Are you a nature lover? Wish to contribute to environment protection? Well, there is an exciting way to do that – make your holiday eco-friendly. How? On World Environment Day we show you how to contribute to the environment while enjoying the abundance of nature.
Plant Saplings: One Seed Bears Many Fruits
Whether by a beach or in the mountains, everyone loves to rest and relax amidst abundant flora. For those escaping the crowded metros of our country, a dash of green is always more soothing than the dull greys that surround us. So, while armchair activism about fewer trees in the vicinity may provide temporary respite to the weary mind, planting saplings, especially of indigenous plants, would be a perfect long-term answer for the greater good. Take Kurinji Estate, Kodaikanal for example: This lovely heritage property sits nestled in the midst of an award-winning garden, a percentage of which is the fruit of all its guests. How, you ask? Every guest SaffronStays hosts is gifted a sapling before check-out and can place it anywhere they like on the 9-acre property. Inclusion at its best, innit?
Harvest Water: Each Drop Counts
The fact that our country has to face water scarcity every summer is no news. Interior Maharashtra, the Himalayan region and Central India are some of the worst hit. But you can do your bit by saving your usage of water, and recycling what you can. While lush lawns may look visually appealing, sometimes less is more, and in case of water scarcity, absence can be sweet. The charming owner of L’attitude, Kamshet forfeit the traditional water-guzzling, ecologically disruptive short-grass lawn and planted 108 drought-tolerant trees around the home. Practicality and presentation can always go hand-in-hand. After all, 8th Grade Environmental Studies was taught for a reason, right?
Create Indoor Gardens: True Beauty Is On The Inside
Remember when your mother said ‘Looks don’t matter till you are actually beautiful from the inside’? While an acne-ridden face could not digest this statement, there is no truer line for a home. Imagine waking up to a stunning garden inside your home, rather than just around it? Fresh air, cool ambiance, branching shade and gorgeous flowers, literally at your doorstep is a perfect setting to grab your morning cuppa. While Master’s Coutryard, Gholvad has a central aangan with bed of trees, the various indoor plants sprouting within Cabo de Goa make both these holiday destinations
Source Locally: Nobody Likes A Foreign Body
Being different and trying to push an exotic concept, be it through architecture, materials or plants may not be the best approach to creating a home. Villa 270°, Dapoli is the epitome of inclusive creation: terracotta tiled roofs, structures made of local laterite stone, vernacular architecture that make the cottages charming, yet conserve the environment.
Ventilate Organically: Natural Is Normal
Summers in India are nothing short of harsh. Imagine planning a getaway and then facing the horrid heat, where even an Air-Conditioner is a mere tool against the forces of nature? But, there is a way to beat the blues organically: Create using the natural pattern of wind to maximise the breeze through windows, and curate using natural plant-based materials like Vetiver (Khas) that can provide a day’s cooling on a few drops of water. Simple and easy, right? The owner and the architect at Maya, Khadakvasla got this formula absolutely bang-on.
Have you ever seen someone’s name flash on your phone and wondered how that person became such an integral part of your life? We all have these friends who walked into our lives unexpectedly and stayed on to become much more. On this International Day of Families, we want to shout out to those ‘families’ who may not be related by blood or name, but those groups whom we cannot imagine our lives without.
Bridge-playing buddies
Friends get better with age.
Those Sunday afternoons seem so boring without the gang, eh? Ask your parents or your grandparents who their closest pals are and they’ll most likely mention the gang they play cards with at the neighbourhood club. In fact, why limit it to only a gymkhana? This International Day for Families calls for an outing with this bunch, and don’t the weekday prices at most our properties sound lucrative too?
Social Work Club
A little breather from work can work wonders.
So you and a bunch of mates rally together to produce some socially relevant difference to the world? Why not get together today and chill out over a drink. For all the work you guys have done, ya’ll deserve a little break, no? So meet up, discuss the week that was and just unwind after that last piece of activism.
MBA group
Drinks on?
If you’ve spent 2 gruelling years with a bunch of individuals who were equally intent on finding themselves and building up their careers, you will know that you all know match on that same wavelength. They say friends made during an MBA course are friends for life. Here’s your chance to put that saying to test: Make sure you and your entire gang land up at a designated bar tonight. Drinks on the last one to arrive!
Co-Teachers
Nobody gets teachers the way teachers get each other.
Squabbling kids, botched education systems and immense knowledge are such a great link to connect with others. If you’ve ever been a teacher, you know exactly how important your colleagues from work are. Gather up your co-teachers and head for a relaxing weekend (sans the noise and stress) at Parsi Manor, Matheran. Consider it as a vacation for those who truly deserve it.
Train travellers
Who said train journeys have to be bad and boring?
