Tucked away in the Jhunjhunu district of northern Rajasthan, Dundlod is a remarkably well-preserved heritage town that embodies the true old-world charm of the Shekhawati circuit. Established in the mid-18th century under the Rajput lines of the Shekhawat clan, this quiet town avoids the commercial rush of larger tourist destinations, offering travelers an intimate, uninterrupted look back into the era of grand Havelis, imposing forts, and elite cavalry culture.

Beyond its magnificent fresco artwork, Dundlod holds a legendary reputation worldwide as the equestrian capital of the region. It is highly celebrated for housing specialized heritage studs dedicated entirely to breeding and conserving the magnificent, rare Marwari horse—the indigenous battle steed of the Rajputs recognized instantly by its unique, inward-curving ears.

Dundlod’s historical landscape centers entirely around Dundlod Fort, constructed in 1750 by Thakur Keshri Singh. This formidable stronghold features an architectural layout designed to withstand medieval sieges, surrounded by a deep moat, heavy iron-studded wooden gates, and high stone battlements.

Over the generations, the rulers of Dundlod blended their military fort with luxurious European and Mughal design touches. Today, the fort has been masterfully converted into a world-class heritage hotel that doubles as the base camp for legendary multi-day horse safaris. Travelers can saddle up on fine Marwari horses to ride out across the surrounding golden desert dunes, following the exact paths walked by ancient merchant caravans.