Rajasthan continues to be a mecca for tourists. The colourful state is not only famous for its incredible forts, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, but also for its sumptuous and spicy food. Chokhi Dhani in Jaipur has been a hot favourite among tourists and locals alike since the 90s. The mock village will charm you with its myriad traditional offerings and divine food. Here’s how to make the most of your visit. By Karan Kaushik
Chokhi Dhani: For the love of food and culture
You must have seen those Insta stories where your friends are sporting a colourful bandhej turban and devouring ghee-soaked baatis with daal and churma. The stories that follow are pictures and videos of folk artists, firebreathers, women dancing with metallic vessels on their heads, magicians, camel rides, and mud-thatched traditional structures. That’s Chokhi Dhani for you. People come here to experience an evening of thrilling activities, adventurous rides, and flavoursome Rajasthani food.
View this post on Instagram
Located on the outskirts of Jaipur, Chokhi Dhani has become synonymous with Rajasthani hospitality. It offers tourists a fantastic opportunity to witness the vibrant culture of Rajasthan without having to travel to its bustling cities and rustic villages. Established in 1989, the village resort takes great pride in promoting and preserving the traditional heritage and hospitality of Rajasthan. Sprawling over 10 acres, the mock village features several restaurants, shops, a museum, cultural shows, animal and cart rides, games, tableaus, and more.
Things to do
Savour delectable Rajasthani cuisine
View this post on Instagram
The first and foremost motive of tourists to visit Chokhi Dhani is Rajasthani food. Try the classic Rajsthani treat, which includes piping hot dal, soft and crumbly churma, and ghee-soaked baatis. It’s the most perfectly balanced meal in terms of sweet and savoury flavours. Then there are other delicacies like ker sangri, gatte ki sabzi, panchmel ki sabzi, dal fritters, and much more.
Enjoy folk performances
View this post on Instagram
Get drenched in the Rajasthani fervour as folk artists enthral you with a cultural extravaganza like no other. From Kachighodi, Ghoomar, Terah Thali, Chari, and Kalbeliya dance performances to puppet shows, folk singing, bamboo acrobatics, tightrope walking, traditional fire act, and magic shows, you’ll get to experience all things Rajasthani. Put on your dancing shoes, pull a thumka or two with the folk dancers, and make memories of a lifetime.
Relive Rajasthan’s glorious past
View this post on Instagram
Walk through the pages of the glorious history of the royal state. One of the prime attractions at Chokhi Dhani is the play that depicts the legendary battle of Haldighati. Then there’s the Rath Khana, which showcases chariots used by the royals in the yesteryears.
Meet an astrologer
View this post on Instagram
One of the most interesting activities at Chokhi Dhani is meeting one of their astrologers. Take a peek into the future to know what it beholds. Their astrologers are available to answer your questions and queries, along with their pet parrots and tarot cards. Good fun!
Temple Run
View this post on Instagram
The resort also features replicas of prominent Hindu temples and temples dedicated to folk deities of Rajasthan. Embark on a quick temple-hopping session and seek blessings from the providence. The temples at Chokhi Dhani include Vaishno Devi Temple, Balaji Temple, Jungle Devta Temple, Ganesh Temple, and Tejaji Temple.
Cart rides and games
View this post on Instagram
Any trip to Rajasthan is incomplete without taking a ride on the king of the desert. Hop on to a beautifully-dressed camel and enjoy a bumpy ride with your loved ones. Also on offer here are bullock cart rides, which will introduce your kids to rural India. There are a lot of interesting games and swings, where you can have a fun-filled time with your family and friends.
Get inked the traditional way
View this post on Instagram
When in Rajasthan, do as the Rajasthanis do. While you may or may not have some cool tattoos when at Chokhi Dhani, get your hands inked with traditional heena or mehandi, and have a fun time interacting with the mehandi artists.
Shopping
View this post on Instagram
Chokhi Dhani aims to promote all things local. It also helps local artisans and craftsmen by allowing them to showcase and sell their artefacts. Pick up a souvenir to mark your Jaipur trip. Popular buys include handicrafts, puppets, lac bangles, home decor items, metallic jewellery, and paintings, among others.
Awaken the artist in you at Kalagram
View this post on Instagram
Kalagram at Chokhi Dhani is reviving Indian artisans, one handicraft at a time. When here, you can get your hands dirty in clay and try some pottery. Or, you can see traditional weavers at work, or learn a thing or two about the popular Sanganeri and Bagru block printing techniques of Jaipur.
National Museum
View this post on Instagram
Chokhi Dhani not only introduces you to Rajasthan but also offers glimpses of the entire country. From Kashmir to Kerala, and Gujarat to Assam, the National Museum here showcases the rich cultural traditions of India. It doesn’t get more touristy than this.
Where to eat
View this post on Instagram
You will be surprised to know that Chokhi Dhani has several restaurants. The most popular of them all is Sangri, which serves authentic Rajasthani fare. Then there’s Gorbandh, which features an impressive open-air traditional dining setup. While Sangri serves food on a leaf platter, Gorbandh is where you’d get the famous Dal-bati-churma.
Then they have Chaupad Jeeman Ghar, where you’ll have to dine crosslegged on a seating arrangement that’s inspired by the old game chaupad. If you are a meat lover, head to Kesar Kyari Barbeque, an outdoor restaurant with al fresco dining. The most beautiful restaurant is Bindola though. Embellished with intricate wood carvings, traditional roof lanterns, and Rajasthani Mandana paintings, Bindola is a multi-cuisine restaurant. If buffets are your thing, you can visit Choupal.
For everything non-Rajasthani, Chokhi Dhani has Aragosta, their largest restaurant, which serves everything from North Indian to Chinese and Continental.
Related: The Only Guide To Shopping In Jaipur You Will Ever Nee
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Answer: The cost of entry tickets range between INR 750 to INR 1200 for adults. For kids, the entry fee range between INR 450 to INR 800, depending on the dining option that you choose.
Answer: Yes, meals are included in the entry fee.
Answer: Chokhi Dhani, Jaipur is open all days of the year between 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm.
Answer: While summers could be a bit harsh even during night time, winters and monsoons are perfect to enjoy a night out at Chokhi Dhani.