Khetri is a forgotten town that offers a raw desert charm and a glimpse into our history. Tucked away in the hills of the Aravalli range in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, Khetri has a lot to explore, including crumbling frescoed havelis and quiet villages waiting to be retraced.
In recent decades, Khetri has gained popularity for its copper mining, but was once ruled by the Shekhawat Rajputs, who were known for their arts and architecture.
Khetri Mahal (Wind Palace)
Often called the ‘Jharokha Mahal’, this 18th-century palace was built by Bhopal Singh, who is also the founder of modern Khetri. It is a brilliant example of Rajasthani architecture with its open corridors, latticework, and wind channels. Some say it must have inspired the famous Hawa Mahal in Jaipur.
Today, the place is crumbling, and no one, including the Archeological Survey of India, seems to be saving this heritage site.
Khetri Fort (Bhopalgarh Fort)
Towering over the town, the fort again is a forgotten marvel. It offers panoramic views of the Aravallis and the town of Khetri. It contains two palaces: Naya Mahal and Moti Mahal. You may need to hike or take a rugged vehicle to reach the top.
Bagore Haveli
- This is a relatively unknown haveli that is adorned with fading frescoes depicting mythology and royal life. While partially in ruins, it retains its regal charm, which makes it worth visiting.
Explore the temples & baori of Khetri
- Raghunath Temple and Ganesh Mandir offer a spiritual pause in your itinerary. These ancient temples, though simple, hold community stories and traditional rituals.
- You can also explore lesser-known baoris (stepwells) like Jalim Singh ki Baori.
Swami Vivekananda & Khetri connection
Khetri holds a special place in the spiritual and personal journey of Swami Vivekananda. It was here that Raja Ajit Singh of Khetri, a progressive and spiritual-minded king, met Narendra Nath Datta (the young Vivekananda) and became his devoted patron and friend. Vivekananda Memorial in Khetri stands today to commemorate this powerful connection.
- First Visit (1891): Raja Ajit Singh was deeply impressed by Vivekananda’s intellect, oratory, and philosophical depth. Their relationship blossomed into one of mutual respect.
- Gift of the Name: The name “Swami Vivekananda” was also bestowed during his time in Khetri, shortly before he departed for the West. In fact, it was Raja Ajit Singh who helped fund Swami Vivekananda’s historic journey to the World Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893.
Explore more nearby
Chirawa Town (30 mins from Khetri)
A quaint town filled with colourful havelis and a bustling local market. The town is known for sweets, and Chirawa ki Ghevar and Feeni are must-haves.
Alsisar (40 km from Khetri)
Alsisar is known for its painted havelis and the Alsisar Mahal, now a heritage hotel. Guests can indulge in heritage walks, desert safaris with sundowners, and cooking sessions that bring Rajasthani culinary traditions to life. Read more about this heritage place in my blog on ‘Exploring Alsisar: Heritage, Festivals & Desert Life‘.
Wandering through Alsisar’s lanes is like stepping into a living art gallery where frescoed mansions tell tales of merchant wealth and Shekhawati legacy. Notable stops include:
- Poonia Haveli
- Tejpal Jhunjhunuwala ki Haveli
- Ramjas Jhunjhunuwala ki Haveli
- Shri Lal Bahadur Mal ki Haveli
- Lakha ki Haveli
- Mahali Dutt Khaitan Haveli
- Arjun Ram Khetan Haveli
Alsisar hosts several temples, including the Rani Sati Temple, Satya Narayan ji ka Temple, Gopinathji Temple, Jode ka Balaji Mandir, Chouk vale Balaji Mandir, Mataji Temple, and Shyam Baba ka Mandir, among others. Also, visit the Cenotaph of Thakur Chhotu Singh that stands as a poignant memorial.
Music Festival at Alsisar
In recent years, Alsisar hosts the Magnetic Fields Music Festival which welcomes various musicians from around the world to perform.
Patan Mahal: (44.2 km) via MDR93)
Patan Mahal is a hidden royal retreat nestled in the Aravalli hills of Rajasthan, offering heritage charm, farm-fresh food, and serene views. Perfect for slow travel, Patan Mahal invites you to explore ancient forts, village trails, and quiet moments in a 13th-century palace setting. Website: https://www.patanmahal.com.
*All images seen below are from their official website.
Rani Sati Temple: 55.1 km via NH 311 and MDR93
Located in Jhunjhunu, the temple is more than 400 years old and honours Rani Sati with daily rituals, vibrant murals, and an annual fair that draws thousands of devotees seeking blessings and inspiration.
Learn about who Rani Sati was and the interesting story about her at Rani Sati story
For more details, visit the website at https://online.srsjm.org
Location & Distance Guide to Khetri
Nearest Railway Station: Chirawa (20 km) or Jhunjhunu (65 km)
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport (170 km)
Sikar to Khetri: 101.6 km via RJ SH 37B
Gurgaon to Khetri: 154 km via NH 48
Jaipur to Khetri: 166 km
Delhi to Khetri: 184 km via NH 48
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