Exploring Rajasthan’s Rural Heartland on a Scenic Railway and Village Stay

If you’re looking to step beyond the usual tourist spots and get a genuine feel for Rajasthan’s countryside, this Rural Rail Journey, Village Tour, and Heritage Haveli Stay offers just that. For $175 per person, over two days, you’ll traverse scenic rural routes near Udaipur, visit the stunning Jain temple of Ranakpur, and spend a night in a charming heritage haveli.

What we love about this experience is firstly the train ride—a relaxed, slow-paced journey through Rajasthan’s lush and arid landscapes, giving you a chance to see real village life from the comfort of a beautifully maintained train. Secondly, the village walk allows for genuine interactions with locals, a rare chance to see daily life away from the tourist hustle.

A minor consideration is that transportation logistics are quite streamlined but involve some waiting around, especially during check-ins and transitions. Also, the experience is capped at eight participants, so it’s fairly intimate, which is perfect if you enjoy small group travel but might feel tight for those seeking a larger tour vibe.

This tour suits travelers eager to see Rajasthan’s countryside authentically—those who appreciate culture, scenic routes, and a touch of luxury in a heritage setting. If you’re after a quick, but meaningful escape into rural India that balances comfort with local flavor, this could be just the right choice.

Key Points

Authentic rural experience: Travel through real villages near Udaipur on a traditional train.
Cultural immersion: Walk through villages, interact with locals, and visit a renowned Jain temple.
Comfort and authenticity: Stay overnight at a heritage haveli, blending comfort with history.
Balanced itinerary: Combines sightseeing, cultural encounters, and scenic train rides.
Small group setting: Limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover Rajasthan’s Countryside on the Rural Rail Journey

This two-day experience from Udaipur offers an inviting glimpse into Rajasthan’s rustic side, often overshadowed by the more famous forts and palaces. It’s a balanced mix of scenic travel, community engagement, and heritage comfort, perfect for travelers who want a slower, more meaningful connection with this vibrant region.

We start in Udaipur, a city already known for its lakes and palaces, but this trip takes us beyond the city limits to the quieter, authentic villages and countryside. The highlight is the joyful train ride—a leisurely journey through rural landscapes, allowing you to see the fields, farms, and village life unfold outside the window. The train itself is part of the charm, reminiscent of bygone eras when trains were the lifeline of rural India.

Interested in history? Here are other past-focused experiences we've examined in Udaipur

The Journey Begins: Ranakpur and the Jain Temple

Our first stop is the spectacular Jain temple in Ranakpur, a marvel carved entirely out of white marble. You’ll appreciate the intricate craftsmanship of the 108 snake heads with interlaced tails, and the towering idol of Adinath, which stands six feet tall. The temple, dedicated to Tirthankar Adinath, is a peaceful place, and its design showcases the skill of Rajasthan’s artisans.

One reviewer notes, “The marble carving is stunning, and the temple’s peaceful atmosphere gives you a moment to reflect.” Visiting Ranakpur is more than just sightseeing—it’s about experiencing the spiritual tranquility and artistry that make Rajasthan’s temples so special.

Immersive Village Walks and Cultural Interactions

After the temple visit, we check into a heritage hotel, a step back into history with its traditional architecture and warm hospitality. Once rested, you’ll join your guide for an evening walk through a nearby village. This part of the tour is where you really get to see daily rural life—meeting locals, seeing their homes, and perhaps witnessing traditional crafts or farming methods. The walk is gentle and insightful, ideal for those curious about the everyday lives of Rajasthan’s rural people.

A comment from a traveler sums it up: “The village walk was a highlight—an authentic peek into local life and warm interactions with villagers.” It’s these moments that make the tour genuinely memorable, allowing you to connect with the culture in a way that’s hard to find in larger, more commercialized tours.

Stay in a Heritage Haveli

Your overnight accommodation at the heritage haveli is a highlight on its own. Expect comfortable rooms decorated with traditional Rajasthani touches, and a chance to experience what it’s like to sleep in a historical setting. The dinner, often described as scrumptious, offers local flavors and the chance to relax after a day of exploration.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Train Ride on Day Two

The next morning starts with a hearty breakfast before heading to Khambli Ghat railway station. Here, you board a rural train for a 1.5-hour ride through Rajasthan’s countryside, passing by farms, small villages, and open landscapes. The train ride offers an unvarnished look at rural life—distant villages, fields with farmers working, and the occasional herd of cattle.

One traveler said, “We loved the way the train slowed down to reveal everyday village scenes—it’s a view you won’t get from a car or a bus.” The train ride ends at Phulad station, after which you’ll be driven back to Udaipur, concluding your rural adventure.

While you're exploring Udaipur, here are other experiences we've looked into

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience excels at offering a slice of authentic rural Rajasthan in a relaxed, unhurried manner. Unlike fast-paced city tours, it welcomes you into real village life and connects you with local artisans, farmers, and temple artisans. The small group size enhances this intimacy, making conversations more meaningful and giving you space to absorb your surroundings.

The combination of cultural visits, scenic train travel, and comfortable heritage stay offers a well-rounded package that balances sight-seeing with culture. It’s a chance to see Rajasthan from a different perspective—not just the grand forts, but the everyday life of its people.

However, it’s worth considering that this tour involves some waiting and transition times, especially when moving between locations and during the train ride. Travelers seeking a tightly scheduled, action-packed tour might find it a tad slow, but for those craving a genuine, unfiltered experience, this pacing is ideal.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This journey is best suited for culturally curious travelers who enjoy gentle exploration and authentic encounters. It’s perfect if you prefer small group settings and want to see Rajasthan’s countryside without the chaos of larger tours. If you love scenic train journeys combined with village walks and heritage stays, this trip will feel both peaceful and enriching.

It also appeals to anyone interested in spiritual sites, like the Jain temple, and those eager to connect with local communities in a respectful, meaningful way. Perfect for travelers who want a relaxed pace but meaningful insights into rural India.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the train ride?
The train journey lasts roughly 1.5 hours through rural Rajasthan, providing scenic views of fields, villages, and open landscapes.

What is included in the overnight stay?
You stay overnight at a heritage hotel, which offers traditional decor and comforts, with dinner included on the first night.

What should I expect during the village walk?
The walk offers interaction with locals, a chance to see daily life, crafts, and customs, all guided by a local expert.

Are there any religious sites on this tour?
Yes, the Ranakpur Jain temple is a major highlight, known for its marble craftsmanship and spiritual ambiance.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personal experience.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

What do I need to bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes for village exploration and a camera for capturing scenic views and intricate temple carvings.

Is this suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most ages, younger children should be comfortable walking and sitting through train rides.

Final Thoughts

This Rajasthan rural experience offers a rare chance to slow down and look closely at village life, all wrapped in a scenic train ride and charming heritage accommodation. It balances cultural insights with comfort, ideal for those who cherish authentic interactions without sacrificing amenities.

If you’re eager to see the real Rajasthan beyond the palaces and forts, enjoy a relaxed pace, and prefer small groups, this tour will deliver warmth, scenery, and a genuine connection to local life. It’s a compelling way to deepen your understanding of Rajasthan’s diverse landscape and culture, all at a reasonable price.

For travelers wanting an off-the-beaten-path glimpse of rural India, this experience offers a meaningful, memorable adventure that’s a little different from the typical tourist trail.