A taste of Indian heritage villages in Gurugram

One of the best aspects about being in Delhi is that we are spoilt for a choice when planning short trips out of the city. As we cross the threshold at the Surajkund Gurugram urban village in Gurugram (Delhi NCR), we soon teleport into typical Rajasthani and Haryanvi villages amidst rural architecture, culture and food.

Around 35 kilometres from central Delhi, we set foot amidst rural settings to experience a traditional mix of Indian art, craft and culture, away from the fast-paced city life. The Surajgarh Gurugram urban village is a mix of adventure and entertainment providing a typical experience of being in an Indian village.

“Our motive is to preserve and showcase village life in the era of rapid urbanisation. Today, when people are reaching farthest corners of the country in search of calm and serene villages, peaceful rural life experiences and a soul-satisfying journey, Surajgarh has brought the fusion of real Indian heritage villages of Rajasthan and Haryana in the middle of the metro city for all those who want a short break from their busy lifestyles and enjoy the vibrant culture of ethnic Indian life.” says Anil Yadav, director, Surajgarh Gurugram.

As we enter the urban village on the Golf Course Extension in Gurugram (Delhi NCR), we are welcomed with warmth that reminds us of the traditional Rajasthani royal hospitality. With an area of over 15 acres, the heritage village opens its doors for visitors this month. At the launch, around us are many other visitors from Gurugram, Delhi and Noida to experience heritage, traditional Indian delicacies, village life, adventure activities and much more in an urban village setting.

The place is an amalgamation of cultures of Haryana and Rajasthan and the architecture brings forth the feeling of being inside forts and villages of India.
As we proceed further, rural Rajasthani artisans showcase traditional art forms and handcrafts and encourage us to try our hands on it as they teach us how to stitch together the traditional art and craft.

After hours of activities like camel rides, folk dances, experiencing agricultural activities and adventurous activities, the ‘Relaxation Zone’ at the property soothes us with a head massage.

As we further explore the place, we come across village style food being cooked on mud-baked stoves. The ‘Khaan-paan’ restaurant offers various traditional dishes made by chefs from palaces of Rajasthan. The food indeed completed our experience of being inside an Indian village setting. After all, nothing can bring out the true essence of India like its food.