Nobody eats non-veg and homes have no locks here: Know more about India’s best tourist village

Devmali Village, nestled in the Beawar district of Rajasthan, has been honoured as the Best Tourist Village in India by the central government. The award ceremony is set for November 27 in Delhi, recognizing the village's unique cultural heritage and community-driven lifestyle. Notably, Devmali maintains strict adherence to traditional practices, prohibiting the consumption of meat, fish, and alcohol, while also banning the burning of neem wood and the use of kerosene.
With its picturesque location in the Aravalli hills and the revered temple of Lord Devnarayan at its heart, the village attracts thousands of visitors each year.This recognition underscores Devmali’s commitment to preserving its rich traditions while promoting tourism, showcasing its potential as a significant cultural destination in India.

Known for its strict adherence to traditional practices, Devmali prohibits the consumption of meat, fish, and alcohol. Additionally, burning neem wood and using kerosene are banned within the village. Nestled in the picturesque Aravalli hills within the Masuda subdivision, Devmali spans approximately 3,000 bighas and derives its name from the revered temple of Lord Devnarayan, which attracts lakhs of visitors each year.
Rajasthan's Deputy Chief Minister, Diya Kumari, expressed her pride in the village's achievement, stating, "Proud moment for Rajasthan! Devmali village of Beawar district has been selected as 'Best Tourist Village.' This village is famous for its rich culture, traditions, and natural beauty." The temple of Lord Devnarayan serves as the main attraction for visitors.
Interestingly, there are no pucca houses in Devmali; all homes are constructed using mud and thatch roofs. The villagers do not hold land ownership documents, as they believe the land belongs solely to Lord Devnarayan. This deep-rooted tradition has fostered a sense of community, where residents live without locks on their homes, reflecting their faith in one another. Remarkably, the village has not experienced any incidents of theft or robbery in decades.

The hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Devnarayan remains the central attraction, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Local legends tell of a pact made between the villagers and the deity, which continues to shape their way of life by forbidding the construction of permanent homes. The lack of locks on homes symbolizes the deep trust and communal spirit shared among villagers. Visitors to Devmali are often struck by the village's simplicity and spiritual atmosphere, with many remarking on its serene ambiance.
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