Embrace the Essence of World Tourism Day with Exquisite Homestays: Where Owners Craft Personalized and Extraordinary Experiences
- ParijaatGoa, Goa:
Nestled in the heart of Anjuna, epitomizes the serene side of Goa. The two-bedroom homestay, owned by Kavita and Manoj Nair, offers more than just a place to stay. Surrounded by fields and frequented by peacocks, the green abode features a swimming pool and an open-air dining area. Besides the main house, there’s a two-bedroom cottage overlooking a peaceful garden.
Guests at ParijaatGoa are treated to a comfortable stay with well-stocked rooms featuring handpicked teas, coffees, books, and luxe toiletries. What sets this homestay apart is Kavita’s pottery studio, ‘Messe Ke,’ where guests can immerse themselves in pottery lessons. The morning breakfast is a delightful affair, including fresh fruits, locally sourced muesli, and the chance to savor Kavita’s special dishes like Shakshouka and Puttu with Kadala Curry.
Ideal for solo travelers seeking a tranquil experience in Goa, ParijaatGoa provides a unique blend of relaxation, artistic expression, and warm hospitality. The per-night rate of INR 12,900, inclusive of breakfast and tax, makes it an enticing choice for those looking to escape the bustling side of Goa.
- The Birdcage, Mukteshwar:
Situated in the captivating town of Mukteshwar, The Birdcage offers a retreat amidst enchanting sunsets and views of the snow-clad Himalayan peaks. Owned by Nishant Singh, who previously established the famous Drifters’ Inn and Café in Manali, The Birdcage features seven tastefully designed rooms with cozy interiors, electric bed warmers, and ensuite bathrooms.
This homestay goes beyond just providing accommodation; it offers a chance to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the Nainital district in Uttarakhand. Clear skies provide a stunning view of the 22,500 ft high Nanda Kot range and the 22,600 ft high Panchchui range. The dining experience at The Birdcage is a blend of hearty Continental and Indian cuisine, complemented by a selection of beers and wine.
Sustainable practices like solar-powered heating systems, rainwater harvesting, and sourcing produce from an organic kitchen garden add to the eco-friendly charm of The Birdcage. With rates starting at INR 8,000 per night, inclusive of breakfast, it beckons travelers seeking a peaceful mountain retreat.
- Little Flower Farms, Vagamon:
Little Flower Farms, located in the small hill station of Vagamon in Kerala, is the idyllic home of Rekha and Thomas. The four-bedroom farmhouse, set amidst tropical gardens, provides private access to each room and ensuite bathrooms. For those seeking a more immersive experience with nature, the homestay also offers tents.
Rekha, a true farmer at heart, grows her own produce, and the home-cooked meals at Little Flower Farms reflect this commitment to quality. The menu showcases delights like Kappa (tapioca) and beef curry, and desserts like vanilla ice-cream topped with seeds, nuts, and cascara sourced from artisanal producers. The scenic spring pond and the organic kitchen garden add to the charm of this homestay.
Exploring the trails leading to a stream with rounded rocks and tree canopies or enjoying the sunset from the upper deck are among the experiences guests can relish. The per-night rate of INR 11,000, inclusive of breakfast, makes Little Flower Farms an inviting escape for those seeking a tranquil and nature-infused retreat in Vagamon.
- Sawantwadi Palace Boutique Art Hotel, Sawantwadi:
In the quaint town of Sawantwadi, the Sawantwadi Royal Palace has been transformed into an art-forward boutique stay. This royal abode, formerly Tai-Saheb Wada that housed the five queens of Sawantwadi, now features six palatial suites, a global cuisine restaurant, and a swimming pool.
Owned by Shraddha Bhonsle and Lakham Bhonsle, the millennials of the royal family and CIA graduates from New York, this boutique hotel offers a blend of regal elegance and contemporary comfort. The sun-lit balconies, plush bathrobes, Ayurvedic bath products, and OTT-loaded televisions in the rooms ensure a luxurious stay. Guests are treated to a breakfast featuring freshly baked croissants and fluffy pancakes, while lunch offers a taste of Malvani thali. Dinner options include two tasting menus, with one focused on Ramen.
The Sawantwadi Palace Boutique Art Hotel is not just about accommodation; it offers experiences like Ganjifa art workshops and private picnics amidst the Amboli ghats. With rates starting at INR 13,000+, inclusive of breakfast, it presents an opportunity to indulge in the regal charm of Sawantwadi while enjoying modern amenities and curated experiences.
- Maya’s Crest, Kasauli:
Maya’s Crest, located in Shiva, Himachal Pradesh, is a testament to the vision and dedication of Usha Hooda, a former textile designer, who sought to create a haven that seamlessly integrates with nature. This stone house, perched on a ridge at an altitude of 5,500 feet, provides breathtaking views of the Garhwal Himalayas and the golden plains of Punjab. The property is just 20 minutes north of Kasauli, making it a convenient escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Usha Hooda, with a background in finance, purchased the land three decades ago when her daughter Vibha was studying in Himachal Pradesh. Vibha, despite her financial background, undertook the challenging task of constructing her mother’s dream home, resulting in a cozy homestay named Maya’s Crest. The three rooms in the house each have a unique identity, reflecting the thoughtful design and personal touch.
