Devmali Village in Rajasthan Named India's Best Tourist Village

Nestled within the scenic Aravalli hills, located in the Masuda subdivision, a small yet captivating village called Devmali has recently gained national attention. Spanning approximately 3,000 bighas of land, this village has been recognized as India's Best Tourist Village. On November 27, 2024, the central government will honor Devmali with this prestigious title at an award ceremony in Delhi.

One of the striking aspects of Devmali is its adherence to a traditional and culturally rich lifestyle. In this village, the consumption of meat, fish, or alcohol is completely prohibited. Furthermore, burning neem wood and using kerosene for daily tasks are also not allowed, adding to the village's commitment to environmental conservation. At the heart of Devmali lies the revered Lord Devnarayan Temple, which attracts thousands of devotees each year, turning this village into a spiritual hub.

Though the village lacks modern infrastructure and does not have a single pucca (concrete) house, it is home to a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Devnarayan. Perched atop a hill, the temple adds to the village’s natural beauty and cultural importance.

Competition and Selection Process

The Ministry of Tourism organized the "Best Tourist Village" competition, aiming to recognize villages that have preserved their cultural heritage while promoting sustainable tourism. Devmali stood out for its ability to maintain a balance between cultural preservation and modern tourism development. According to Arun Srivastava, Joint Director General of the Ministry, "The selection criteria included maintaining cultural richness, promoting tourism, balancing social and environmental factors, and fostering community-based values and a sustainable lifestyle. Devmali perfectly embodies these principles, making it the best tourist village in India."

A Proud Moment for Rajasthan

Rajasthan’s Deputy Chief Minister, Diya Kumari, expressed her delight on the village’s recognition. "It is a proud moment for Rajasthan," she said, following the announcement made by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who selected Devmali for this honor.

Diya Kumari further elaborated on the significance of this achievement. "Devmali is renowned for its rich cultural traditions and natural beauty. The famous Lord Devnarayan temple is the village’s primary attraction, drawing large numbers of visitors every year." She believes this recognition will serve as a stepping stone for the village to gain international recognition, further boosting tourism in Rajasthan.

Taking to social media, she posted, "Proud moment for Rajasthan! #Devmali village in Beawar district has been selected as 'Best Tourist Village'. This village, known for its rich culture and traditions, will now gain the attention it deserves on a larger scale."

Kumari also expressed her gratitude to the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism for selecting Devmali, saying, "Heartfelt thanks to Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat for choosing Devmali as the 'Best Tourist Village'. This recognition will elevate the village’s status on a national and international level."

The Allure of Devmali

Devmali’s selection as India’s Best Tourist Village is no surprise to those familiar with its charms. Nestled among the rugged hills of the Aravalli range, the village has managed to retain its traditional essence while offering a serene and spiritual experience to its visitors.

The Lord Devnarayan Temple, a hilltop structure that overlooks the entire village, is one of Devmali’s key attractions. Devotees flock to this temple to seek blessings, and the influx of visitors has turned the village into an important pilgrimage site. Despite this, the village has managed to preserve its quiet and simple lifestyle, largely untouched by modernization. The absence of pucca houses and the prohibition of meat, alcohol, and even kerosene usage are testaments to Devmali’s commitment to maintaining its cultural roots.

The villagers have a deep connection to their land and heritage. Many believe that Lord Devnarayan, the village’s namesake, is a protector deity who has blessed the village with prosperity and peace. This belief is reflected in the way the villagers live — in harmony with nature, with a focus on sustainability and cultural preservation.

Boost to Rajasthan’s Tourism

The recognition of Devmali as the best tourist village is expected to provide a significant boost to tourism in Rajasthan. Known for its historic forts, palaces, and rich cultural heritage, Rajasthan has long been a favorite destination for both domestic and international tourists. However, the state’s lesser-known gems, such as Devmali, are now starting to gain attention.

The Ministry of Tourism’s initiative to highlight villages that promote sustainable and community-based tourism is aligned with Rajasthan’s overall strategy to diversify its tourism offerings. Villages like Devmali provide a more authentic and intimate experience for travelers, especially those looking to explore India’s cultural and spiritual side.

According to industry experts, the recognition of Devmali is likely to draw more attention to rural tourism in Rajasthan, encouraging travelers to venture beyond the state’s more popular destinations such as Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur. Rural tourism offers visitors the chance to experience local customs, traditional crafts, and the simple, yet fulfilling lifestyle of Rajasthan’s villages.

Future Prospects

As Devmali prepares to receive the Best Tourist Village award, the future looks bright for this small but culturally significant village. The recognition will undoubtedly attract more visitors, providing a much-needed economic boost to the local community. However, it is also important to ensure that the village’s cultural and environmental integrity is preserved.

The government and local authorities are expected to work closely with the village community to develop sustainable tourism practices that will benefit both visitors and residents. By maintaining a balance between tourism development and cultural preservation, Devmali can serve as a model for other villages in India looking to promote rural tourism.

With the award ceremony just a few months away, the people of Devmali are eagerly looking forward to the recognition of their village on a national stage. For them, the title of India’s Best Tourist Village is not just an accolade, but a validation of their efforts to maintain their cultural heritage and way of life.

Conclusion

Devmali’s selection as the Best Tourist Village in India is a testament to the village’s unique cultural and spiritual significance. With its picturesque setting in the Aravalli hills, the famous Lord Devnarayan Temple, and its commitment to preserving its traditions, Devmali is a worthy recipient of this honor. As tourism in the village grows, it will be essential to ensure that its cultural integrity remains intact, allowing future generations to experience the rich heritage of Devmali.