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.

Texture & technique. Kalakand in Alwar is painstakingly made by slowly simmering full-fat milk until it reduces and splits into a soft, granular mass (danedar), then sweetened and lightly caramelized to create its signature two-tone look—white inside and golden-brown on top and bottom. This isn’t a plain barfi; proper Alwar Kalakand keeps the milk’s grain intact instead of fully homogenizing it. (General background on the sweet and method. A delicious legend since 1947. Many contemporary sources trace Alwar’s Kalakand fame to Baba Thakur Das & Sons, who are widely credited with popularizing (and often cited as inventing) Alwar Kalakand in 1947. The modest shop is at Kalakand Market, near Hope Circus, and is still the most-searched “original” stop for visitors.