Nestled deep within the Aravalli mountain range in Rajasthan lies a remote and rugged village that still lacks fundamental modern amenities such as mobile network coverage and proper roads. Despite these severe logistical challenges, travelers from far and wide journey to this isolated spot, navigating mountain tracks on foot. This picturesque destination is known as Utraj village, situated at an altitude of approximately 1400 to 1500 meters above sea level, presenting a breathtaking landscape that resembles paradise. Surrounded entirely by lush greenery and the peaks of the Aravalli hills, the area remains completely untouched by urban pollution and the commotion of city life. Chintu Yadav, a local tourist and travel guide in Mount Abu, explained that Utraj village is an inaccessible settlement located near the Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary.
Rugged Trails and Traditional Living
Reaching this destination requires visitors to trek along a 5-kilometer mountain footpath starting from Gurushikhar, which is the highest peak in Rajasthan and the Aravalli range. During the monsoon season, the surroundings transform dramatically, offering visitors magnificent views of thick fog and flowing waterfalls at various spots. Approximately 40 to 60 families reside in this village, depending primarily on traditional animal husbandry and farming as their main sources of livelihood. The houses in the settlement continue to be mud-built and roofed with traditional tiles.
A Daily Life Full of Severe Challenges
Mahendra Singh, a resident of Gurushikhar, noted that while the location is blessed with natural beauty, the everyday lives of the villagers are fraught with difficulties. There are still no paved roads leading all the way to Utraj, meaning modern vehicles like cars and motorcycles cannot reach the area. The very first tractor arrived in the village only last year, and residents had to carry its individual parts on their shoulders to the site before assembling them locally. The village also features a school where local children study, with teachers walking 5 kilometers daily from Gurushikhar to conduct classes. Furthermore, in the event of a medical emergency, patients must be carried on a cot all the way back to Gurushikhar.
Traveling Becomes Dangerous After Sunset
The pathway to the village consists of stony, uneven tracks winding through dense forests. Consequently, traveling along this route after dark poses significant risks for newcomers, as the dense forest environment not only increases the chance of losing one's way but also exposes travelers to potential attacks from dangerous wildlife such as bears and leopards. Villagers consistently urge tourists to avoid traveling on this route after evening falls.
Shergaon and the History of Maharana Pratap
Two prominent temples, Kedarnath and Badrinath, are situated near the village, drawing devotees from distant places during the auspicious month of Shravan. About 7 kilometers away from Utraj lies another isolated settlement named Shergaon. It was in this rugged village that Maharana Pratap spent his period of exile following the Battle of Haldighati. The location features ancient sites such as the Ishan Bheru Cave and an old Shiva temple where the ruler spent his time in devotion during his exile.
