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17 Things To Know Before Travelling to Shekhawati, Rajasthan, India
1. Destination Overview of Shekhawati:
Shekhawati is a region in the north Indian state of Rajasthan, known for its grand havelis (traditional mansions). These were built by wealthy merchants during the 18th and 19th centuries and are decorated with vibrant frescoes depicting local legends, Hindu gods and Jain saints. The area is also home to the grand Bala Quila Fort, the Galodiya Temple and the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke, which is known for its thousands of rats.
2. Top Activities to do in Shekhawati:
• Visiting the havelis in the region, such as the Mahavir Prasad Goenka Haveli and the Goenka double haveli in Fatehpur.
• Exploring the Bala Quila Fort, which was constructed by the Rajput ruler Rao Raja Kuldev Singh in 1545.
• Going to the Galodiya Temple, a 16th-century Jain temple with intricately carved walls.
• Seeing the Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke, which is home to thousands of rats, and is believed to be a reincarnation of the Hindu goddess Karni Mata.
• Participating in the local festivals like the Shekhawati Pushkar Mela, Gangaur Festival and Shekhawati Festival.
• Enjoying the local cuisine such as Dal Bati Churma, Bajre Ki Roti, Lal Maans and Panchkuta.
3. Best Places To Stay in Shekhawati:
• Luxury Places: The Desert Resort, The Grand Shekhawati, Hotel Neelam Palace.
• Mid Range: Hotel Vinayak Palace, Maharaja Haveli, Hotel Mahima Palace.
• Budget Friendly: Hotel Neelkanth, Hotel Shanti Niwas, Hotel Gopal Palace.
4. How to Travel to Shekhawati?:
The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport (JAI), which is approximately 200 km away from Shekhawati. The nearest railway station is at Jaipur, which is about 200 km away. For local transportation, there are regular buses and private cabs that are available.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Shekhawati:
• Dal Bati Churma
• Bajre ki Roti
• Lal Maans
• Panchkuta
• Mirchi Vada
• Ghevar
• Kachoris
• Boondi Raita
• Ker Sangri Ki Sabji
• Moong Daal Ka Halwa
• Kheech
• Malpuas
6. Best Places to Eat in Shekhawati:
• Hotel Vinayak Palace: Dal Bati Churma and Bajre Ki Roti.
• Hotel Mahima Palace: Lal Maans, Panchkuta and Mirchi Vada.
• Hotel Neelam Palace: Ghevar, Kachoris and Boondi Raita.
• The Grand Shekhawati: Ker Sangri Ki Sabji, Moong Daal Ka Halwa and Kheech.
• Maharaja Haveli: Malpuas.
7. Weather and Climate:
The climate in Shekhawati is hot and dry during the summer months of April to June, with temperatures rising to over 40°C. The monsoon season starts in July and continues until September. The best time to visit Shekhawati is from October to March, when the temperature is cooler and more comfortable. Avoid visit during the summer months of April to June as it can be extremely hot and humid.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Shekhawati:
• It is important to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and legs when visiting temples and religious sites.
• It is considered rude to point your feet towards someone or any religious idols.
• It is polite to take off your shoes before entering a home or temple.
• It is considered polite to accept food or drink with your right hand.
• Tipping is appreciated but not expected.
9. Popular Scams in Shekhawati:
• Pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas.
• Overcharging for goods and services.
• Fake tour guides offering “free” tours.
• Fake beggars asking for donations.
• Unlicensed taxi drivers.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
A suggested trip duration for Shekhawati is 4-5 days. This will give you enough time to explore the havelis, temples, and other attractions in the area.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
The estimated budget per person for a trip to Shekhawati is around INR 5,000 to 8,000 including accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.
12. NearBy Cities:
• Jaipur: 200 km
• Bikaner: 250 km
• Jodhpur: 300 km
• Ajmer: 400 km
• Udaipur: 500 km
13. Local Language and Communication in Shekhawati:
The official language in Shekhawati is Hindi. English is also widely spoken in tourist destinations. Some common phrases to know are “Namaste” (hello), “Dhanyawad” (thank you), and “Kya haal hain” (how are you). English-speaking guides are available at some tourist destinations and usually charge around INR 500-1000 per day.
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The local currency in Shekhawati is the Indian Rupee (INR). Major credit and debit cards are accepted at most establishments. Tipping is not customary, but it is appreciated if the service was good.
15. Health and Medical Information:
It is recommended to get vaccinated for common illnesses like typhoid and hepatitis A before travelling to Shekhawati. It is also important to drink clean and safe water, and to wear insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne illnesses. Medical facilities are available in the larger cities and towns.
16. Packing Tips for Shekhawati:
• Wear comfortable, lightweight clothing and shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes.
• Bring your own water bottle and refill it with clean and safe water.
• Bring a power bank for charging your devices.
17. To sum up:
Shekhawati is a region in Rajasthan, India, known for its grand havelis and vibrant frescoes, as well as the Bala Quila Fort, Galodiya Temple and Karni Mata Temple in Deshnoke. It is best to visit Shekhawati from October to March, and the estimated budget per person for a trip is around INR 5,000 to 8,000.