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Wish
to have a brush with the past and get drench in the
artistic abundance? How about
the city of Havelis - Nawalgarh? The town of Nawalgarh
derives its name from Thakur Nawal Singh who founded
it in the year 1737.
Nawalgarh
is rightly referred to as the Open Air Gallery. There
is art all around. Nawalgarh is renowned all over the
world for its exquisitely painted havelis that are beautifully
designed and carved. The havelis are the mansions that
boast of the beautifully carved wooden gates and the
painted walls. The ornate iron and brass fittings revealed
the affluence of the owner of the haveli. The marvelous
murals have been painted on both the sides of the walls.
The paintings were further decorated with small pieces
of mirror, gold and silver leaves. The religious nature
of the people is revealed in the paintings that revolve
around the themes for the life and times of Lord Krishna.
In fact there are a range of topics that get covered
on the walls of the havelis at Nawalgarh. The list of
must visit havelis at Nawalgarh comprises of the Anandilal
Poddar Haveli, the Jodhraj Patodia Haveli, Bansidar
Bhagat Haveli, Chokhani Haveli, the Aath (eight) Haveli
complex, Chhawchhariya Haveli, Murarka Haveli, Hem Raj
Kulwal Haveli, Bhagton Ki Haveli, and Khedwal Bhavan.
The traders and merchants constructed most of the havelis
in the 18th century and the early 19th century. The
business of silk and opium brought in a lot of wealth
to the merchants. So check out these finest frescoes
in the Nawalgarh!
While
at Nawalgarh you must visit the British Clock Tower
at the college. The clock tower is a major landmark
in Nawalgarh, which is the heart of the Shekhawati.
Then there are two famous forts of Nawalgarh. The dome
of the Nawalgarh fort has an aerial view of Jaipur painted
on it. The Ganga Mai temple near the gate of one of
the forts is a major tourist attraction.
At
Nawalgarh you may even avail a comfortable and luxurious
stay at the residence of the Thakur of Nawalgarh. The
Roop Niwas Palace is the right choice at Nawalgarh for
the royal experience of your retreat. There are the
gorgeous green garden and the fabulous fountains that
will not fail to sweep you off your feet. For recreation
you may even indulge in pool and billiards. Camel as
well as horse rides can also be opted for. There are
as many as thirty well-appointed and equipped rooms
to make your stay an unforgettable one. The charming
combination of the Rajput and the European architectures
of the Roop Niwas Palace are captivating. Off late the
royal residence has been converted into a heritage hotel.
On
the 10th and the 11th of February every year Nawalgarh
plays host to the Shekhawati Festival besides Sikar,
Jhunjhunu and Churu. Though you may plan your visit
to Nawalgarh any time of the year the period between
the months of September and March are the best. Nawalgarh
is easily accessible. The capital city of Rajasthan
state namely Jaipur is at a distance of hundred kilometers
from Nawalgarh. Jaipur happens to be the nearest airport
that connects Nawalgarh with the other major cities
of India by air. In terms of rail transport the railway
station at Nawalgarh caters to the tourists and other
travelers of train from the neighboring areas. The road
network links Nawalgarh with most of the major towns
of Rajasthan. Once you reach Nawalgarh you may opt for
hiring jeeps or auto rickshaws to travel locally. At
Nawalgarh food and accommodation are easily available.
There are budget hotels and other restaurants that cater
to the needs of the tourists of varying pocket sizes.
Get
going to the city of the havelis that promises you the
time of your life - Nawalgarh!

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