On your way to Panchgani or Mahabaleshwar? Halt at India's one & only book village in Maharashtra

If you're planning a trip from Mumbai to Panchgani or Mahabaleshwar, well, allow us to give y'all a little secret! Make sure to carve out an extra half-hour in your itinerary for a visit to the charming village of Bhilar, better known as Pustakanch Gaav. Trust us, it's worth it, especially if you're an ardent reader or a bibliophile.

Pustakanch Gaav is like a literary wonderland, boasting an impressive collection of 12,000 to 15,000 books scattered across 25 different spots in the village. And the best part? It's all free!

The idea of transforming Bhilar into a village of books took shape in 2015, inspired by the book village concept of Hay-On-Wye in England. Spearheaded by Vinod Tawde, the Minister of Marathi Language and Culture in Maharashtra, the project garnered widespread support from the media, literary enthusiasts, and the public. After extensive planning and collaboration, Bhilar officially became Pustakanch Gaav (India's first village of books) on May 1st, 2017.

What makes Bhilar truly special is its community-driven approach. Volunteers from the village have opened their homes to establish libraries, with the government providing the necessary resources. These libraries, always open to the public, offer a welcoming space for readers to explore the vast literary treasures this place has to offer.

Bhilar also famous for its picturesque surroundings, includes strawberry fields and the Bhilar waterfall. Once you are here, you can enjoy the cool, clean air and peaceful ambiance while delving into your favourite reads. Moreover, the village hosts various literary and cultural activities, from workshops to poetry readings, further enriching the experience for its guests.

In essence, Pustakanch Gaav represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, where the love for literature meets the warmth of community spirit.

So, what are you waiting for? Add Bhilar to your travel bucket list, and get ready for an unforgettable experience that combines the best of literature and village charm. Trust us, you'll fall head over heels for this hidden gem in Maharashtra.