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Re-Validating the Uniqueness of Urban Morphology of the
Shekhawati Region Through Reconnaissance Using Hotspot Analysis
Jaishree Mishra1*, Ramesh Srikonda2, Hemlata3, Sumanth M4
1*Research Scholar, Department of Architecture, School of Planning and Architecture, Krishna Nagar,
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, 520008, India
2 Professor, Department of Architecture, School of Planning and Architecture, Krishna Nagar,
Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, 520008, India
3 Assistant Professor, Department of Architecture and Planning, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha
University, Delhi, 110078, India
4 Research Scholar, Department of Architecture and Planning, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha
University, Delhi, 110078, India
*Corresponding Author
DOI: https://doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.120800176
Received: 24 Aug 2025; Accepted: 30 Aug 2025; Published: 17 September 2025
ABSTRACT
This study focuses on Lakshmangarh, a town in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. The medieval towns of
Shekhawati, established between the 16th and early 19th centuries, served as a distinct representation of the
Shekhawati merchants' identity and their significant role in shaping the urban landscape during the 18th and
19th centuries. At this period, the region's urban geography had a notable presence. The results generated by
the Geographic Information System evaluate the changes in Lakshmangarh town from 1975 to 2024. Due to
growing urbanization, merchants' out-migration, inadequate infrastructure, and deteriorating built fabric, towns
are losing their significant values. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the cultural values for improved
conservation and management by identifying the distinctive urban morphology of Lakshmangarh town. The
methodology has been carried out by systematically analyzing the densely crowded urban elements
thematically (Fort, Cenotaph, Temple, Caravanserai, Water Tank, and Mansion) as unique landscapes and their
potential to stand out and be recognized globally, through Inverse Distance Weighting and Hotspot analysis.
The result will identify areas of significant historical, cultural, or architectural value that may require special
attention. Additionally, justification of the results will lead to the visual representations of intensity imagery
using interpolation mapping to rationalize the cultural magnitude of Lakshmanagarh town. Additionally, the
article discusses the potential meeting criteria under outstanding value justification for the tentative listing
process under the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
Keywords: Urban Morphology, Urban Elements, Hotspot, Inverse Distance Weighted, Outstanding Universal
Value
INTRODUCTION
Urban studies related to hotspots in conservation and planning have been explored and analyzed by clustering
the spatial phenomenon. These identified clustering areas have a concentration of particular urban
characteristics, such as traffic accidents, major crime, pollution levels, or fabric density(Cardone & Di
Martino, 2022). The hotspot analysis is a spatial analysis tool demonstrated through thematic mapping-based
illustrations using a Geographic Information System (GIS). It helps identify areas of a significant
historical/cultural region on a map. In the context of heritage conservation sites, cultural or architectural value
may require special attention to signify, conserve, and manage historic places (Bai et al., 2018). Inspecting
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historic places and towns involves systematically studying the visualization, exploration, and explanation of
interesting patterns in geographic data (Cárdenas, 2021). The hotspot analysis can aid in analyzing the towns/
cities/ specific areas based on urban patterns, cultural/architectural/artistic significance, tourism, and other
specific areas (Dai et al., 2023; Withanage et al., 2024a).
This paper determines the historic areas of town that have developed with distinctive urban (Withanage et al.,
2024b) morphological elements (Fernández et al., 2021). The clusters will be referred to as high and low
values, where high values (characterized by greater density, the larger the area) are referred to as hotspots, and
low values are referred to as cold spots (Anselin et al., 2010). The approach to the hotspot analysis utilizes the
IDW (inverse distance weighted) interpolation method to estimate the closeness of built fabric in cluster form.
