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Weekend Getaways near Mumbai – Part 4 – North of Mumbai

22nd September 2015Posted in Maharashtra, SaffronStays DiariesTagged Beach facing Villas, Eco-farmstay, Madh Island, north mumbai, Palghar, Weekend Getaways from Mumbai, weekend tripsLeave a comment

Speaking of Mumbai, the city has multitude of choices when its comes to weekend getaways. You could either opt for more familiar places like Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala, Panchgani, Khandala, Alibaug, etc.; Or if you are looking at exploring more possibilities and untouched places, then below are 6 places ideal for weekend getaways near Mumbai! North of Mumbai is about sea beaches like Madh and Bordi, and unequalled silent villages like Palghar and Boisar.

# 01. Have a restful holiday at Madh Island

A bungalow nestled among coconut trees, this Villa is ideal for relaxation and reflection. The large property is located over 20,000 square foot. The bungalow sits at the trailhead of several mountain paths, and is, therefore, perfectly located for long walks. The property has a distinct charm and with its surrounded beauty it is sure to give you a feeling of relaxation. It also offers an escape for writers, poets, artists and thinkers, and for a contemplative holiday at large.

# 02. Retreat into Nature at Palghar

Located near Vikramgad, this retreat centre is a perfect getaway to deter and find inner peace. If you are wanting to stress out from your daily routine, this rustic cottage house in Palghar is an ideal place for you to rejuvenate yourself and regain the balance of your chakras through Yoga, detox, natural and clean vegetables. You can also grow our own fruits and vegetables while your stay at this place.

# 03. Agro tourism stay at Bordi

A farmhouse surrounded by greenery will soothe your soul as you leave behind the buzz of the city. A temple within the premises of this place offers a positive feeling to the guests. Beautiful exteriors makes this holiday home a special one. Bedrooms are spacious & impeccably furnished infrastructure. The long stretch of green lawn adjacent to the house could be used as a play area. This is a perfect place to have a family get-together or simply laze around with friends.

# 04. Escape to the beach facing Bungalow at Madh Island

If you don’t want to travel too far yet get away from the crowds and the rush of the city, this place is ideal for the purpose. Located in Madh, the bungalow has a direct access to the beach. A fully furnished 4 BHK Villa with a garden and a stretch of green lawn makes this place a must visit with your kids and large group of friends/family.

# 05. Enjoy the serene view at Kelwa beach near Palghar

This rustic villa is set within a picturesque farm, with the views overlooking the sea. Situated right besides the beach, the home holds an open pavilion, a breakfast patio, a shaded courtyard, a barbecue pit, hammocks and multiple outdoor sit outs. Although this place is largely gainings footfalls, Kelwa beach is still hidden from a lot many tourists. Enjoy the serene view from the verandah, and soothe yourself with the sound of crashing waves on the sea shore.

# 06. Stay near Bordi Beach

Set amid beauty of the nature, this is a perfect weekend getaway to come with your family, friends. The surrounding is windy and the apartment provides pool with play area. The room gives a serene view of the nature.

Cover Photo Credits: www.goldenratiopublications.com

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!

10 Secret places to hide from your boss!

10th September 2015Posted in Maharashtra, SaffronStays Diaries, Weekend getawaysTagged Awas Beach, bucket list, Homestays, Karjat, Maharashtra, Matheran, riverside villa, Weekend Getaways from MumbaiLeave a comment

There are so many bucket lists of things-to-do, books to read, cuisines to try and of course places to visit. We know you have been to all the possible places in and around Mumbai. And that you must have spent like a king and saved like a squirrel! So we thought about a bucket list which is more practical and doable – the ‘Relaxing’ bucket list! We hope this list helps you see places in a different light and that there’s new stuff to do every day i.e. relax your mind, relax your body, relax your soul and recharge for the week!

# 01. Matheran

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.

Click here to know more about this stay

# 02. Karjat

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!

Click here to know more about this stay

# 03. Kelwa

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.

Click here to know more about this stay

# 04. Murud

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.

