If you’ve ever wanted to experience the sights, sounds, tastes, and traditions of rural Rajasthan without travelling hundreds of kilometres, Chokhi Dhani Resort, Panchkula is one destination you shouldn’t miss. Nestled on the outskirts of Panchkula along the Shimla Highway, this lively ethnic village fair and dining experience brings together culture, cuisine, entertainment, and fun in one place — ideal for families, friends, tourists, and culture lovers alike.
Chokhi Dhani is not just a restaurant or a fair; it’s a living, breathing slice of Rajasthan’s heritage that’s been relocated to the foothills of the Shivaliks. With traditional folk performances, village-style hospitality, ethnic food served in classic settings, and a whole evening of activities, it’s often described as a “festival that never ends.”
Ticket Price & How Much You’ll Spend
Pricing at Chokhi Dhani Panchkula can vary depending on the experience you choose, whether during weekdays, weekends or through special offers.
Standard Entry Packages
Most visitors book an all-inclusive cultural experience ticket, which typically includes:
- Welcome drink and snacks on arrival
- Traditional Rajasthani dinner
- Folk dance and music performances
- Puppet shows, magic acts, and more
- Optional rides and games
According to the official ticket information, the standard price structure is roughly:
- Adults (9 years & above): ₹900 per person
- Children (3–9 years): ₹500 per person
This entry package bundles a wide range of activities and entertainment, making it a great value for an evening out.
💡 Pro tip: You can sometimes find discounted tickets through third-party platforms that offer deals or cashback — especially if you plan your visit on a weekday or book online in advance.
Timings & Best Time to Visit
Chokhi Dhani primarily operates in the evening and night hours, which aligns with the timing of its cultural shows and dinner service. According to local listings and visitor reviews, standard operating hours are:
Every day: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
These timings ensure that you arrive in the early evening, have time to explore attractions, enjoy the sunset ambience, and stay through the lively cultural performances that unfold as darkness falls.
⏰ While evening timings are typical year-round, there may be seasonal or festival-specific variations — especially during holidays or peak tourist seasons — so it’s a good idea to check ahead or call ahead if you plan to visit during major holidays.
Food Menu: A Feast of Authentic Rajasthani Cuisine
One of the biggest draws of Chokhi Dhani Panchkula is the dining experience. Food here isn’t just a meal — it’s a celebration of flavours, tradition, and hospitality.
Traditional Rajasthani Thali
At the heart of the experience is the Rajasthani thali — a sumptuous, communal feast filled with classic dishes such as:
- Dal Baati Churma: A signature Rajasthani combination of lentils, baked baatis (hard dough balls), and sweet crushed churma.
- Gatte ki Sabzi: Gram flour dumplings cooked in a tangy curd-based curry.
- Ker Sangri: A traditional desert vegetable dish bursting with spice and texture.
- Bajre ki Roti & Chutneys: Millet flatbreads served with seasonal pickles and chutney.
- Sweet Treats: Malpua, ghewar, and other desserts often round out the meal.
These authentic dishes are traditionally served with warm hospitality in a rustic dining hall, giving you an immersive village-style meal that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Restaurant Setting & Average Cost
While the cultural package includes dinner as part of the ticket, there is also an à la carte dining option listed on local food guides where the average cost works out to about ₹1,500 for two — indicative of a rich dining experience even outside the standard ticket offerings.
This culinary journey isn’t just about eating — it’s about experiencing the way food is woven into the cultural fabric of Rajasthan, served with love, warmth, and tradition.
Cultural Experience: What to Expect
At Chokhi Dhani Panchkula, culture isn’t a backdrop — it’s the main event. The place is designed to feel like a traditional Rajasthani village, complete with:
Folk Music & Dance
The evenings here are filled with dynamic cultural performances, including traditional dances such as:
- Ghoomar: A graceful, spinning folk dance.
- Kalbeliya: Energetic serpentine movements.
- Bhavai & Terah Taali: Balancing acts and rhythmic claps.
- Bhopa Bhopi & Been Party: Ancient musical storytelling and pipe performances.
These performances are typically included in your ticket package and bring Rajasthan’s artistic heritage to life with colour, sound, and movement.
Interactive Experiences & Games
Beyond shows, there’s a wide range of interactive activities that let you immerse yourself in village life:
- Camel & Bullock Cart Rides
- Mini Train & Tonga Rides
- Pottery Making & Traditional Crafts
- Skill Games like Dart Board, Archery & Clay Pot Breaking
- Adventure Activities like Rope Walks & Plank Bridges
These activities are often enjoyed at no extra cost or for a small fee, making the place especially fun for kids and families.
Tips for an Unforgettable Visit
✔ Arrive early: Getting there around 5 PM lets you take in more attractions before dinner and the main shows begin.
✔ Book online if possible: Advance tickets can save time and, in some cases, money especially on weekends.
✔ Plan your transport: The place gets busy on weekends, so it’s wise to arrange transport in advance.
✔ Come hungry: With so many flavours to sample, space for seconds (or thirds!) is highly recommended.
Final Thoughts
Chokhi Dhani Panchkula is more than just a place to eat — it’s a cultural celebration brought to life, blending traditional Rajasthani hospitality, art, music, food, and fun into one unforgettable evening. Whether you’re a local, a weekend traveller, or someone seeking a meaningful cultural experience, this vibrant destination has something for everyone.
