Is Shekhawati really worth it? (India)

Hi! After arriving in Delhi and heading to Rajasthan, I'd like to take a break to acclimate to the climate and vibe around Mandawa... Do you think that's a good idea? Is there a better option? I'm heading toward Bikaner.

Thanks!😇

Is Shekhawati really worth the trip?...

yes

Mandawa... Do you think it's a good idea?.. Is there a better choice?..

Mandawa is mainly visited by groups and/or tourists traveling by private car, so it’s relatively expensive. The town is definitely worth a visit, though.

For me, the most "complete" town is Nawalgarh.

I have a soft spot for Churu, which is on the railway line to Bikaner, but I don’t think the train schedules from Churu to Bikaner are great.

Thanks for your reply! Actually, I was thinking of heading to this region as a first stop in India to acclimate a bit, away from the hustle and bustle of New Delhi... The problem is that it doesn’t seem easy to get there quickly, and the same goes for continuing on to Bikaner afterward. What do you think?... I’d pick the most accessible town (Mandawa, Nawalgarh, etc.).

Thanks for your advice! 😉

It's all about timing... if you can fit in a night in the region on your way to Bikaner or Jaisalmer, why not? It's generally a good travel stop.

I spent a night in Mandawa, then visited Fatehpur and Nawalgarh the next day, and honestly, I don’t regret it. Sure, the havelis are generally in a sorry state, but the welcome is really warm. You can visit havelis that are still inhabited and go to locals' homes without any problem. It’s a great way to acclimate without feeling too "overwhelmed." The French are actually very well received because several patrons have invested in the region. As for tourists, it’s nothing like other parts of Rajasthan. We didn’t encounter huge groups—just a lot of backpackers.

A great tip: visit Nadine Leprince’s cultural center in Fatehpur. It’s a beautifully restored haveli with a guided tour in French (for just a few rupees).

Of course you should go to Shekhawati, and especially to Nawalgar, which is a small town spared from mass tourism... There's a direct train to Delhi, so I imagine the reverse is also true... The paintings are stunning, the locals are very welcoming, and we stayed with Kalpana Singh, who cooks wonderfully well and uses organic ingredients....

Mandawa is more touristy, and the people are more business-oriented.... Not much of interest there.....

Safe travels, here’s Kalpana laughing her head off....

Thanks so much, that confirms what I was thinking...

Do you know the schedules, duration, and/or the fare (train, of course)?...

By the way, I'm leaving tomorrow!!! So I'm eagerly waiting for your reply!!!🤪

You're so lucky, I just got back from the Ganges sources north of Delhi—amazing trip..... On the other hand, you're gonna be *super* hot in Shekhawati at this time of year. It was 44°C in Delhi last Sunday..... As for the train, I took the overnight one from Nawalgarh straight to Delhi....But I don’t remember the number... Pick up a copy of "Trains at a Glance" when you arrive—it’ll have all the schedules.... Have a great trip!

By the way, I'm leaving tomorrow!!! so I'm eagerly waiting for your reply!!!🤪

Too late! Dive in!

Shekhawati Rajasthan is definitely worth it. Especially if you want to experience rural life in Rajasthan but also visit the town of Nawalgarh, a true open-air museum, and visit Bikaner, which is totally worth the detour with its Junagarh Fort.

Hi! Did you know you're replying to a post that was made 17 years ago?

You know you're replying to a post that was made 17 years ago?

You little rascal! LOL! How are you doing? Finding it tough getting back into the swing of things?

Yeah, I noticed that too. Still, a lot of people are checking out this thread, so I guess the question is still relevant ;)

Yeah, I’ll admit the return wasn’t easy, but I’m good now, thanks!