5 good reasons to stay with us in shekhawati
• A family run guest-house of character
• Discovery of the culture through activities and meetings with local community
• A commitment to fair and responsible tourism. Winner of Responsible Tourism Wild Asia Award 2013
• Strong ecological principles.
• Communication in English, French and Hindi.
Eco-friendly accommodation – Fair and responsible tourist in Shekhawati (Rajasthan-India).
275 km from Delhi (3 direct night trains per week to Nawalgarh - and vice versa - as well as two day trains) and 150 km from Jaipur (many direct buses).
In the heart of Shekhawati, Apani Dhani eco-lodge offers environmentally friendly accommodation, and activities such as guided visits, excursions in the countryside, art and crafts workshops, cooking classes, etc. which bring in extra revenue to the local community as well as offering ample opportunities for meeting and exchanges.
Home-made vegetarian cuisine using mostly products from Apani Dhani’s own organic garden will add to the pleasure of the stay.
The Eco-lodge is situated in Nawalgarh, a town known for its havelis adorned with wall paintings. Well connected by bus and train with Delhi, Jaipur, Bikaner and Jodhpur, Nawalgarh also offers an excellent base for exploring the countryside and surrounding villages.
Founded by Ramesh C. Jangid, Apani Dhani Eco-lodge is a family run guest-house (homestay) providing an alternative accommodation to the hotels in Shekhawati.
Apani Dhani also supports local projects in education, environment and heritage conservation by donating 5 % of room rent.
The Eco-lodge has been committed since its inception to an ecological approach as seen in its use of natural materials (brick, adobe and thatch) for construction, solar-power for lighting and hot water, organic agriculture, water management and recycling.
All rooms have en suite bathroom and toilets and their decor highlights local crafts.
Apani Dhani was created to promote a different type of tourism, combining an ecological approach, respect for the host country and financial benefits for the local community with an authentic experience for travellers.
The Ecolodge has been deeply involved in sustainable and ethical tourism since 1990. “Les Amis du Shekhawati » represents its activities in ATES (a French network for fair and responsible tourism), whose charter we adhere to.
Apani Dhani is the seat of the Shekhawati branch of INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage) – also founded by Ramesh Jangid. It works on a voluntary basis for the preservation of the architectural heritage of the region. It is also a member of the IHCN (Historical Indian Cities Network), a programme launched by UNESCO.
A charming, ethically engaged place, Apani Dhani offers holidays that allow you to discover the daily life and traditions of rural India and give a deeper meaning to your trip.
Following the same principles, guided tours in Rajasthan for small groups (minimum 6 and maximum 9 people).
Testimonials
We have thoroughly enjoyed our stay here. I believe one of the nicest places we stayed in Rajasthan. You have been wonderfully helpful & friendly. We would higly recommand. Thank you ! Charlotte T, Uk -
One of the few examples of social responsibility I have seen in India. Everything at Apani Dhani has been hugely impressive and has made me think again. The setting is also beautiful. George M, Uk -
It was a delightful experience to stay here - to be welcomed by the extended family - but mostly because it is extraordinary to see how a vision for the common good can be "put to work" in such a fine way. Worthwhile work, indeed. Good luck in all future endeavours. We will certainly spread the word. Cynthia T. & Hugh M. UK -
