Best Homestays In South India For Couples & Small Families

Everybody dreams of a relaxing getaway in the middle of nature with their loved ones, complete with ideal weather and all the comforts of home. You even get your own private small villa to yourself, adding to the ambience of the setting. A homestay is perfect for a romantic getaway like a honeymoon or anniversary; and a private homestay with everything you need, would make for a great vacation! Home to the pristine backwaters, expansive tea and coffee estates and rich, dense greenery, below are our handpicked choices of the best cottages and homestays in South India for couples and small families to book for a memorable trip with your loved ones or a romantic getaway for two.


  1. SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate (Heritage Suites), Ooty

This is a traditional British colonial estate house dating back to the 19th century, located in the Nilgiris area of Tamil Nadu. It features two separate suites that harken back to a bygone period and are decorated in warm and inviting wood.

The home, which has a fragrance of yesteryear, is set on a 4.5-acre estate surrounded by verdant foliage and only a 3-hour drive from Coimbatore Airport. It is an ideal retreat away from the chaos of city life.
Upon entering, you will find a classic sitting room that overlooks the estate’s lovely grounds.

Perfect for a family, the Milton Abbott (Heritage Suites) is a 2-bedroom suite with a shared bathroom and relaxing views of the beautiful grounds. Enjoy a stroll through the serene meadows or along the Golf Course, meditate on your yoga mat in the garden, drink coffee while relaxing in the garden, cuddle up with your loved ones next to the fireplace, or cook up a storm in an open kitchen and share it with everyone.


  1. SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate (Heritage Family Room), Ooty

It is a well-maintained private homestay from the 19th century that is located amidst the breathtaking landscape of Ooty, often known as the Queen of Hill Stations. This is the perfect place for a cosy and historic escape, and it is well suited for couples and small families searching for a vacation together. The home, with its old-world elegance, is surrounded by beautiful greenery. It is located close to Coimbatore Airport, making it an ideal retreat from the rush and bustle of city life.

As soon as you go through the house’s front door, you are greeted with a charming sitting room that provides a view of the estate’s verdant grounds. You will find an old-fashioned living area with rustic decor, as well as a bedroom with two king-size mattresses and a shared bathroom. This hideaway is an ideal family villa with plenty of room and stunning natural views.

Do you find yourself daydreaming about spacious, lush settings that are close to nature? Take some time to sit back, relax, and take in the untouched beauty of the natural world while you listen to the soothing songs of the birds.


  1. SaffronStays Milton Abbott Estate (Heritage Room), Ooty

This home, which dates back to the colonial era, is the ideal place to go when one needs to get away from the stresses of the city. This home, which is only a few hour’s drive from the Coimbatore Airport, is spread across a huge estate and enveloped by dense and healthy foliage; it captivates the attention of anybody who steps inside.

You will feel as though you have stepped back in time as soon as you enter and take a seat in the lovely sitting room. The Heritage Room is one of the best villas for couples due to its privacy and charming views of the beautiful grounds.

You may go on a romantic walk in the meadows with your significant other, play golf with your brothers and sisters, reminisce about your childhood while sipping coffee, or satiate your appetite with a delicious home-cooked feast. In addition, you may relax and refocus your energy with a yoga or meditation session, have a cup of tea in the beautiful gardens, and share your favourite tunes with friends and family around the bonfire.


  1. SaffronStays The Periaheights, Wayanad

This is a private, small villa surrounded by the beautiful greens oFf Wayanad that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and tea gardens, making it ideal for romantic getaways or family vacations.

As you enter this bright and airy residence, you’ll get a sense of calm and serenity while yet being able to observe the goings-on of the plantation. There are two bedrooms on the ground level, both of which have private bathrooms. It doesn’t matter where in the house you are, and you’ll always have a view of the surrounding hills and be able to hear the chirping of the local birdlife.

In the morning, get up and take a walk around the estate so you may see and learn about the plantation’s daily routine. The mansion perfectly captures the essence of “God’s Own Country.” Relax in the rose garden, eyes closed, while the youngsters run wild in the centre of nature.

You may go on a thrilling hike in the nearby hills, unwind in a treehouse in the middle of a tea or coffee plantation, or take a free tour of the estate. If you’re tired, you may take a nap in the air-conditioned rooms, read a book in the library, or play badminton or board games with the family.


  1. SaffronStays Suvarna Sangam (Netravathi), Udupi

Spend a memorable weekend here with your loved one or your family; it’s unlike anywhere else in Udupi. This river island estate offers a peaceful atmosphere, thanks to the serenity of the Suvarna River. The four villas that the estate consists of are Suvarna Shambhavi, Suvarna Sharavathi, Suvarna Netravathi and Suvarna Vedavathi.