Always catch that 9:14 local, do you? You’ll surely have a train gang then. Given this new age digital boom has left very few people getting their heads out of their devices, but when they do, you’ll see how friendly your train buddies can be. Try exchanging numbers and meeting up outside, and you now have a new group to hang out with!
Hobby class gang
Birds of a feather fly together.
Have you and your significant other signed up for a hobby or health class together? High chance is that you’ll have already formed a clique within the class. Why not plan a trip around the said hobby or health fad? Like practicing some yoga out on the porch at Verandah by the Valley on an early monsoon morning?
Kid’s friend’s parents
Why should kids have all the fun?
This gang of people is one you definitely will not be able to do without. If you’re a kid reading this, you’ll know how close your parents have become. If you’re in your mid-20s, it’s quite possible that you have been out of touch with your school pals, but your parents still get together like a house on fire. And if you’re a parent, the fact that your respective kids spend some 8 hours together, get along perfectly and won’t trouble you while on vacation makes these co-parents just the best travel buddies. Right?
Kitty Party
Head out of the city for your next kitty party!
From husband-bashing to ranting against your ma-in-law to discussing the kid’s college and your world tours. Your gang of gal pals is extremely critical for your monthly gossip sesh, and none may deny that. So after all the home and hotel kitty parties you have hosted and attended, it’s time you stepped up your game and stepped out of the city. That’s right! Host a party in a hill station or just take a vacation together. And in case you are looking at ideas for fun games and activities at your do, look no further. We’ve got you, girl.
Neighbourhood Pals
You know those familiar faces in your galli that don’t have names yet whose smiles prove to be just the best pick-me-ups after a long day at work? Next time stop and have a chat with them. Who knows you’ll probably make a new BFF and that smile could mean so much more then!
Here’s to all the small families we build outside our etched ones. Here’s to those who matter too!
Hot Water Springs, Dolphins and Tandem Paragliding… sound like some exotic vacation? Guess what? These activities and some more, are right around Maharashtra. If you’re feeling the summer blues, fret not, because we’ve got a list of activities to kiss these feelings a sweet goodbye!
So what are you waiting for? Head out NOW!
Soak yourself in the Hot Springs of Dapoli
Take a dip in the healing waters of Unhavare
Did you know you could step into healing hot water springs so close to home? Well, now you do! Head over to Unhavare for a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend of peace and quiet. Our quaint little Villa 270 promises to be the best bet for your Dapoli stay. Cheggit out!
Set Sail in the Seas around Mumbai
Sailing by the shores of Mumbai is a great way to destress.
Discover the amazing coastline Mumbai boasts of with a quick sailing trip around the shore. Many clubs around the bay provide extensive sailing classes from introduction level to advance stages. If you are even a day over 15 year, join one of the special summer courses where you can learn to be a pro sailor in just a day!
Fly up into the air in a balloon with your family.
Always dreamt of going to Bristol or Cappadocia for a scenic Hot Air Balloon ride? Why look so far away when your neighbourhood has an equally eye-catching ride for you? The lush hills of Lonavala are a delight to see from 1200 ft and you must see it to believe it. Go and book your family a trip right now!
Go solo or fly tandem! Paraglide away the summer heat.
Want to fly like a bird, but don’t have the courage to go alone? Don’t worry! Tandem paragliding is an amazing way to get some wind under your wings, quite literally. Head out to Kamshet, the less boisterous version of Lonavala, to enjoy a ride. Or sign up for a certificate course and stay at the gorgeous L’attitude Villa while you grab the ropes of this daring activity.
Turn up your adrenaline with an adventurous river rafting experience. From: CSG Raft Gear Ltd
Getting into a pool of water is probably the best feeling during the summers. But why stop at that? Jump into a nasty river while you go white water rafting and it shall be one guaranteed great weekend. So gather all your friends and head over to Kolad for a gala time!
Catch a glimpse of these beautiful dolphins right around Mumbai.
Want another example of how ecologically diverse and rich Mumbai is? Hire a boat and head out just a few nautical miles off the coast of Maximum City and spot bottleneck dolphins with your own eyes! Does sound splendid right? Here’s another summer afternoon planned for you and your family.
Hosting a great kitty party is a lot harder than one would think.
It’s not just gathering together a bunch of friends every month but choosing the perfect venue, finding the right food and taking care of a million other details that take a kitty party from ‘Fun’ to ‘Can we do that again?’
If you’ve been desperately scouring websites for fresh inspiration for your party, we’ve lined up some incredible ideas for you.
1.Host A Poker Party
We bet you didn’t see this one coming!
What better way to spice up your next kitty party than with a quick round of poker? Incredibly easy to put together, all you need is a box of poker chips, non-messy finger food and some willing friends. Fun and snappy, poker’s one activity that’s guaranteed to leave an impression on your guests!