IDW operates on the principle that the influence of a known data point diminishes with distance. The
Illustration of mapping closer point data (building footprint) shows a greater influence on each neighboring
point data, which is inversely proportional to the distance. Points that are less than the defined distance (1
meter, mapped in the thematic presentation) will represent weight in the larger size, and these points are
considered as hotspots (Anselin et al., 2010). The IDW interpolation method is employed in the study area for
the demarcation of significant buildings, and their types represent the spatial layout in the core area. The
interpolation is used to predict the land use pattern of a highly significant site (Anukrati Sharma, 2015), as well
as to describe the distinctive behavior of the built fabric of Lakshmangarh (Laxmangarh) town. Urban
morphologies have evolved through the study of human settlement and its built-form relations, with
settlements forming during their transformation (Whitehand, 2003). The analysis of town patterns, layouts, and
arrangements of buildings, streets, and open spaces constitutes urban landscapes. Urban forms are the recorded
vocabulary that has transformed over time due to cultural, social, economic, and environmental changes. There
are various research studies on urban morphology that have utilized hotspots as an effective tool for identifying
areas to be prioritized for action (Cao et al., 2018). Studies in the economy, social sciences, urban planning,
medicine, and health have been investigated using a variety of hotspot analysis filters (Xie et al., 2023). Lucchi
applied a spatial clustering analysis using the hdbscan (Hierarchical Density-Based Spatial Clustering of
Applications) algorithm to identify the typology approach, considering only building shape and physical form.
The focus on urban elements as variables was analyzed in terms of building typology, age, value, conservation
state, technical aspects, and use. This approach is applied in the historic town of Calavin by utilizing data
mining methods and GIS integration to enhance the building stock with specific historical values. Results
represent the cluster definition used to outline conservation and energy demand evaluation and renovation
measures (Lucchi et al., 2019). Zee, investigate the applicability of user-generated content for destination
management by analyzing restaurant reviews from five Flemish art cities (Ghent, Antwerp, Leuven, Brussels,
and Mechelen) retrieved from the web 2.0 platform TripAdvisor. The Getis-Ord hotspot analysis revealed
spatial clusters of frequently reviewed (hotspots) and rarely reviewed (coldspots) restaurants, comparing
spatial patterns and digital footprints to regulate policy for tourism industries (van der Zee et al., 2020). Dai
has chosen Beijing and Xian as the primary case studies to assess the living environment conditions,
categorized into residential, living, recreational, and transportation convenience. To assess the conditions, a
hotspot analysis was conducted in both studies using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the entropy
method. Both cities' recommendations for sustainable development compared with hotspots and coldspots for
suitable Transit-Oriented Development (TOD)-(Dai et al., 2023).
Xu et al. 2019) focus on urban elements consisting of high-intensity zones and explore the economic
performance associated with their spatial structure. The increase in population density at hotspots influences an
inverted U-shaped curve in urban planning(Xu et al., 2019). Kucukpehlivan et al. (2023) provide an analytical
framework for public investments, spatially and functionally. The study was conducted in Eskisehir, Turkey.
Public point of interest (POI) by producing hotspot maps by significant public investments using the Kernel
Density Estimation (KDE) method to create the POI differencing maps(Kucukpehlivan et al., 2023). Qin,
utilize a hotspot tool to identify various changing patterns between traffic control and public transportation
services. The data field-based cluster analysis technique, which explores pick-up and drop-off points of taxi
trajectory data, aims to improve and normalize the estimate of potential value in the data field. The short
distance and short time are experimentally analyzed using taxi trajectory data in Wuhan city and are found to
be in a hotspot area. To avoid hotspot areas, the spatiotemporal data field method was applied to optimize
parameters and the interaction among hotspot areas(Qin et al., 2017). Wu proposed a network distance and
graph-partitioning-based clustering method for detecting urban hotspots using cell phones. Cell phone traces
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were computed using four key methodologies: selecting city boundaries, defining spatial units, applying
interpolation, and analyzing hotspot variables in a large-scale call detail record (CDR) database from
Mexico(Wu et al., 2021). Chainey et al. (2008) discuss hotspot mapping as a tool to facilitate the identification
of areas for allocating police and crime reduction resources. Crime hotspots are identified through the analysis
of crime data, encompassing census output areas, spatial ellipses, grid thematic mapping, and Kernel Density
Estimation (KDE), which helps identify areas to target police and crime reduction resources. Crime hotspots
are identified using crime data through census output areas, spatial ellipses, grid thematic mapping, and KDE.
