When you’re drowning in work and that weekend or break is inching closer we know you want to make the most of it. It obviously DOES NOT include the din of tourists, noisy aunties and crying babies. Keeping that in mind we have compiled a list of lesser known quiet nature retreats for you, to unwind amidst meandering streams, dense forests and lush hills. From unique tree-houses, picturesque farms, boutique home stays and rustic village residences there is variety of retreats that will cater to your specific, quiet holiday needs.
I. Le Farm
Where: Kamshet
Craving a quiet country life for a few days? Le Farm, an estate with 15 acres of luscious green, surrounded by undulating hilly terrains and a placid lake is your perfect getaway. Each room there promises a marvellous view of nature while the farm is equipped with all modern amenities. This is also an ideal place for those who want to unwind with their children and pets.
Cost: Rs.12,000 and up.Get there : If a balance of comfort while surrounded by nature is your thing.
II. Hideout
Where: Palghar
A forest with waterfalls all year round (while fully connected to wifi!), Hideout is a natural haven two hours away from Mumbai. This 28-year-old farmhouse is home to a vegan community that introduces people to organic farming, natural birthing, homeschooling, harmonious co-existence with the surrounding tribal community and other sustainable forms of living, that urban life has deemed apparently impossible. Book-readings, film screenings, art-workshops are also some of the other activities they offer during your stay there.
Cost : Rs. 2400/- and up.
Get there: If you are looking to make the sustainable lifestyle switch.
III. The Machan
Where: Jambulne
The Machan is fulfilling childhood dreams by offering stays in unique luxurious tree-houses,(that rise 30-45 feet above the ground!). Located in one of the 25 biological hotspots of the world, The Machan has been designed to minimise any impact on its natural surroundings. At this eco-resort you can engage in sans technology recreational activities like full body therapies at their in-house spa, birding, trekking, cycling and visiting the many historical sights that surround the resort.
Cost: Rs.12,000 and up.
Get there: For indulgence George Of The Jungle style.
IV. Dongarmatha
Where: Chiplun
Situated in the middle of a deciduous forest this resort is a model for ecotourism- directed towards exotic natural environments and intended to support conservation efforts as well as observe wildlife. They offer guided tours to explore the flora and fauna of the region. The place also claims to be home to almost 350 local and migratory species of birds; Eagles, Hornbills, Kingfishers, Robins,Tree Pies are some of them that can be spotted in different seasons. Simple living and minimal use of non-biodegradable material is crucial to a stay at Dongarmatha.
Cost: Rs 3500 and up.
Get there: If an eco-friendly holiday has been on your bucket list.
Where: Chikhaldara
A hill station located in the Vidharba region of Maharashtra, this retreat is spread across six acres of lush green forest land. Numerous forest trails (the retreat also offers guided treks), a safari in the Melghat Forest Reserve, one of the first tiger reserves of the country and the Gavilgarh Fort are some of the major attractions at Satpura Retreat.Housing most modern amenities this is the perfect place to unwind in the tranquility of nature.
Cost: Rs 2500 and up.
Get there: If verdure is your holiday baby.
VI. Hidden Village
Where: 2kms from the road to Tansa Dam, off the Mumbai-Nashik Highway
This retreat was transformed from a barren land in 2004 to four acres of green foliage. Surrounded by water bodies which are fed by a perennial stream; they are ideal for a dip while complimenting the scenic beauty of the place. This fusion of a farmhouse and jungle village offers short treks, activities for children and and a few indoor games too.
Cost: Rs 900 and up.
Get there: From a release from your boxed apartment to a space deep in the woods.
VII. Durshet Forest Lodge
Where: Durshet, Khopoli
This forest lodge is set against the stunning Sahyadri range with the Amba river flowing adjacent to the property. Located in a 35 acre natural forest, Durshet Forest Lodge has extensive teak trails of orange hued flame of the forest trees and occasional silver oak trees;a bird watchers paradise. The monsoon brings a waterfall with kayaking while activities like rappelling, zipline, burma bridge, tarzen swing, laddering, wall climbing are possible in the summers and winters.
Cost: Rs 750 and up.
Get there: If the adventure junkie and nature lover want simultaneous satisfaction.
VIII. Atithi Parinay
Where: 15 kms from Ratnagiri and Ganpatipule
Leave the city behind to come and stay in a place spread over two acres of lush green land set amidst mango, coconut and banana plantations. Tucked away in the heart of the Konkan belt Atithi Parinay is a boutique homestay with ethnic services like yoga and traditionally cooked food of the region and an in house ‘Vithal’ temple. You can unwind on the property’s hammocks or take a walk down the nearby stream and farm. While for the explorers there are nearby treks, the untouched beaches and forts of Ratnagiri and Ganpatipule.
Cost: Rs 4900 and up.
Get there: For a homely getaway.
Where: Bhimashankar
Nestled in the Sahyadri this resort is named after the blue mormon butterfly which can be seen there only in the first two weeks of June. One of the major attractions is the Bhimashankar temple-built in the nagra style, and it houses the shrine for one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. The temple is surrounded by a wildlife sanctuary over 2500 ft above sea level and is home to the Indian Giant Squirrel, which is found nowhere else on the planet!
Cost: Rs 2100 and up.
Get there: For the wildlife enthusiast.
Feature Image Courtesy: The Machan