2. Pick Up A New Skill
Workshops can be a great way to make your party memorable while keeping it fun. It doesn’t have to be something technical. It could be something as simple as a handwriting analysis workshop or even a dance class. Some incredible workshop options to check out:
Food Workshop: What if there was a workshop that could make cooking fun? Imagine a party where you could learn how to make fresh jams, flavoured butters, artisanal breads, cakes and even fresh cocktails! Sounds quite perfect to us!
Recommended: Food consultant and author Saee Khoranne-Khandekar
Contact Details: 98702 43193
Wine Tasting & Workshop: For all the wine lovers out there, Vaniitha Jaiin hosts an amazing workshop demystifying different types of wine and unique customs across the world.
Dancing Lessons: How cool would a private salsa lesson for your group be? Or a stylish ballroom dance session? Talk to nearby dance studios to see if they’d be interested in organizing a beginner’s workshop for your group.
Art Therapy: Call the creative folks at the Bombay Drawing Room to help you host an evening of socialising over paintings. Learn how to paint or doodle together as they hand hold you into the world of art.
Imagine hosting a pop-up of your favorite cuisine. You could finally introduce all your friends to the delicious wonders of a perfectly prepared 6-course Bohri meal or watch them savor a series of Lebanese hummus platters. Here are some of our favorite food pop-ups:
Alternatively, you could skip the main course altogether and host a dessert pop-up. Just imagine the brownie points you’ll score…
4. Put Together Your Own Luxury Spa
Why wait months for an appointment at an exclusive spa when you can surprise your girl gang with the same luxury treatment at a destination of your choice? Surprise your gang with a special afternoon of poolside pampering, courtesy of a mobile spa nearby and we guarantee you’ll be the talk of the group for months.
Pampering Petals (based in Mumbai), a mobile spa, promises great massages and manicures right at your doorstep. You can connect with them at 098920 63208 for more details on special offers and bookings.
Last but not the least…
5. Surprise Them With A Fresh Venue
If you’re looking for something incredible to set your party apart, how about a destination kitty party? A luxury weekend outside of the city where you and your friends can relax and get pampered.
Escape the city with your kitty party group and find a stunning villa where you can lounge in all through the weekend. Sounds quite ideal, doesn’t it?
If you absolutely adore this idea but can’t think settle on a destination, we highly recommend Alibaug. 20 minutes from Mumbai, Alibaug has a lot of upscale villas that one can easily rent for a weekend. Come Monday, we promise you’ll be the kitty party to beat!
Already thrumming with excitement for your next kitty party? We’ve got just the destination to get you started!
What was your favorite idea? Did we miss out on a great #kittyparty hack? Tell us in the comments below.
Last year you paid dearly for forgetting; this year make sure you don’t. It’s your anniversary round the corner and what could be a better occasion than an anniversary for a holiday! A weekend getaway will any day re-ignite romance in your relationship over a material gift. So why take off to a touristy crowded destination when you can try one of these lesser known & secluded escapes?
If spa is the favourite part of your holiday then you don’t have to leave home to relax and indulge. Put your phones away and spend the day relaxing together, and not to forget, alone. By the end of the day get a delicious meal delivered making sure to save room for some dessert! This villa tucked away in a quiet corner of Goa is perfect to beat the crowds. Complete with a private pool.
Tip: Ask for the top floor room, that has a private sit-out overlooking the pool and the garden.
Are you the one who is not much of the adventure sports variety, but you definitely love to spend time exploring untouched and lesser known destinations. Places which boasts of beautiful green patches, the sights of deep valleys and dense evergreen forests. If yes, then this destination is perfect for you & your significant other! Located midway between Ooty and Coonoor, this villa is built in the style of a traditional planters’ bungalow. Sip on some tea while enjoying the views of lawns and mini tea garden beyond from the verandah.
A romantic getaway to the great outdoors allows you to bring out your inner wild child. At Little Paradise which is touch to the beach, you can spend your days exploring nature and being invigorated by fresh air and sunlight. With a refreshing distance from your every day life you two may find it easier to go on an exploration trip all by yourself.
Has your relationship settled into a rut? Shake things up by taking a romantic getaway and seize the opportunity by partying like you’re still 18! This beautiful villa with an infinity pool is just the place to be for a party animal. Embrace the Goan vibes, dive into the pool & let the good energies flow.
With stunning sea views on its three sides, coconut trees, slight breeze & sunlight barging in from nooks & corners, this place makes you want to surrender yourself to the cosy environment.
Tip: Ask for the upper room, Jaswanti. It has a private deck to enjoy the fantastic views from.
