Mandawa Haveli in Rajasthan

The Mandawa Haveli is located 15 kilometers away from the Jaipur Airport. This haveli was built by a jeweler in the 1890s. The porch with arched entrances, a central courtyard, and the interiors are typically Rajasthani in style. Since this haveli was built later than most other havelis in Rajasthan, the Mandawa is more “modern” in appearance, borrowing from the British architectural style (evident if you look at the square walls and box windows).

Inside the haveli is a world you could not have imagined from the exteriors. Paintings of the playful Lord Krishna adorn the walls. The walls are elaborately frescoed, detailing flowers, animals, and people and making the room come alive. Don’t forget to visit the small museum in the haveli.

The current owners have put together a charming collection of ornaments, period costumes (which actually were manufactured in the “period”), and little bric-a-bracs that wealthy families in Rajasthan possessed in the old days.

Today, the haveli is a heritage hotel catering to domestic as well as international travelers. You can book rooms and suites at the hotel, enjoy dining at the huge hall with arches and balconies, and watch the city from the rooftop as you enjoy a quiet dinner. If you do book into the hotel, you will be provided rooms with antique furniture, old paintings, and luxurious carpets.

The room amenities, however, are modern – you have attached bath with hot/cold water, conference facilities, candlelight rooftop dinners, and a choice of cuisines.

Dining at the old hall, once the reception area for nobles and important personages of Mandawa, makes you feel like a king or queen from the days of yore. The food is prepared from traditional recipes; though the staff can also rustle up a good Continental breakfast should you be so inclined.

The region has other havelis and palaces you should visit. They include the Ladia, and the Chokhani. A trip to Mandawa haveli can refresh your mind, and introduce you to another aspect of life in Rajasthan.