About Mandawa
Overview
Best Time to Visit Mandawa
Plan your trip around the right season
Why visit
Cool days for walking between havelis and for day trips across Shekhawati. The state-run Shekhawati Festival is usually held in this period, though its dates and venue change each year.
Keep in mind
December and January nights can drop close to freezing. Weekend tour groups crowd the best-known havelis.
Why visit
Very few visitors and lower rates at haveli hotels.
Keep in mind
Shekhawati summer is extreme, often above 45°C, and dust storms are common.
Why visit
Occasional rain cools the region and the countryside turns green.
Keep in mind
Humid heat between showers makes long walks tiring.
Why visit
Cool days for walking between havelis and for day trips across Shekhawati. The state-run Shekhawati Festival is usually held in this period, though its dates and venue change each year.
Keep in mind
December and January nights can drop close to freezing. Weekend tour groups crowd the best-known havelis.
Why visit
Very few visitors and lower rates at haveli hotels.
Keep in mind
Shekhawati summer is extreme, often above 45°C, and dust storms are common.
Why visit
Occasional rain cools the region and the countryside turns green.
Keep in mind
Humid heat between showers makes long walks tiring.
How to Reach Mandawa
Intercity connectivity and travel options
Mandawa has no railway station or airport. Jhunjhunu, about 27 km away, is the nearest station, with trains to Delhi and Jaipur; Nawalgarh, about 33 km away, is the other option. Jaipur airport is about 170 to 180 km away, roughly 3.5 to 4 hours by road. Delhi is about 260 km away. RSRTC buses run from Jaipur, Delhi and Bikaner.
Getting Around Mandawa
Local transport and practical tips
Local transport
The old town and its havelis are best explored on foot. Hire a car for day trips to Fatehpur (about 20 km), Nawalgarh (about 30 km) and Jhunjhunu. Buses connect the towns but run slowly.
Best Areas to Stay in Mandawa
Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip
Mandawa old town
Heritage staysRestored havelis and the old fort, now run as hotels, a short walk from the painted lanes.
Mandawa outskirts
Families and couplesResorts on the edge of town with more space, pools and quiet rooms, a few minutes' drive from the havelis.
Nawalgarh
Travellers covering several Shekhawati townsHeritage hotels in a neighbouring painted town, handy for rail access and the Nawalgarh havelis.