Staycation in India: Resorts, Hotels and Villas for the Perfect Getaway

We often get asked, what’s the safest way to enjoy a getaway during COVID. This is it – staycations! Just to clarify, a staycation means time spent at home or at another resort/hotel/villa simply for leisure or a vacation. It is different from a usual vacation as you enjoy the facilities within the property instead of stepping out and going sightseeing.

We love fast-paced travel and exploring new places but COVID-19 has forced us to take a step back and head out to simply relax and rejuvenate at beautiful resorts and villas. Since March 2020, we have done staycations ranging from 1 to 5 nights in the Maldives, Kerala, Hyderabad, and Pune and they have all been so wonderful. So here’s bringing you options for a staycation in India brought to you by us and our fellow travel bloggers.

These are mostly luxury and mid-range properties that are either heritage buildings, surrounded by nature, have a good view or have a ton of activities and facilities to keep you entertained without leaving the property premises or with activities arranged by the property around its vicinity. We have also mentioned if these are pet-friendly so you can enjoy a getaway with your fluff bun.

Before we start, know that it is impossible to add all good properties in India and we have covered only a few regions. So, if you know any property that should make it to the list, do let us know in the comments below. It’ll help all reading this!

Staycation in Kerala

Sitaram Beach Retreat, Thrissur

The Sitaram Beach Retreat is a beautiful Ayurveda resort nestled amidst greenery by Thalikulam Beach. Though it is best known for its efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments, you can also simply enjoy a leisure stay. The rooms are cute cottages that have an open bathroom and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.

We were blown away during our 4-day staycation complete with treatments and everything. Walks in the gardens, exploring the large property, playing with waves on the clean beach, eating healthy yet delicious meals, doing yoga to kickstart our day, chilling and reading a book on the beachside hammock, watching butterflies in a million colours flutter by – it was all wonderful. We especially loved that the resort is eco friendly and socially conscious. You can also read our complete review on Sitaram Beach Retreat.

Distance from Kochi: 75 km

Distance from Bangalore: 415 km

Price Category: Rs. 7,000 per night and above for leisure stay, Rs. 13,000 and above for stay with Ayurveda treatment

Click here to Book Your Leisure Stay at Sitaram Beach Retreat | Click here to book your stay with Ayurveda treatment

Coconut Lagoon CGH Earth, Kumarakom

Coconut Lagoon Resort by the CGH Earth group is situated by the Vembanad Lake backwaters in Kumarakom, Kerala. The property is an interplay of coconut groves and backwater canals that are immensely enchanting – something you would probably not have seen elsewhere. It is so interesting that the cottages are made from dismantled 150-year-old wooden Keralan homes called Tharavads. Not only that, but the property also has rooms by the lake with a private plunge pool.

The resort offers plenty of free activities like bird watching (it is situated beside a bird sanctuary), butterfly garden tour, property tour (a must-do), sunset cruise on Vembanad lake, Ayurveda talk, and more. There is also a swing, benches to view the stunning sunset and an outdoor swimming pool. You can also take a shikhara ride which is a paid activity but one of the best ways to explore the smaller backwater canals, see locals go by their day, and be surrounded by beautiful pink water lilies.

The food is great especially local cuisine and free high tea is served by a woman in a canoe. However, the best bit about the property was that it is completely and totally eco-friendly. Even the bill was given in a newspaper envelope.

It was a very unique experience and we highly recommend it!

Pet Friendly: Yes

Distance from Kochi: 50 km

Distance from Coimbatore: 230 km

Price Category: Rs. 8000 per night and above

Click here to check prices and book a stay at Coconut Lagoon

Staycation near Mumbai and Pune

Atmantan Wellness Resort Mulshi

Atmantan Wellness Resort is a luxury wellness resort that is perched upon a crystal hill and overlooks the pristine Mulshi Lake. The 42- acre property has well done up rooms with a hot tub, lush greenery and gardens, a saltwater swimming pool, three restaurants, and a humongous wellness centre with a variety of activities like dancing, water aerobics, etc.

