Shilpgram Crafts Village,Rajasthan
Shilpgram Crafts Village (Udaipur) is a purpose-built rural arts complex created to preserve, showcase and promote the living crafts, rural lifestyles and folk performing arts of Rajasthan and neighbouring western Indian states. It functions as a cultural exchange hub where artisans and tribal communities display traditional skills such as weaving, pottery, block-printing and puppet-making, helping sustain intangible cultural heritage while offering visitors an immersive experience of rural craft traditions.
Places to visit
- Crafts bazaar with stalls for textiles, pottery, puppets, jewelry and homewares
- Traditional village huts/hamlets representing different communities
- Live craft demonstrations and hands-on workshops (weaving, pottery, block printing)
- Open-air amphitheatre and regular folk music & dance performances
- Puppet shows and street-theatre during festivals
- Scenic grounds and viewpoints set against the Aravalli foothills
Unique Aspects
- Living-craft experience: artisans work on-site and explain techniques
- Annual Shilpgram Festival (winter) — a major cultural market and performance series
- Accessible layout for strolling between themed hamlets and stalls
- Good photographic opportunities of traditional crafts and folk performances
- Combination of shopping and cultural education in a village-like setting
Things to do
- Browse and buy authentic handicrafts (Bandhani, block-printed textiles, puppets, pottery, jewelry)
- Watch or join craft demonstrations and short workshops
- Attend evening folk music and dance shows (especially during festival)
- Meet and speak with artisans to learn about techniques and materials
- Relax and photograph the landscaped village settings and Aravalli backdrop
- Try local snacks from food stalls during events
Best Time to Visit
October to March — pleasant weather and coincides with the major Shilpgram Festival; evenings can be chilly in winter, so bring a light jacket.
Weather Conditions
Hot summers (April–June), monsoon rains (July–September), cool and pleasant winters (October–March). Daytime temperatures vary widely between summer and winter.
Entry Fees & Permits
There is typically a nominal entry fee (small local currency amount) and operating hours are generally around 09:00–18:00; timings and fees may be extended or altered during festivals—check local listings or the Shilpgram noticeboard before visiting.
Accessibility
Shilpgram is located a few kilometres west of central Udaipur and is reachable by taxi, auto-rickshaw or private car. Nearest major transport hubs: Maharana Pratap (Dabok) Airport (Udaipur) ~25–30 km away and Udaipur City Railway Station / bus stands are within the city (~3–6 km). Local taxis or app-cabs provide the easiest access; limited public buses/auto services may be available.
Recommended Duration
2–3 hours for a relaxed visit; 4+ hours if attending workshops or evening performances during the festival.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen) in daytime; light jacket or shawl for winter evenings. A small bag for purchases and bottled water.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try local Rajasthani snacks at food stalls during events. Recommended souvenirs: Bandhani and block-printed textiles, handcrafted puppets, pottery, silver/tribal jewelry, embroidered items and rugs. Carry cash for small vendors and be prepared to bargain politely. Always ask permission before photographing artisans at work.