The Boat Village, Maheshwar

Introduction to The Boat Village- Maheshwar Experience:

The Boat Village- Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh, India, offers a unique and immersive experience for travelers seeking an authentic rural getaway. Nestled on the banks of the serene Narmada River, this quaint village stay provides visitors with a glimpse into the traditional life of rural Madhya Pradesh. The tranquil surroundings of The Boat Village, coupled with the genuine hospitality of the villagers, create an unforgettable and rejuvenating experience for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether it’s enjoying a peaceful boat ride on the Narmada, strolling through the village lanes, or simply relaxing by the riverside, this homestay offers a tranquil escape that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of Rural India.

Why do we call it The Boat Village?

The Boat Village at Bakri Chhap is a unique initiative that champions both social and environmental causes. It represents the marginalized boatman community of Maheshwar, Madhya Pradesh, who have lived on the banks of the Narmada River for centuries. In response to the challenges posed by modernization, we aim to revive the tradition of manual wooden boats. We provide capacity-building opportunities to custom-make these boats and train boatmen for interpretive river safaris, showcasing Maheshwar’s rich culture and diverse aquatic life. Our mascot, a young 26 year old Kirti Kewat, also a national-level swimming champion from the marginalized Kewat community, symbolizes our commitment to community empowerment. We aim to increase responsible tourism and reduce the carbon footprint, with periodic audits to measure our environmental impact. To promote community engagement and enhance the visibility of The Boat Village, we aim to conduct unique annual events like boat races and freestyle river swimming competitions. These activities are designed to raise awareness and celebrate the community’s rich heritage and attract responsible tourism to the area.

Staying in The Boat Village:

The whole property is designed in a manner to keep it aligned with nature and biodiversity of that area. It is surrounded by banana farms where one can witness a variety of birds, charm of Narmada river. One of the highlights of The Boat Village stay is the opportunity to engage in various cultural activities and interact with the warm and welcoming local community. Visitors can participate in traditional folk dances, witness age-old crafts being practiced, and savor delicious local cuisine made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The village stay also organizes guided tours to nearby attractions, including the famous Maheshwar Fort and the intricately carved temples, providing a holistic experience that combines cultural immersion with exploration of the region’s historical heritage.

Cottage Description:

The accommodations at The Boat Village- Maheshwar are designed to reflect the local architecture and offer a comfortable yet rustic atmosphere, allowing guests to connect with nature and experience the simplicity of village life. The property offers access to a patio and free private parking. Outdoor dining is also possible at the campground. Guests can also relax in the garden.

Amenities

Rooms

Unique Leisure Experiences In & Around:

  • River trail nature walk to Sahastradhara: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the river trail to Sahastradhara, a beautiful spot known for its thousand streams.
  • Farm tour and a day in village life: Get a glimpse of rural life by participating in a farm tour and spending a day in the village.
  • Boat and bullock cart ride: Experience traditional modes of transportation with a boat ride on the Narmada River and a bullock cart ride in the village.
  • Hands-on cooking experience at river bank: Learn to cook traditional Indian dishes with a hands on cooking experience at the river bank.
  • Organic food cooked in an open kitchen: Savor delicious organic food cooked in an open kitchen, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
  • Health retreat and water meditation: Rejuvenate your mind and body with a health retreat and water meditation session.
  • Stargazing: Enjoy the clear night sky and indulge in some stargazing.
  • Heritage and spiritual tour near town: Explore the rich cultural heritage of the region with a guided tour of nearby historical and spiritual sites, including the famous Maheshwar Fort and the intricately carved temples.

History of Maheshwari Silk:

Maheshwari silk holds a rich historical significance deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of India. Originating from the town of Maheshwar in Madhya Pradesh, this exquisite textile art form dates back to the 18th century during the reign of the Holkar dynasty. The creation of Maheshwari silk is attributed to Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, a visionary ruler known for her patronage of art and culture.

    • Legend has it that Queen Ahilyabai invited skilled weavers from Surat and Malwa to Maheshwar and provided them with a conducive environment to practice their craft. Under her patronage, the weavers combined traditional weaving techniques with innovative designs, resulting in the birth of Maheshwari silk sarees.
    • Maheshwari sarees are characterized by their unique blend of cotton and silk threads, intricately woven to create delicate patterns and motifs. The pallu (end piece) of the saree typically features distinctive designs such as stripes, checks, and floral motifs, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of the weavers.
    • Over the centuries, Maheshwari silk sarees have gained prominence not only in India but also internationally, becoming synonymous with elegance and luxury. The sarees are cherished for their lightweight texture, vibrant colors, and timeless appeal, making them a preferred choice for special occasions and festivities.
    • Despite modernization and changing fashion trends, Maheshwari silk continues to thrive, thanks to the efforts of various government initiatives and non-profit organizations aimed at preserving and promoting traditional handloom weaving. Today, Maheshwari silk remains a symbol of India’s rich textile heritage, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of Queen Ahilyabai Holkar and the skilled artisans of Maheshwar.

Where to shop:

    1. Rehwa Society
    • Women Weave
    • Hansa Heritage
    • Pawar Handloom
    • Ashray Handloom
    • Tana Bana Maheshwari Handloom

How to reach Maheshwar:

Well-connected by road.   Times to visit Maheshwar Winter and spring are the best times to visit.

Barwaha (39 KM from Maheshwar) or Indore.

Indore (91 KM from Maheshwar), Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport.

Nearest Tourist Attractions:

  • Ahilyabai Fort Maheshwar (1 KM)
  • Sahastradhara water rapids (0.5 KM)
  • Narmada river (0.5 KM)
  • Bajirao Peshwa Samadhi (38 KM)
  • Mandav (60 KM)
  • Omkareshwar (68 KM)
  • Siyaram Baba Bhatyan (35 KM)

Be a Responsible Traveler:

With a pledge to protect the micro-cultures of the communities we work with and the environment around, practicing ‘responsible tourism’ becomes an important aspect of our hospitality, agricultural and tourism experiences. 

We are an utmost environment-conscious homestay based on the tenets of “Reduce-Reuse-Recycle”. We discourage any litter which is non-biodegradable in nature.

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