Click here to know more about this stay

# 05. Awas Beach

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!

Click here to know more about this stay

# 06. Alibaug

While your stay at this mansion in an isolated place in Alibaug, let the chirpings of bird bring you the state of tranquility. The hospitality of caretakers will want you to revisit this place. The Villa is well furnished with large spacious rooms, wooden furniture, wall paintings and antiques which add the feel of homeliness to it.

Click here to know more about this stay

# 07. Panchgani

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.

Click here to know more about this stay

#08. Zirad, Alibaug

A spacious pool villa little away from Alibag city, has a beautiful garden in front of the bungalow. This place is ideally Suited For Large Groups Of Friends And Families, Wanting A Quick Weekend Getaway From Mumbai. The house is large with plenty of light and air.

Click here to know more about this stay

#09 Karjat

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.

Click here to know more about this stay

#10. Alibaug

Barely a 10 minutes walk from Nagaon beach, this bungalow is easily accessible. Engaging in various water sports like Jet ski rides, parasailing, kayaking, Banana boat or enjoy fishing and beach walk is more fun when you are staying right next to a beach!

Click here to know more about the stay

We’re kicking off with this list, and so should you! Enjoy the list, check out how many you have seen and how many you haven’t.

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

5 Pure Vegetarian Weekend Stays around Mumbai!

9th September 2015Posted in Maharashtra, SaffronStays Diaries, Weekend getawaysTagged farm house near Mumbai, Homestays, igatpuri, khandala, Konkani Food, Lonavala, long drive, maharashtrian food, meat ban, Mumbai getaways, vegetarian mealsLeave a comment

We feel for all the non-vegetarians cribbing and feeling outraged about the #MeatBan in Mumbai during Paryushan. However, for our vegetarian friends who often feel inconvenienced and uncomfortable eating at places that also serve non-veg (“What if the same utensils are used?”); here’s some relief. No, we aren’t referring to the #MeatBan.

For our vegetarian friends and their families, we bring few quick weekend breaks that serve only VEG meals. Some of them can even prepare Jain meals. Here you needn’t worry if the utensils are used for non-veg preparations. So go ahead and book NOW!

# 01. Igatpuri

Experience the bygone era where the house was lit by natural daylight, large windows with ample of air ventilation and green landscape. With a spectacular look of Darna river in close proximity, you can enjoy the warm sit-out that overlooks the huge lawn and savour your veggie taste buds with delicious local food. Maharashtrian food with a blend of north and south dominates the local cuisine in Igatpuri. Akki roti (rice flour bhakri) is a must try!

Photo Credits: www.thakkara.com — Photo Credits: http://www.thakkara.com

# 02. Ganpatipule, Malgund Beach

Visit the 400 year old Ganesh temple and the serene Malgund beach, both just a hug and nuzzle away from your stay at Ganpatipule. You can also drive along the beautiful coastal stretch of Ratnagiri and visit Thibaw Palace and Ratnadurg Fort. On your return to the bungalow, relax and retreat with mouth watering vegetarian food. The local cuisine is ruled by Konkani food which can bowl over your non-vegan craving anyday! The luscious kokam curry, Ambapoli (Pancake made of dried mangoes), Sabudana Khichdi, and Phanaspoli (Pancake made of dried jackfruit) are few famous dishes. This region is known for jackfruit and the special delicacy which is Modak with a filling of jaggery and coconut.

# 03. Khandala

The Bungalow is a cozy living paradise in the dense foggy mountains of Lonavla-Khandala. This is the right spot to unwind and relax! Enjoy the lovely view of mountains or visit there by yourself. Tiger point, Kune waterfalls and Lion point are in close proximity from this bungalow. Khandala doesn’t really have a standard or unique cuisine but it definitely welcomes to those interested in enjoying simple vegan food. You will find varied options from North-Indian to Gujarati to Chinese cuisines here. The staple food is our very famous Vada Pav with a sprinkle of spicy red chutney.