What’s better than sunny days and sultry evenings that invite utter indulgence. Plan a movie marathon & watch all your favorite rom-com’s just like the old days; Could there be a better way to rediscover the sparks or even find the new ones?! Every minute spent here gives you ample time for rekindling romance and feeding the flames.
If candle light dinner by the beach catches your fantasy or a house overlooking the mesmerizing sea waves is your dream, there is no place else to go but this! Imagine a place where you could experience both the beach and the forested mountains. This old styled beach villa sits alongside the gorgeous fort, reminiscent of the Portuguese inhabitation here centuries ago and is perched on a secluded patch of white sand, literally kissed by the high tide waters of the Arabian sea. This place acts as the perfect antidote for all the hustle city puts you through.
Tip: The owners can arrange for a candle-lit dinner by the beach just for you two.
Something about this place makes it an every couple’s favorite! The off beat location, absolutely no outside world intervention, beautiful indoors and warm care takers. What more could one ask for! This is more than a 100 year old Parsi Heritage Bungalow, with all heritage furniture, and lazy-chairs in the verandah for the afternoon book-reading. Look around in the house for it has something special to offer: great interiors, historic wall clock, artefacts or simply take the long walks in the thick forest!
You keep your eyes, ears, mind, all wide open because you know nothing about the place and are curious to know everything the destination has to offer. Yes? Then you must stay at this villa located in a close proximity to the Koyna Wildlife Sanctuary. The destination is set in the beautiful Sahyadri mountain ranges of the western ghats. It is pristine and untouched compared to the usual, run-of-the-mill hill stations. When you are in Koyna, from cold waterfalls, to rolling green mountains with misty tops and foggy corners, you will want to embrace it all.
Often we need to give ourselves space to go back into the time & recreate the good old memories. This planter’s bungalow built in around 1853 has stood testimony to the changing seasons and centuries just like your relationship has. Set on a 200 year old 400 acre coffee plantation, the bungalow is truly a pretty, fascinating piece of India’s Coffee Heritage. Spend a few days and soak in the place, its history, and its solitude.
Imagine yourself surrounded by valleys, organic farmed kitchen garden, eternal snow peaks, beautiful night sky and a campfire to create a cosy mood. Sounds divine like experience right?! Nestled deep in a Himalyan village, this cottage offers the perfect getaway from the mad rush of city lives. Surrounding forests are a mix of ancient oaks, rhododendrons, deodars, pine and various native Himalayan species. Located in a mountain region, this is a modern mountain log house, in the beautiful lap of the high Himalayan snow peaks, in the daylong company of birds and rural pastoral life.
Located in the beach village of Mararikuram in Alleppey in a oasis of calm, green environs, this heritage property offers quiet time to guests. A beautiful heritage bungalow, along with the rich history, old temples and churches of the area, the pristine beaches at Mararikulam, the Vembanad lake and its connected backwaters, the bird sanctuaries – all conspire to make this the most complete experience of Kerala you can have in one place.
Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu & Kashmir is a paradise in every sense of the word. This beauty of this destination is as timeless as your love & so without a doubt this has to be one of the most romantic places for an anniversary getaway. The lush valleys, sparkling lakes, high mountains and picturesque scenery make it a perfect getaway that you will remember all your life.
Imagine the view from atop a hill and around you are the rolling hills, the lower reaches of the mighty Himalayas. Nestled amidst fruit trees and vegetable patches and the splendid colors of the seasonal flowers is this beautiful cottage in Uttarakhand. Sit on the porch or under the shade of the plum tree and totally absorb your surroundings over your coffe and conversations.
Living on the banks of lake Pichola in the pink city is a dream come true for every traveler. This beautiful lake facing room has a wonderful winding stairway, green plants and colorful windows which ensure that you feel warm, cosy & at your best comfort.
Tip: Ask for their private room with a terrace overlooking the lake. Let the morning sunshine and evening breeze take you back to your early relationship days & make a space for reconnection.
#16. This suite room will take you back to your newly wedded days!
Once you step inside Stein Haus, its like walking into the ‘Secret Garden’, well manicured lawn, a beautiful stone water fountain, an open-air jacuzzi. The first floor opens into a large living room, with an open sit out. Guests can enjoy Khandala’s gentle, cool breeze even on a hot summer’s day on the sit-out, under the shade of a large tree. While you are sipping on a cup of tea/coffee from the deck, you can also get a glimpse of Duke’s nose right infront of you! And during monsoon, enjoy the full glory of Khandala rains, sitting by the steps of the sit.
The Orionid Meteor shower has begun April 25th onward and is going to be visible for a whole month. This time Earth is about to pass through countless debris of Halley’s comet, thus giving us a month long sky full of beautiful sights. This will next be visible in 2061! That’s a really long wait for the next one.
