Chhatri of Ram Dutt Goenka:- Chhatri of Ram Dutt Goenka lies very close to the Fort. This particular structure has an adjacent well to satisfy the water needs of this region. It was beautifully built in 1888. The dome depicts Krishna dancing with his gopis and in the surrounding are peacocks and musicians.

The Bhagirath Mal Goenka Haveli:-The Bhagirath Mal Goenka Haveli is famous among native and foreign tourist for its mirror work on the windows. These beautiful and attractive windows are in the inner courtyard’s inner walls. It has paintings, a Satyanarayan Temple and more attraction inside this Haveli.

Quila of Dundlod:- There are many Quilas or fort in Dundlod. These were built during the 17th century by the then rulers, Rajputana. The Rajputana Fort still stands strong after the onslaught of Mughal hordes.

Satyanarayan Temple:- The Satyanarayan Temple in Dundlod enjoys an exclusive historical importance being built by the Goenka family. It testifies the fact that Dundlod served as a strong base for the very rich Goenka merchant family. The Dundlod Satyanarayan Temple is found in the complex of the stunning Goenka Haveli. It is counted among the best religious places in Rajasthan for its magnificent fresco paintings. To state it laconically, in this temple you will come across refined fresco paintings adorned with contemporary trappings that contain the pictures of the British men and women on bicycles and cars and long trains accompanied by telegraph wires in the backdrop. Another painting on the roof in the upper space of the Satyanarayan Temple in Dundlod depicts nobles enjoying leisure time either by indulging themselves in book reading or smelling flowers. There are other paintings also in the temple that show turbaned man holding a bird and in other woman admiring herself in the mirror.

Pilani:- Pilani is a small city situated in the Shekhawati demesne of Rajasthan. It is in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan and well known for the premium institute, BITS Pilani. The name Pilani is derived from a Jet Fighter from the Pilania gotra who died protecting a fort in the town. The king was impressed by his courage, bravery and honored him by giving his name to the town.

BITS Pilani:– Birla Institute of Technology and Science or BITS Pilani, established in 1964, is considered as one of the premier educational institutes of the country. It was founded by the Birlas in accordance with Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s vision of nation building through “science, technology, and modernization.” The BITS Pilani campus is a splendid example of the combination of science with traditional heritage, and it has a number of structures celebrating modernity and ethnicity at the same time. It’s a popular place of tourist attraction.

Sharda Temple:– Sharda temple is one of the popular tourist attractions in Pilani, Rajasthan. The 20th-century temple is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati and was built by the famous industrialist, freedom fighter and philanthropist G.D. Birla. The temple presents a great example of the combination of science with spirituality. The temple is located in the Vidya Vihar campus of the famous engineering college, BITS, Pilani. It is constructed of beautiful marble, which was specially brought from Makrana, also in Rajasthan, inspired by the Khandariya Mahadeo temple at Khajuraho. The temple is divided into five sections, Garbha-Griha or the Sanctum Sanctorum, the Pradakshinapatha or the circumambulation path, the Antarala, the Mandapam and the Ardha Mandapa. The exterior of the shrine has figures of philosophers, saints, and scientists, which reflects the cosmopolitan nature of the monument.

Shiv Ganga:– Shiv Ganga is situated in the heart of the Vidya Vihar campus, BITS Pilani. The beautiful park is surrounded by a 400 m circular canal with an idol of Shiv situated in the middle. One of the attractions of Pilani, Shiv Ganga is a quiet place to relax in the lap of Mother Nature. The place is usually visited by students and Pilani residents in evenings when they want to spend some time admiring the natural beauty of the place.

