Mandawa Kothi is a 300-year-old restored Haveli that is only 4 hours from Delhi. It has been one of the smoothest drives of all the road trips we have embarked on. The town of Mandawa is basically a traders’ town and houses many, many, many colourful havelis. The city has been featured in many Bollywood movies. And the Kothi itself has been featured in PK and Bajrangi Bhaijaan. Pre-covid, the town saw a lot of Italian and Spanish tourists.
reaching mandawa
Mandawa is located in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan and is a part of the Shekhawati region. Navigating through the gullies of the city is a little tricky but you will get around to it with some help from maps. The nearest airport in Jaipur, so a road trip is the most advised option.
Travelling: Rent a car or opt for a bus. You can drive too, it is a very smooth and picturesque route, about 250km
Best time to visit: October to March
Fun fact, Holi is very popular in all of Shekhawati but especially in Mandawa. Holi is played only with gulal and is a dry one.
Want to make a pitstop in Jaipur? Here are some fun things to do and eat!
Exploring Mandawa Kothi
The restored Kothi that stands now exemplifies the times and richness it was first built in. The origins are unknown but the owner, Shri Maan Seth Kedar Mal Ladia’s portrait still hangs in the courtyard. Much like most of Mandawa, he was a tradesman on the Silk Route and dealt with valuable jewels.
During restoration, the Kothi was modernized and now stands as the highest point of Mandawa, and still retains its traditional elements. And yet, exuberates a contemporary modern and highly instagrammable space. Which is probably why it is a hot choice for many photoshoots!
You can get up to plenty at The Mandawa Kothi. And the staff is super helpful and ensure that you get the most out of the city! Take a dip in the pool when the weather is right. Or enjoy a bonfire in the grounds. But the highlight is the sunset. The staff sets up dhurries and cushions on the little balconies atop the highest tower. And you get an uninterrupted view as the sun goes down. And gorgeous warm hues colour the sky.
The arched alleyways, coloured vintage doors and chaarpais all add to the vintage charm.
Dining at Mandawa Kothi
The food is simple and uses local ingredients like kachra and bajra. In the evenings, the staff adds beautifully lit lamps to the grounds. And you can choose to eat on the grounds or overlooking them.
There is no in-house bar, but you can carry your own alcohol. The staff is more than happy to help you set up wherever on the property you may choose.
Out and about in the town
You cannot miss out on the many, many havelis that stand as privately owned museums. Most have been converted into hotels including the Mandawa Castle. You can opt for a guided tour, so you don’t have to scout through and navigate the winding (and very similar looking roads) Shopping for souvenirs doesn’t include a whole lot – but textiles, and leather mojaris are a good option.
You can also pick up old elements from the havelis being demolished or restored – beams, doors, window frames.
Mandawa Kothi
Ward No. 5, Mandawa, Rajasthan 333704
Average rate per night – INR 7500 ++
Find them here