Large bay windows adorn the homestay, offering expansive views of the valley. The architectural and interior design choices showcase a deep appreciation for the natural surroundings and a commitment to sustainable living. The library, filled from floor to ceiling with books, adds an intellectual touch to the serene ambiance. The property is not just a physical retreat; it is a holistic experience that invites guests to reconnect with nature.
Maya’s Crest gets its name from the family dog, Maya, who shares the homestay with two other dogs, Max and Mastaa, adding a welcoming touch to the place. The homestay provides a peaceful and rejuvenating environment, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking solace in the lap of nature.
- Red Hill Nature Resort, Emerald Lake near Ooty:
Nestled in the Nilgiris at an elevation of 7000 feet above sea level, Red Hill Nature Resort offers a picturesque setting near Emerald Lake, just 25 kilometers north of Ooty. The homestay, founded by Vijay and his wife Banu in 1991, is situated amidst their tea plantation. The elegant cottages, surrounded by lakes and breathtaking views, provide a tranquil retreat from the chaos of urban life.
Red Hill Nature Resort is not just a homestay; it’s a family-run enterprise that embodies a connection with nature and a commitment to sustainable living. The cottages exude warmth and hospitality, complemented by the presence of five dogs that add to the homely atmosphere. The resort is intentionally designed to offer a break from connectivity, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Nilgiris.
Vijay’s family, belonging to the Badaga tribe, introduces guests to traditional Badaga cuisine, along with Chef Vishanth’s continental delights. The property also features Kikui Farm, founded by Chef Vishanth, where they grow a variety of local and exotic produce. Guests can indulge in a tea-tasting session with Vijay, enhancing their overall experience.
The homestay, priced at INR 12,000 per night (including breakfast), encourages guests to unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature. From magnificent sunsets over the lake to the enchanting moonrise, Red Hill Nature Resort offers a magical escape.
- School Estate, Coorg:
School Estate in Coorg is a 150-year-old plantation bungalow that once served as the home of Reverend Richter, a 19th-century missionary. Now owned by the Aiyappas, the estate spreads across 200 acres of coffee plantations, offering a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The two detached rooms nestled in a cottage reflect subtle German architectural influences.
The Aiyappas have carefully preserved the heritage of the estate, adorning it with artifacts and collectibles from the reverend’s time, including a ponderous iron school bell and a century-old pool table turned dining table. The estate is surrounded by blooming rose gardens, enhancing the ambiance of this historical retreat.
Shashidhar, the manager of the house, extends unwavering hospitality, ensuring guests have a memorable stay. Meal times are marked by the ringing of a bell, leading guests to the impeccably laid-out dining room. The cuisine at School Estate is a delightful blend of Kodava and Continental flavors, featuring traditional dishes like pork pandi curry, paputtu (rice cakes), and a sweet and spicy wild mango curry.
The estate offers a serene experience, inviting guests to take long walks around the coffee plantations, indulge in elaborate meals, and take naps in the garden. The starlit nights can be enhanced by requesting a chattai to be laid out in the garden, providing the perfect setting to watch the stars fill the sky.
Priced at INR 18,500 for two people (including all meals, estate activities, fishing, and birdwatching), School Estate in Coorg promises a charming escape into the rich history and natural splendor of the region.
- Velanga Orchard, Chittoor:
Situated in the village of Chittoor, a three-hour drive from Bangalore airport, Velanga Orchard is a 50-acre mango orchard offering weekend farm stays. Built by Karthik Ramaraj with his own hands, assisted by Ravi from the neighboring village, the orchard boasts 30 acres of cultivated mangoes, predominantly the GI-tagged Banganapalli.
Velanga Orchard is more than just a farm stay; it’s a rustic retreat that immerses guests in the serenity of the countryside. The seven cottages, equipped with a kitchenette, ensuite bathrooms, and a patio, provide a comfortable and naturally cooled space. Meals are served in the community dining area, creating opportunities for guests to connect, read, or simply relax on a chattai.
The food at Velanga Orchard is a celebration of local Andhra cuisine, featuring crisp dosas, paniyarams, local veggies, curries, and delightful chicken or mutton preparations. Guests can engage in activities like kayaking in the nearby lake or hiking up the nearby hill to enjoy panoramic views of the dense forest.
Nikita Dawar, Karthik’s wife and a ceramic artist, adds a creative touch to the orchard with her pottery studio. Guests can even sign up for Nikita’s Slow Pottery residential courses, starting November 2023.
With rooms starting at INR 15,000 for a 3-night weekend stay (all-inclusive), Velanga Orchard offers a unique and immersive farm stay experience, making it an ideal getaway for solo travelers seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
In conclusion, these beautiful homes and homestays—Maya’s Crest, Red Hill Nature Resort, School Estate, and Velanga Orchard—offer more than just accommodation; they provide immersive experiences that celebrate the beauty of nature, sustainable living, and the rich cultural heritage of their respective regions. Whether it’s the stunning views from Maya’s Crest, the tranquil surroundings of Red Hill Nature Resort, the historical charm of School Estate, or the rustic simplicity of Velanga Orchard, each property invites guests to escape the ordinary and embrace a harmonious connection with the environment.