Since the resort aims to transform the Atma (soul), mana (mind) and tann (body) of its residents, this 42-acre property has lush greenery, wellness treatment/spa packages for a variety of ailments of the body and mind, and vegetarian spa cuisine that even non-vegetarians would find delicious.

You can choose to stay here even if you don’t want any wellness treatment as we did. We had a good time at the pool (currently closed), at their dance class, doing yoga, walking around the property, enjoying the sunset view, and eating healthy yet delicious food. The quantity served was less (owing to the wellness regime) but the waiters were gracious enough to offer more to us as we weren’t getting treatments done. The stay is worth experiencing at least once!

Note that the last few kilometres to the property are pretty bad and the resort has bad cell phone connectivity.

Distance from Mumbai: 173 km

Distance from Pune: 50 km

Price Category: Rs. 10,000 per night and above

Click here to check prices for Atmantan Wellness Resort

Della Resort Lonavala

Della Resorts is a luxury resort spread over 43 acres. It is particularly known for housing Della Adventure, an adventure park offering not only many adventure activities but fun activities and games for kids (dog shelter, cycling) and adults (gaming room) alike making it the perfect staycation destination.

Not only that, the resort has 5 restaurants (including a restaurant for pure-veg and Jain guests), 3 lounge bars, a nightclub, a 24-hour coffee shop and a multi-cuisine restaurant complete with a fully-stocked bar.

What I loved about the property is its 24-hour philosophy. While in most other resorts all facilities shut certain time, not at Della. They offer an all-day fine dining restaurant, swimming pool, spa, fitness centre and salon.

There are multiple categories and types of rooms to choose from including tent-style rooms. The rooms are modern and quite appealing. We stayed in one of the starter category rooms and yet had a Jacuzzi inside our bathroom!

As you can see, the resort has plenty of world-class facilities to keep you entertained and occupied for any duration of your stay. No matter if you’re an early riser or night owl, family or couple, adventure lover or a laid back vacationer, you’ll love your time here!

Pet Friendly: Yes

Distance from Mumbai: 85 km

Distance from Pune: 70 km

Price Category: Rs. 11,000 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Della Resort

Soma Wine Village, Nashik

by Nilu G from TheTravelingCA

India’s answer to Napa Valley –The city of Nashik, around 4 hours drive from Mumbai has close to 50 wineries in the area. Counted amongst India’s best vineyards, we went to Soma Vine Village, a 25-acre beautiful vineyard property with a Regenta hotel in its midst located just across a lake.

The entry road to the resort is flanked by wine grape fields on both sides. Our room was super spacious but the best was there was a huge sit-out area with an amazing farm and lake view. There are 2 restaurants – one of them is open-air so you could dine under the stars and the other overlooks the pool & vineyards.

The swimming pool with views of the vineyard and lake is very inviting. Don’t miss a walk to the lake in the morning and in the vineyard during sunset; they are magical. There is a games room too to keep you entertained and you can also cycle in the vineyard.

The wine tasting tour is complimentary when staying at their hotel. It starts with the process of winemaking & ends up with wine tasting- you can learn the proper method of holding the wine glass, enjoying the aroma and the right way of tasting it! 

During the grape season, you can do grape stomping in vats, a thoroughly enjoyable experience with family & friends.  

Pet Friendly: Yes

Distance from Mumbai: 174 km

Distance from Pune: 229 km

Price Category: Rs. 6000 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Soma Vine Village

Le Meridian Mahabaleshwar

Le Méridien Mahabaleshwar Resort & Spa, Mahabaleshwar, is a 5-star resort set amidst 27 acres of evergreen forests in the Western Ghats.

With balconies and a temperature-controlled infinity pool overlooking the vast expanse of forest cover, this resort is perfect for those who enjoy a combination of luxury and nature.

There is plenty to do in the resort. We particularly enjoyed taking leisurely walks among the trees, exploring the picturesque Instagram worthy sites, sipping a cuppa while admiring the view from our private balcony, pampering ourselves at the spa and in our large in-room hot tub, relaxing in the swimming pools, and ending the evening sipping drinks at the classy Longitude Bar.

With two restaurants and well-furnished classy rooms, you’ll be super comfortable and enjoy your staycation whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a luxury escape with friends.