The city-lights and pollution make it impossible to enjoy such a gorgeous spectacle within the city. But fortunately, travel just a couple of hours outside and witness this dance of the million sparkles. We bring you 4 best spots around Mumbai for stargazing where you and your children can enjoy million pinpricks of light that can be seen with the naked eye!
This is the most underrated & the closest destination to the city where one can spot the starry sky! Set amid the quiet locales and sparsely populated area, is this bungalow that allows you to effortlessly hike to the highest point of Mumbai. Be it any season that you plan to visit here, considering the height it is situated at, we assure you that you’d be the first one to witness the meteor showers or the full moon night! The place will want you to capture every moment that you see through the sit out at the terrace, but the beautiful sight lasts only few seconds and you would not want to miss that in search of your camera!
We are all aware about the clear air and open sky around Karjat thus making this destination an ideal place for sky gazers. This nature’s bounty filled with hills, river and greenery lies on the outskirts of Mumbai & is a favorite destination for city dwellers.
Imagine strolling in the midst of 120 acres of thick wooded mango orchards, in the middle of the night & beautiful sights of meteor shower accompany you! Living in a cottage located right next to a river& a starry sky, what more would one want for a peaceful night. This little villa is the perfect haven for catching up on some peace, solitude, fresh air and peace of mind.
Living in a quaint cottage nestled on a 4 acre, stream adjacent farm in Karjat. The front verandah facing the gorgeous garden, the terrace which overlook the scenic beauty of the farm and Karjat ghats are the perfect spots to put your feet up, relax and soak in everything nature has to offer. Star gazing, bird watching or just napping on the garden swing, the city life will be a distant memory.
Dapoli, a small town in Ratnagiri, is everything a holiday destination should be. And if you’re staying at the Nirvana, a spectacular view of Arabian Sea, Palm and Coconut trees all around await you. Built on a sloppy hillock, it is over a 2 acre property. You can see the fascinating, Harnai fishing port on left, sea fort known as Suvarnadurg on extreme right side along with Anjarle sandy beach and the front view of the villa gives you a complete view of the endless sea. One can spend their time on the patio and enjoy uninterrupted sea breeze at all hours of the day whilst skygazing!
Wanderlust is a beautiful thing. You never know where it will take you, especially when you travel with your best gal pals. Because besties who travel together stay together, right?! And literally EVERYONE thinks their group of friends is just like that of a legendary sitcom. So do you, we know it. Friends? Sex and the City? Or may be Gossip Girls? Oh no wait! Vampire Diaries or Desperate Housewives?! With them, we have those inside jokes & one too many anecdotes that our significant others just don’t get! So grab your hipster t-shirt, rent a beachfront villa or go where the wind takes you! Here are some ideas. Pick your favorite destination & get ready to annoy your friends because every moment of the trip will be about ‘You & Your Girls’!
Believe it or not, but the best conversations happen at the most random places. Known for a notable beach, and for its proximity to Janjira off the coast of Rajapuri, a sea fort, Murud is the place where the only sound that disturbs & interrupts your conversation is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores. Murud-Janjira is the local name for a fort situated at the coastal village of Murud, in the Raigad district of Maharashtra, India.
Enjoy your best friend’s company at this beachfront villa in Murud
Located at 700 to 800 feet above sea level, Dapoli is a beautiful town and is widely known as Mini Mahabaleshwar. If you want to taste the real village life in konkan, this is an ideal place in Ratnagiri to visit with your friends.
Let the breeze at this sea facing villa in Dapoli calm your soul.
C’mon! Who doesn’t know what’s & if’s about GOA! It is the ‘Dil Chahta Hai’ destination. That one place where you can travel time & again and it will never fail to amaze you with its serene beauty. When on a trip to Goa, you’d want to do everything a bit more, such as sing some more, gossip till you run out of thoughts, drive till you’re hungry, make crazy confessions & fight over it, & this can just go on! It is going to be an unbelievable entertainment.
Who doesn’t wish to rent a pool villa in Goa? Especially when its this beautiful!
Watching the Sunrise & Sunset with your best friend has been your dream for the longest time? Korlai is an ideal place to fulfill your forever pending dream! A beautiful location, hidden from a lot many tourists, is a home to Korlai fort which offers panoramic views of natural surroundings.
Bare your soul, share your dreams & hopes at this charming beach facing villa in Alibaug
A classic case of journey being better than the destination. After all you have the best people with you. If you’re a foodie person & love to try new recipes with your friends, then you must visit here for lip smacking Parsi food. Famously known as the ‘Chikoo Bowl’ of Maharashtra, the history states that it is here where the first sapling of chikoo was planted by an Irani family in 1901. And thus the name Gholvad meaning a ‘round tree’.