The Netravathi room is a ground-floor suite with a large balcony and an attached bathroom that can accommodate four people. The room’s natural decor is complemented by a view of the stunning palm trees and the Suvarna River. If you want to get some fresh air first thing in the morning, head out on the enormous verandah.

Take advantage of your time in Suvarna by renting the owner’s speedboat for a little fee and experiencing the area’s backwaters at your own pace.


  1. SaffronStays Suvarna Sangam (Sharavathi), Udupi

This is a one-of-a-kind spot in Udupi where you can spend a fantastic weekend with your partner or your family. Situated on an island in the middle of the Suvarna River, lined by tall palm trees, this place provides a tranquil setting. Suvarna Shambhavi, Suvarna Sharavathi, Suvarna Netravathi, and Suvarna Vedavathi are the names of the four riverfront villas that make up this estate.

Sharavathi, located on the first floor, is a deluxe room with an attached bathroom that can comfortably accommodate up to three guests. The accommodation has cosy furnishings and a view of the scenic Suvarna River.

There is a shared kitchen, living room, and an ensuite bathroom for all guests in each villa. You can enjoy an intimate dinner with your loved one on the private terrace while gazing at the picturesque vistas of the backwaters.


  1. SaffronStays Suvarna Sangam (Shambhavi), Udupi

This unique place serves as one of Udupi’s best villas for couples. It is established on a river island bordered by the Suvarna River and tall coconut trees. The airport in Mangalore is just a few hours away, while the main railway station is about 6 kilometres away.

This estate consists of four river-facing deluxe rooms. A distance of around 100 metres separates the two small villas, but they manage to exude a single, cosy atmosphere despite their physical separation.

When you first enter this place, you’ll be mesmerised by the stunning rooms reflecting Mangalorian architecture, the aesthetic interior, and the Suvarna River’s amazing panorama.
Shambhavi, one of the deluxe rooms in this small villa, is located on the ground level and has a private bathroom that is large enough to accommodate three people.


  1. SaffronStays Suvarna Sangam (Vedavathi), Udupi

Located on a huge river island surrounded by the Suvarna River on its three sides and adorned by towering coconut palms, this Udupi villa is a unique option for a weekend trip. From Mangalore Airport, it is 90 minutes, and from Udupi Railway Station, it is 25 minutes (about 6 kilometres).

The estate consists of a collection of four rooms with river views; these rooms are called Shambhavi, Sharavathi, Netravathi and Vedavathi, thoughtfully named after the four rivers that come together to form the confluence.

When you enter this estate, you are immediately captivated by the stunning Mangalore tiles on the roofs, the traditional interiors, and the amazing views of the Suvarna River.

Vedavathi cottage, which is separate from the rest of the cluster, features a luxury room with an attached bathroom, suitable for up to three guests. The room has natural wood furnishings and a view of the tropical palms outside.


These homestays in South India, which are both breathtakingly gorgeous and tucked away in private locations, are ideal for getting away from it all amidst the enchanted landscapes. Plan your long-pending trips and celebrations today!

Best Pet-Friendly Villas in Maharashtra: Ultimate Guide for Pet-Parents

If you are a pet parent, then you must know the struggle of making travel plans of any kind. Having to choose between leaving your beloved furry friend behind or simply cancelling your plans altogether can be a tough task. When it comes to this dilemma, the best solution would be to look for the best pet-friendly places to stay at your destination. This would not only allow you to take your adorable pets with you but also be a great way to spend some quality time with them. So, we have curated a list of the top 12 pet-friendly villas in India for a memorable vacation with your furry companion.


SaffronStays Onella, Nashik

When it comes to making arrangements for pet-friendly holidays, SaffronStays Onella in the charming city of Nashik is the perfect place to stay with your furry friend. Situated on a lovely 22-acre private vineyard, it flaunts open spaces and fresh air for your pooch to have a great time. Offering mesmerising views of Gangapur Dam from the terrace, it is equipped with a plethora of amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Moreover, you’ll get an opportunity to enjoy traditional home-cooked meals prepared by a local cook and familiarise yourself with the region’s food culture.


SaffronStays Evelyn Greens, Lonavala

Tucked away in the stunning hill station of Lonavala, SaffronStays Evelyn Greens is a beautiful 3-bedroom private villa in Lonavala, which makes for one of the best dog-friendly hotels. Flaunting contemporary furnishings of Italian marble, a lovely garden and a spacious living room, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and greenery. Featuring a private swimming pool, this remarkable home offers several amenities like free Wi-Fi and full air-conditioning to make your stay as pleasant as possible.


