Vocal for LOCAL: Signature Experiences & Unforgettable Holidays by StayVista
India is brimming with unique experiences that are sure to be the highlight of any holiday. This Independence Day, we at StayVista are celebrating our pan-India presence by curating one-of-a-kind local experiences, at some of our best properties, especially for you. From organic farming and waterfall treks to rural interactions and local gourmet cuisine, we commend our diverse nation and varied cultures through unforgettable adventures. As we count down to Independence Day, take a look at our Top 15 Picks of signature local holiday experiences for your next ‘Home Away From Home’ getaway.
North
Fagunia Estate, Bhimtal
Indulge in sumptuous Pahadi cuisine and try your hand at some local farming.
Tucked away in a quiet little hamlet near Nainital and Jim Corbett National Park, Fagunia Estate is a charming homestay perfect for observing verdant mountains and peaceful days. To get here our guests cross over British-era, arched bridges and drive through a forest dotted with seasonal waterfalls. The Kumaoni-style stone building is a perfect place to retreat and enjoy some Pahadi cuisine after a day of hiking, birdwatching or gardening.
Dudley Manor, Dehradhun
Churn fresh buttermilk, take a masterclass in Gharwal cuisine or try your hand at riding a tractor at this 100% organic farmstead.
Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Dudley Manor is a beautiful property that is reminiscent of a bygone colonial era. Roam the lychee orchards and pluck your own vegetables at the on-site organic farm. The warm and welcoming host is present at the property and would love to engage with guests about her know-how of agro living.
Ekam Villa, Chail
Meditate in a man-made cave, explore fruit plantations and herb gardens, and take in Himalayan sunsets from your room.
A magnificent house in the hills, surrounded by pine and deodar trees, Ekam resonates peaceful luxury. The organic farm fresh, fruit plantation, vegetable and herb garden provide perfect forage for a gourmand. You can feed cows, go paragliding, meditate, visit a nearby kali temple or be pampered in pure peace.
Chalet Windflower, Manali
Take in Himalayan views from a helicopter ride, relax in a jacuzzi, practice yoga in a meditation center.
Situated in one of India’s most picturesque hill stations Manali, Chalet Windflower in Manali is the perfect place to experience a white winter. Watch snowflakes drift to the ground; take in panoramic views of snowy peaks through the glass facades or from a jacuzzi. Cuddle around the fireplace or get the adrenaline pumping by enjoying a private helicopter ride.
Maharashtra
Paashaan Villa, Khopoli
Bask in the glow of a warm candle-lit dinner, at this one-of-a-kind Indian architectural marvel.
Featured on BBC’s ‘The World’s Most Extraordinary Homes’, Passhan is a horizontally designed cliff abode in Khopoli overlooking gorgeous views of lush hills. An open to sky courtyard, heated infinity pool, luxurious modern interiors and spa-like washrooms are welcome luxuries, along with a bonfire and a chance to enjoy your private candle-lit dinner.
Bodhi Farm Villa, Nashik
A wooden, chalet-style retreat with a chance to pay a visit to the on-site horse stables.
With all-wooden interiors, Bodhi Farm Villa has an earthy yet modern vibe. A sprawling lawn, gazebo and gorgeous pool, afford great views of the mountains and surrounding vineyards. Take a stroll to stable to meet the horse or roam the orchards for a complete farm experience.
Gujarat
Sita Devii Farm, Valsad
Feel welcomed into a green retreat and honey farm by endearing indigenous animals like emus, ducks & guinea fowl.
Enjoy Sita Devii Farm, a warm holiday retreat set amidst greenery and friendly animals. The open lawn is the perfect spot for a picnic or barbecue, while you are paid a visit by the resident emus, ducks and guinea fowls. A nearby honey farm and fishing deck make for a fun excursion, as do the black-sand beaches of Tithal beach.
