There’s no denying that the world is hurling towards a climate crisis at an alarming rate – just look at the summer we’ve had this year. On one hand, hopping on a plane for a luxury getaway in an environment like this seems to be the shortcut to even more carbon emissions, while on the other, the exasperating heat and chaos of city life seem almost unbearable with each passing day. Except, when my aunt called me from an eco-friendly cottage homestay near Sikkim a few days back, it got me thinking: travelling can be sustainable after all, if you are willing to look at the right places.
And so yours truly got her research cap on, enlisting the help of her friends and relatives, colleagues and seniors for recommended eco-friendly homestays and hotels this summer. Want to know more about these hidden gems and go-to getaways? Read on.
Amaya, Kasauli
This private sanctuary tucked in the outskirts of Kasauli, is designed for refined, thoughtful living. Inspired by Nordic designs, everything in Amaya has been curated with great thought behind it so that the natural habitat is not disturbed. The windowpanes are made of marble to naturally allow ample light in while maintaining visitors’ privacy, thus removing the need for curtains altogether. Not only that, Amaya’s culinary team is also constantly engaged in innovating new ways to use the produce from their farms, so even the most inconspicuous leftovers find new life in innovative, delectable dishes.
Amanbagh, Rajasthan
Nestled in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, Amanbagh is a peaceful garden oasis rooted deep in the ethos of eco-friendly living and Rajasthani heritage. Eighty per cent of the resort’s green needs, including exotic herbs and vegetables used in their cuisine, come from their own organic farms. In the backdrop of its Mughal-inspired architecture, Amanbagh promises an experience of Shanti, or tranquillity, evident with its peaceful yoga sessions, guided sunrise walks and excursions to the nearby Bhangarh Fort.
The Private Cottage in Textile Paradise, Leh
This handcrafted Airbnb homestay in Choglamsar Village near Leh is a serene, eco-friendly retreat built with rammed earth, wood, stone, and glass. Hosted by Ladakhi-German couple Angtak and Catherine, this is a homestay that provides its guests with a feeling of family amidst calm mountains and homegrown gardens. Guests can savour a stunning view of the Stok Range of the Himalaya’s Zaskar Mountains in the guest cottage and enjoy home-cooked meals while exploring and harvesting seasonal produce in the garden.
Cargo Haus, Bangalore
Crafted entirely from repurposed cargo containers, Bangalore’s Cargo Haus (a StayVista property) is a homestay that combines contemporary design values with tranquil, environmentally conscious hospitality. This creative resort is located just far away from Bangalore to escape the chaos of the city, while still being close enough to ensure easy access to the city’s attractions. Beyond its architectural splendours, the Cargo Haus provides a getaway in the lap of nature with its manicured lawns, lush green surroundings and dinners under the starry sky – perfect for a quick break from daily life.
The Mudhouse Marayoor, Munnar
Perched atop a quaint hill, the Mudhouse Marayoor (on Airbnb) offers stunning views of the Sahayadri landscapes and the Marayoor valley of Kerala. Close to the Sandalwood Forest and Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, this cottage is ideal for those seeking tranquillity in the lap of nature. Here, time moves unhurriedly, slowly painting the sky a different hue each passing hour. This eco-friendly homestay with its mud-laden walls is reflective of the rarity of barefoot luxury and is made for travellers who appreciate the art of sustainable living.
Six Senses Fort, Barwara
The Six Senses Fort is a restored 14th-century fort that invites guests to embrace sustainable travel and practise mindful tourism. Originally home to a Rajasthani Royal family, Six Senses Fort reflects the history and heritage of the Barwara community and has been responsibly restored using traditional building techniques used in Rajasthan while following modern sustainability practices such as rainwater collection tanks and solar panels. The resort also features an Earth Lab that hosts workshops to empower visitors and community members to connect more closely with the natural world and an Alchemy Bar where guests can discover exotic potions of herbs, salts and fruits to make aromatic scrubs and masks using fresh, seasonal and organic ingredients from their gardens.
SUJÁN JAWAI, Rajasthan
If guided safari rides on horseback and customised jeeps are the kind of adventure you dream of, we have the perfect place for you. A member of the famed Relais and Châteaux group, SUJÁN JAWAI is a tented luxury camp that offers environmentally responsible travelling amidst safaris and billion-year-old rock formations in the Jawai Bandh Leopard Conservation Reserve. The camp’s sustainable ecotourism program offers guests the opportunity to take in Rajasthan’s natural splendour while supporting local environment conservation initiatives. Not only that, proceeds from the guests’ visits go to community development projects like providing education and healthcare facilities to local villages.
Ronil Goa – Part of JdV by Hyatt
The foray of Hyatt’s Independent collection brand – JdV by Hyatt in India and Southwest Asia, Ronil Goa is a vibrant resort in the heart of the bustling Baga Calangute stretch in North Goa. Designed to cater to the young at heart and the free-spirited souls, this pet-friendly resort is an unconventional destination for those who love to go with the flow. Onsite DJ Host, Check shots at the Bar, 1 AM swims, BBQ and Bonfires, Garden Picnics and Karaoke parties are just a few of the things you can spend your time on here. Start your day with the Farmhouse breakfast with Bloody Mary Bar at the Bistro, laze in or around the two stunning swimming pools or enjoy the susegad state in your private balcony. With wooden key cards, eco-friendly guest amenities and energy conservation initiatives in place, they are high on sustainability as well. Must visit the Soul Station to zone out in our own space.
