6 Farm Stays Across India You Can Lend A Hand At

The first rains can have a wondrous effect, people smile and rejoice the end of the insufferable heat. While the novelty is still well in place, the second rains are met with similar zeal, the third slightly less so... Before you know it, you’ve been damp for a month solid, spent half your day in traffic and overall you’re a sodden, miserable mess. This is the point where you have to step back and admit to yourself – I need a holiday.

And how better to celebrate the coming of a new season than with the people who appreciate it the most, farmers. One surefire way to understand the true beauty of a monsoon it’s with a first hand look at the innumerable crops which it sustains. Agro-tourism is on the rise, across the country people are becoming more conscientious of the way they live and a bout on a farm is the best way to learn from the masters. To that end we’ve rounded up 6 of India’s best farmstays so whether you’re seeking luxury or tradition, there’s something for everyone.

I. Nutmeg Tree Farm Stay - Kochi, Kerala

If you thought the concept of a farmstay had to include tents and gumboots, the Nutmeg Tree is here to prove you wrong. The ideal getaway for people looking to enjoy a slice of nature with none of the mess. Collect fresh eggs, feed the chickens, milk the cows but then return to a luxurious 4 bedroom estate where the on-site help will rustle up a gourmet country breakfast. Head out in the afternoon and try your hand at fishing with Chinese nets or just pick a comfy tree under which to while away the day.

What it will cost you: A cool Rs. 10,890 a night will get you the entire house, surrounding farms and a complimentary breakfast.

II. Philipkutty’s Farm - Lake Vembanad, Kerala

When what you seek is authenticity then Philipkutty’s is where you should be. The farm island has been around since the 1950’s and the air of tradition continues to linger through the area. The waterfront villas are separate from the family residence but they’re always willing to take care of uncertain travellers. All meals are inclusive in the price and the owner’s mother-in-law serves up a veritable homemade feast three times a day so get ready to pack on some pounds. If you ever feel like leaving the house, step onto a vallam (waterboat) to cruise the backwaters, grab a fishing rod or sign up for a cookery class, there’s no shortage of activities.

What it will cost you:

III. Maachli Homestay - Sindhudurg, Maharashtra

This eco-stay in the lush greenery of Macchli is on a mission to reunite people with nature. The cottages - or maachlis as they’re known in the local Malvani language - are built at a height to protect the crops below. This elevation provides you a stunning view over the surrounding greenery and if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the nearby beaches. The plantation is known for coconut, betelnut, bananas and spices which are staples in the local cuisine which you’ll get to sample at their river-facing open dining area. While there, you’ll get to experience the simple joys of village life and participate in various agro-tourism activities.

What it will cost you: Slightly pricier than average village life, starting at Rs. 5,900 per day for 2 people inclusive of all meals and activities.

IV. Farm of Happiness - Phungus, Maharashtra

For all the foodies, this is a dream come true. This agro-eco-farmstay is all about organic, natural produce and a sustainable way of life. Start the day with a traditional Maharashtrian breakfast before jumping headfirst into a typical day on the farm. Help out with various activities, pick vegetables, try your hand at fishing or just learn about the tricks of the trade. Between the 10th and 30th of July is a great time to visit as it falls in the rice and ragi transplantation season, a unique experience and a rare opportunity to participate in. Once the day is done, the vegetables you gathered will be cooked up into a delicious meal over the chuhla and retire to your traditional Konkani hoouse for a well-earned rest.

What it will cost you: At Rs. 5,000 for two people you’ll get all your meals, stay and an unforgettable experience.

V. The Spice Village - Thekkady, Kerala

Return to a simpler time in the hills of Periyar forest. Just a stone’s throw away from the famous reserve the village is made up of dozens of individual villas ready to be your home on your traditional journey. The cottages are made of brick and wood with roofs thatched from elephant grass in a traditional tribal technique. With no televisions or air-conditioning on site you’ll be able to hear the sounds of the 2,000 foot high forest swirling around you. Trek through the forests to rediscover the call of nature.

What it will cost you:

VI. Punjabiyat - Amritsar, Punjab

Living in the city robs us of the opportunity to enjoy simplicity, at Punjaiyat, they have no such problem. Designed to evoke all the traditional elements of Punjabi life, set in the midst of blooming mustard fields it’s almost impossible not to experience a sense of tranquility. Of course since food is a serious part of Punjabi culture be ready to gorge yourself of the best of tandoori cuisine. Though you’ll probably be content to sit on the deck and watch nature pass you by a trip to the nearby Sikh History Museum makes for a great outing to add a touch of culture to your vacation.

What it will cost you: The traditional Punjabi experience comes in at Rs. 9,000 a night for a double room, not inclusive of meals.