Tag along with your foodie friends & explore the Parsi cuisine in Gholvad, very close to Bordi!
There are so many adventure along the way that you want to share with your bestie. Walking amidst the jungle? Trekking? Enjoying the sunset valley views? Your first horse ride? Yes! Matheran is an answer to all of these adventure list that you’ve been creating since a long time now.
Rent this heritage villa in Matheran hill station to experience what it’s like to live in a jungle.
You always wished to witness the first rays of sun early morning, or sleep to the sound of flowing water; But you were too shy to share this with your friends? Do not worry. This place will make your friends wish for the very same. So get ready to fulfill your childish dreams!
This beautiful bungalow has been hiding next to table land for quite sometime now.
If no other plan works, one can always rent a bungalow in Lonavala for a house party!
Everything can be too far but not Khandala. You could be too busy to take a break even on a weekend but not when its about a short drive to Khandala! Open roads, getting into trouble with your partner in crime, the endless selfies that you will click, some good tunes and deep conversations; There could be nothing like this! Agree much?
So what are you waiting for? Friendships Day is not too far & now is the time to explore off beat destinations, rent a villa & party like a hipster, go beach walking with your girlfriends or simply go on a long drive.
About the Author: Keenjal Patel, a reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!
After a week full of mulled wine & beer post work, junk food, weekday stress and sleep deprived nights, it is now time to cleanse your mind-body-soul. For some it may be strict food diet, exercise and timely sleep which sounds even more depressing! But what if we told you that the best way to regain yourself is to detox? And more so travel to off beat detox locations; Places that could release you from the weekday stress, where you can eat healthy home-cooked food, do yoga, listen to music or peacefully read books!? We bring you 7 such best places for weekend detox!
Located amidst forest that is green all year round, Stein Haus is a bungalow that ensures you rekindle and re-bond with friends/families. Feel part of the natural harmony that makes up this exceptional corner of Khandala. It’s an extremely spacious property with three bed rooms and one suite room available; A large living room and a large common area on the first floor. The terrace and the surroundings are such that you wouldn’t want to return to your routine life!
#02. Dapoli
If you love the sights of deep valleys, dense evergreen forest with diversified flora and fauna, misty mountains and milky white waterfalls, then this four bedroom Bungalow situated amid mesmerizing environment is the only place you’d want to visit over a long weekend for natural retreat. While overlooking the dam, windmills from the wind energy project and the crimson sky changing its color, one can easily lose the track of time.
Looking Out Over the Choppy Seas
Snuggling into Cosy Blankets
Tranquil Sea Views
Verandah for Cloud Spotting
Click here to know more about the property
#03. Uttan
Not many people know of this secluded place because it is located within Mumbai! But trust us this place will take you by surprise especially by its evening sights. Set amid the quiet locales and sparsely populated area, is this bungalow that allows you to effortlessly hike to the highest point of Mumbai. While the sun sets, you will see a trail of fish boats parked at the dockyard against a crimson sky in the background and lanterns lit in the boats; the sight will only take you by surprise, for you never imagined this could be so mesmerising.
#04. Moira A garden lined with trees and a beautiful pool outlining the property offers an ideal setting for a tranquil stay. It’s well done interiors add to the comfort and ensure a perfect location to indulge in soulful activities like meditation and yoga. This luxurious villa is a perfect place to get a revitalizing rest. All room types offer state-of-art views; From tastily appointed private balconies and terraces, this place sets the standards for unadulterated pampering and downtime.
#05. Matheran A heritage villa in Matheran, almost a 100 year old shelters some of the most amazing wall clocks, furniture, flooring, beds, wide windows, huge walls and colorful culinary. Every corner of the house speaks an emotion. If you wish to detox your mind with a good read, you will find this huge sofa with sunlight at its backdrop an apt place to be the couch potato for rest of the day!
#06. Murud Located about 10 kms from Murud, in Agardanda, this beach villa will take your breath away. Here, the only sound that disturbs the peace is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores, barely 50 meters away. The property has no neighbours, so the stretch of 200-300 meters of beach is almost private. It has 2 units, wooden structures, both with a porch from where one can keep staring into the open Ocean. You will find yourself fixed on the porch the whole day long with a book for company.
This old styled beach villa literally kissed by the high tide waters of the Arabian sea has afforested mountains as its backdrop with sea waters in front. The villa sits alongside the gorgeous fort, reminiscent of the Portugese inhabitation here centuries ago. The most stunning aspect of this villa is that it is perched on a virtually private beach. Meaning there is no permanent inhabitation for half a kilometer on either side of this bungalow!
Keenjal Patel, a reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!