Distance from Mumbai: 265 km

Distance from Pune: 120 km

Price Category: Rs. 15,000 and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Le Meridian Mahabaleshwar

Other Staycation Options In and Near Pune and Mumbai:

1. JW Mariott Mumbai Juhu, Mumbai – Mid-range to luxury staycation in Mumbai with a view of the beach and ocean.
2. Hilton Shillim Estate Retreat, Lonavala – Luxury wellness retreat in Sahyadri mountain range
3. The Machan Resort, Lonavala – Luxury property with unique tree houses and ground based cabins that offer magical valley views
4. Nostravila, Lonavala – Luxury private villa with a pool, a garden and stunning views

Staycation near Bangalore

Gorukana Eco Wellness Retreat

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

The Gorukana Eco Wellness Retreat is situated in the lush and green BR hills -a lesser-known wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka not far from Bangalore and Mysore. For those looking to escape the city, it is the perfect getaway. At Gorukana you will find yourself in the midst of nature. 

BR Hills is at the border of the Eastern and Western ghats and part of the Nilgiri Biosphere reserve that consists of a large area of protected nature reserves. It is famous for its vast amount of wildlife and rich cultural heritage as it is home to a number of tribal groups. 

Gorukana stands out, because of the close collaboration with the local Soliga population. At Gorukana you have lots of opportunities to learn more about the Soliga and the nature around you. Be it a community tour or nature walk with a Soliga guide or a forest safari. You can even combine your stay with ayurvedic treatments at the Ayurvedic rejuvenation centre.

What makes it perfect for a staycation is the comfort you will find at Gorukana. The cottages might look simple from the outside, but have everything you need. The balconies have beautiful views of the forest, giving you the chance to see wildlife from your room if you are lucky. Birdwatchers will be rewarded with plenty of birds to see.

Distance from Bangalore: 165 km

Price Category: Rs. 8,000 and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Gorukana Eco Wellness Retreat

Birchwood Retreat, Coorg

By Anukrati Dosi from Bulbul on the Wing

The Birchwood Retreat is located in Suntikoppa inside a coffee estate in Coorg, the coffee capital of India. The whole property is designed in such a brilliant way that you will not feel away from nature even while you’re lounging indoors.

The resort has rooms in the main building and individual villas with three rooms and a fully equipped kitchen. The villas are well lit as they have ample daylight passing through the circular skylights. Moreover, there are no curtains in the living room and kitchen so that you can see trees around you always. Don’t worry, you will still have privacy as the villas are at large distances from each other.

So that you’re well entertained, the property has a gym, pool table, library and a game room on the property. Activities like cultural shows, plantation walks, birdwatching and more also take place making it the place perfect for a staycation near Bangalore.

The experience of staying in the villa on the coffee estate was surreal. Although the property is on the main road, it felt like staying in a jungle.

Pet Friendly: Yes

Distance from Bangalore: 250 km

Price Category: Rs. 10,000 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Birchwood Retreat

Coorg Wilderness Resort, Coorg

By Trisha and Modi from Try Wandering More

Coorg Wilderness Resort is a luxurious property nestled amidst the deep valleys and majestic hills of Coorg. It is a beautiful resort full of greenery – a perfect respite from city life.

It has humongous European style rooms with all amenities provided in a luxury stay. Some things that really stand out are the electric fireplace, super soft bed, French press coffee, large bay windows and balconies in the suites that let in a lot of light. A special mention for the most luxurious bathroom ever that has a tub with a view, chairs and ottomans, and wait for it……heated floors.

There have two restaurants – the first is a multi-cuisine restaurant and the other is a speciality restaurant with local and Kerala cuisine. The buffet variety is huge and the food is delicious.

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You simply can’t get bored because there are a plethora of activities to do here including a nature walk, bird watching, coffee experience, and adventure activities (rope course and zip line). The sunset viewpoint gives a 360-degree view of the hills around the property minus the crowds. They also have an indoor games room with mini pool, TT, Foosball, Carom, Chess and plenty of other interesting board games you’ll be itching to play.

There is an infinity pool too for relaxation and the best spa we have ever been to.

