Chokhi Dhani, translated from Rajasthani, literally means “Rajasthani Culture” and this resort village is a celebration of just that.
Chokhi Dhani is a well-known tourist attraction in Jaipur. The aim of the resort is to give tourists a full experience of Rajasthani culture. The entire resort’s theme is inspired by a village setting, with many cultural activities held here. The unique experience draws visitors from all over the world.
The resort was started in 1989 and is sprawled across 10 acres of land, with unique architecture that reflects the grandeur of the Rajasthani tradition. The architecture is heavily influenced by the Indo-Saracenic style.
The resort houses a series of rebuilt village huts, complete with cow dung plasters and decorative wall paintings. The rooms at the resort are equipped with comfortable amenities and great facilities. You can spend a wonderful day here with your family and loved ones.
Quick Facts
- Timings: 5 pm to 11 pm (all days of the week)
- Location: 2 Miles, Tonk Road, Jaipur
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Entry Fee: Rs. 700 to Rs. 1100 (adults); Rs. 400 to Rs. 700 (children) – depends on dining experience chosen
10 Reasons to Visit Chokhi Dhani
1. Relive the Haldighati Battle
The Haldighati Ka Yudh was an epic battle fought in Rajasthan. It was fought between the Mughal and the Rajput dynasties, with the Rajput dynasty emerging victorious.
At Chokhi Dhani, you can relive the memories of the battle through an enactment of the Haldighati Ka Yudh. The play takes you through an emotional ride as it shows the events that unfolded during the epic battle.
2. Enjoy a Traditional Folk Dance Performance
Traditional Rajasthani folk dances are an absolute joy to watch at Chokhi Dhani. You are treated to a variety of dance forms at this iconic village resort. Some popular dances performed here are Kalbeliya, Ghoomar and the classic Chari Dance.
The fast-paced dance movements and the invigorating music that plays alongside will leave you wanting to join the performers on stage. Out of all the dances, the most exquisite dance performance is the Chari Dance, where the performers dance while balancing pots on their heads.
3. Watch a Puppet Show
Chokhi Dhani also conducts puppet shows in its vicinity. This is usually held in the evenings, just before the fair begins. Skilled puppeteers tell enthralling tales of Rajasthani princesses and kings using puppets.
If you have never seen a puppet show before, you will be amazed by the artistry and storytelling at Chokhi Dhani.
4. Watch a Magic Show
Sleight of Hand, hypnotism and nature-defying illusions, magicians at the Chokhi Dhani will keep you glued to your seat while performing tricks with ease.
5. Go Shopping
Chokhi Dhani houses the Kalagram, a social initiative with the aim of promoting local artisans who make handicrafts. Shops at Chokhi Dhani stock collections of decor, paintings and accessories that will captivate any onlooker. You can shop to your heart’s content and you won’t even burn a hole in your wallet.
6. Enjoy Animal Rides
There are several rides that take place at Chokhi Dhani. You can take your pick from camels, bullocks and tonga rides. For the best experience, we suggest that you take a camel ride, it is the best way to admire the Chokhi Dhani premises due to its slow pace. The animals at Chokhi Dhani are treated with respect and are trained, so you do not have to worry about your safety or theirs.
Dining at Chokhi Dhani
There are many places where you can enjoy local Rajasthani food in Chokhi Dhani. These eateries cater to the varied tastes and preferences of the people who visit. Below is a list of restaurants at Chokhi Dhani.
1. Bindola Restaurant
The Bindola is a round-shaped restaurant, with interiors lined with Rajasthani Mandana wall paintings, roof lanterns and an intricately-carved wooden ceiling. The restaurant’s entire ambiance is aimed at giving you a folksy feel. Here you can eat some delicious Indian, Continental, and Chinese cuisine.
2. Aragosta Restaurant
The Aragosta Restaurant, which when translated literally means “please eat”, is a multi-cuisine restaurant at Chokhi Dhani. It is the largest restaurant in CHokhi Dhani, with a massive building with regal, beautifully-done interiors. The restaurant serves some delicious North Indian and Chinese food, along with other cuisines too.
3. Kesar Kyari Barbeque
The Kesar Kyari Barbeque restaurant is an outdoor restaurant complete with a canopied seating arrangement. It begins operations in the evening and offers some delicious vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies. The outdoor seating, coupled with the beautiful view of the nearby village, makes this restaurant perfect for private get togethers and parties. The chefs at the grill are constantly cooking up innovative barbeque dishes for patrons to enjoy.
4. Chaupal
Thali meals have always been a key component of the dining experience in Rajasthani cuisine. The Chaupal, which means “hub”, is a traditional sit-down restaurant where you can relax and have a hearty meal in traditional Rajasthani style. Eating at Chaupal is a must-do experience when visiting Chokhi Dhani
How to Reach Chokhi Dhani?
You can reach Chokhi Dhani by a city or private cabs. City cabs usually charge around Rs. 1,200 for a to-and-fro trip from the Jaipur city. Chokhi Dhani also runs its own fleet of taxis called the Rajputana Cabs that charges Rs. 900 for a round trip in a sedan and Rs. 1500 for an SUV.
Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi from the Jaipur bus station; prices will have to be fixed in advance.
Chokhi Dhani provides a wholesome and relaxing experience for anyone visiting the restaurant. This is why it is a highly-acclaimed tourist spot near Jaipur. The next time you are in Jaipur do give Chokhi Dhani a visit and let us know of your experience in the comments section below.