Vada Pav — Photo Credits: http://www.whatshot.in

# 04. Lonavala

While the brisk of air heralds the end of fall season and it is time to extend a warm welcome to the breeze and sunset at the Tiger point, Lonavala. A popular destination that this is, you will find end number of options for food, especially dhaba’s. But you must try hot masala chai with cheese and corn pakoda’s, onion rings, and fudges if you have a sweet tooth!

Photo Credits: www.medimanage.com — Photo Credits: http://www.medimanage.com

# 05. Palghar

If you are wanting to stress out from your daily routine, this rustic cottage house in Palghar is an ideal place for you to rejuvenate yourself and regain the balance of your chakras through Yoga, detox, and consuming naturally grown clean vegetables for food. The place is eco-friendly in every possible way and serves only VEGAN food! Palghar does not offer much options when it comes to food joints. Thus, making it perfect to enjoy the organic local food served by the tribal community.

Photo Credits: www.blueplanetgreenliving.com — Photo Credits: http://www.blueplanetgreenliving.com

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

11 places in India to enjoy your bowl of Maggi!

1st September 2015Posted in Coastal Maharashtra, Jammu & Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Ladakh, Local food, Maharashtra, SaffronStays Diaries, SikkimTagged coorg, Kerala, Ladakh, lakeside, Lonavala, Maggi Ban, Manali, Matheran, Meri Maggi, monsoons, Murud, Pangong Tso, Remote places, Sikkim, Spiti, Tiger point, Uttarakhand, WeMissYouTooMaggiLeave a comment

Reluctant as ever, my Grandpa refrained to eat noodles, until one day, we were both home alone, rest of the family was busy attending a family function, and how he hated outside food! So, to avoid going to bed with an empty stomach, he gave in to the pop culture and asked me to share my bowl of Maggi with him. Surprisingly, one spoon after the other, slurp..slurp..and slurp! He finished his first ever bowl of Maggi! This yellow colored packet had some magic I tell you, even my Grandpa couldn’t resist the 2 minutes miracle! Yes #WeMissYouToo Maggi, hoping for a comeback, or else you will only be heard of in our memories and be seen in our Maggi Selfie’s to our future generation. Below are the places across India where you can have unique encounters with Maggi.

#01 Matheran

Glide over the mesmerizing beauty of Matheran, while you hear the clippety cloc-cloc of horses. This is one among the very few pedestrian hill stations in India! Enjoy the view of forest from the top and munch on your Maggi meals.

Don’t know where to stay at Matheran? Click here!

#02 Murud

Murud, a city in Raigad region is fast becoming a favorite tourist destination because the only sound that disturbs the peace is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores, barely 50 meters away. Because of the land across, the sea here is quiet and tranquil. Wouldn’t it be amazing to spend some time in isolation with your favorite dish i.e., Maggi?

Don’t know where to stay in Murud? Click here!

#03 Lonavala

Let the gentle breeze at Lonavala sooth you, enjoy the warm maggi, a cup of hot chocolate and some corn bhajiya’s at Tiger point. Cuddle up with your friends, gossip about your school days, or take your kids for a drive and share your good old days with them!

Don’t know where to stay while in Lonavala? Click here!

#04 Munnar, Kerala

Kerala is blessed with a lot of beauty, water bodies, beaches, culture & art! So why not indulge into multiple elements and savor your taste buds with a bowl of Maggi which soothes your sense, mind, body & soul! Sip on the soupy noodles and let the waves wash away your stress.

Don’t know where to stay in Kerala? Click here!

#05 Kullu-Manali

After a long drive through the beautiful ghats, relax with your friends or family in the balcony and peep into the nature and come alive while you fight with your friends for the last spoon of Maggi in that bowl!

Don’t know where to stay in Manali? Click here!

#06 Coorg, Karnataka

The old structures and monuments in Karnataka come alive to tell you tales from the past, hear them out on your visit, and on your way back to home, living amid the jungle, let the monsoon showers hinder outside while you enjoy with your delicious bowl of Maggi!