Pet Friendly: No

Distance from Bangalore: 250 km

Price Category: Rs. 20,000 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Coorg Wilderness Resort. You can use the code INF20 for a 20% discount. This code is however not applicable on national holidays and ongoing package offers.

Other Staycation Options In and Near Bangalore:

1. Evolve Back, Coorg – Beautiful luxury resort that has cottages with a private pool
2. Java Rain Resort, Chikmagalur – Luxury resort set amidst an active coffee plantation
3. LakeRose Wayanad Resort, Wayanad – Mid-range boutique resort on the shores of Karapuzha dam

Staycation near Hyderabad

WelcomHeritage Shivavilas Palace, Hampi

Located 40 km from the ruins of Hampi, the Shivavilas Palace is the erstwhile palace of the Kind of Sandur (Ghorpade Family) now converted to a hotel.

You’ll be transported to another era while living in this palace that has high ceilings, and elaborate carvings on the pillars and doors. Our favourite bit was that the house is like a museum in itself with vintage photographs showing the history of the royal Gorpade family, Lambani wall hangings, and antique furniture. The library, the darbar hall, vintage car museum and billiards room are all so fascinating. The rooms have modern amenities richly blended with periodic charm. The restaurant serves delicious pan-Indian cuisine.

Strolling through the courtyards and gardens is delightful. You can find a quaint and secluded spot to read, watch birds and butterflies while sipping tea, enjoy the greenery, explore the palace, swim in the outdoor pool, and even pamper yourself in the spa.

The palace is a quiet retreat from the urban world, a stay we loved and highly recommend.

Distance from Bangalore: 313 km

Distance from Hyderabad: 418 km

Price Category: Rs. 22,000 per night and above (we stayed here at Rs. 6,000 a night a couple of years ago)

Click here to Book Your Stay at WelcomHeritage Shivavilas

V Villa, Chirala

V Villa is a beautiful stand-alone villa in Chirala, Andhra Pradesh, that takes about five-six hours to reach from Hyderabad. The villa has two bedrooms with attached bathrooms, a large living area, kitchen, dining table, gardens, mini TT Table, and a good-sized swimming pool.

The villa is perfect for a staycation if you live in or around Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Why? It has modern furnishings, pretty decor and murals, is clean and tiny and honestly, you probably won’t find anything like it in these states.

The town of Chirala is a beachside town so you can always visit Ramapuram Beach to listen to the sound of waves and have a cool dip. The beach is not a clean one, so you should adjust your expectations accordingly.

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Pet Friendly: Yes

Distance from Hyderabad: 299 km

Price Category: Rs. 12,000 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at V Villa Chirala

Other staycation options in and near Hyderabad:

1. Evolve Back Hampi – Luxury resort inspired by the architectural splendour and magnificence of the Vijayanagara Empire.
2. Fargo Hyderabad – Mid-range container stay. Modern, minimalist and close to nature.
3. Leonia Resort, Hyderabad – Mid-range to luxury rooms in a sprawling property nestled in nature.
4. Palm Exotica Resort, Hyderabad – Mid-range to luxury rooms and villas for a quick getaway from the city.
5. Fratelli Wines, Akluj – Chance to stay in a vineyard and admire the beautiful vineyard views.
6. ITC Kohenur – A stunning luxury property overlooking the picturesque Durgam Cheruvu lake.

Staycation near Delhi

Neemarana Fort Palace, Alwar

The Neemrana Fort Palace is an awe-inspiring 15th-century fort built on 25 acres of land in the Aravalli Hills. It has been restored and converted into a resort that is surrounded by beautiful gardens and stunning views. The rooms are all unique – modern enough to be comfortable and antique enough to transport you into a bygone era. The property is large enough to explore and the food is delicious.

The fort is perfect for a staycation as it has plenty to experience inside for all kinds of travellers. In the day, one can go zip-lining, ride in a vintage car, explore the fort and stepwell or simply relax in the spa or pool. Evenings are for enjoying performances by local musicians while enjoying beverages. Have kids, no worries. There is a games room too for fun family time.

Note that that traversing the entire property requires a certain level of physical fitness. Also, your stay should be booked well in advance as the property is almost always fully booked being the best staycation near Delhi.

