The soul of our country lies in its interiors. Taking off from that, the Dera Village Retreat near the charming village of Kalakho is a property that provides an immersive and unique experience in the heart of Rajasthan.

Perfect for a weekend getaway, the retreat gives you the opportunity to unwind while the kids run amok. Miles away from the pollution, hustle-bustle and chaos of our cities, this is an easily accessible haven. Leave behind the daily stressors for a few days and spend your days doing offbeat activities instead of the regularly touristy stuff.

A visit to Dera Village Retreat gives the discerning traveller an opportunity to engage with local communities, experience the authentic Rajasthani culture and explore an oasis in the most comfortable and beautiful setting.

This beautiful retreat comes with 17 well-appointed cottages encircling a green area. Tastefully done up, the cottages have all the amenities you could possibly require to make your stay pleasant and comfortable. What better way to spend your weekend than by sitting on the porch of the cottage, sipping your chai and looking at the Aravalli hills in the distance.

There is so much to do in and around Kalakho that you can make your stay here as restful or as adventurous as you want. Head off on a camel safari to the village and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Meena tribe, a tribe still strongly connected to its customs and traditions and very proud of it. It is not unusual here in Kalakho for friendly visitors to be invited into the homes of the locals. Visit the village school to meet the children who with their big smiles are eager to share with you what they’re learning.

Another experience that’s a must do is the Abhaneri Stepwells (also known as Chand Baori). This architecturally impressive structure is over 1000 years old. BBC Travel has called it one of the 7 Unknown Architectural Wonders in the World. There is also a temple adjoining the stepwell for visitors to explore.

If you are still craving for more, a hike through the surrounding Aravali ranges awaits. Tuck into a specially packed picnic lunch and enjoy the varied birdlife, one of the major highlights of this region.

Entertainment in the evening comes in the form of festive traditional dance & music. Guests are welcome to lose themselves and join the dancing. The tunes of the rich and upbeat music played by local musicians will encourage even the most reluctant of dancers to get up and shake a leg or two.

Dera Village Retreat gives you the opportunity to sample traditional Rajasthani cuisine and all three meals are included in the cost of the stay. Additional services to make your stay hassle free include laundry, medical service, currency exchange and a travel desk.

At the retreat, the focus is not just to make sure that guests have an authentic experience but also to ensure that the local tribe and their traditions continue to thrive. As a guest here, your stay supports these endeavours even further.

All in all, this unique property in a 5-star location has all the luxuries you could possibly desire and what’s more, it ensures sustainability of the environment and local cultures. Really, what could be better than that?