Don’t know where to stay at Gulmarg? Click here!

#07 Srinagar

Remember your Mom waking you up by bribing you a bowl of hot Maggi? Imagine you are on a holiday and you get a home cooked delicious Maggi with added flavors from the hills, nothing like it, right?

Don’t know where to stay at Srinagar? Click here!

#08 Lahaul & Spiti

Out of nowhere amid the magnificent Spiti Valley, when you finally take a sigh & want to fill in your stomach, a two minute Maggi would be a saviour, isn’t it? Settle yourselves under a tent, glance at the mountains right in front of you & let the breeze bring you a homely feeling!

Don’t know where to stay at Lahaul & Spiti? Click here!

#09 Pangong Tso Lake

The deep blue lake reflects the sky and the mountains around. With a falling temperature, this is the perfect location to be your share buddy for a bowl of Maggi! The clouds are just handful away, thin air, silence, you and your Maggi!

Don’t know where to stay in Pangong Lake? Click here!

#10 Sikkim

Do you like trekking in the Himalayan range? Often come back to the base camp with memories from the hills? Ever cooked your own food at the base camp? A two minute break would be such a relief from the long hour cooking procedure! Enjoy the hot Maggi dish with your trek mates and bring back home #MeriMaggi stories.

Don’t know where to stay in Sikkim? Click here!

#11 Marchula, Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand, an originating point of significant Indian rivers, also known as a land of spirituality, offers breath taking views of mountains to the visitors. This region has multiple options and Marchula, is one among the many! It is a small yet beautiful and famous tourist place. Spend some time observing the running water from the banks of Ramganga and sip on your Maggi soup!

Don’t know where to stay while in Marchula? Click here!

P.S. Cover Photo Credits: http://www.hourdose.com

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

Let kids experience the joy of living a simple life!

11th August 2015Posted in Local culture, Local food, Maharashtra, SaffronStays Diaries, Weekend getawaysTagged culture, farmstays around Mumbai, Homestays, kids centric holidays, kids friendly, Reliving childhood, Weekend Getaways from Mumbai, weekend tripsLeave a comment

I remember when I first traveled with my family, I was very curious about why the roads were so curvy; why the railway tracks went criss cross; why it rained at one place while some miles ahead we could only find breeze to accompany us and so much more. Today, I wish to see the same excitement in my children. I don’t want to take them on a lavish vacation where all they can do is admire the beauty from far and brag about it when they meet their friends. I prefer taking my kids for a trips wherein we live in a homestay, spend some time with local people, and children can mingle around with the localites learn how to adapt new life, get their hands dirty with mud, eating a cuisine which they would not otherwise get in the city.

“The use of traveling is to regulate imagination by reality, and instead of thinking how things may be, to see them as they are” – Samuel Johnson

Although the internet has changed the world into a global village, one still needs to travel. Children are like butterflies, they remain in the cocoon for a purpose and they adapt the change only when exposed to it. And as a parent when I think of what is that one thing I want to give my kids, the answer unanimously is Education & Travel. Education is taken care of by the schools, while travel for us, it teaches children the cultural diversities and to appreciate and relish that experience forever.

Considering the weather, I thought it is time for parents to take their kids to places where they can engage themselves in activities that will not just entertain them but also teach them how to embrace the change. Often families going on a trip miss out on whether their children will enjoy as much as they will. Is the place kids friendly? We hardly find places that could teach the basics of a simple life to our children. I found few such places and am sure kids will absolutely cherish the experience!

# 1 Help them discover themselves

While we decide to lay back and relax in the amazing weather, your kids could get a chance to lay their hands on gardening, fishing, bird watching and everything that excites them about nature. This Agro-farm located at Kamshet offers a comprehensive range of terrestrial and aquatic adventure activities, and a series of horticultural and farm-based educational experiences within the premise. With a variety of outdoor experiences it will help children discover oneself & hone one’s capabilities.

