A Truly Magical and Authentic Desert Experience – Dhanna Ram Ki Dhani, Khetasar Village, Osian, Jodhpur, Rajasthan
I first found this experience on TripAdvisor, and while I saw many great reviews, I was initially unsure. However, I trusted my instincts, made the reservation for an overnight stay, and I am so glad I did. There are places we visit, and then there are places that stay with us forever. Dhanna Ram Ki Dhani in Khetasar Village, Osian, is not just a stay—it is a journey into the very heart of Rajasthan’s desert culture. What began as an uncertain booking quickly transformed into one of the most enriching and unforgettable experiences of my travels.
From the moment I reserved our overnight stay, I felt the warmth of this family. Within 15 minutes of booking, Sumer, the eldest son of the family, reached out via WhatsApp. His message was not just a confirmation—it was a heartfelt welcome. He patiently answered all my questions and detailed the journey ahead, setting the stage for something special.
The next day, we were picked up from a central location near the Clock Tower, close to the Step Well Hotel, where we were staying. Another couple from Japan joined us, and our guide, Khanna, the third son of Mr. Dhanna Ram introduced himself with a smile that carried generations of desert wisdom. Our first stop was the Sachai Mata Temple, where we paused to absorb the spiritual energy of this sacred space. Some of us took photos, while others went in for darshan, taking a moment of reverence before heading into the vastness of the Thar Desert.
After a short drive, we arrived at the meeting point where Mr. Dhanna Ram and his camels awaited us. The camels, magnificent in their stature, stood as living symbols of the desert’s resilience. Sumer and his father observed each of us, carefully pairing us with camels that best suited our personalities. My camel, Jigar, felt like an extension of myself—strong, graceful, and patient. The other camels—Michael Jackson, Diamond, and Sonu—each had their own charm and quirks.
Before mounting, we were encouraged to bond with our camels, introduce ourselves, and build trust—a rare and humbling experience. Sumer explained the technique of mounting, how the camels rise—back legs first, then front legs—and the importance of holding on tight. It was a safe and well-guided process filled with laughter and the anticipation of adventure.
As we embarked on our camel trek, the vast desert opened before us, bathed in golden hue, its silence interrupted only by the rhythmic steps of our camels. The journey, nearly an hour and 50 minutes long, was mesmerizing. There is something truly poetic about traveling this way—feeling the desert breeze, watching the endless horizon, and experiencing a mode of travel that has connected nomads and traders for centuries.
Upon arrival at Dhanna Ram Ki Dhani, we were greeted with chairs, traditional Rajasthani turbans, and the warmth of a family that genuinely welcomes travelers as their own. We met Sumer’s mother, Samu, and his siblings, Ashok and Sangeeta, who had lovingly prepared chai and bottled water for us.
As the sun dipped below the dunes, we embarked on an exhilarating jeep safari, led by Sumer and Ashok, whose infectious energy turned the ride into a thrilling adventure. The drive took us to a stunning sunset viewpoint, where time seemed to pause. We captured photos that will stay with us forever—not just images, but memories etched in golden light.
The night was even more magical. We were invited to a traditional village gathering, where musicians and dancers brought the spirit of Rajasthan to life. The hypnotic beats of the drums, the soulful melodies, and the graceful movements of the dancers transported us to another era. It wasn’t just entertainment—it was a cultural immersion, a glimpse into a way of life that has been preserved through generations.
Back at Dhanna Ram Ki Dhani, dinner was waiting—a feast prepared with love by Samu Mai. The flavors of Rajasthan came alive in every bite, infused with her warmth and care. As we sat under the vast desert sky, sharing stories and laughter, I realized that this was more than a trip—it was an experience of human connection.
Our rooms were clean, comfortable, and safe, with western-style toilets and hot water available for a refreshing shower. That night, we lay beneath a sky bursting with stars, a reminder of the infinite beauty of the desert.
The morning was unhurried. There is no rush here, no strict schedule—only the gentle rhythm of life in the desert. My husband woke early to feed the camels and peacocks with Samu, while others embraced the peacefulness of the surroundings. Breakfast, once again prepared by Samu’s loving hands, was the perfect way to start the day before we packed our bags and reluctantly said our goodbyes.
This experience was not just about seeing Rajasthan—it was about feeling it, living it. The hospitality of Dhanna Ram and his family, the deep connection with the camels, the thrill of the jeep safari, the magic of the folk music, and the soulfulness of the desert made this one of the most profound travel experiences of my life.
For those seeking authenticity, adventure, and connection, Dhanna Ram Ki Dhani is a place like no other. This is not just a tour—it is an invitation into the home and hearts of a beautiful Rajasthani family. If you’re considering this trip, do not hesitate—book it. The desert is waiting, and so is a family that will make you feel like you belong.