New Year Travel: 5 Eco-Friendly Resorts in India

As we step on the precipice of a new year, travelling is of course on our agenda. Amid the pandemic, conscious travel saw a surge - a trend that we hope continues to gain mileage even in 2022. If you are looking for green getaways that marry creature comforts with best ecological practices, here are our picks for the new year. 

Svatma, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

In the heart of the idyllic and culturally rich town of Thanjavur, Svatma provides visitors with an ambience that delights and delivers. Designed ‘as a voyage of discovery of the mind indulging in the luxury of leisure’, every activity at the resort is wholesome and rich. The food is locally sourced, and prepared on order in the restaurant, the waste from which is turned into fertilizer that feeds the lush gardens. Even the spa uses only local, seasonal ingredients, all of which are prepared at the property. The place, designed to provide opportunities for conversations and respite, retains an ancient charm while delivering on all the luxuries of an upscale property.

Barefoot at Havelock, Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Untouched rawness of the jungle that merges carelessly with the pristine blue - these environs mark your entry into Barefoot at Havelock in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. You can take your pick from elegantly designed thatch, completely wooden, tents, cottages, or villas, all of which are designed using indigenous, environment-friendly materials. All of their food offerings are curated with fresh produce. With the tranquil Radhanagar beach close by, travellers can find the perfect escapade from the rigamarole of daily life here. 

The Sujan Serai, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Even though it is set on a 100-acre of Rajasthan desert, the experience of Sujan Serai goes hand in hand with its sustainable approach to luxury. Part of Relais & Châteaux, chefs at Sujan follow a Farm-to-Table approach - their menus offer delicacies made from organic, seasonal produce that highlight all local flavours. The founders of Sujan have always been deeply immersed in local conservation efforts - from the environment to impacting rural communities. The four tenets of their conversation approach - Biodiversity, Holistic Community Development, Sustainability and preservation of our Culture & Heritage.

Wild Mahseer, Balipara, Assam

Proponent of ‘Mindful Tourism’, Wild Mahseer is a heritage stay situated within the biodiverse haven of the Eastern Himalayan Botanic Ark, surrounded by tea gardens. They offer guided tours across their property, forest, and communities nearby, stemming interactions with the locals, an insight into their culture and interdependency on Nature. Indulge in local Assamese fare and an elaborate process of tea tasting at the British- era heritage bungalow.

Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort, Kutch, Gujarat 

 

 

 

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Operated and managed by the local community of Hodka village, the Shaam-e-Sarhad village resort in Bhuj is the perfect gateway to an authentic travel experience. Designed in local style, and exquisitely decorated with mirror work, textiles and other local crafts, the traditional hutments in the area serve as stays for tourists. The resort allows locals to control the travel industry in their area, promote their culture and heritage while undertaking a sustainable and viable means of livelihood. And is there a better New Year vacay than amidst the great white expanse of Rann of Kutch?