Click here to know more about the place

# 2 Spice up their trip with different Cultures

Nestled in the majestic Sahyadri valley, surrounded by lush green mountainous forests, blessed with abundant rainfall, this place at Pali can make your stay comfortable. While we laze around the place, taking a stroll on the half km walkway, the kids can engage in learning how to fly a kite. One thing every parent must consider doing here is to ditch your car for once and hire a bullock cart to visit the nearby scenic locations like Padsare waterfall, Jatayu temple and Pali Ashthavinayak Ganpati temple.

Click here to know more about the place

# 3 Teach your kids to care for animals

farm stay at Pali — Kids love this lake; adjacent to the property

Far from the maddening crowds, just 100 km from Mumbai, cocooned among the western ghats, in the Raigad district, this place is a recreation of all the simple elements of village life within 7 acres of land – fields, orchards, temple, pond, waterfall, farm animals, and last but not the least – Indian country homes, made by unskilled hands, with natural materials and rustic decor, which are comfortable, clean and furnished with necessary amenities. If your kids love to pamper animals and play with them, this is an ideal place for petting. They can enjoy the simple joys of waking up with the cackle of geese and spend their day walking in the fields, swinging, kite flying, rowing, fishing, planting, feeding the fowl and cattle, riding a bullock cart, star gazing or just watching time go by with nature. Having ponies and horses is an added attraction for kids.

Click here to know more about the place

# 4 Ecology will surprise them with its balancing skills!

In a place surrounded with rustic village atmosphere along with 1200+ trees, you can get an easy access to peep into nature’s beauty at Kolad. With the help of the caretaker one can arrange for river crossing and river rafting at Kudalika river. One can also arrange for kayaking, day and night trekking and river body surfing. Not just the kids, but parents too can enjoy these activities.

Click here to know more about the place

# 5 Let them take the Monkey’s ride

Besides streams and scenic beauty this place at Karjat is situated amid 120 acres of thick wooden mango orchads. Visit here in monsoon for the lush greens, fresh forest smells, and gurgling river that is safe even in monsoon to play in. Remember the last time you climbed a tree? Probably not! It’s time for you to let your children jump and hop around the trees like monkey and relive your childhood days. The farm attracts a splendid variety of birds. One can take walks around the property and swim in the river or even have a family barbeque or just sit back and read and listen to nature.

Click here to know more about the place

# 6 Let them learn the art of farming

Are you a Konkani? Or have you heard alot about Konkani tales? Then this place at Khopoli is ideal for you to travel with your kids for them to taste the many flavors of this region. We would love to live at a traditional Konkani Cottage with veranda overlooking mountain ranges. The place is doing its best to preserve and protect our ecology, our native culture and food habits. And they are prepared to share the natural beauty and comforts of their place with the guests. Kids would enjoy farming and they can learn the very art of rice cultivation, soil building, poultry farm and brick furnace. Also, camping and barbeque can be arranged on request.

Click here to know more about the place

# 7 They will understand the value for money

Living within the wooden interiors and a place that follows agro-toursim, I am sure this place at Mulshi has great deals for our kids to learn. This place is been taken care of by the local villagers and they gladly welcome you to witness their warm service and mouth watering food over your weekend trip. The villagers believe that everything is of value and use and the homestay itself is been built with a lot of recycled material. What could be a better way to teach our kids ‘best out of waste’! The localites are known to indulge kids into fun activities like crab hunting and rice plantation. Now every time they will crave for sea food, they know where it comes from! The best thing about choosing this place as a farmstay is to realize that the money raised by the guest visits is being used for the education of village children which is an amazing effort!

Click here to know more about the place

If you think your children would love to indulge in similar fun activities, then visiting these places is a must! On your way back home if you sense the same curiosity in your kids which you had years ago on your first travel trip with your parents, then your weekend trip to the above places is worth it!

