Check Out these Farm Stays & Eco Resorts in Maharashtra for your Next Adventure!

For centuries now, Indians have mastered the art of sustainable living long before the term ‘sustainable’ became popular. Our ancestors lived in harmony with nature and forged a life from it. Maintaining a balance within our ecosystem and survival went hand in hand. Until, in recent years, we have forgotten our traditional way of living as urbanization and modernization rapidly grew. With the urban space crawling with skyscrapers and new infrastructure, all the city residents have lost touch with nature. 

If you seek an escape from the chaos of the city to an oasis of greenery and wish to experience the art of slow living, then consider these tranquil farm stays and eco-resorts in Maharashtra that will transport you from a concrete jungle to a hidden paradise of greenery! 

Whistling Woods

Located in the dense forests of Maharashtra is a haven for those who are craving a slice of tranquility. In the heart of Amboli, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, is the Whistling Woods Homestay. If you are tired of the same old hotel rooms and crowds, then this homestay is perfect for you. You won’t be disturbed by the honking of cars here but by the constant chirping of birds, their melodious calls and the mild fragrance of wild flowers. This homestay was founded by Hemant and Sonali Ogale. Hemant Ogale is a butterfly expert with mastery in micro photography. He has documented more than 100 butterfly lifecycles and has also published a book. Thus, every room in this homestay is named after a butterfly, like Malabar Banded Peacock, Blue Mormon, Blue Oakleaf and many more.

Every room houses a tree on the small front porch, and it feels like one is transported to another world. The food here is entirely homemade using traditional cooking methods like a 'Chula' stove. For those who crave solitude and want to spend their time doing nothing, visit Whistling Woods for your next adventure. A tip for all those who plan on visiting this place: Amboli is a must-visit destination in the monsoon season. 

Where: Amboli, Maharashtra

Mohraan Farm Stay

Located at a distance of 100 km from Mumbai is the Mohraan Farmstay. The motto of the farmstay is ‘Feel the Forest, ’ and that sums up the overall experience one can expect here. For all the city folks who need a break from their hustle and bustle, Mohraan Farmstay is the ideal place for you to unwind and relax. Master the art of doing nothing and spending your time undisturbed surrounded by mango trees, and participating in activities like farming, bird-watching, fishing, swimming, trekking, natural painting, woodwork and many more. Situated near Shahpur, it is at a perfect distance for city travelers.

The food here is sourced locally and grown by local farmers. Farm-to-table is a concept followed here. One can book three different types of rooms: Stream View, a beautifully designed two-story luxury cottage overlooking the perennial stream; the next is a Glory Villa made built using a blend of cowdung floor and Manglorean style tiled roof, and the last one is a tent for those who want to feel the thrill of campning in a forest. Bookmark Mohraan Farmstay for your next staycation with friends and family. 

Where: Shahpur, Maharashtra

Maachli Resort

Maachli is a green oasis where hundreds of plants, insects, birds, animals and humans live together in harmony. This farmstay in Vengurla has to be a part of your bucket list for your next staycation. Maachli was founded on the thought of connecting the human chord to nature. This hidden getaway is for those who want to relax and unwind amidst nature, a true luxury for all the city folks. Maachli also boasts a micro-climate due to the dense plantations of coconut and betel nut trees. The thick plantations and the stream that flows through the farm lead to the creation of a microclimate that is distinctly different from the climate outside the farm. 

Other than this, the architecture of the rooms here is what stands out. The resort boasts a Vernacular Architecture design based on local needs, availability of the material and reflecting the local traditions of the Parule village. The triangular structure of the room houses two windows, which lead to a steady flow of breeze because of the cross ventilation. According to the surroundings, the rooms feel like a tropical escape in a hidden paradise.

Guests can indulge in traditional Saraswat cuisine. The food is served on banana leaves and prepared in earthen pots with the belief to revive forgotten delicacies. All the ingredients used are sourced and harvested locally by local farmers. While staying in Maachli, guests can also visit nearby tourist attractions like Sindhudurg Fort, Bhogwe Beach, Kille Nivati Beach and other places. 

Where: Parule Village, Vengurla, Maharashtra

Machan Resorts

In a cocoon of lush greenery and away from the concrete jungle lies a resort in a dense forest. I’m sure this does sound compelling to all the city residents. If one wants to disconnect from their busy lives and is looking for the perfect escape, then the Machan Resorts should be on your next staycation bucket list. The soothing atmosphere and the relaxing environment are the perfect stressbusters. Unwind, relax and rejuvenate in the lap of nature while you experience luxury at its finest.

The unusual style of accommodation is what attracts guests. A variety of tree houses situated in the heart of dense plantations offer sweeping views of the Western Ghats. The best time to visit this resort is during the Monsoon, and guests can literally and figuratively experience the beauty of nature. This resort is a perfect blend of eco-friendliness and sustainability while offering the best of luxury. 

Where: Lonavala, Maharashtra