Migrating with the Gujarati gypsies

The western-most state of Gujarat is not just defined by its mesmerizing landscape and history but also by its nomadic groups dotting it. Watching the migration of one of these groups on the lookout for greener pastures for a day or two is as educational as it is a sheer delight. These colourfully-attired groups move with all their worldly goods and their herds of domestic animals, namely, sheeps, mules, goats, cows etc. When following their caravan, interact with these wayfarers, get to know about their unique life and style, and the roles played by the various members of the tribe - a riveting experience awaits in the state’s Kutch region. As night falls, while the tribesmen are settled in their campsites, you, too, would settle in your comfortable mobile camps, partake in lecture sessions about the history, culture and traditions of the tribes, or perhaps enjoy musical spectacles, courtesy the ladies of the migrating tribe.

Let us know if you want to include this in a Gujarat itinerary.

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Dera Amer – Glamping in the wilderness

Acres of wilderness and untouched natural beauty of Dera Amer, near Jaipur, houses animals, domestic and wild, organic farmlands and camps with modern amenities. The elephants, here, are unchained; interact with these gentle giants, help feed them bananas, offer them drinking water, and should they allow you, help bathe them! Dera Amer’s rustic luxury camp is ideal for a couple of nights’ stay while enjoying the forestland in its natural state. From bespoke furniture inspired from the Raj-era to lush toiletries, from warm hospitality to indulgent pampering, expect a redefined stay here. Accoutrements come in the form of live barbecue in front of a bonfire while being serenaded by local folk performers, bird watching and village walks. Opt to take a stroll around the campsite or perhaps in the forest nearby in the company of your friendly guide, one of the resident elephants!

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The frescoed havelis of Shekhawati

Havelis (mansions) in the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan are centuries old and have retained vestiges of their prosperous and colourful past. Discerning travellers who are aesthetically, architecturally and historically inclined will enjoy being submerged into a world of folklores and tales of the past manifested through art in the form of frescoes on the walls and domes of the once opulent homes, some of them dating back to the early 19^th century. These fine works of art reflect the lifestyle of the affluent owners of these havelis during the bygone days, myths, deities and much more. These can be witnessed during visits to off-beat yet historically-rich places like Mandawa, Fatehpur, Churu, Nawalgarh, Jhunjhunu, Alsisar etc.

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Journeying to the centre of India – Madhya Pradesh

A treasure trove of diverse wildlife, breathtaking monuments, elaborate temples and stupas, millennia-old cave paintings, forts and palaces and culture, Madhya Pradesh has always beckoned travellers from far and away. On one hand, guests get to plan their rendezvous with the Royal Bengal Tigers in the many National Parks strewn across the state, on the other hand, they marvel at the beautiful carvings of the architectural masterpieces of the Khajuraho Temples. The impregnable forts and awe-inspiring palaces are popular destinations for its historical backgrounds as well as for aesthetic pleasure. UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Sanchi Stupa, a 3^rd century stupa (dome) commissioned by Emperor Ashoka, and the prehistoric rock art of Bhimbetka are a few more draws of the state infused with ingenious structures, and can be reached after less than an hour’s drive from the state’s capital, Bhopal. Little known yet brimming with history are towns like Orchha, Maheshwar, and Mandu that depict not only a well-documented history over the centuries but also epitomise serenity and an insouciant ambience.

To plan an itinerary in Madhya Pradesh, get in touch with us.

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Jal Sanjhi Painting Workshop

Jal Sanjhi is an art that is kept alive by a priest family in the City of Lakes, Udaipur. This 200-year-old art-form pays homage to the Hindu God, Lord Krishna. An excursion in the city will take guests to the priest’s temple where they get to observe this creative process, and later, if they desire, fashion something themselves. The process includes water, which acts as the canvas, being placed in a flat container, post which a mixture of charcoal and various other ingredients are sprinkled over the water, thus making it a floating base for the colours. Paper stencils of designs are then placed over the water while the artist readies his colours to be carefully sprinkled over the stencils to create magnificent designs, mostly depicting Lord Krishna. These works of art lasts for not more than a day and are mostly used for religious purposes.

Write to us if you want your guests to engage in this artform.

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Abhaneri beyond its Stepwell

Abhaneri is a quaint village lying between Jaipur to Agra where a confluence of history, spirituality, and rural life exist. Partaking on a walking tour exploring the region that goes well beyond its iconic historical sites will aid guests gain a better understanding about the local culture and tradition. For two hours, they will get a taste of an authentic rural experience in Rajasthan. A visit to the ancient step-well Chand-baori and Harshat Mata Temple is followed by a sojourn in the village. During the walk, they will explore the art of traditional clay pottery unique to the region; they may even try their hand at it after a short training. Lush green farms, interaction with a local family over a cup of tea, riding on board a Jugaad (a makeshift vehicle used for transportation in villages), all these and more awaits guets in Abhaneri.

To include this in your itinerary, get in touch with us.

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