This investigation focused on burglary, street crime, and vehicle theft by adopting the prediction of spatial
pattern mapping methods in practice(Chainey et al., 2008).
The above-stated definitions, concepts, and cases have been employed in an interdisciplinary approach with a
growing interest in hotspot analysis methodologies. The research foundation for urban studies concerning the
authenticity and integrity of historic towns has not yet been identified using hotspot analysis in a particular
region of India. The study, which examines existing hotspot tools and mapping on an initial investigation basis,
can provide recommendations and guidelines for improved protection management. (Klöpp et al., 2015). This
study focuses on Lakshmangarh, located in the Sikar district of the Shekhawati area in Rajasthan, which was
established between the 16th and early 20th centuries. The major approach in the research evolved with a
theoretical study to establish the cultural significance of Lakshmangarh town. The reconnaissance survey
served as an operational tool for constructing the town's history, planning, and architectural significance.
Evolution and Cultural Significance
Fig. 1&2. Left: Location of Lakshmangarh town, Right: Shekhawati Region with three districts
The Shekhawati region is primarily defined by the virtual boundaries consisting of 37 varied towns, primarily
identified towns within these districts as significant urban clusters are Mandawa, Nawalgarh, Fatehpur,
Ramgarh, Mukundgarh, and Lakshmangarh (2023; Kumar & Rai, 2015). Shekhawati comes under the Jaipur
division and is located in the north-west of Jaipur with 27º20', 28º34' north latitudes, 74º41', and 76º6' east
longitudes with a total area of about (Sikar 7732+Jhunjhunu 5929) 13 661 sq. km (Taknet, 1960).
Historically, the region was named after Rao Shekha, a noble of the Kachhwaha dynasty of Rajputs in the 15th
century. (Ilay Cooper, 2014)The region served as an administrative office prior to 1947. In the 17th century,
Jaipur, Bikaner, and Shekhawati were under multiple rulers and patrons(Riyajuddin, 2019; Shikha Jain, 2006).
The region is the distinctive representation of the Shekhawati merchants' identity and their significant role in
shaping the urban landscape during the 18th and 19th centuries. This period is notable for the region's urban
geography (Kaiwan Mehta, n.d.). Town settlements evolved with urban morphological elements like Garh
(Fort), Chhatri (Cenotaph), Mandir (Temple), Dharamshala (Caravanserai), Johara (Water tank), Kuan (Well),
and Haveli (Mansion), with fresco images evolving and transformed over the period, almost in every town
(Mukherjee, 2021). (As mentioned in Figure 2.)The early development of the Rajputs, Shekhawats, Merchants,
and Mughals' globally known town planning in Shekhawati(Alka Patel, 2013). Towns often planned with grid-
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iron patterns and an organic form of development. As shown in image 3. the planning inspired by the Jaipur
plan, specifically Lakshmangarh and Ramgarh town planning, is adapted with the same street pattern and
space division concept (Shikha Jain, 2006). The presence of Minarets, Chhatris, and Bangladhari pavilions is
crowded on every possible edge, street, and chawk along the town's roads, making these towns a unique
statement of urbanity (Ilay Cooper, 2014).
Fig. 3&4. Left: Grip Iron pattern planning approach, Right: Architecture evolved with Courtyard as the
foremost functional space and other noticeable architectural features.