Distance from New Delhi: 116 km

Distance from Jaipur: 170 km

Price Category: Rs.6,000 and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Neemrana Fort Palace

Samode Palace, Samode

By Charu from Travel with CG

Samode Palace is a luxury hotel located in Samode village near Jaipur. Offering a quintessential royal experience that the princely state of Rajasthan is known for, it is one of the best places to treat yourself and go for a staycation in India. 

If you are fond of historical architecture, then Samode Palace should definitely be on your radar. Being over 300-year-old, it is a property that boasts a plethora of old-world design elements. From walls lined with hand-painted frescos; to a hall filled with mirror tiles and beautiful marble swimming pools- there is a lot that entices a visitor.

One of my favourite things about Samode Palace is its infinity rooftop pool overlooking the hill-fort and the Aravalli Hills. The luxurious rooms decorated with antique furniture, comfortable day beds, marble bathtubs, and beautiful canopies are also noteworthy. Irrespective of which room category you opt for, you are destined to feel like royalty when staying there.

Samode Palace is situated amidst the Aravali hills and is around an hour’s drive away (40 km) from Jaipur. New Delhi is also an easy four-hour drive away. You can also reach Samode Palace via public transports such as trains and buses. The closest airport is in Jaipur.

Distance from New Delhi: 240 km

Distance from Jaipur: 40 km

Price Category: Rs. 20,000 and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Samode Palace

Alsisar Haveli, Jaipur

By Trisha Velarmino from P.S. I’m On My Way

Alsisar Haveli is one of the prime five-star accommodations in Jaipur located just a 5-minutes walk from the pink-walled city. This charming property was built in 1892 as a nobleman’ home in Rajput style architecture and has now been converted to a heritage hotel.

Alsisar Haveli has beautiful courtyards, lawns, an outdoor pool, spa and steam facilities and a roof terrace that offers beautiful views of Nahargarh Fort. The rooms are quaint with antique furniture and painted arches but have modern amenities for supreme comfort.

Alsisar Haveli also has their own restaurant and offer room service 24/7. The restaurant specializes in Indian food but you can also get an international fare. They are generous enough to also allow orders from nearby restaurants.

What I loved the most is that the staff were very helpful and on top of everything! Jaipur is a great destination for first-time solo female travel and staying in a hotel like Alsisar Haveli definitely guarantees safety. This hotel is great for a heritage hotel staycation in India without burning a hole in the pocket.

Distance from New Delhi: 250 km

Price Category: Rs. 6,000 and above

Click here to book your stay at Alsisar Haveli

Sher Bagh, Ranthambore

By Nicole Hunter from Go Far Grow Close

Sher Bagh is a small luxury glamping resort located just outside Ranthambore National Park. The hotel and complex are stunning with about a dozen large white tents scattered around the resort tucked away next to trees.

Here you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back into colonial times. The rooms are filled with beautiful delicate wooden furniture from the early 20th century and have air conditioning. The bathroom is enormous and luxurious with everything that you need. At night, dinner is served under candlelight and fire somewhere different each night, but always outside under the sky. You are offered impeccable service and food by men in crisp uniforms. It is magical. 

There is also an activity room for lounging and playing cards, an outdoor bar and a swimming pool overlooking pristine greenery for you to enjoy.

What I loved about the property was that it is right next to Ranthambore National Park. Each morning, we went on a private safari looking in the national park for the elusive Bengal tiger. It was simply a majestic experience. We not only had the privilege of seeing a Bengal tiger mere feet away, but we also saw countless other animals. I also had a life-altering experience when I bumped into a Bengal Tiger outside my tent one night.

If you are looking for an escape from your busy life in the city and wish to reconnect with nature, Sher Bagh is the place for you.

Distance from New Delhi: 380 km

Distance from Jaipur: 190 km

Price Category: Rs. 60,000 and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Sher Bagh

Chandelao Garh, Chandelao

By Ellie from Soul Travel India

Located around 40 km from Jodhpur in a village called Chandelao, Chandelao Garh is a stunning ancestral home run as an upmarket homestay and your chance to live like royalty and experience some of the joys of village life on the edge of the Thar desert. 

