5 Gorgeous Eco-Friendly Resorts You Must Visit In India

From wildlife reserve resorts in Madhya Pradesh to eco-friendly cabanas in Goa, here are some of the most gorgeous resorts in India to book for a peaceful vacation.

Though we would never encourage cutting down on travel, there are several reports suggesting that the travel industry is one of the largest contributors to environmental damage in terms of air pollution, resource consumption and waste production. 24/7 air-conditioning, oversized pools and well-manicured lawns are some of the major factors that put quite a lot of strain on the environment. 

Even though it might seem like India is quite far behind when it comes to environmental friendly hotels and resorts, that’s not really the case. At least, not anymore. There are several properties and resorts that have turned eco-friendly, and we have listed the best ones here for you:

1. Flame of the Forest, Madhya Pradesh

Pic Credits: Flame of the Forests

Immersed in the forests of Kanha National Park in MP, the Flame of Forest Resort is not just an abode, but a place to reconnect with nature, and enjoy a holistic wilderness experience! It is built in a way that doesn’t disturb the surroundings and wildlife, using all eco-friendly materials from a village. Interestingly, the founders also have a policy to staff locals from the village to help them gain employment. From jungle safaris to home-cooked meals prepared from fresh organic vegetables, this resort is a unique experience altogether. 

Where: Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Price for one night: Starting from Rs 12,000

2. Bhakti Kutir, South Goa

Pic Credits: Bhakti Kutir

Not everyone goes to Goa for partying, and if you're one looking for peace too, then head to Palolem in South Goa, where you will find this peaceful resort. Bhakti Kutir is owned by a couple who left their corporate jobs to fulfill their dream to built an eco-friendly stay. The property has 22 cabanas that have been built using all local products like rice straw, bamboo and coconut wood. The couple has also planted a lot of local vegetation that has flourished and makes the property look lush and green! Low-level lighting, a compost system for toilets, water recycling and use of heat-generated refrigerators contribute to making the resort environment friendly.

Where: Palolem, Goa
Price for one night: Rs 1200- 2000

3. Khem Villas, Rajasthan

Pic Credits: Khem Villas

Tucked away in the jungles of Ranthambore, Khem Villas is a family-owned boutique resort that gives you the entire wildlife experience. where spotting a jackal or jungle cats from your room won’t come as a surprise. They have three different kinds of accommodation- rooms, cottages and tents, so you have quite a lot of options to choose from.

Khem Villas has become a pioneer in contributing towards environment safety by harvesting rain-water for all water-related necessities and harnessing solar energy too. Perfect for honeymooners, this resort organises dreamy candle-lit dinners by the lake for two. So, enjoy the nature and sip on some red wine with your partner at this nature-friendly resort!

Where: Ranthambore, Rajasthan
Price for one night: Rs 12000- Rs 25,000

4. Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort

Pic Credits: Instagram

This resort was created as part of an initiative by the government and the United Nations to support rural tourism and create employment opportunities for people in Hodka. Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort has six tents and three bhungas, that come with attached bathrooms. This resort takes you back to the simple old days when there was no technology and internet. Immerse yourself in the colourful Gujarati culture and head to Chari Dhand for bird watching, where you could also go on a camel safari and attend an embroidery workshop conducted by the locals.

Where: Hodka, Bhuj, Gujarat
Price for one night: Rs 4500-5000 (prices might hike during Diwali season)

5. Kipling Camp

Pic Credits: Kipling Camp

Kipling Camp is one of the first wildlife conservation camps in Madhya Pradesh, established in 1982 by two conservationists, Bob and Anne Wright. The resort was built in a barren farmland and the area surrounding the cottages were converted into a forest during that time. They have a resident elephant named Tara, who loves swimming in the river and is often joined by the guests. So, you could experience Elephant bathing with her too. Visit during the summers if you're keen on spotting spotting a tiger. Every two and four-room cottage comes with a veranda of its own and a mesmerising view of the forest!

Where: Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
Price for one night: Rs 8,950 approx