The merchant's role in shaping these towns through trade, cultural migration, and diversity is significant. These
merchants were businessmen, agents, and moneylenders. They had developed a diversified network and mixed
culture by traveling across the world in medieval times (Abha Narain Lambah, 2013). Well-known
communities with diverse cultural expression values include the Goenkas, Birlas, Dalmias, Kedias, Khaitans,
Poddars, Ruias, Jhunjhunwalas, and others. The Shekhawati architecture evolved with local materials,
craftsmanship, Images borrowed (fresco paintings), building orientation, and climate responsiveness. The early
architectural growth of the Rajput, Shekhawat, Merchant, and Mughal dynasties is globally recognized. These
dynasties globally established architectural features such as Jharokhas, projections, brackets, murals, trefoil
arches, and tribari, as shown in figures 4 and 5. The public Water Tank, Caravanserai, private and public Well
Complex, Cenotaph, Temples, and Fortifications are urban elements that express Mughal and Rajput styles.
Along every edge, street, and check, the Minarets and Chhatris, the Bangladhari Pavilion, and octagonal
chhatris are visually planned to maintain visual cues (Jaishree Mishra & Vineet Shrivastava, 2022; Click or tap
here to enter text.Kip Scott, 2016).
Fig. 5. Salient architecture features in the Shekhawati region with frescoes on all the surfaces
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Fig. 6. Cultural context of Fresco paintings as folk art and ritualistic practices on the external surfaces of
Havelis
These building typologies, as prominent landmarks and virtual boundaries, serve as areas where people can
communicate, symbolize, and identify these towns. This distinctive community-based culture, also renowned
for its painted mansions (havelis), emerged with the notion of a living homeland, a belief, and a tradition.(Alka
Patel, 2013). The fresco paintings are the images interpreted by the local and migrant artisans on the built
surfaces of the distinctive building typology. This visual urban morphology is characterized by intra-regional
art expression, which two distinct schools of thought follow (Li et al., 2016). The Paintings are based on the
pigment selection by local artisans using the fresco technique, applied to the outside surfaces. These merchants
borrowed artistic expression through their travels around the world. The manifestation of these paintings in the
form of frescoes depicts the Vaishnava Avatars of Krishna, Rama, folk heroes, troops, and everyday
environments, as shown and represented in figures 6, 7, and 8. These paintings on the surfaces abstracted the
multicultural knowledge specific to the regional unique identity. The concept of recontextualization, as
illustrated by images 6, 7, and 8, encompassing subjects, places, and environments, led to the diversity of art
and architecture in the early 20th century. This planned way of arranging built fabric (Jaishree Mishra & Vineet
Shrivastava, 2022; Kulbhushan Jain, 2000)Based on the forms, scale, streets, landmarks, nodes, and paths, it is
a unique way of perceiving the medieval urban landscape, as illustrated in image 3.
Fig. 7. Cultural context of Fresco paintings as folk art, personage, and decorative motifs on the external
surfaces of Havelis
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Fig. 8. Multi and cross-cultural context of Fresco paintings (Krishna riding on a car) on the external and
internal surface panels
Presently, merchants' out-migration over generations causes challenges to the physical conditions of towns'
cluster planning and architecture. As a result, havelis are mostly locked up, with some left in the care of
caretakers, others abandoned, and many in a state of disrepair. Unplanned construction development is
currently practiced (Abha Narain Lambah, 2013) By local development authorities. In most cases, havelis
undergo unthoughtful adaptive reuse for residential purposes. The towns are facing vulnerable conditions due
to a lack of infrastructure, civic services, and neglect of maintenance, which is hindering urban social
development. There is a serious need for safeguarding these urban elements as an integral part of conservation
and planning through maintenance and management (Jaishree Mishra & Vineet Shrivastava, 2022).
METHOD
A systematic inquiry investigated whether hotspot analysis can reveal the cultural significance of
Lakshmanagarh town, which exhibits distinct spatial morphological patterns. Towns are crowded with urban
elements, such as a Fort, a cenotaph, a Temple, a Caravanserai, a Water Tank, and a mansion, all of which
contribute to a more defined visual urbanity. The data were collected in two phases of the pilot study; the
initial recording involved creating an inventory of 110 Havelis and other urban elements. The inventory was
noted with stakeholder consultation and a survey about their association with the place/town (Moreno-
Marimbaldo & Manso-Callejo, 2020). A qualitative survey approach evolved with an on-site survey in
December 2019. The data was gathered from PhD scholars, professionals, and residents; other information was
provided by the Jaipur Development Authority (report and map). The second phase of data collection took
place in February 2020 to map the urban fabric and strategically inquire about the cultural uniqueness and the
possibility of attempting a tentative listing under a World Heritage Site (WHS) nomination.