SaffronStays Horizon 360°, Mahabaleshwar

Dotted with a beautiful lawn and flora, this 5-bedroom pet-friendly villa in Mahabaleshwar will give you infinity views of the lush greenery around. With ample of open spaces, indoor games, and fine hospitality, the artistically decorated villa for rent near Mumbai is the perfect staycation home for couples with furry friends, small families or large gatherings with your gang. Don’t miss the lip-smacking food that the caretaker lovingly prepares for you – you’ll definitely come back for more!


SaffronStays Aurelia, Panchgani

Overlooking the magnificent Panchgani Valley and Krishna River, this pet-friendly cottage in Panchgani, Maharashtra, is nestled in the majestic Sahyadri Hills, offering awe-inspiring views. Decorated with rustic Balinese artefacts and furniture, it has three beautifully appointed bedrooms, an expansive living room and a spectacular garden. Also, it is situated in close proximity to several of Panchagani’s popular attractions like Parsi Point, Bhilar Waterfall and Sydney Point.


SaffronStays Amolee, Alibaug

Located in Sagaon is Alibaug’s best kept secret, SaffronStays Amolee: A Wada-style 4-bedroom pet-friendly pool villa that was painstakingly restored to its original glory. The 200-year old home is perfect for history buffs who are looking for an enriching treat near Mumbai. The home is fully staffed for your comfort and equipped with a gorgeous porch, backyard and a reading room.


SaffronStays Little Paradise, Murud

If you are looking for pet-friendly places to stay, opt for SaffronStays Little Paradise, which consists of three sea-facing wooden cabins. Overlooking the beautiful Murud Beach, it is surrounded by dense jungles and oozes scenic beauty. It maintains an in-house cook who serves mouth-watering and satisfying Konkani meals with a Bengali twist. Moreover, it has a parking space, fully air-conditioned rooms and free Wi-Fi connectivity.


SaffronStays Palm Paradise, Kalyan-Khadavli

Located near Mumbai, SaffronStays Palm Paradise is one of the best pet-friendly villas in the area. Surrounded by a large swimming pool, a play area for kids, gazebos and a lush green lawn dotted with trees and shrubbery, which makes for a great place for your kids and furry friends to play and run around. With modern interiors and a laid-back ambience, it provides the perfect spot for relaxing and rejuvenating.


SaffronStays Odyssey, Karjat

Spread over 10 acres of land, this 6-bedroom pet-friendly pool villa in Karjat flaunts plenty of open spaces that’ll excite your fur babies! With a private track for cycling and jogging, lush-green lawn, 2 expansive terraces, and a spacious gazebo, the vacation rental packs all the fun for you and your loved ones, to host milestone celebrations and offsites or a quick, refreshing getaway.


These are just the top 12 of a very long list of incredible pet-friendly places to stay throughout India. Whenever on the lookout for a great place to stay on a vacation with your furry companion, opt for a gorgeous SaffronStays pet-friendly villa.

Best Vacation Places In India: 8 Reasons Why Uttarakhand Makes It At The Top

Pergola Sitting at SaffronStays Glasshouse Celeste in Rankihet

Every day, you put forth a lot of effort to earn your daily living. But if you haven’t taken a vacation in months, it’s time to reconsider your life choices. Consider renting a cottage in Uttarakhand, and take ten days off. Cottages for rent are the ideal getaway to spend some quality days from regular life with peaceful settings inside and out and the carefree feeling that can only come from knowing that everything is being taken care of. Travellers consider Uttarakhand as one of the best places in India because it has an equally wonderful atmosphere. The stunning Himalayan range, mountain wind, stunning sunsets and traditional cuisines of Uttarakhand make it an excellent spot to explore on vacation.

If you still have doubts, we have compiled a list of 8 reasons for you, why Uttarakhand must be on your bucket list!

Calm Winds and Chill Atmosphere
The cool climes all year round are perfect for you to enjoy your mornings with a pot of freshly brewed coffe or a steaming cup of chai. Going to the plains doesn’t provide much relief from the hot summer heat. Choose a trip in Uttarakhand, such as Mukteshwar, where the cool temperatures will provide a welcome respite from the scorching and busy streets of cities. Leave steamy commutes behind and enjoy chilly alpine mornings. Uttarakhand cottages, such as SaffronStays El Sueno, Mukteshwar and SaffronStays Doon Garden Villa, Dehradun, feature a painting-like appeal and rustic furnishings that will brighten your vacation. You could also enjoy a crackling bonfire on chilly nights.

Panorama Views Unmatched in Every Way
The breathtaking vistas are one thing you will never run out of in the hills. Although farms and beaches have their distinct charms, nothing compares to the sight of a panoramic view in the mountains. Private villas for rent near Delhi like SaffronStays Maison Calme, Mussoorie and SaffronStays Kenny’s Kove, Mukteshwar provide stunning views that cannot be seen anywhere else, from far-off villages that seem to be as little as huts to panorama images of hills rolling to the horizon. Lay down as night falls and take in the hills’ stargazing. You’ll feel on top of the world if you picture yourself sipping coffee while wearing a scarf and standing on a balcony that views over woods and valleys all at once.

