Think Shekhawati and images of grand mansions and elaborate frescoes comes to mind. And the best time to explore the area is during the Shekhawati Festival. Spread over a number of venues – Nawalgarh, Sikar, Jhunjhunu and Churu, the festival celebrates art and culture of the region, often called the largest open air gallery. Festival programme include a day-long tour of the region, cultural programmes, farm visits, rural games, camel and jeep safaris, haveli competitions and fireworks. Organised tours to some of the famous Havelis, forts and temples are also part of the festival.