Fig. 1&2. Theoretical framework methodology
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To examine the research contribution, hotspot analysis has been employed as a method to illustrate the
hypothesis and research statement. The hotspot statistical analysis is a significant methodology that recognizes
the patterns and cultural significance of the towns. The approach to assessing the significance of
Lakshmangarh town was conducted using a hotspot and IDW (Inverse Distance Weighted) method.
The analysis is performed in ArcGIS 10.4 version using weighted features. Here, the urban built fabric (Fort,
Fort a cenotaph, Temple, Caravanserai, Water Tank, and Mansion) is represented with dots, indicating their
locations. This data is visualized on the town's map, the Raipur Development Agency (RDA) map, and the
Renaissance survey, which combine to locate the built fabric on Google Maps. The dots (built fabric) show the
intensity based on the distance from the hotspot using the local G index. (Gi-Z-score) Statistical analysis by
grouping dots (based on near neighboring distances) will identify hotspots, which then cluster and intensify
into a single large area. These integrated dots will be represented as hotspot locations within the map. At the
same time, the dots located in the distance will be represented as cold spots. These collected events will be
analyzed using the spatial statistics tool to represent intensifying dots (closely located built fabric, such as
Haveli) thematically. The larger dots will indicate the I count, with a higher count corresponding to a bigger
size and greater intensity (weight). These counts will be performed by selecting a hotspot that utilizes the
Inverse Distance Square method under IDW. This method represents how, as distance increases, the influence
decreases more rapidly, with the weight between features inversely proportional to the square of the distance.
The Gi-Bin feature, used in calculating the z-score inverse distance, yields a positive value when the count is
highest. Conversely, a negative value indicates a very low z-score count of dot intensity, which is represented
as a cold spot in thematic mapping. These hotspots and cold spots will be displayed in the spatial weight
matrix file, with layers reflecting the number of counts.
The hotspots here represent extremely significant locations, high significance areas, moderate significance
areas, and low significance areas based on the distance between the dots (Havelis). Furthermore, the hotspot–
Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) result will be analyzed using an interpolation spatial analyst tool to convert
numeric values into representations of the thematic values. These value raster surfaces, which represent the
intensity of the z-score, will be more concentrated and significant. Here, the method suggests that the
maximum concentrated areas are the haveli clusters, built densely, to define the unique urban identity of
Lakshmangarh.
Fig. 9,10, 11, & 12. The spatial symbology process graphically represents the significance of built fabric as a
unique urban morphology. Right above: point location (haveli footprint), Left above: Collect event (based on
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the inverse distance measurements, larger dots: distance between havelis are less and it overlapped), Right
Below: I- Count, Gi_Bin Hotspot Analysis, more count (red point shows the higher concentration and higher
significant area), Right Below: The IDW representation using symbology classification, red is the max. The
concentration is indicated by green, which represents the low-concentration area.
DISCUSSION & RESULT
In conservation, it becomes essential to validate the inquiry with value-based justifications. The value-based
assessment has the potential to reintroduce recognition of heritage sites, towns, and cities. Value-based heritage
conservation focuses on understanding and preserving the significance of heritage sites by considering their
cultural, social, historical, and economic values. The Narra document of authenticity defines the authenticity
and integrity of conserving or managing historic sites from a value-based approach. Cultural and historical
values influence stakeholders' engagement in decision-making to ensure the well-informed essence of heritage
(Barełkowski, 2023). Concepts and practices of values-centered conservation (VCC), as they continue to
evolve, can provide a dynamic framework for conservation and planning approaches (Dreyfuss et al., n.d.).
