Sikar sits in the heart of Shekhawati—the fresco-filled cultural region comprising Sikar, Jhunjhunu, and Churu—and is an easy, rewarding halt on any Jaipur–Bikaner (or Jaipur–Mandawa–Fatehpur) itinerary. The region’s arid climate shaped a frugal yet ingenious vegetarian cuisine: millet-based breads (especially bajra), robust lentil dishes like panchmel dal, and a mithai culture powered by milk, ghee, and sugarcraft. Beyond the thalis, Sikar’s main bazaar is dotted with sweet shops selling year-round favorites—kalakand, peda, besan barfi/chakki, laddoos—and seasonal icons like ghevar. Local directories and listings reveal the sheer density of mithai outlets in Sikar city and nearby towns, underscoring its reputation as a sweets hub in Shekhawati.

When travelers think of Rajasthan, places like Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer usually steal the spotlight. But if you want to step off the beaten path and truly immerse yourself in the living, breathing history of the region, Shekhawati is where you should go. Often called the “Open-Air Art Gallery of India,” Shekhawati is a treasure trove of intricately painted havelis, grand merchant mansions, and restored palace hotels that offer an authentic peek into Rajasthan’s glorious past.