Lush Greenery

Head up to Uttarakhand, one of the best places to visit in India, to reconnect with nature. You need to give your eyes a break from those screens and let them feast upon acres and acres of green. Watch the sun rising over dense farms, an experience to take at cottage-like hillside luxury villa, SaffronStays Paradise Pines, Dehradun. Or else, sip your favourite beverage on the large balcony while you enjoy the view of verdant valleys and the lovely garden at SaffronStays Casa Bellissimo, Dehradun — one of the best Dehradun cottages.

Pollution-free Air
The higher the hill, the cleaner the air! Uttarakhand, one of the stunning places to visit in India, offers crisp and fresh air, thanks to the miles of tall trees and lush vegetation. It would be a welcome break from your regular life in the city to spend a few days in a green, litter-free environment (free of wrappers and plastic bags). For instance, the modest outdoor lounging area of SaffronStays Fourest, Bhimtal is lovely and has a pleasant vibe. You will breathe clean air in areas with less pollution, just as the local plants and wildlife do. So if you’re seeking some fresh air, a hillside luxury home is the ideal choice for you.

Outdoor Activities
There are several activities to enjoy while on vacation in the hills. You must stretch your limbs as you participate in exciting activities and fun local tours. Imagine strolling the valley’s verdant trails or paragliding over it. These activities are available at the cottages for rent near Dehradun, such as SaffronStays Ghughuti Ku Baasa, Dehradun and SaffronStays Doon Hideout, Dehradun. Explore Tibetan markets, walk to the stunning Kempty Falls (2.5 hours away), or camp overnight in George Everest Park for a starry night. There are always exciting things to do in the hills, no matter where you are.

A Relaxing Vacation
Cool temperatures, breathtaking sights, natural habitats, and clean landscapes will give you the most relaxing holiday. Those stress lines will vanish as you take in the beauty of the hills. Tasks, deadlines, and to-do lists will disappear, allowing your mind much-needed rest. A stay at one of our villas near Delhi combines beauty, peace and encourages slow living. Choose SaffronStays Glasshouse Celeste, Ranikhet, one of our Signature By SaffronStays homestays in Ranikhet, where the tranquillity, handcrafted hospitality and 360 degree expansive views, 4500 feet above sea level will help you to unwind and be one with nature, like never before.

Homes That Suit The Needs Of All
Whether it’s a stay starting from INR 5000 ( easy on your pockets, eh?) or a luxury stay that is scripted and curated exclusively for you, Uttarakhand has a wide range of accommodations to choose from. Moreover, there’s a place for every occasion: be it unique date nights or anniversary celebrations (couple-friendly chalets and cottages), intimate family gatherings or reunions with friends and corporate offsites (large estates and elegant suites), the gorgeous state in Northern India comprises cosy cottages and homestays to large bungalows and estates to create unforgettable memories, as you plan a stay there.

Accessibility
With access to the airports and well connected roads for a smooth drive, visiting Uttarakhand becomes easy and comfortable at any time of the year:

  • By Air: Travelers may take a direct flight to Pantnagar Airport (Kumaon Region) or Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) from their respective cities and a short road trip to their destination after.
  • By Rail: For ease of connectivity, Uttarakhand comprises 16 big and small railway stations which connect with Lucknow, Delhi, Kolkata, and other major cities in India. Some well-known stations inside the state are Haridwar, Dehradun, Kathgodam, Rudrapur, Tanakpur, and Pantnagar station.
  • By Road: The most popular form of traveling, the well-connected highways like NH 108, NH 109, NH 119, NH 121, NH 123 and NH 72A seamlessly connect the state with other parts of the country. Guests have easy access to the bus and taxis that are available throughout the state,or they may opt for private car rentals to roam around.

It’s time to take a break from work and visit Uttarakhand, one of the best travel destinations in India. Enjoy a bowl of thukpa by the roadside while looking out at the hills, or wake up to breath-taking views of fog-covered mountains and verdant forest from the balcony of your holiday home. What more could you want from a vacation? Your next tropical holiday in Uttarakhand is ready and waiting for you; all you have to do is pack your bags!

If you prefer to go in a smaller group, check into the cottages listed above. Uttarakhand has plenty to offer everyone, making it ideal for families, couples, and even solo travellers. No one can deny that it’s one of the best tour places in India. We hope you have a wonderful time touring Uttarakhand and the surrounding areas. Enjoy a safe trip!