Rural Tourism
Villages of Rajasthan
The villages in Rajasthan have their own unique charm. You can observe the simplest
form of lifestyle here. It is rather difficult to spot a village till you actually
step upon it.
One in a village, holiday makers observes that the people in the villages learn
to survive even in the most difficult situations of life. They follow simple living
pattern that has been unchanged over the years. The people live in circular huts
with thatched roofs and walls covered with plaster of clay, hay and cow dung.
Assortments of people from different communities living in the villages are divided
on the basis of their profession. Gas fired stoves have not yet reached the village
doors. Though electricity is available but it is an interrupted supply. So, the
kerosene lamps still illuminate in the nights of the village. The government has
made provisions of telephone lines even in the smallest villages. Television is
a new marvel in the village homes. Villages are connected to nearby places through
a network of roads.
About People of Villages
In villages Women usually cover their faces with an odhni or dupatta and wear thick,
full-length skirts with innumerable pleats and a blouse with colorful designs. "Tie
and dye" is a home industry and the colorful head-wear (pugdi or rumal ) of men
and the gaudy dresses of women provide a wonderful contrast to the bleak environs
of the state, which is bereft of trees and vegetation.
The heavy Jewellery made mainly of silver, tinkles and jingles when the women grind
grain, pound spices or draw water. Villagers are friendly and helpful, but wary
of strangers. Men and women never mix or talk in public except for business. Amusements
for the people are in plenty but are enjoyed in segregated groups. Weddings, the
births of children, and festivals are great opportunities to find women dressed
in their finery, visiting village temples with pitchers on their heads. For the
slightest reason they break into song.
About Hamlets or called “Dhani”
The typical village has always been difficult to spot till one is actually upon
it. Its simplest hamlets, the most basic form of civilization with a way of life
that has probably remained unchanged since centuries, consists of a collection of
huts that are circular, and have thatched roofs. The walls are covered with a plaster
of clay, cow dung, and hay, making a termite-free (antiseptic) facade that blends
in with the sand of the countryside around it. Boundaries for houses and land holdings,
called baras, are made of the dry branches of a nettle-like shrub, the long, sharp
thorns a deterrent for straying cattle.
Village Tour in Rajasthan
The ideal way that enables a tourist to explore the rustic side of the state is
a jeep safari or a short walk. Make halts while you enjoy the true taste of Rajputana
village life. A tourist can also go for a camel ride.
The most interesting sights that grab the attention of tourists are the women around
the community well. Dressed in colorful attires, these women present a more lively
attitude of the Rajasthanis. Children either studying in an open air school or running
around with complete freedom. Men will be seen discussing important topics or general
issues.
These sights do not sound as attractive, however, they have a genuine innocence
hidden beneath that is heartening. And, the gesture of the villagers towards their
guests is extremely hospitable. Tourists can get a better insight into the life
of rural Rajasthan by interacting with these people. Genuine innocence and warm
hospitality of the villagers stands above any attraction seen in the city.
In the evening, sit with the 'panchayat' (older people) and listen to the tales
of their struggle during the earlier days. You can even come across interesting
legends related to that particular village that dates back to quite a few centuries.
Experience the melody of 'sarangi' (a stringed musical instrument) slicing the silent
heart of desert and beautiful village girls dancing to the rhythm of chords. At
the time of dinner, splurge on a delicious array of freshly baked bread and porridge
along with yoghurt curry (kadhi) and vegetables like dried beans.
Some of the prominent villages in rajasthan that are a must see include villages
in the Shekhawati region and typical villages around Jaisalmer and Bikaner.
Indeed, that makes for a memorable holiday, far from what you have expected from
the royal state of Rajasthan.
Camel safari
Camel Safari is one of the unique way to explore small villages in Rajasthan. Camel
Safaris at the top of this ship of the desert is most exciting and soft adventure.
Riding a camel is not easy as people consider. It is neither a great test for endurance.
It is a great experience to explore The Thar - a vibrantly, living, desert, very
colorful and hospitable.
Travel on a camel's back amidst the wind-swept, sand farms, see the men with rings
in their ears and their feet in gaily embroidered shoes, women in bright 'ghagras'
and colorful 'cholis' and quench your thirst with red and sweet watermelons. Wow!
Indeed an experience to linger throughout your life
Camels are integral parts of the many households in Rajasthan, and are used for
transportation, travel and amusement. Camel load-lifting competitions and camel
races take place on festive occasions. Marriage processions are typically led on
camelback, with the groom and bride huddled together. Each house has a huge gate
for camel-entry and only a very small door for human creatures.
Chokhi Dhani – A Village Resort
Chokhi Dhani is an Ethnic Village Resort. The interiors of the resort are done in
a style resembling a typical Rajasthani village. Come and visit Chokhi Dhani for
a real experience of a rural and rustic feel of the village life of Rajasthan but
with 5 Star comforts.
Chokhi Dhani features 31 Village Huts and 34 Executive Huts. The huts are spacious
and away from the busy urban life. Staying at Chokhi Dhani is an experience in itself
where you see how ethnic commingles with modernity and rustic culture merges with
contemporary.
Dining in the evenings is particularly special as a village fair is recreated on
the big lawns of the resort. Folk dancers and musicians will keep you entertained
while the traditional Rajasthani meal is served to you by the waiters in Rajasthani
attire in typical Manuhaar style.
Beginning with showcasing Rajasthani village culture with a tantalising blend of
traditional music, camel rides. it encompasses everything from Rajasthani cuisine
to their kalbeliya and ghoomer dances.