You might be an expert at how to shop smart, how not to spend more, how to live happily, etc. But what about when it comes to finding the best place for a weekend getaway? In continuation to our series of weekend getaways around Mumbai, we have picked the best places for you to cut off from your routine and relax! Here are 10 places where you could spend your leisure time, pursuing your long lost hobby, i.e. to relax!
A 100-year old heritage bungalow, owned by a Parsi family in Matheran is your little pad of solace. It opens into a large forest facing verandah where you could, on a lazy sleeper chair, catch-up on your book or simply gaze into the nature’s beauty. Every room is tastefully done with old-style wooden furniture, yet complete with modern amenities. It comforts you with delicious home cooked food and personal attention.
If flowing river right at the backyard of your house is what you have been dreaming of lately, then this place is an example of uber luxurious property where you can relax at the lakeside, or play with your friends/family in the garden. With all kinds of modern amenities available, this is an excellent place to relax and rewind!
Barely 2.5 hours away from Mumbai, is located this beautiful Villa by the sea that makes sure you don’t spend your weekend like a lazy bum! With three forts on this beach, one at the southern tip of the beach, submerged in seawater during high tides; the smaller one located within the coniferous trees near the northern tip on the beach, Kelwa beach provides a fair share of activities. There is also a famous shitala devi temple at Kelwa.
Just 10 minutes away from the Mandwa jetty, this lovely stone villa is easily accessible. Tastefully decorated with antique furniture and with two outdoor sitting areas, you can breathe in the fresh, unpolluted air, read, eat and enjoy. In the afternoons, either simply laze around or cycle through the tranquil villages and the two nearby ponds and enjoy the peace and calm. The evenings are meant to go to the Awas beach, which is a nice 5-10 minute walk from the house. Play cricket, run around, get soaked and have fun till you get tired!
Uttan is famous for its beach, fresh fish stock, Koli community and a lighthouse. Be it any season that you plan to visit here, considering the height it is situated at, we assure you that you’d be the first one to witness the summer breeze, July showers, autumn leafs or the winter chills! Set amid the quiet locales and sparsely populated area, is this bungalow that allows you to effortlessly hike to the highest point of Mumbai.
Located next to a river that flows silent all year round, this bungalow assures to rekindle and bring together the lost bonds with friends/families. Feel part of the natural harmony that makes up this exceptional corner of Karjat. It’s an extremely spacious property with four large size bed rooms available; A large living room and a large common area on the first floor. The terrace and the surroundings are such that you wouldn’t want to return to your routine life!
Set amidst the lush green valleys of Karjat, this farmhouse is situated among the hills near Mumbai. The large front deck, with a breathtaking view of the Sahyadris, provides a great setting for evening parties with barbecue. Karjat is a popular weekend holiday destination from Mumbai, and located near the basin of Ulhas River, scenic natural vistas follow this place by default.
A luxurious 6 bedroom valley facing bungalow in Panchgani offers breathtaking views, much more appreciated during the monsoon season when the Bhilar waterfall is visible in its full glory. The bungalow is fully furnished and is equipped with the latest gadgets to make your stay as comfortable as possible. The valley facing glass enclosed gazebo is connected by a bridge to the dining area and is a perfect place to relax and unwind.
Located about 10 kms from Murud, in Agardanda, this beachvilla will take your breath away. Here, the only sound that disturbs the peace is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores, barely 50 meters away. The property has no neighbours, so the stretch of 200-300 meters of beach is almost private. It has 2 units, wooden structures, both with a porch from where one can keep staring into the open Ocean. You will find yourself fixed on the porch the whole day long with a book for company.
Spending days amidst forest, doing nothing and observing the nature; Is this what you call an ideal holiday? You must visit this place in Khopoli; Located in a picturesque valley of Pali at the foothills of Lonavala & Sahara Aamby Valley, surrounded by the Majestic Sahyadri Mountains one can unwind and be in the midst of nature. It is engulfed by curtains of waterfall during monsoon, and draped by the canopy of mist during winter.
So, which place suits your hobby the best? Leave your comments below!
About the Author: Keenjal Patel, a reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!
Is Ready, Set, Go, your mantra for most weekends? Have you found a car and the countryside to be your calling? Then this picturesque surrounding and lush green foliage on the way to Ratnagiri is a great source to calm those jittery nerves. So if you are in the region and planning to take a road trip look no further.
Why to go?
When vacation plans are tossed around, few Mumbaikars can resist the lure of seashore! And the drive to Ratnagiri-Ganpatipule from Mumbai is a vacation in itself. This Coastal beauty is ready to welcome you round the year. The backwaters lead you towards its tranquil shores and the friendly locals give you a good start to help you explore Ratnagiri & dive deep into the salty sea, aroma of delicious seafood, sound of the waves, and feel of the wet beach sand as you walk along barefoot. Expect the clear blue sky and vast blue sea to be your sole companions on your weekend getaway from the loud city!
