About 168 km from Jaipur and 240 km from Delhi lies Mandawa, a storybook town where colourful frescoes on every subject under the sun can be spotted on the walls of its ornate havelis. The themes of these wall paintings range from the religious to the erotic; from copies of popular English prints to witty social satire, rendered in the inimitable style of the local artist. The highlight of the town is the Castle Mandawa, a fortress, now converted into a luxurious heritage hotel.

Like many historic homes, Castle Mandawa is a curious mixture of the old and the new. Medieval turreted towers, palanquin-roofed balconies, blend with modern comforts in old-world rooms. Family portraits, antique cannons and arms add to the charm of this family-run resort where tradition still runs strong. Even time is measured by a different clock...a huge brass gong struck by the resident timekeepers at the fort every hour!

Another accommodation option is the Desert Resort , Mandawa. The mystery and romance of the desert are captured in the unusual architecture of the resort. Recreated in the style of a typical Rajasthani village, The Desert Resort is a verdant oasis in the midst of a stark desert landscape. Visitors to this haven peopled by camels, peacocks, birds and khejri trees, can experience a whole new world - the aesthetic charm of the rural without compromising on luxury or comfort. The Desert Resort reflects the traditional harmony between man and nature in the region