Raithal Homestay in Uttarakhand: “A 500-Year-Old Legacy”
Experience the charm of a 500-year-old heritage at Raithal Homestay in Uttarakhand. Stay in a quake-resistant marvel, surrounded by breathtaking nature, and savor local cuisine. A unique cultural adventure awaits!
In the heart of Uttarakhand lies the charming village of Raithal, where time seems to slow down, and local life and culture thrive. Nestled amidst the stunning peaks of Gangotri, Kala Nag, and Srikanth, Raithal is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
It serves as the gateway to the Dayara Bugyal Trek, but there’s much more to this village than meets the eye. Here, locals make their living through various means, including homestays, community programs, guiding treks, portering, and even honey collection.
A Glimpse into Traditional Garhwali Architecture
The traditional Garhwali architecture graces the village with rustic charm, and it has a unique feature – earthquake-resistant multi-storeyed houses inspired by “Koti Banal” architecture. These houses are designed to withstand the region’s earthquake-prone terrain. These historic buildings have not only stood the test of time but have also been converted into homestays. Topping the list is the remarkable 500-year-old Raithal Homestay, a haven for those seeking solace in nature’s embrace.
A Homestay with a Remarkable History
Raithal Homestay in Uttarakhand is not just a place to rest your head; it’s a living piece of history. It has witnessed the passage of generations of the Rana family and weathered numerous earthquakes. Prithiviraj Singh Rana, the present host, shares his childhood stories with guests who come to experience the comfort of its mud rooms. The homestay’s journey into tourism began in 2017 when an NGO named Balajee Sewa Sansthan, in collaboration with the Uttarakhand government, recognized its potential and added it to the tourism map of the region.
The Science of Koti Banal Architecture
The secret to the durability of these houses lies in the scientific brilliance of Koti Banal architecture. Locally available materials such as mud, stone, and wood from Deodar trees are used in construction. Roof slabs called ‘Pathali’ in Garhwali keep the interiors cool in summer and warm in winter. These elements collectively create strong, long-lasting foundations and structures.
Your Raithal Homestay Experience
Nestled amidst fruit orchards, the three-story homestay has a room for guests, accommodating up to six people. The restroom, with a western toilet and geyser, is located in front of the mud room. The room opens onto a balcony with breathtaking valley views, perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos.
For adventurers, there’s ample space for camping and bonfires near the strawberry, peach, plum, and apple orchards. Trekking tours are also offered to ensure guests have a smooth experience.
A Taste of Uttarakhand
The culinary experience at the homestay is simple yet wholesome. Enjoy home-cooked meals like dal Chawal and sabzi roti. Their special menu features local cuisine such as ‘Bhujji’ (wild greens), red rice, Mandwa (Ragi) roti, and loon (a condiment made of local herbs). It’s a delightful way to immerse yourself in the culture of Uttarakhand.
How to Get There
The nearest city to Raithal is Dehradun, and from there, it’s a 6-7 hour drive to the village. On arrival, inquire with locals about ‘Raithal Homestay’ for directions to your haven for the next few days.
Address: Raithal Homestay, Raithal village, Bhatwari tehsil, Uttarkashi
Contact: Prithviraj Singh Rana at 072488 76566
Conclusion
Raithal Homestay in Uttarakhand is not just a place to rest; it’s an opportunity to connect with a unique piece of history and experience the beauty of Uttarakhand’s culture and nature. So, when you seek a getaway off the beaten path, consider this 500-year-old treasure in the heart of Uttarakhand.
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