Birla Science Museum:- Birla Science Museum in Pilani is one of the famous science museums of Rajasthan. Birla’s want to highlight the India's progress in the field of science & technology and the rapid growth of industrial activity in India. So they established Birla Museum in 1954 at Pilani, first science & technology museum of India. After its establishment many other technological museums established by taking its inspiration. Till now it is the only privately sponsored technological museum in India. Birla Museum also is a very attractive place for those who are interested in science and technology. The museum exhibits the latest scientific equipment, models of material science and illustrative diagrams, working models of Science & technology, charts and photographs explaining the different principles of science. So come to this museum and enhance your knowledge, how lucky are you, you will get two things simultaneously one is excitement of tour and second one is that you will grasp information about new upcoming technology. So just visit to this museum and make your trip also knowledgeable. Birla Museum is situated at Pilani, Rajasthan about 200 km from Delhi and well connected to other cities by rail and road. Nearest railway stations is Chirawa.

Panchvati:- Panchvati is a major tourist place in Pilani. It is built and managed by the Birla Trust in Pilani. According to Ramayana, Panchvati was the place where Ram went to live during his vanwaas or exile. Figures of Ram, Laxman, Sita, Hanuman and other characters of Ramayana have been artificially placed in the middle of the green forest to give a real look and sense that in the actual Panchvati forest where Lord Ram lived. Panchvati in Pilani is situated in a large green area, which has a number of trees, shrubs and bushes giving the feeling of being in a forest. Panchvati is the home of thousands of aloe vera plants, mud passages and pagdandis. In the middle of the greenery, life sized figures of Ram, Laxman, Sita, Hanuman and other characters of Ramayana have been placed. For the travellers visiting Pilani, Panchvati is the must visit destination.

Suraj Garh:- Surajgarh, this town is in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan derives its name from the fortified Palace which was built around eighteenth century. This place got its name from this palace. And the literal means of this place- the castle of the Sun. It is an ancient beautiful town. The township of Surajgarh came up with the construction of the Surajgarh fort. It’s a place of elegance, majesty, royalty, and has the historical background. Surajgarh, this place considered being the place of many forts and palaces. This place was established around 1780 by Shekhawat Surajmal. He was the ruler of the Jhunjhunu.

Surajgarh Fort:- The town of Surajgarh in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan derives its name from the 18th century fortified Palace SURAJGARH. The name literally means "The Castle of the Sun". This 4 acre fortified palace is being lovingly restored to give our guests the experience of living like a Maharaja. Established in 1780 by Thakur Suraj Mal shekhawat the township of Surajgarh came up with the construction of the fort, for the construction of the fort not only offered employment to the people from the neighboring villages, but after its completion also offered a safe sanctuary from marauding bandits and invading armies. The frescoes for which Surajgarh are famous owe their existence to the many travelers who came through this region, bringing along with them stories of the lands far away, the local populace started to decorate their homes with frescoes of the tales told by the travelers and from scenes from the mythological time. The materials used for painting the frescoes were crushed cowrie shells, lime and vegetable dyes which were produced locally. The cowrie shells were used as currency at one time, but since the chipped and broken shells had no value, they were crushed to produce a water resistant base for the frescoes. The Fort is owned by Tikaraj Aishwarya Katoch and Tikarani Shailija. TikarajAishwarya is the son of Princess of Jodhpur and Maharaja of Kangra. Tikarani Shailija is the eldest daughter of the Maharaja of Sailana, Sailana is famed for India's finest cuisine and Tikarani Shailija's grandfather has written a popular cookery book called Maharaja Sailana's Cookery Delights.

Surajgarh Shopping:- Surajgarh is well known for Lack bangles and souvenirs. It has a unique quality that the laak bangles are made at small shops in front of the guest according to the colours and design preferred. In Surajgarh traditional silver ware and puppets are also available that you can take back home as a souvenirs for your dear ones.

