An ecotourism experience rooted in handloom, nature and the living traditions of Malnad.
An Initiative by Govt. of Karnataka
Gandhi Pravasa is an ecotourism initiative rooted in the work of Charaka, a weaver's collective that has, for over two decades, sustained handloom traditions and rural livelihoods across seven districts of Karnataka. Here, on the campus in Heggodu, as a visitor, you do not observe, you participate. You work with your hands. You eat what the land produces. You leave with a different understanding of what making things means.
The Charaka Society is an invaluable asset belonging to the surrounding villages. It also serves as a model for the Gandhian economic vision applicable to the entire nation. Our guiding ideal is Gandhiji, a man who first embodied the principles of truth, non-violence, equality, and coexistence in his own life before preaching them to others. Charaka transcends the narrow confines of our individualistic existence to weave in a consciousness of equality, coexistence, and sustainable economics, values that should belong to everyone.
Sit at the loom. Understand natural dyes. Learn the age-old technique of wood block print. Weave a few centimetres of fabric. Immerse yourself in traditional crafts and learn new skills that took years to master.
Theatre is second-nature in this village which boasts of world-famous theatre personalities such as Ninasam's founder Shri. Subbanna and Charaka's founder Shri. Prasanna. At Charaka, we have an auditorium which hosts several plays as well as several workshops on acting are conducted under the leadership of Shri. Prasanna. The world famous theater school Ninasam is just next door. Another theatre group specialized in Children's theatre called "Kinnara Mela" is also next door.
Just a few kilometers from the campus one can enjoy the Sharavathi backwaters. A visit to the world famous Jog Waterfalls, which is nearby, is an unforgettable experience.
Enjoy simple, healthy, seasonal, local food of the Malnad region prepared with ingredients from the kitchen garden on the campus. Try your hand at composting, planting, harvesting fresh garden produce. No compromise on taste, no compromise on the land.
Discover recent and upcoming workshops, gatherings and community-led initiatives that bring people together to learn, exchange knowledge and grow.
Moments and memories recounted by our Gandhi Pravasa guests
Charaka supports over 700 weavers and rural workers across 7 districts of Karnataka. When you support sustainable rural tourism through Gandhi Pravasa, you become part of that story.