During my stay at Hriday Bhoomi, nestled in the tranquil Dhela Village near Corbett National Park, I decided to take an evening walk to connect more deeply with the rural life of the region. The moment I stepped outside from the resorts in Jim Corbett, I was welcomed by the sight of vibrant green wheat fields, their tender stalks glimmering in the golden light of the setting sun. The fields stretched endlessly before me, swaying gently in the breeze, their rustling blending harmoniously with the calls of birds settling for the night. The scene was so idyllic and serene, the simplicity of it almost felt surreal.
The air was cool and invigorating, untouched by the pollutants of city life. With every breath, I felt a sense of clarity, as if the very atmosphere was cleansing my mind. The breeze carried the rich scent of soil and hay, enveloping me in a soothing calm that only a village like Dhela could provide.
As I walked along narrow paths between the fields and homes, I passed by clusters of simple dwellings made from local materials. Clothes fluttered on lines in the open air, and nearby, cows chewed cud contentedly next to large haystacks. The rhythmic chewing of the cows seemed to echo the calm pace of village life, where time moved slowly and gently.
Children, full of energy, were playing hopscotch along the roadside, their laughter ringing through the village. Their carefree happiness was infectious, and I found myself smiling at the simplicity of it all—just kids, their chalk drawings on the dirt, and the soft hum of life around them. Women, balancing large bundles of hay on their heads, passed by with purposeful strides, their faces reflecting the quiet strength that seemed to define village life. The village felt alive with the buzz of daily activities, yet untouched by the pressures of modern life.
It was Wednesday, market day in Dhela, and the village square was a flurry of activity. The vibrant colours of fresh produce caught my eye—piles of spinach, bright red tomatoes, deep purple brinjals, and vivid yellow bananas. Local farmers had set up stalls selling fruits, vegetables, spices, and basic groceries. The air was rich with the scents of fresh produce and aromatic spices—turmeric, coriander, and cumin. The market wasn’t just about commerce; it was a place for villagers to meet, share news, and connect. I could hear snippets of conversations in the local dialect, punctuated by laughter and the occasional bargaining. The strong sense of community was palpable, and it was heart-warming to witness such togetherness.
In the midst of this lively scene, I found myself drawn to a small roadside stall offering light snacks. The aroma of freshly prepared cooked was irresistible, so I decided to stop for a quick bite. I ordered a plate of samosas and aloo tikki, paired with a steaming cup of tea. The snacks were a perfect balance of textures—crispy and golden on the outside, soft and savoury within, with the accompanying tamarind chutney adding a perfect tangy kick.
As for the tea, though the ingredients—ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon—were familiar, its taste was unlike any I had ever experienced. Curious, I asked the stall owner about it, and he explained that the milk came from his own cow. It was fresh, pure, and unadulterated, lending the tea a creamy richness. It was served in a small, earthen cup, which seemed to enhance its warm, comforting qualities. With each sip, I felt more connected to the land and the people who had prepared it with such care and sincerity.
Once I had finished my tea and snacks, I resumed my walk towards Hriday Bhoomi which is one of the best places to stay in Jim Corbett, the village now bathed in the soft glow of twilight. The sun had dipped below the horizon, and the peacefulness of the village settled over me. I felt a profound sense of gratitude for the chance to experience such a grounded, serene way of life, where community, simplicity, and sustainability shaped the rhythm of everyday life.
My walk through Dhela Village reminded me that beauty is often found in the most unassuming places. In the small moments of everyday life—the laughter of children, the bustle of the market, the warmth of a shared meal—there is a simplicity and richness that is easy to overlook but profoundly moving when we take the time to notice. It was a walk I would cherish forever—through a village where time seemed to stand still, and the simple joys of life were embraced with open arms.
