A
small village situated 25 km to the southeast of Mandawa, Mukundgarh, was
found by Raja Mukund Singh in 18th century. It has a distinction of being a
craft centre of the Shekhawati region. The sleepy town has some of the
finest brass and iron wares, painted fabrics and puppets. You can also shop
for Shekhawati paintings recreated on cloth and paper. Confirming to the
Shekhawati tradition further are its havelis and the Mukundgarh fort that
showcase remarkable murals and frescoes. You can also look forward to enjoy
camel rides, jeep safaris and folk performances here.
The 18th century Mukundgarh Fort is now converted into a heritage hotel,
which will provide the best accommodation in the entire town. This massive
fort spanning to two acres has large courtyards, balconies and arched
windows of royal syle. There are 46 rooms, which are lavishly decorated with
antique furnishings. The Maharaja suite, as well as other rooms of the fort,
has beautiful Shekhawati paintings on the walls. The suite can accommodate
up to eight people.
Another attraction of Mukundgarh is the Saraf Haveli. It is also known as
Ganga Bux Saraf Haveli, named after the Sarafs, a flourished business
family. A gigantic entrance gate opens to an expansive courtyard, leading to
other rooms and courtyards and rooms of the haveli, which are connected by
long passages and verandas.
The interiors of the rooms showcase latticework and brightly colored
paintings in yellow, blue, green, golden and maroon colors, depicting
mythological legends, mostly from Lord Krishna's life. You can also find
here old family pictures and linen fans. It is one of the biggest haveli in
the whole of the Shekhawati region.
Ajmer
