7 Eco-friendly Hotels and Resorts in India to Adopt Slow Travel Ideologies

It has become imperative to inculcate the essence of mindfulness, considering the strange times we have come to live in. Lifestyle choices have long catered to the hysteria of overindulgence leading to nature bearing the brunt of it all. It’s about time to reverse the paraphernalia of #Wanderlust and respect the planet with refined experiences in support of slow travel. We round up these hidden gems in India that are rooted in the cause of sustainability and community building endeavours.   

1. Shakti 360° Leti, Uttarakhand

Shakti offers a rare opportunity to discover the compellingly beautiful and remote regions of the Himalayas, combining an honest and sustainable approach with refined simplicity and style. It offers only four bedrooms for a more private holiday combined with customised treks of the adjoining areas, local experiences and delectable cuisine.

2. Elsewhere, North Goa

A safe haven away from the madness of Goa (yes! you read that right), Elsewhere is a secret location with transfixing views and idyllic experiences. It protects and guards turtles and their nests and can provide information about the approximate date of hatching turtle nests to coincide with your visit. The beach houses and tents are built with recycled materials. The property employs locals and conserves water and other resources.

3. Spice Village, Thekkady, Kerala

A tribal village set in a spice garden in the cool highlands of Periyar in Thekkady, Spice Village is modelled on the dwellings of the native Manan tribe of this region and exudes the raw spirit of nature. ​​Influenced by the native people of the village who live in harmony with their surroundings for generations, the resort has employed various self-sustaining systems including, growing organic gardens, recycling wood to make new furniture and composting. 

4. Banasura Hill Resort, Wayanad, Kerala

An eco & nature resort spread across 35 acres of verdant terrain and tucked away at an altitude of 3500 feet above sea level, Banasura Hill Resort is located in Wayanad, Kerala. It is constructed using mud excavated from the very site that it stands on. The resort makes optimal use of environmental resources, maintaining the ecological balance, and helping to conserve natural heritage and biodiversity. 

5. Khem Villas, Ranthambore, Rajasthan

Khem Villas is established on the land purchased in 1989 where indigenous trees were planted and small water bodies were made to convert this vast, open grassland into a natural habitat. The property offers unmatched wilderness and extends their ‘community first’ ethos by helping non-profit NGOs, providing healthcare and education to locals, afforestation and sustainable livelihoods.  

6. Shaam-e-Sarhad Village Resort, Kutch, Gujrat

The village resort has been hand-crafted by the local community to replicate the vernacular traditions of architecture and design. All living spaces are designed to showcase local talent and the resort employs the local community for various services offered.

7. Barefoot Resorts, Andaman

Located 100 meters away from Radhanagar Beach, Barefoot offers a one-of-kind experience as they strive to reduce, reuse and recycle resources. They are the first sustainably designed and operated resort in the Andaman Islands. Discover the idyllic charm in ethically designed tents, cottages, or villas and enjoy local cuisine curated with fresh produce.