Traveling does not only involve visiting new locations, but also the place where you are staying. Nowadays, travellers are shifting out of their drab hotel rooms and seeking something that is personal, warm, and a bit different. Uniqueness homestays and boutique hotels are there. They make your trip interesting, provide you with a first-hand experience of the local culture, and in most cases, leave you with more memories than your trip.
And hence, in case you are planning your next vacation and do not want to repeat the same experience with the hotel, here are some of the unique stays in India and beyond that you simply cannot afford to miss.
1. The Machan, Lonavala Treehouse Bliss.
Have you ever had a dream of sleeping in a tree house? That dream comes true in the Machan in Lonavala. These eco-friendly tree houses are constructed 30-40 feet up the air, and they are located in the center of a forest. Wake up to the song of birds and hazy scenes as opposed to road rage. It is ideal in a couple, a family, or an individual who wishes to have a breather of the urban hustle.
What makes it special: Eco design, total non-connection with the city and nights when you will be looking at stars?
Goa has beach shacks and party atmosphere, The Postcard Hotel provides otherwise. It is a small hotel which does not resemble a resort, it is a fancy house. Having custom-made dishes, cozy places not in touch with the traffic, and the Goan hospitality you will feel like you actually relaxed and absorbed the culture in this stay.
Why it is unique: No set check-in or check-out time, local cuisine and intimate luxury
3. Svatma, Thanjavur -Every Corner Culture.
And in case you love history and culture, you will not forget Svatma in Tamil Nadu which is a boutique hotel. It is a traditional structure that makes one go back in time with traditional music, traditional architecture and authentic South Indian cuisines. It is not only a stay but an experience.
Why it is special: Vibes of heritage, cultural shows, and food that can be described as a grandmother recipe re-created
4. La Maison, Pondicherry French Charm Meets Indian Warmth 🇫🇷.
Pondicherry is already the territory of French influence, and La Maison embodies the same in its image. Filled with old fashioned furniture, soft pastel shades, and cozy atmosphere, this boutique homestay is so European postcard-style. In addition, it is situated near the beach, where you can take an evening stroll on the seafront.
Why it is special: French old world and South Indian hospitality.
5. Rishikesh, Glasshouse on the Ganges- Nature Meets Peace.
The Glasshouse on the Ganges is a must in case you intend to have a peaceful, picturesque, and spiritual stay. This boutique hotel is on the banks of the holy river and is enclosed by forests and fruit orchards. Rise with the wave of running water and evenings with your cup of chai enjoying the sunset.
What makes it unique: Exclusive entry to the Ganges, peaceful atmosphere and luxury and a blend of nature and luxury.
6.Jaipur 28 Kothi, A Royal Boutique Stay.
Jaipur is not short of palaces and forts but 28 Kothi is a more personal experience of the royalty. This is a cool, classy, and small boutique hotel of people who do not want to be in huge hotels when they want luxury. Imagine white blank walls, murals painted by hand, and quaint courtyards.
What is special: Customized service and royal design at a homey environment?
7. Shakti 360 360 Degrees Leti, Uttarakhand – Above the Clouds.
This is the one that adventure lovers will like. High up the Himalayas is Shakti 360 literally Leti, and you have to walk a part of the way to reach it. However, when you get there, you get to be confronted with spectacular views, glass-walled cottages, and even night skies which look like they were out of a dream.
Why it is special: Alternative, isolated, and totally out of touch with reality.
8.Mihir Garh, Jodhpur -The Desert Fort.
Mihir Garh, a castle-like looking structure, often referred to as the Fort of the Sun, is a boutique hotel that appears as an embankment in the middle of the desert. Each of the suites is enormous and is equipped with personal pools or courtyards. When you are in need of a royal desert experience, then this is the place to be.
Why it is special: Desert luxury, horse riding safari, and unique architecture.
The Reason to prefer Homestays and Boutique Hotels to Big Hotels?
• Customer focus- You are not a room number.
• Local experience – It is all about the local culture, food-design wise.
• Special accommodations – Tree houses, glass cottages, old-fashioned houses – each house is unique.
• Less busy- Soothing and quiet as opposed to large chain hotels.
Final Thoughts
It is not only about where you go but it is also about where you stay. These are the special homestays and boutique hotels that ensure that your trip is comfortable, cultural and memorable. Thus, when you decide to go on vacation the next time, do not forget the usual hotel and go somewhere new.
The story of every stay is waiting to be realized starting with tree houses of Lonavala and desert forts of Jodhpur. Believe me, you will not forget the place you are going, you will remember the place you stay.
