Dundlod
Dundlod is another one of those typical villages in shekhawati region of Rajasthan that have conjured up the culture, art and tradition beautifully exhibiting it through its vibrant social set up and historical monuments. Located at the heart of the Shekhawati region, it comprises of a cluster of forts and havelis, earning it the title of ‘an open-air art gallery’.
This tiny village lies at about seven km north of Nawalgarh. Keshari Singh, the fifth and youngest son of a Rajput ruler Sardul Singh built the Dundlod Fort in 1750. His descendant Sheo Singh made significant additions to the fort in the early 19th century. The town was also inhabited by the wealthy Goenka merchant family who built several exquisitely painted havelis here. Notable amongst them is the beautiful chhatri of Ram Dutt built by Ram Chandra Goenka in 1888.
The fort of Dundlod remains the most famous attraction of Dundlod village. It is an embodiment of the Rajputana and Mughal Schools of Art and Architecture. The fort is still in well preserved state with its minarets, motif of flowers and foliage, archaic furniture, mythological paintings and shields have remained almost the same. A stay at the Dundlod Fort is an enchanting experience and brings to life the days of yore when royalty resided at this mystical land.
Some famous buildings inside the fort include the Diwan Khana that for a change displays Mughal architectural style fully furnished with Louis the XIV furniture. The in-house library has a rich collection of rare books and manuscripts on Indian history. Its walls are adorned with family portraits of the thakurs. The Duchatta built to facilitate ladies watched the court ceremonies in purdah lies above the library.
Jagathia Haveli and Satyanarayan Temple are the other two attractions in Dundlod. Apart from the sightseeing, Dundlod is also known for the annual Gangaur festival. Celebrated with great fervor and excitement during the month of March, Dundlod organizes a horse show attracting a large number of visitors. Overall, Dundlod is an ideal destination for witnessing some of the most exquisite murals and frescos adorned Havelis, a majestic fort and a cultural atmosphere reminiscent with traditional and royal Rajasthan.