About the Author:

Keenjal Patel

Get drenched! Top 8 getaways to enjoy the rains around Mumbai & Pune

22nd June 2015Posted in Coastal Maharashtra, Maharashtra, SaffronStays Diaries, Weekend getawaysTagged dapoli, getaways, igatpuri, kamshet, Karjat, lake view, monsoon, monsoon getaways, rains, scenic views, Weekend getawaysLeave a comment

The monsoon’s finally set in, providing some much needed relief from the scorching heat. It’s time for those grey evenings, staring out of your window watching the rains lash down, with a cup of hot coffee by your side. Or, steaming hot kaanda bhajji and cutting chai with friends. Rainbows, colourful umbrellas, full body raincoats, paper boats in puddles, drives on the sea-link, foam sprays on Marine drive; Oh, we have all been waiting for this. Here, let me give you a great idea to upgrade your monsoon experience. Come, visit our beautiful homestays, get drenched in the rains, enjoy delicious hot cuisine and make the most of the rainy season.

#1. Best kept secret of Aamby Valley

This magnificent palatial home in Aamby Valley, Lonavala is nothing short of a 5-star hotel. With the living room opening out into a lush garden, you are bound to be breathless at the view of the valley from here. Imagine watching the rains lash down at the valley, while you sit in the comfort of the living room sipping hot chai. *longingly looks at suitcases*

You can also avail of outdoor activities like zorbing, zip-lining and paintball. Trust me, you do not want to give paintball a miss. As for food, your taste buds are in for a treat as there are 3-4 multicuisine restaurants here. Be sure not to miss out on Mabruk, the Lebanese restaurants. For a getaway with family and friends, its an offer you simply can’t refuse.

ambi valley — The magnificent villa at Aamby Valley

Click here to know more and book.

#2. Little Paradise on a Beach front, Murud

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 at the rains. You will find yourself fixed on the porch the whole day long with a book for company.

Murud beachvilla — Stare into the sea for hours together with a book for company

Click here to know more and book.

#3. Forest bungalow in Lonavala

Nestled between trees and ensconced within nature with a view that overlooks the lake. Add rains to the scene. Nope, I’m not talking about a movie scene. This stone-structured 1980 home is the epitome of beauty and serenity. Decorated with the choicest of ancient Parsi furniture, you are assured of a regal experience. There is a housekeeper and a cook to look after your needs, so you can lie down and take in the peace and quiet.

villa in lonavla — A lovely living room with forest view

Click here to know more and book.

#4. Farmhouse in Karjat.

You can have a perfect family and friends getaway here. Built on an extensive farmland, this home is replete with amenities and luxuries. The living room opens on three sides, so it is always breezy and cool. However, make sure you close the windows during the rains! Challenge your friends to a basketball match, or play football in the backyard.

Football + Rains= Heaven.

The perfectly manicured lawns are great to lounge on and soak in the vacation experience. There is also a shaded trellis where you can relax and cook a delicious barbecue meal while the rain pours down. Who doesn’t love barbecue, right?

villa in karjat — A luxury villa for the monsoon at Karjat

Click here to know more and book.

#5. Lakeside villa in Kamshet

If you are longing for a soothing holiday, away from civilisation, we have just the place for you.Tucked away in the Sahyadri hills, touching a beautiful lake & surrounded by lush greenery: Oh, what I wouldn’t give to have this. Enjoy a swim with a breathtaking mountain sunset view or take a refreshing walk in the rains or just relax in the gazebo with a book to leaf through. Completes the whole picture, right?

Get your paintbrushes, sketchpencils and cameras as you are simply not allowed to leave this haven without capturing it in some way.

Go on, pack your bags!

Villa next to lake , Kamshet — Massive living room for fun-filled activities with family and friends

Click here to know more and book

# 6. Farmstay next to river, Igatpuri

Come monsoon, and Igatpuri, barely 120 kms from Mumbai bursts into shades of green. making it one of the best locations during monsoon. This farm house is enjoys proximity to the Darna River. Once you are in the house there is a feeling of re living the bygone era where houses were well lit with natural lighting, large windows with ample air circulation.

Farmhouse Igatpuri — Darna river gushing in its full glory adjacent to the farm house

Click here to know more and book.