North East
La Ipsing Farm, Samdong
A remote, heritage home where you can enjoy Sikkim team, stroll through fruit orchards, ride a yak, visit local monasteries and walk through jungles.
La Ipsing Farm is a heritage home encompassed in greenery and blessed with biodiversity, hidden away in the remote Teesta valley. Sip on Sikkim Tea, take walks around the orange and guava orchards, explore the nearby jungle or pay a visit to the Rumtak and Enchey monasteries and Khangchendzonga National Park.
Rajasthan
Machli – A wilderness home, Ranthambore
A welcoming abode in the heart of Rajasthan’s Tiger country, with unmissably delicious Rajasthani Cuisine and local folk-dance performances.
Machli Home is a modern, pet friendly villa that is perfect for adventurous getaways with your family and an ideal base to explore Ranthambore National Park. Treat yourself to majestic mountain and farmland views, Rajasthani cuisine, quiet bonfires, folk dance performances and wildlife safaris.
Casa Colonel, Udaipur
A lakefront and mountain-facing home where you can experience Sahaj Yoga or take a pottery class.
A lakefront and mountain-facing home in Udaipur, Colonel’s Homestay offers beautiful views of the Aravali Range and the Govardhan Sagar Lake. The house affords guests with interesting experiences including a library collection to browse, guided meditation classes, pottery sessions and dinners around a bonfire.
South
The Rain, Alleppey
Explore the Venice of the east, with kayaking, fishing, backwater cruises Yoga, culinary workshops and a visit to Kerela’s famous Ayurveda Spas.
Nestled in the heart of “God’s Own Country”, The Rain gets its name from the season that brings about its most picturesque avatar. The neighbourhood is set with white and pink water lilies spread on emerald green waters, with coconut trees swaying in the breeze and lazy stretches of paddy fields as far as the eye can see. The villa’s thatched roofs and infinity pool look out on to the Arabian Sea; the perfect setting for a rainy day indoors.
Talerock Inn, Valparai
Surrounded by lush estates and rainforests, a perfect place to enjoy a walk amidst tea plantations, while sipping some of the best tea in the country.
Surrounded by the tea estates and lush rainforests of Coimbatore, Talerock Inn brings you closer to nature. Savour South Indian street food specialties, nature trail walks and hikes or a visit to coffee and tea plantations.
Captain’s Farm, Chikmaglur
Indulge in authentic Karnataka style meals around a bonfire or take a short bike ride to heritage sites like the Laxminarasimha Temple.
A 4-hour drive from Bangalore will bring you to the rustic Captain’s Farm in the rural town of Javagal. Bursting with both luxury and eco-friendly aspects, you can enjoy a candle-lit evening with authentic Karnataka style meals cooked in a traditional way on pots with wood and fire. Take a short bicycle ride to heritage sites like Halebeedu and Belur or to the famous Laxminarasimha Temple.
Captain’s Bungalow, Chikmaglur
Enjoy strolling through organic plantations of coffee, pepper, cardamom and areca.
Choose The Captain’s Bungalow for an ecologically luxurious experience! Dive into the refreshing scent of organic coffee, pepper and cardamom that lingers throughout this abode, which is surrounded by 200 acres of coffee plantations. Earthy elements add to the rustic vibe and soulful views; heart-warming meals are served in a traditional manner on betel leaves. Stroll through the organic vegetation and end your day with blissful stargazing by a bonfire.
Goa
Ashore by StayVista, Morjim
A luxury villa in India’s favourite beach holiday destination, with a mini theatre, private pool & sundeck and stunning beach views.
Relax in the lap of luxury at Ashore, with an infinity pool that overlooks one of Goa’s most gorgeous beaches. Watch beautiful sunsets, relax in a steam room or mini theatre, sip a drink at the terrace sky bar and indulge in gourmet Goan cuisine. Only 50 steps from the beach this gorgeous waterfront villa is perfect to enjoy all the delights Goa has to offer.