Built in 1744, Chanelao Garh is beautifully kept and consists of the main historic house, courtyard, outer buildings which is where the accommodation is located, gardens and a swimming pool. The homestay is run by Mr Praduman Singh, a descendant of the ancestral owners of the house. The staff arranges trips to nearby nature locations which will be of interest to birders and anyone wanting to explore rural Rajasthan. 

There are other opportunities for day trips to nearby villages specialising in block printing, pottery, or just wander around and enjoy the local markets – or you can just relax by the pool and enjoy the peace and quiet! 

This is the perfect place to get away from the bustle and noise of the city and unwind for a few days at a slower pace. The homestay has a focus on responsible tourism and you’ll find adjoining art and craft shop which is part of the Sunder Rang foundation – a womens’ cooperative – which focuses on providing facilities for education for local women. 

The easiest way to get to Chandelao Garh is from Jodhpur – Chandelao Garh offers a pickup/transfer option from the city which is well connected by road and rail from Delhi, Mumbai and around Rajasthan. 

Pet Friendly: Yes

Distance from New Delhi: 555 km

Distance from Jaipur: 298 km

Price Category: Rs.3,000 and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Chandelao Garh

Staycation in and near Chennai

ITC Grand Chola, Chennai

For those of you looking for an ultra-luxurious staycation in Chennai, head to the ITC Grand Chola – a 7-star hotel that is the third-largest hotel in the country. It is famous for its palatial Chola Dynasty style architecture and green surroundings. It really resembles a monument in the heart of Chennai city.

The hotel has 10 on-site restaurants and a superb bar that spoil you for choices of food, five swimming pools including an outdoor pool, a luxury salon, a fitness centre and 12 spa treatment facilities with all the frills! The rooms and serviced apartments are grand, have a hot tub, and have a magnificent view of the city. The hotel has all the facilities you need to staycation in Chennai in luxury and style.

Pet-friendly – Yes

Price Category: Rs. 8,500 and above

Click here to Book Your ITC Grand Chola

Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa, Chennai

Taj Fisherman’s Cove in Covelong is a seaside 5-star resort built on the ramparts of a Dutch fort and located just 32 km from Chennai Aiport. If you’re looking for a tryst with nature,  great food and activities, this is the place to go!

The resort has rooms, cottages and villas that are spacious and have views of the sea. Cottages/villas have a private garden with a hammock for you to enjoy the seaside fully.

There is plenty to do here – relax at the spa, head to the easily accessible beach, enjoy the swimming pool, try the multiple restaurants and sports facilities like tennis, badminton, archery and indoor games. The place is great for families with kids too as they have child care services as well!

The Fisherman’s Cove is the perfect place for a staycation to unwind and revitalize – greenery, the sea, good food, fun-filled activities and amenities, etc. What else could you want?

Pet-Friendly: Yes

Distance from Chennai: 40 km

Price Category: Rs. 9,500 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Taj Fisherman’s Cove

Radisson BLU Temple Bay Resort, Mamallapuram

Radisson BLU Resort Temple Bay is located amidst 44 acres of gardens along the shores of the Bay of Bengal at Mamallapuram – a 60 km drive from Chennai. Relax to the beautiful view of blue waters from this luxurious sea-facing resort that features a plush infinity pool, luxurious rooms, and super fun activities.

The rooms are in chalets that have a private balcony overlooking the garden, pool or sea. There are multiple restaurants and bars that serve international cuisine, seafood and delicious cocktails.

What’s unique about this resort is that it has one of the longest meandering swimming pool of 27000 sq. ft. that runs throughout the property or at least it seems so. Very fascinating!

The hotel also offers in-house shops, beach access, a fitness centre, ayurvedic spa, bicycle rental, indoor and outdoor games, a kids play area with a mini-golf course, adventure activities like ATV rides, boat adventures, canoeing and scuba diving. An enjoyable staycation in India for one and all.

