Devmali, a village in Rajasthan’s Beawar district, has been recognized as India’s Best Tourist Village. The village will receive this prestigious honor in a ceremony scheduled for November 27 in Delhi, as per recent reports. This recognition highlights Devmali’s unique blend of cultural heritage and tourism appeal.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Devmali is its spiritual dedication to Lord Devanarayan. Approximately 3,000 bighas of land in the village are considered to belong to the deity, and the villagers themselves hold no legal land ownership documents. They believe the entire land is Lord Devanarayan’s, further reinforcing their deep spiritual connection with their home.
The criteria for this award focused on villages that not only attract tourists but also play a vital role in preserving local traditions and culture. Devmali stood out for its strong commitment to maintaining its cultural identity and practices. The village is also known for its mud houses with thatched roofs, as no permanent structures or “pucca” houses are allowed. This is part of the villagers’ pledge to their deity, and they also follow strict vegetarianism, avoid alcohol consumption, and prohibit the burning of kerosene and neem wood.
Devmali’s way of life, steeped in religious customs and sustainable living, has made it a prime example of how villages can thrive while preserving their heritage. This award not only honors the village but also underscores the importance of cultural preservation in modern tourism.
