Sikar

Sikar is the other major town of Shekhawati, apart from Jhunjhunu and Mandawa. Sikar was the biggest Thikana (Estate) of the Jaipur State. It started out as a village but now is an important town. Over the years, it has become famous for its painted frescoes. The frescoes can be found in private dwellings, mansions, temples and even at the fort, making Sikar a very charming place for tourists, with something new to be discovered at every corner.

The town is surrounded by a high wall with seven imposing gates. There are two forts, the forts of Raghunathgarh and Deogarh in and around Sikar. The havelis of Biyani, Murarka, Somani, Sagarmal Sodhani and Madho Niwas are major attractions amongst the havelis. Besides these attractions, Temple of Raghunath Ji and Temple of Gopinath Ji are also worthy of a visit. Woodwork, furniture and handicrafts are the best to shop for in Sikar.

Sikar is situated midway between Bikaner and Agra on National Highway number 11 and is accessible from both places. It is at a distance of 116 km from Jaipur, 320km from Jodhpur, 240 km from Bikaner and 301 km. from Delhi. The temperature in summer goes up to 48 C and in winter goes down to 1C. The time considered best to visit Sikar is from September to March.