The place I stayed in the village of Hodka in Kutch deserves a special mention. Its called Shaam-e-Sarhad and it's a joint programme by the Government of India and the United Nations Development Programme for sustainable eco tourism. It is entirely run by the villagers of Hodka, so provides sustainable employment .

The place is entirely built of mud. The pucca constructions, still made of mud, are called Bhungas. And there are tents , which is just mud covered by canvas. Everything is made of mud – the beds, the chairs, everything !! Every year, during the rains, its all washed away and next season, its built all over again !

The food is simple Kutchi food. Of course, there is no TV, no internet, none of that stuff. Even the mobile works only patchily here. The staff who are all residents of the village are wonderfully friendly. After dinner is finished, then there is a bonfire under the stars and the village musicians belt out as much of Kutchi folk songs as you like. You recline on a charpoy and listen to the sounds wafting around. If you like a rustic , but very comfortable experience, it’s a great place to come to.

www.hodka.in