Fair & Festival

Shekhawati Festival:- The Shekhawati region in Rajasthan, which comprises of various cities like Sikar, Nawalgarh, Churu and Jhunjhunu, hosts the famous Shekhawati Festival over a course of three days and nights. It is marked by a variety of events, ranging from cultural programs, rural games, fireworks and haveli competitions. The festival also showcases the heritage and culture of the place and is held at various points around the city. Shekhawati Festival, organized by the State Department of Tourism, District administration of Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Churu and the M.R. Morarka- GDC Rural Research Foundation Shekhawati, is organized with the objective of promoting tourism in this region. The various havelis and mansions dotting this region are adorned with lovely pictures which showcase the cultural heritage of the region. The frescoes of Shekhawati date back to several centuries and are admired for their exquisite beauty and artistic brilliance. The perfection displayed in these wall paintings is simply remarkable.

Shekhawati Festival is hosted every year in February with the objective of promoting tourism in the region and showcasing the rich cultural heritage that it is renowned for. Along with the frescoes, the murals and paintings on the fabulous havelis and mansions enchant the visitors by themselves. Various events and competitions including cultural programs and rural games entertain the tourists immensely. A unique aspect of this festival is the organic food which is served to all the spectators and participants at the festival for a period of four days.

Rani Sati Fair:- Rani Sati Fair is celebrated twice a year, on Magh- Krishna Navami and Bhadrapada Amavasya (August). It is held at Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan. The fair takes its name from Rani Sati, the first of the series of thirteen Satis of the Jalan family, who immolated herself on Magh Krishna Navami day. The last Sati was performed on Bhadrapada Amavasya. Rani Sati Mela in Jhunjhunu (northern Shekhawati) attracts thousands of people and tourists from all over the world. The fair is held at the Rani Sati Mandir in Jhunjhunu. Throughout the fair, devotes indulge in prayers to commemorate the memory of a merchant s widow who committed Sati, who sacrificed her life on her husband s pyre, in 1595. The temple enjoys the distinction of being one of the ancient pilgrimages in the country. The temple is a historic and unprecedented work of genius that warrants a special visit. Every Year, on the occasion of Bhado Amavasya or the no-moon day a sacred Pujanutsav is held in Jhunjhunu at the Rani Sati temple. Millions of devotees gather at the temple complex every year on this auspicious day and stand in queue to get a glimpse of the majestic Shri Rani Sati.

Ramdev Fair:- Ramdevr Fair is celebrated after Baba Ramdev, who was a Tanwar Rajput and a saint who took “Samadhi” which is a process of conscious exit from the mortal body in the year 1458 AD. A large fair is held here from Bhadon Sudi 2 to Bhadon Sudi 11 which falls between the months of August to September. Ramdevr  Mela is attended by thousands of devotees who come in large groups from far and wide. Irrespective of their caste, creed or religious affiliations, these devotees throng the shrine dedicated to the saint. These groups organize night long singing of bhajans and kirtans to pay homage to Baba. Also known by the name of Ramdev Pir, Ramdevji, Ramdeo Pir, Ramsha Pir, Baba Ram Dev Ji was a ruler and a Tanwar Rajput who is regarded as the incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Bab Ramdevji was the son of King Ajmal. King Ajmal was childless so he went to Dwaraka and prayed to lord Krishna to have sons like him. After that the king had two sons Viramdev and the younger Ramdev. He was known for having miraculous powers and was quite famous in Rajasthan.

How to reach:- Jhunjhunu is well connected to the rest of India by rail and road. Regular bus services ply to and fro the city of Jhunjhunu, buses being operated both by private and government owners. There is no direct flight or rail connectivity, however, to Jhunjhunu. Some 180 km away is the Jaipur airport, which is the nearest airport that connects Jhunjhunu to the rest of India.

By Air:- Jaipur airport is the nearest at a distance of around 180 km. Taxies, cabs and state tourism buses can be boarded from here to cover the rest of the distance.

By Train:- Trains are a good option when planning to travel to Jhunjhunu for two reasons, budget and proximity of the destination with the railway station. The Jhunjhunu railway station is crossed by a couple of selected trains and the station is more connected to Delhi, Jaipur and Bikaner.

By Road:- Jhunjhunu is well connected by road to Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner and other major cities of the Shekhawati region.

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