This Winter, Stay At These 5 Eco-Friendly Resorts In India

With winter around the corner and our wanderlust kicking in for winter travel plans, the temptation to go to exotic locales is high. However, managing our carbon footprint while travelling is not always an easy task. With the steady momentum of conscious travelling, it becomes our responsibility as travellers to jump in on the wagon of going places eco-consciously. If you are looking for green getaways that marry creature comforts with best ecological practices, here are our picks for your next winter vacation.

Svatma, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

In the heart of the idyllic and culturally rich town of Thanjavur, Svatma provides visitors with an ambiance 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 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 flavors. 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 conservation 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, fostering interactions with the locals, providing insights into their culture, and highlighting their interdependence on Nature. Indulge in local Assamese fare and experience an elaborate tea-tasting process at the British-era heritage bungalow.

Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort, Kutch, Gujarat 

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.