Overview

Sikar is a part of the Shekhawati region, famous around the world for its mansions with frescoes or painted havelis. Sikar used to be the largest estate (Thikana) of the princely state of Jaipur. The town of Sikar exists since the 17th century and has Rajput history attached to it. Raja Bahadur Singh Shekhawat, the Raja of Khandela gifted the village known as Beer Bhan Ka Bass to Rao Daulat Singh, the son of Rao Jaswant Singh of Kasli Thikana. Rao Daulat Singh laid the foundation of Sikar in 1687 and built its fort. His son Rao Shiv Singh in turn made several forts and palaces and developed Sikar into an important town.

Tourist attractions in Sikar

Temple of Raghunath Ji

Temple of Raghunath Ji and Hanuman Ji is a major tourist attraction of Sikar. This temple has amazing murals and a portrait of Col. Boileau who was a keen astronomer and architect. Col. Boileau built the Observatory and the Christ Church in Shimla. The other murals include portraits of the rulers of Sikar and also one with a view of Jaipur city.

Harashnath Temple

The Harashnath Temple here is from the 10th century. It is located on the Aravalli Hills near Sikar. Visit here to see the ruins of the ancient Shiva temple. Close to this temple stands another Shiva temple built in the 18th century by Shiva Singh of Sikar.

Jeenmata

The Jeen Mata Mandir is the venue for a fair held in April-May each year that attracts devotees in large numbers. The temple features twenty four pillars carved with divine figures. The idol of Goddess Jeen Mata in the temple has eight arms. Do not miss a visit to the annual fair held here during Navratri in the months of Chaitra and Ashwin.

Clock Tower

The market place here has a Clock Tower. Most shops around it sell tie and dye fabric that is a specialty here. The garments that can be purchased in tie & dye style include colorful long scarves for women and bright turbans for men.

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