Velanga Orchard stands as a testament to the restorative power of nature and the art of slow living.  Velanga Orchard
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Embrace The Art Of Slow Living At This Picturesque Homestay In Andhra Pradesh

Vaaswat Sarkar

In the midst of the ceaseless hustle and bustle of modern urban living, where the demands of daily life seem to blur into an unending stream of routines, homestays emerge as a captivating haven, offering a much-needed respite from the clamor. With homestays, we can temporarily disengage from the urban hum-drum, finding solace, comfort, and rejuvenation in the charm of unfamiliar domiciles. Today we explore one such beautiful homestay — the Velanga Orchard located in Bodabandla, an idyllic village in Andra Pradesh.

As urban life's frenetic pace continues to engulf us, Velanga Orchard stands as a testament to the restorative power of nature and the art of slow living. Owned and lovingly nurtured by Karthik Ramaraj and Nikita Dawar, this enchanting oasis offers a haven where time slows down, and the soul finds respite in the embrace of vibrant mango orchards, mindful experiences, and a connection with the earth that rejuvenates and revitalizes.

Karthik Ramaraj and Nikita, the couple who gave up on the city life and embraced a more sustianable and pastoral living

The journey to Velanga Orchard transcends mere distance; it's a passage from the cacophony of urbanity to the soothing embrace of nature. Nestled in a quaint village, 170 km from both Bangalore and Chennai, this haven offers an escape from the urban maze, where the symphony of birdsong replaces the constant hum of traffic. As you step into this enchanting realm, the bustle of the city fades, replaced by the gentle rustling of leaves and the rhythmic cadence of rural life.

Velanga Orchard isn't just a retreat; it's a nurturing ecosystem that beckons guests to reconnect with the earth. Spanning 34 acres, this expansive haven is more than a mango orchard; it's a testament to sustainability and mindful living. Filled with teak and coconut trees, it creates a biodiverse tapestry, harmonizing with the surrounding reserve forest. Karthik Ramaraj's vision of a holistic lifestyle comes to life here, where paddy fields, sugarcane, and sunflowers grow in harmony with nature's rhythm.

The cottages of Velanga Orchard whisper stories of thoughtful design and sustainable living. With a nod to vernacular architecture, these abodes mirror the tranquility of the landscape. They're more than just places to lay your head; they're sanctuaries of comfort. Four-poster beds invite dreams, while the gentle breeze wafts through open windows, carrying with it the fragrances of the orchard. With materials upcycled and restored, these dwellings echo a commitment to leaving a gentle eco-footprint.

Vernacular archtecture is an integral part of the homestay.
Large four-poster beds in the rooms of the homestay.

Velanga Orchard invites you on a journey of self-discovery, and at its heart lies a pottery studio. Under the guidance of Nikita Dawar, this studio offers not just artistic expression, but a deeper connection with oneself and the earth. Embrace the therapeutic rhythm of molding clay, where you craft unique creations. And as the wheel turns, it mirrors the gentle cycle of life, reminding us of the beauty in embracing the present moment.

In the embrace of Velanga Orchard, time assumes a different dimension. Long walks amid the farm's verdant embrace invite contemplation, while the tranquil hill, exclusive to Velanga guests, offers sunrises and sunsets that paint the sky with hues of magic. A pristine freshwater lake invites you to swim, kayak, and reconnect with the elements. Amidst the starlit nights, free from light pollution, stories are shared and connections are forged, creating cherished memories that linger long after your departure.

The freshwater lake near the homestay.
Kayaking on the lake near the Velanga Orchard homestay.

Food at Velanga Orchard isn't just sustenance; it's a celebration of the land's bounty. Freshness and locality are the cornerstones of every meal. From vegetables nurtured on-site to free-range chicken and lake-sourced fish, every morsel carries the essence of sustainable living. Savor the flavors of Andhra Pradesh, as each dish narrates a story of community, care, and culinary mastery.

Fresh produce constitutes the food served at the homestay.
Breakfast served at Velanga Orchard.

Velanga Orchard isn't just another homestay; it's an experience that invites you to pause, reflect, and savor life's simple joys. Amid mango trails, pottery wheels, and the gentle embrace of nature, a harmonious rhythm emerges – one that resonates with the longing within each of us for respite, reconnection, and rejuvenation. Whether you seek the artistry of pottery, the embrace of nature, or the chance to simply be, Velanga Orchard welcomes you to rediscover the magic that lies beyond the city's confines. Come, let your soul breathe in the lap of nature, and let Velanga Orchard be the sanctuary your heart has been yearning for.

Find out more information about Velanga Orchard here.

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