Cultural values belong to a dynamic and complex system, such as the conservation discipline. The approach
should be recognized with additional contextual values to prolong the sustainability of heritage in the future.
Fig. 13. The spatial symbology representation of Lakshmangarh town is unique and potentially stands out in
urban morphology
On the World Heritage platform, the conservation of cultural places/sites is outlined and guided by the Burra
Charter, as well as the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) Australia Charter (2013).
Bozeman B. offers a framework for understanding and mapping public and narrative values that can be applied
in heritage conservation practice (Heritage_values_vl, n.d.). Conservation practices, such as preserving the
historic value of historic centers, are investigated through various concepts, including preservation,
conservation, revisiting, revitalization, redefining, strategy planning, and management planning. All concepts
are valid once their associated values and validation have been defined and identified. The preservation of
urban fabric in Lima, Peru; the city of Bath, UK; Golkonda Fort, and Hampi, India; the Management plan, etc.
A range of strategies and methods have evolved from participatory planning, stakeholder engagement, cultural
mapping, Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA), Significance assessment, interpretation, and adaptive reuse to
risk assessment and management.
The cultural significance of Lakshmangarh town in the present context is justified using ArcGIS 10.4 Hotspot
Spatial Analyst mapping as a qualitative approach. The results of the Hotspot and IDW methods using
symbology and categorical representation of quantile distribution of the -Ve and +Ve Values range. The +ve
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had a Maximum clubbing of 9 I-count, whereas the -ve I-count had one value. The maximum I-count
represented the maximum concentrated havelis' footprints, and the lowest count had very little concentration
and was represented in thematic mapping as a hotspot and a coldspot. The result (Fig. 12) represents the color
quintile classification, which divides the concentration from high to low. This fig. 12 shows red-colored areas
as high significance areas, where havelis are densely planned, and green areas as low significance areas, where
havelis are less dense and located outside the historic town core. The red spread highlights the need to
recognize the significance of the haveli's unique urban morphology and emphasizes the requirement for
immediate action to preserve the town's identity.
This unique morphology emerged with merchants' contributions, bringing a multi-diversified culture into a
significant context. The contribution to planning, architecture, and art is the mixture of Rajput and Mughal
styles, which can be appreciated as existing knowledge that justifies their significance and values for world
recognition. Lakshmangarh town exhibits an important interchange of human values directly associated with
criterion II – Outstanding Universal Value (OUV). This cultural exchange may be recognized as part of the ten
tentative listing nominations. The town also represents an outstanding example of a distinctive type of built
fabric, with its architectural, planning, artistic, and technological ensemble, as the townscape features
demonstrate a significant stage in humankind's evolution. This description justifies the criteria iv- OUV under
the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This inquiry is collated and examined through a reconnaissance survey of
Lakshmangarh town to reveal the cultural significance of the town as a case study. Almost every town in the
region has a similar urban morphology. The Serial nomination can be made by identifying a town cluster with
similar features, e.g., Lakshmagarh, Ramgarh, Nawalgarh, Bissau, and Ratannagar. Towns are initially planned
with 90-degree street planning, sharing similar urban elements as the urbanity of the Shekhawati region as a
whole. In the present context, the havelis are devastated. The neglect, lack of association, and unplanned
alterations are causing these towns to deteriorate, as Abha believes that sustainable building is one that already
exists; the foremost priority is to preserve and conserve. The conservation and management of Shekhawati
town are crucial for preserving our traditional knowledge, moving beyond a monument-centric approach to
include the historic neighborhood. The cultural significance assessment was identified through visibility
analysis using GIS mapping, which protects the visual corridors and sight lines of heritage structures, an
important component of the urban landscape. Value-based visual investigations for regulating conservation-
based guidelines, recommendations, and Byelaws, adopting a method of observer point locations. Historical
layering and chronological mapping, cultural heritage zoning, buffer analysis (Dey & Pasupuleti,
2025),cultural routes analysis (Navickienė & Meištė, 2025). This approach can be applied to identify culturally
significant places for informed heritage conservation and planning.