#7. Campsite in Kamshet

This campsite is specially for the adventurous and the nature lovers. Set against the Western Ghats and the perennial Andra lake, you are bound to be awed at the sheer magnificence of Mother Nature. Aquatic and terrestrial activities are available, and farm-based agro educational tours can be arranged for children. Sleep in a tent or under the stars have yourself a memorable trip. P.S: Don’t forget to keep clicking!

Beautiful cottages at the campsite in Kamshet

Click here to know more and book.

#8. Hilltop farmstay in Chiplun

If you want to stay away from civilisation and enjoy a quiet, serene vacation, then this homestay in Chiplun is just the place for you. Wake up to chirping birds, enjoy a traditional Maharashtrian breakfast and then go on a Jungle safari and a boat ride arranged by the host. In the evening, you can lie down on the terrace and be awed by the sheer magnificence of the open, star-studded night sky.

Click here to know more and book

About SaffronStays:

SaffronStays.com brings you over 1200 homestays across India. Experience true Indian hospitality, the warmth of your local hosts and home-cooked authentic local food, in these homes.

About the Author:

Aatreya Bhat spends a major part of the day reading, writing and jamming. The rest of the day, he spends explaining his name to others. He loves reading political books and is a big fan of the caped crusader. Skydiving and experiencing a Manchester derby at the Trafford will always top his bucket list.

A ‘surprise’ Anniversary Getaway

17th December 2014Posted in Home stay reviews, MaharashtraTagged Anniversary getaway ideas India, Chiplun, Maharashtra getaways, Maharashtra HomestaysLeave a comment

After reading our blog, my dear husband decided to ‘surprise’ me with a anniversary getaway to Chiplun. A beautiful town in the district of Ratnagiri, Chiplun is a 6-7 hour drive from Mumbai, almost mid-way to Goa. After a tiring drive (see the planning – we started only after having lunch!), we reached Mr Dinesh’s Farms, a place recommended by our friend Dipti. Google Maps took us straight to this place without much fuss.

Set on top of a hill overlooking the valley and in the midst of an 18 acre cashew and mango orchard, the owner has very tastefully developed this lovely farm-stay. No wonder, we fell in love with the place almost instantly.

We found ourselves in the midst of a local festival (called Gondhal in Marathi), post which the villagers pick up jobs on fields. After a heavy bhakri-mutton dinner, we enjoyed the festivities in the local temple, before starting on a jungle safari in Dinesh’s jeep. Other than the driver, there was one person perched on top of the jeep while another sat in the bonnet holding a loaded rifle. Dramatically enough, we drove through the dense forest, listening to the driver’s story about sighting a tiger pair a few months ago in the very same route.

The next morning was absolutely pleasant. Waking up to the sight and call of peacocks was some experience. We had a lazy breakfast and spent some time in the garden (although there was a very inviting, ultra-modern pool, given the cold water, we did not dare), before heading for a boat ride in the Vashisth river. This bandar/ jetty is unique – it is a place where four talukas of Ratnagiri district meet, Guhagar and Chiplun on on side of the estuary and Dapoli and Khed on the other. We spent our time talking and enjoying the great weather while floating on the calm waters.

A hot cup of tea to start the refreshing morning.

Boating in the Vashist estuary is a great way to spend a few hours. — Boating in the Vashisth River is a great way to spend a few hours.

Our delicious Maharashtrian meal in the making.

After a heavy fish-bhakri-rice lunch we drove back to Mumbai, with our mandatory vada-paav stop at Kshuda Shanti Kendra (literally translates to satiating your hunger).

All-in-all, full marks to my husband for having meticulously planned and given me a surprise. What a lovely weekend!

About the author: Tejas Parulekar is a first generation entrepreneur who has (ad)ventured into a domain that is traditionally dominated by large hospitality chains and other travel portals. A Banker by experience and Chartered Accountant by training, she is aspiring to leave an imprint in the hospitality sector by bringing together the little fish (Homestays) to take on the mighty shark. Encourage her and her homestay hosts by booking your next stay on www.saffronstays.com.