On-the-go
The 500-odd kilometres might take upto 11 hours on a single stretch. A pleasant stretch, lined on both sides with forest, gives a delightfully scenic drive. Passing past your window you will witness paddy fields and coconut palms plantations. Also, if you are a bird watcher, you cannot resist to take a halt at Karnala Bird Sanctuary.
Although, don’t hurry through Ratnagiri; After all, nothing can beat the thrill of being on the road, right? The route from Mumbai to Ratnagiri gives you plenty scenic options mentioned above to pick and choose your experiences.
A two minute walk from the seashore, this luxury bungalow makes sure that the guests experience a relaxing and comfortable stay in Diveagar. Some of the places to visit in the vicinity include Diveagar and Harihareshwar Beach, the Lord Suvarnaganesha temple which houses the 300 years old idol of Lord Ganesha, and Murud Janjira, long considered to be an impregnable fort. Also of interest is the Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, spread over an area of around 53 sq kilometres, housing a variety of fauna.
Located at a walking distance from the beach in Shrivardhan. We pride ourselves on our well- maintained gardens & farm of coconut trees, mango trees and are canut trees. Guests can spend time at Shrivardhan Beach and enjoy water activities on offer. They can also visit the Shiva Temple and Bankot Fort.
During your stay here, the place is in close proximity with Harihareshwar Beach, you can enjoy the water activities there, and visit Harihareshwar Temple. There are few other temples that lie in the vicinity and can be visited. Boating and backwater trips to see dolphins are other activities to be enjoyed. One can also take day trips to Diveagar and Shriwardhan as well.
Nestled in interiors of Dapoli in Coastal Maharashtra, this homestay in Dapoli provides the perfect retreat from the chaos of city life. They aim to provide a rustic experience in natural settings while ensuring that the guests are comfortable. There is an in-house restaurant where they serve delicious local meals.
Overlooking the valley, is this farmstay built on an 18 acre land, with a lot of love and care. You wake up to absolute peace and quiet, with the sounds of birds and roosters as your morning wake up call. The fresh air and lovely views of the green valley right in front of the rooms brings you a fresh and heavenly feeling. When you visit here, you have peacocks on the farm for company and friendly hunter dogs as pets.
Located on top of a hill, away from the otherwise touristy spots in Chiplun, the view of the scenic Vashishti river with a backdrop of the setting sun in the mountain range is breathtaking and something you can enjoy from your room. Without interfering much into the natural balance, one can achieve relaxation or rejuvenation that you wish to experience. They promote eco-friendly tourism, the only place where you can experience a wonderful mix of adventure tourism, agro learnings, spiritual places & the divine peace of nature. Here you also get an opportunity to pursue your hobbies like painting, photography, reading, writing, music, while enjoying the splendid breathtaking view of the river Vashisthi.
Located in a small fishing village about 5 km from the town of Guhagar, atop a small hillock and far away from city life, is this beautiful farm house. It lies nestled between forest cover on one side and a stunning view of Guhagar beach on the other, and makes for an ideal place to experience the unique flavour of Coastal Maharashtra. The simplicity of the rooms is made up for by the large number of activities on offer. Guests can explore the village, go for walks through the forest and opt for bird watching trips with the friendly host who’ll also tell you about the efforts he’s made in the field of agriculture in his village.
While driving from Ganpatipule towards the town of Ratnagiri, the sky and sea blend together to make a blue vista that will keep you company through your travels. The 25 kilometre drive is scenic and calming. A drive to Guhagar (52 kilometres from Ganpatipule) will take you through acres of mango farms and the drive further to Dapoli (46 km from Guhagar) will introduce you to more beaches, small villages, backwaters and shades of green.
Located in a close proximity from Ganpatipule, this cottage is surrounded by lush gardens that are regularly attended to. A mere 1.5 kilometres from the temple, the place is accessible easily from the main road.
A Sprawling Property In the heart of the Konkan offers a peek into the natural, ecologically vibrant environment. Located in Coastal Maharashtra, this hideaway offers a fine balance of luxury and holistic wellness. You can enjoy the natural beauty of Ratnagiri. Come here to relax, recharge and rejuvenate.
Caution
Pay heed to accident signs.
Look for speed breakers while approaching and leaving bridges across rivers.
Slow down near villages where there’s plenty of non-motorized traffic.
The scenic beauty could be a possible distraction, pay full attention on the road.
Don’t follow another vehicle too closely.
Lastly, pay attention to the weather forecast for your destination!
About the Author:
Keenjal Patel
A reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!