Distance from Chennai: 60 km

Price Category: Rs. 9,500 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Radisson BLU Temple Bay

Other Staycation options in and near Chennai:

1. InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, Mahabalipuram: Luxury resort with a private beach area
2. Sheraton Grand Chennai Resort and Spa, Chennai: Luxury resort boasting an infinity pool
3. Ideal Beach Resort, Chennai – Relatively inexpensive beachfront resort
4. Gaia’s Garden Guesthouse, Auroville – Mid-range pet friendly villa amist greenery in Auroville
5. La Maison Bleue, Serenity Beach – Pet friendly beachfront villa near Pondicherry

Staycation in East and North East India

Vedic Village Spa Resort, Rajarhat

Vedic Village Spa Resort is an eco-friendly luxury resort located in Rajarhat, not far from Kolkata city. The resort has 5-star facilities with an ethnic backdrop of a village surrounded by greenery. It is perfect for holistic wellness (Ayurveda and naturopathy) and rejuvenation.

It offers luxurious accommodation, on-site restaurants, a well-stocked bar, a gym, an outdoor pool with an artificial waterfall and a spa. To keep everyone occupied and having fun, the property also has indoor and outdoor activities like air hockey, a bowling alley, biking, archery, horse riding, a library and a games room.

It has everything one needs for a perfect staycation in Kolkata.

Distance from Kolkata: 5 km

Price Category: Rs. 12,000 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Vedic Village Spa Resort

The Ffort Raichak, Kolkata

A 15-minute ferry ride from the Raichak Ghat takes you Ffort Raichak – a 200-year-old fort now converted to a heritage resort by the Ganges.

The fort has stunning rooms built in a palatial style with all necessary comforts. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from whether you wish to have Bengali, Oriental, or Indian. You also have a pool-side restaurant, open-air restaurant, and a sports bar. The resort offers a splendid river cruise on the Gaga. They also have plenty of outdoor sports like basketball, badminton, tennis and golf to keep you occupied.

No better place to experience a royal staycation in Kolkata while enjoying modern and fun facilities!

Distance from Kolkata: 7 km

Price Category: Rs. 10,000 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Ffort Raichak

The Rajbari Bawali, Kolkata

The Rajbari Bawali is a 300-year-old heritage property built in Greco-Roman style now restored and made into a resort. It occupies three acres of land that has two natural water bodies. The property originally belonged to the Bawali Mondal family and is reminiscent of the British Raj and the lifestyles of Bengal’s Zamindars.

The resort has a plethora of amenities and activities including a large garden with outdoor seating, an outdoor pool, a kids’ playground, an indoor games room, ayurvedic and Bhutanese healing spa, gym and multiple restaurants. You can even take Bengali cooking classes and enjoy traditional arts and crafts. It is commendable that the resort has a strong focus on highlighting and supporting the local arts and crafts from its surrounding villages.

We’d say this place is a must stay to experience centuries-old architecture and history. A walk in the property and the rooms themselves will surely take you back in time.

Distance from Kolkata: 40 km

Price Category: Rs. 7,000 per night and above

Click here to Book Your Stay at Rajbari Bawali

Mawlyngbna Traveller’s Nest, Mawlyngbna

By Joydeep Phukan from The Gypsy Chiring

Mawlyngbna Traveller’s Nest is located atop a hill of Mawlyngbna Village in Mawsynram Tehsil of East Khasi Hills of Meghalaya in Northeast India. It is owned and looked after by the Mawlyngbna Multipurpose Co-operative Society Ltd under the initiative – Explore Exotic Meghalaya in joint collaboration with the Co-operative Department of the state government. It is important not to confuse Mawlyngbna with Mawsnram. The latter is the wettest place on earth.

If you are from a neighbouring state of Meghalaya, Mawlyngbna is one of the best staycation options near you. The two cottages available for stay have spacious rooms with two beds and comfy furniture. The bathrooms are attached and have modern facilities.

What I loved most about Mawlyngbna Traveller’s Nest is that the cottages at the hilltop are fully surrounded by trees. Camping in those woods is also amazing. The sunset view of the hills of Meghalaya merging with the plains of Bangladesh was very special.

Price Category: Rs. 2,000 per night and above

Click here to book your stay at Mawlyngbna Traveller’s Nest

Hope you liked this list and found an option for a staycation in India that you would like to experience. Do drop in your favourite staycation experience in India in the comments section below.

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