Located a little over 120 km from Mumbai, nestled in the lap of nature, with a spectacular view of a massive reservoir and the Tungi hills, lies this beautiful homestay. The home itself is a blend of modern and traditional architecture. From a picturesque porch to rugged stone arches, walls covered with trellises, large wooden doors, and windows reused from an old bungalow in Alibaug, the entire house seems to have sprung up from the earth! The hosts designed and built the space to make sure it was as eco-friendly as possible. For its water needs, the house depends on rooftop rainwater harvesting. Apart from an orchard with over 50 mango trees, it also boasts an organic farm where most of the veggies, as well as grains, are grown. A windmill is used to pump water, as well as solar panels for electricity as soon as the cells are more efficient and cost-effective. The dream, the hosts say, is to not only generate enough to stay off the grid but to one day have a surplus so that they can actually give back to the grid.
comforts
As time has passed, the house evolved from being just a single room with a view to comprising a massive living room, two bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchen, an independent cottage, a space to store windsurfs, sails, and kayaks. Everyone’s favourite spot – the front porch – overlooks the lake and Tungi hill. Throughout the space, distressed-chic decor meets art and nature, resulting in a calm space that stimulates creativity. Nothing beats a day out on the water followed by a long shower, a barbecue and lighthearted chatter on the porch while watching the sky change colours. When you book, you are booking the entire space all to yourself!
food
There is a set menu at the property that includes both vegetarian and meat items – local Maharashtrian cooking with that homegrown touch of love! Each meal will include a daal, a bhaji, rice, one vegetarian, and one non-vegetarian meal. Apart from mangoes that the hosts love to pluck for the guests, the orchard has a range of fruit trees like lychee, sapota, custard apple, cashew, lemon, papaya, and love apple, among others. Much of the food cooked for the guests, including rice and a few vegetables, comes from their organic farm.
ideal for
The space is ideal for families and friends looking to spend some quiet time together. This is a place for that chill barbeque you’ve been dreaming about. It is also perfectly suited for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and birdwatchers.
getting there
The property is located a mere 2 hours away from Mumbai and less than 2 hours away from Pune. Accurate details will be provided at the time of confirmation.
things to do
The hosts are constantly looking to promote new ideas, cultures, and activities at the homestay. A number of wonderful sessions have already happened there, resulting in many inspiring stories, but the hosts are constantly looking to offer more — from theatre workshops, stand-up comedy, and poetry readings to screenings by independent filmmakers, Reiki and yoga camps, and farm-to-table cooking sessions. It also makes for a great base for birdwatchers, since one can spot storks, egrets, and many other waders in the region. Hikers can discover not only the Tungi hill but also the Lohagad fort, Tikona fort and Bedse caves nearby.
prices
Prices begin at Rs. 20,000 for weekday nights for up to 4 adults and Rs. 30,000 for weekend nights for up to 6 adults. The prices are inclusive of accommodation and all meals!
