There is no doubt that the world is rapidly approaching a climate crisis; simply take a look at this summer. In a setting like this, taking a plane for an opulent vacation sounds like a quick way to increase carbon emissions, but every day the oppressive heat and bustle of the city feel more and more intolerable. However, a few days ago, when my aunt called from an eco-friendly cottage homestay close to Sikkim, it made me realize that, if you are prepared to look in the appropriate locations, travel may actually be sustainable.
Thus, yours truly put her research hat on and asked friends, family, coworkers, and seniors for recommendations for eco-friendly hotels and homestays for this summer. Are you curious about these well-kept secrets and popular retreats? Continue reading.
Amanbagh, Rajasthan
Amanbagh is a tranquil garden haven tucked away in Rajasthan’s Aravalli Hills, steeped in the traditions of eco-friendly living and Rajasthani culture. Eighty percent of the resort’s environmentally friendly requirements are met by their own organic farms, including the unusual herbs and vegetables utilized in their cuisine. Amanbagh offers a sensation of Shanti, or calm, against the backdrop of its Mughal-inspired architecture. This is demonstrated by its serene yoga sessions, guided sunrise walks, and trips to the neighboring Bhangarh Fort.
Amaya, Kasauli
Nestled in the outskirts of Kasauli, this secluded haven is intended for a contemplative and sophisticated lifestyle. Everything in Amaya has been carefully chosen with consideration to preserve the natural habitat, drawing inspiration from Nordic design. Because the windowpanes are composed of marble, abundant light can naturally enter while ensuring seclusion for visitors, negating the need for curtains entirely. Not only that, but Amaya’s culinary team is always coming up with new and inventive ways to use the food from their farms, so even the smallest leftovers are given a fresh lease on life in mouthwatering meals.
The Private Cottage in Textile Paradise, Leh
Constructed with rammed earth, wood, stone, and glass, this artisanal Airbnb homestay in Choglamsar Village, close to Leh, is a tranquil and environmentally conscious sanctuary. This homestay, which is run by the Ladakhi-German couple Angtak and Catherine, offers its visitors a sense of family in the middle of serene mountains and organic gardens. In addition to enjoying home-cooked meals and a view of the Stok Range of the Himalayan Zaskar Mountains, guests can explore the garden and gather seasonal produce.
Cargo Haus, Bangalore
Bangalore’s Cargo Haus, a StayVista facility, is a homestay that blends modern architectural principles with peaceful, eco-friendly hospitality. It is built entirely out of reused cargo containers. This imaginative resort is situated sufficiently distance from Bangalore to provide easy access to the city’s attractions while also providing a getaway from the bustle of the metropolis. Beyond its stunning architecture, the Cargo Haus offers a retreat in the middle of nature with its well-kept lawns, luscious greenery, and stargazing meals. It’s the ideal place for a short escape from everyday life.
SUJÁN JAWAI, Rajasthan
We have the ideal location for you if you’ve always wanted an exciting adventure, such as guided safari drives in specially designed jeeps and on horseback. SUJÁN JAWAI, a tented luxury camp under the renowned Relais & Châteaux group, provides eco-friendly vacation experiences amidst safaris and ancient rock formations dating back billions of years in the Jawai Bandh Leopard Conservation Reserve. Through the camp’s sustainable ecotourism program, visitors may enjoy Rajasthan’s breathtaking scenery while also contributing to regional environmental conservation efforts. Additionally, the money made from the guests’ visits supports community development initiatives including giving the nearby villages access to healthcare and educational facilities.
The Mudhouse Marayoor, Munnar
The Mudhouse Marayoor (on Airbnb), perched on a charming hill, provides breathtaking views of the Keralan Marayoor valley and the Sahayadri mountains. This villa is perfect for people looking for peace and quiet in the middle of nature because it’s close to both the Sandalwood Forest and the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. Here, time passes slowly, with each hour painting the sky a different tint. Travelers who value sustainable living will like this eco-friendly homestay, whose mud-caked walls symbolize the uniqueness of barefoot luxury.
Six Senses Fort, Barwara
Restored from the 14th century, the Six Senses Fort welcomes visitors to engage in conscious tourism and ecological travel. The Six Senses Fort, which was once the residence of a Rajasthani royal family, has been thoughtfully restored to honor the history and legacy of the Barwara community. Traditional Rajasthani building methods have been employed, along with contemporary sustainability measures like solar power and rainwater collection systems. The resort also has an Alchemy Bar where guests can learn how to make exotic concoctions of herbs, salts, and fruits to make fragrant scrubs and masks using fresh, seasonal, and organic ingredients from their gardens, as well as an Earth Lab that holds workshops to enable guests and community members to connect with nature more deeply.
Ronil Goa – Part of JdV by Hyatt
Located in the center of the busy Baga Calangute strip of North Goa, Ronil Goa is a lively resort that marks the launch of Hyatt’s Independent collection brand, JdV by Hyatt, in India and Southwest Asia. Pet-friendly and designed to appeal to the free-spirited and young at heart, this resort is a unique getaway spot for people who prefer to go with the flow. DJ host on-site, You can spend your day doing karaoke parties, BBQs and bonfires, check shots at the bar, and swimming at one in the morning. Enjoy the susegad state in your private space, relax in or around the two gorgeous swimming pools, or begin your day with the Farmhouse breakfast with Bloody Mary Bar at the Bistro.