CONCLUSION
The results drawn from the study will address the current management issues caused by out-migration, rapidly
growing urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, uncontrolled development, and deteriorating built fabric to
make more accurate protection and management of the region (Ashrafi et al., 2021). Additionally, the study
focuses on the significance and justification of potential outstanding values, which have been evaluated
through a comparative study of a World Heritage site and a tentatively listed site under the UNESCO umbrella.
The intensity imagery with interpolation mapping created through surface mapping rationalized the
redefinition of the town's significance and unique urban morphology by thematically representing it through
hotspot and IDW analysis. Thus, this uniqueness, equivalent to the World Heritage Site(Chaieb, 2025). The
anticipated outcome of a research study will be recorded based on existing data and the diverse land use of
heritage components.
This study reaffirms the cultural and morphological distinctiveness of Lakshmangarh within the Shekhawati
region by applying hotspot analysis and IDW interpolation to evaluate the density and spatial significance of
its urban elements (Qin et al., 2017). The results highlight that the clustered distribution of havelis, temples,
cenotaphs, and caravanserais forms a unique urban identity shaped by centuries of merchant patronage and
cultural exchanges. The red hotspot zones revealed through GIS thematic analysis uniquely transformed urban
morphology with varied urban built elements. This exceptional significance is justified and meets the two
primary criteria (II and IV) of Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) in the world's areas that urgently require
conservation attention, thereby linking the outcomes to UNESCO's Outstanding Universal Value (OUV)
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criteria (II and IV). These criteria encompass the exchange of human values over several recorded years within
the global cultural domain, as reflected in the development of architecture, town planning, and landscape
design. Additionally, it contributes to an outstanding building typology that underwent a crucial and notable
period in the 18th and 19th centuries for the development of fresco paintings, urban morphology, and various
built fabric elements, as well as their footprints, contributing to the historic urbanity.
This research demonstrates that not only does Lakshmangarh town reflect an important interchange of human
values through architecture, design, and planning, but it also represents an outstanding typology of medieval
merchant towns in India. Thus, hotspot analysis emerges as an effective tool to rationalize and complement
value-based heritage conservation approaches thematically. Furthermore, it provides both visual and spatial
justification for recognition, management protection, and potential serial nomination to the UNESCO World
Heritage Tentative List. Future research can extend this study in various directions, including comparative
regional studies of towns such as Ramgarh, Nawalgarh, Mandawa, and Fatehpur, which can be recognized
universally through the UNESCO serial nomination process under the UNESCO Convention. There are further
potential areas, such as exploring the relevance of buffer zones, conducting visual studies, mapping cultural
routes, developing a heritage integrated management plan, and crafting historical narratives. Furthermore, at
the local level, developing a comprehensive heritage management framework that includes policy, guidelines,
and conservation byelaws based on hotspot zones can aid urban planning bodies in safeguarding cultural
routes/corridors. Nonetheless, significant attention should be given to the community and their engagement
throughout the conservation process for a holistic approach. Furthermore, a Sustainability perspective suggests
that conservation itself necessitates a focus on developing tourism, adaptive reuse strategies, and socio-
economic revitalization to ensure long-term heritage management of Shekhawati towns, incorporating
advanced analytical methods (Fernández et al., 2021). Wholistically, this research provides a methodological
foundation for bridging spatial analytics with heritage conservation worldwide.
Abbreviations
IDW: Inverse Distance Weighted
GIS: Geographic Information System
AHP: Analytical Hierarchy Process
TOD: Transit-Oriented Development
JDA: Jaipur Development Authority
WHS: World Heritage Site
UNESCO: United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization
OUV: Outstanding Universal Value
RDA: Raipur Development Agency
VCC: values-centered conservation
Local General G index (Getis-Ord Gi*)
HIA: Heritage Impact Assessment
ICOMOS: International Council on Monuments and Sites
POI: Point of Interest
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