India Vegan Tour

Bidding farewell to Roopangarh, we venture even deeper into Rajasthan’s hidden heartlands as we make our way to the enchanting village of Ghanerao. Tucked near the foothills of the majestic Aravalli Mountains, this centuries-old settlement feels like stepping straight into a living storybook of Rajput history and rural tradition.

For the next two days, we’ll be honored guests of the local royal family, staying at their ancestral 17th-century home—Ghanerao Castle, a stunning labyrinth of marble, red stone, courtyards, and timeless charm. This historic haven will be our base as we dive into the rhythms of village life and explore Rajasthan far from the tourist trail.

Here, we’ll learn firsthand about the cultural traditions, customs, and daily life of the countryside, especially the vital role agriculture plays in sustaining local communities. Our hosts are at the forefront of a powerful grassroots movement to protect traditional organic farming from the influence of global corporations—an inspiring story of resilience and heritage.

Ghanerao itself is a treasure trove of history. Scattered throughout the village and its surroundings are dozens of remarkable step-wells—intricate, ancient water systems that once helped people survive the harsh and arid climates of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Exploring these architectural marvels offers a rare window into India’s ingenious past.

And the food—oh, the food! In a region where organic farming isn’t just a practice but a lifeline, we’ll savor flavorful, farm-fresh vegan dishes inspired by traditional Mertiya Rathore recipes, brought to life with produce grown right here in the community.

Set in a village rich with diversity—from Jains and Hindus to Muslims—we’ll experience India in its purest, most authentic form. Ghanerao is a place where cultures intertwine, traditions endure, and travelers are welcomed like old friends.

Here, the heart of Rajasthan beats its strongest.

Highlights of the Day:

• Morning traditional yoga sessions at the palace (based on the early practice forms of yoga from its birthplace in India).
• Guests of the Royal Family of Ghanerao at their castle for 2 days, where they will share with us their history, culture, way of life, and delicious family recipes – all specially made vegan for us.
• Explore the old town Ghanerao where we’ll learn about the local way of life and history of the different communities living here.
• Learn from a member of the Royal Family of Ghanerao the vital importance agriculture plays in local life and their fight to keep traditional local organic farming, the livelihood of many communities here, alive, local, and out of the reach of global companies.
• Introduction to the unique architectural concept of “stepwells” in India that date back to the 2nd and 3rd millennium BC Indus Valley Civilizations.
• Guests of a member of the Royal Family of Ghanerao for drinks and snacks followed by a delicious dinner of the veganized versions of local Mertiya Rathore recipes.
• Explore the surrounding countryside learning about the various ethnic groups and cultures that call this part of Rajasthan their home and the different agricultural products being farmed here.
• Join kids from the community for a challenging game of sitolia (a classic cross between cricket and dodgeball).

Vegan Meals Included: Breakfasts (x2), Lunches (x2), and Dinner & Drinks (x2)