Sainji Village Becomes a Center of Attraction for the Visitors
Dehradun: Mussoorie, fondly called the “Queen of Hills,” has always held a special place in the dreams of travelers, often reminding the British of the English countryside. Tourists flock here year-round, and a visit to the world-famous Kempty Falls is almost a given. However, not far from Kempty Falls lies a village that has recently captured the attention of visitors—thanks to the unique sight of corn cobs hanging outside homes. This distinct tradition has earned the village the name “Corn Village of India.”
Located about 16 kilometers from Mussoorie and just 5 kilometers from Kempty Falls, Sainji Village is home to around 35 families and a population of nearly 500. Like many hilly villages, its residents rely on farming and livestock for their livelihood. The story of how Sainji became the “Corn Village” is quite fascinating. This transformation wasn’t part of a planned tourism strategy, but rather stemmed from a simple, traditional method used by locals to protect their corn harvest from pests and animals.
All the families here cultivate corn in substantial quantities, which is their primary source of income. After harvesting, instead of drying the corn on open grounds, villagers bring the produce home and hang the cobs neatly on verandas and balconies. These hanging clusters are not haphazard but arranged with great care—so much so that they resemble decorative bunches of bright yellow flowers. This charming display mesmerizes tourists.
According to locals, keeping the corn close to their homes not only adds beauty but also ensures safety from birds and wild animals. As a result, a growing number of tourists now make it a point to visit Sainji Village to witness this picturesque setting. For them, it’s a unique and memorable experience.
Just a few years ago, hardly anyone had heard of Sainji, a small village in Jaunpur Block of Tehri district. Today, it has become a popular stopover for those visiting Mussoorie and Kempty Falls.
