Jhunjhunu is a town located in the heart of Rajasthan’s Shekhawati region where history, culture and art go hand in hand. Jhunjhunu is famous for its elaborately painted havelis as majestic forts and sacred temples that provide a taste of the regal lifestyle of Rajasthan in the past times. Unlike bustling, touristy towns such as Jaipur and Udaipur, Jhunjhunu is a quieter, an ‘offbeat’ destination but is perfectly suited for the travellers who actually want to experience a city in its authentic history and culture. 

Top Things to do in Jhunjhunu

Without any dubiousness, here's a guide to how to do the best things in Jhunjhunu.   

Explore the Majestic Khetri Mahal

The Khetri Mahal is a known Wind Palace of Jhunjhunu, which is one of the marvelous landmarks of the city. Khetri Mahal was built in 1770 by Bhopal Singh and is a fine example of Rajasthani architecture with no doors or windows but with the use of strategic design for ventilation.

An ethereal charm is given by the arches, frescoes and open air corridors. Climb up to the top floors and you will be treated to the panoramic views of the town and you could capture the historic flavour through photography.

You can visit Stunning Havelis of Jhunjhunu

A jem of painted havelis abound(Almost grand mansions or maybe mansions with intricate frescoes and murals of mythologies, daily life, colonial influence).

Must-visit Havelis:

Modi and Tibrewala Haveli: For their well preserved murals of mythological themes.

The Kaniram Narsingh Das Tibrewala Haveli: Features beautiful artwork and detailed paintings.

The Seth Ishwardas Modi Haveli: A fine example of artistic architecture.

Walking through the street, they found it like walking through an open air museum.

Rani Sati Temple is considered sacred to give blessings

Rani Sati Dadi Temple is one of the most famous pilgrimage sites of Rajasthan which attracts devotees throughout India. It cannot house any idol and it has a trident (symbol of power) which is unique to this temple as it is dedicated to Rani Sati who is worshipped for devotion and sacrifice.

The temple complex is large and there are white marble structures, colorful paintings and vibrant religious activities. The annual fair held in Bhadon Amavasya (August – September) period of Bhakti is the epitome of local devotion and culture.

Know the Charm of Modi Haveli

Of these splendid havelis, Modi Haveli is one of the most interesting, because it controls the largest stretch of real estate, and is the most ostentatious. The haveli is known for its intricate murals, carved wooden doors and opulent courtyards and was built by the wealthy Modi family.

Here the paintings vividly paint the pictures of the Hindu mythology, British colonial life and the early modes of transportation such as trains and motorcars, another reflection of the eclectic influences of the Shekhawati region.

You can also explore the Mandawa Town which is near Jhunjhunu

Although technically a separate town, Mandawa is just a short drive from Jhunjhunu, and technically called the ‘open air art gallery of Rajasthan’. The Mandawa is dotted with some of the spectacular havelis one more elaborate than the other.

Key attractions in Mandawa:

Mandawa Fort: A beautiful fort-turned-hotel offering regal stays and incredible frescoes.

Jhunjhunwala Haveli: Notable for its murals of British officers and elaborate floral designs.

Gulab Rai Ladia Haveli: House of some of the most impressive paintings in the area.

If you are in Jhunjhunu then a day trip to Mandawa is a must.

Spend tranquility at Badalgarh Fort

Badalgarh Fort built in the 17th century by Nawab Fazl Khan is located at the outskirts of Jhunjhunu town. Though partially in ruins, the fort still stands majestically, with views perfectly presented of the surroundings.

What also makes it alluring is its role in the Rajput rulers’ history as a stronghold. Badalgarh is fantastic if you’re a fort, ruin and a bit of a mystery lover.

Visit the Khemi Sati Temple

Khemi Sati Temple is another one of the important religious sites with a local deity, who was reputed for her sacrifice. The temple is nicely decorated and is a very serene place to do mediation and quiet mediation.

It is a well hidden gem for those people who are looking for spiritual solace as there are relatively lesser crowds and surrounding gardens as compared to the Rani Sati Temple.

Attend the Vibrant Local Festivals

The festivals of Jhunjhunu are especially lively.

Gangaur Festival: A colorful festival where women perform rituals in honor of goddess Gauri through processions.

Teej Festival: Teej Festival in which there are swings, songs and dancing particularly by womenfolk.

Shekhawati Festival: Shekhawati Festival, the fest is celebrated throughout Shekhawati region covering Jhunjhunu and other places and is a blend of folk music and dances along with traditional games and art exhibitions.

Entry to or witnessing these festivals gives an authentic peek into the Rajasthani culture.

Wander Through Local Markets

Jhunjhunu local markets are bustling with people and attract no visitors. These markets are filled with:

- Hand-embroidered textiles

- Colorful bangles

- Rajasthani jewelry

- Miniature paintings

- Traditional footwear (mojris)

The markets around Khetri Bazaar and Main Market Road are also quite lively, with a series of everything you can think of providing a shopping and cultural experience rolled into one.

Admire the Dargah of Kamaruddin Shah

A visit to the Darga of Kamaruddin Shah is very important for those who wish to study Sufi culture. It is one of the significant spiritual sites of Jhunjhunu that attracts followers from presumed faiths.

The dargah is a perfect respite from the sightseeing hustle, the still and peaceful atmosphere calm and serene enough to give you a few minutes of quiet contemplation.

Enjoy Traditional Rajasthani Cuisine

Rajasthani food is an expression of rich tastes and hearty dishes. In Jhunjhunu, you must try:

Dal Baati Churma: Dal Baati Churma is a combination of baked wheat balls, lentil curry, and sweet crumbled wheat.

Ker Sangri: Desert beans and berries have been made into a tangy dish.

Gatte ki Sabzi: Chickpea flour dumplings cooked in yogurt curry.

Rabri and Ghevar: Jewellery items, though introduce a new style in fashion (duh, there is Style, wdym? ) and are extremely popular with tourists.

The food places are in plenty and are served in many small eateries and dhabas where you will get the true home styled food which you shouldn’t miss.

Explore Mukundgarh (Near Jhunjhunu)

Mukundgarh in another small town close to Jhunjhunu is no less than a quieter version of Shekhawati art. Beautiful havelis and narrow streets coined for leisurely exploration pepper around the town.

It is worth a visit to Mukundgarh Fort in the form of an heritage hotel for its regal charm and hospitality.

Conclusion: 

Known for being overshadowed by the more famous cities of Rajasthan, Jhunjhunu serves as a colorful monument to that area’s rich artistic, cultural and historical heritage. Jhunjhunu is devoid of the beauty of majestic havelis decked in ancient frescoes, grand temples bound to a legend and legends for forts.

Whether you're a history lover, an architecture admirer, a devotee searching for divinity, or a plain and simple traveller seeking an out of the box adventure, Jhunjhunu guarantees an experience that has its roots deep in the heart of the city, is certainly colorful and deeply memorable. Jhunjhunu is like visiting a living museum, museums where the past is kept with such beauty, still, amidst its daily life pulses.

Well then, pack your bags and head off to find these other unknown Jhunjhunu marvels that you would be bringing back a story filled with heart and greater appreciation for Rajasthan.