NH11: From Jaisalmer to Rewari

The National Highway-11 (NH11) connects Jaisalmer in Rajasthan to Rewari in Haryana. The 848-km highway passes through various towns and cities, offering a unique glimpse into the cultural diversity of India. 

 

NH11: Main facts

The NH11 passes through various towns and cities, including Pithala, Pokaran, Ramdevra, Phalodi, Bap, Sri Dungargarh, Bikaner, Rajaldesar, Ratangarh, Fatehpur, Rolsabsar, Tajsar, Mandawa, Jhunjhunu, Bagar, Chirawa, Singhana, Pacheri, Narnaul and Rewari. 

Most of the highway’s length (760 km) starts or junctions near National Highway 70 (Munabao-Tanot Highway) in the district of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. The remaining length and starting point, or link, with National Highway 352 (Narwana-Jhajjar-Rewari) is in the district of Rewari in Haryana.

 

NH11: History and purpose

The original route that connected Sikar to Bharatpur began at the border between Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh and travelled through Bharatpur, Mahwa, Dausa, Jaipur, and Ringas. It continued on the old NH15 to Fatehpur, Ratangarh, and Dungargarh before coming to an end at Bikaner. It connected the well-known tourist destinations Jaipur and Agra via the Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was 531 km long. 

The new route crosses the old NH11 at Fatehpur and begins at the NH48 (the Delhi-Jaipur national highway) in the Rewari district. It then travels through Narnaul, Chirawa, and Jhunjhunu. It continues from Bikaner to Jaisalmer.

The purpose of the NH11 is to provide a shorter route between Delhi and Bikaner, reducing travel time significantly. It also provides an efficient transportation system for various towns and cities along the highway, which is essential for trade and commerce.

 

NH11: Popular tourist destinations

The NH 11 passes through various cities and towns, offering many options for tourists to explore and experience. The following are some of the top places to visit along National Highway 11:

Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a famous tourist destination in the heart of the Thar Desert. It is known for its magnificent forts, havelis, and temples. Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning city views. The Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli, and Nathmal ki Haveli are some of the most famous havelis in Jaisalmer. Other popular attractions in Jaisalmer include Gadisar Lake, Bada Bagh, and Sam Sand Dunes.

Bikaner

Bikaner is another famous tourist destination located on the NH 11 route. It is known for its magnificent palaces, forts, and temples. Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Palace, and Karni Mata Temple are some of the most popular attractions in Bikaner. The city is also well-known for its delicious sweets, especially the Bikaneri Bhujia.

Jaipur

Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is also known as the “Pink City.” The town is famous for its magnificent forts and palaces, including the Hawa Mahal, City Palace, and Amer Fort.

Fatehpur

A small town in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan, Fatehpur is famous for its exquisite havelis and temples. The city is also known for its rich history and culture.

Phalodi

Phalodi is a small town located on the NH 11 route, and it is known for its beautiful havelis and Jain temples. Some of the most famous Havelis in Phalodi include the Patwa ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli, and Kothari ki Haveli.

Mandawa

Mandawa is a small town located on the NH 11 route, and it is known for its beautiful havelis and forts. Mandawa’s most famous Havelis include the Goenka Double Haveli, the Murmuria Haveli, and the Jhunjhunwala Haveli.

Chirawa

Chirawa is another small town located on the NH 11 route, and it is known for its beautiful havelis and temples. Some of the most famous Havelis in Chirawa include the Jhunjhunwala Haveli, Kanhaiya Lal Bagla Haveli, and Ramdev Temple.

 

NH 11: Things to do

Along with the places to visit, there are various activities that tourists can indulge in along the NH11. 

Camel safari

A camel safari is a must-do activity when in Rajasthan. Visitors can experience the stunning Thar desert while riding a camel and exploring the dunes.

Experience the wildlife

The National Highway 11 passes through the Keoladeo National Park in Bharatpur. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to several species of birds, mammals, and reptiles. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife safaris, and nature walks.

Enjoy local cuisine

Rajasthan is well-known for its spicy and flavorful cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a range of dishes like dal-bati-churma, gatte ki sabzi, laal maas, and ker sangri. Several restaurants and food stalls along the NH 11 serve delicious local food.

Visit historical sites

NH 11 passes through several historical sites like Ratangarh Fort, Jaisalmer Fort, and Junagarh Fort. These locations provide a window into the region’s rich history and culture.

Witness traditional crafts

Rajasthan is famous for traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and block printing. Visitors can witness the skilled craftsmen at work and buy unique handicrafts along NH 11.

Go on a road trip

The NH11 is a scenic highway that offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape. It is the quickest way to get from Delhi to Bikaner, making it a popular choice for road trips.

 

FAQs

What are the key features of the NH 11?

The NH 11 is the shortest route between Delhi and Bikaner, reducing travel time between these cities. The NH 11 also promotes trade, tourism, commercial activity, and employment opportunities in the states of Haryana and Rajasthan.

What is the route of the NH11?

The NH11 stretches from Jaisalmer in Rajasthan to Rewari in Haryana. The highway passes through Myajlar, Pithala, Pokaran, Ramdevra, Phalodi, Bikaner, Sri Dungargarh, Ratangarh, Rolsabsar, Fatehpur, Mandawa, Jhunjhunu, Bagar, Chirawa, Singhana, Pacheri, Narnaul, and Ateli.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com