5 homestays around Mumbai for monsoon weekend

Become an urban gardener at Manasi Bungalow
A weekend home for the Bhatias, this boutique property was a gift by businessman-turned-urban farmer Kamlesh Bhatia to his entrepreneur wife Minal, when their daughter Manasvi was born. They opened their retreat as a homestay to friends and acquaintances in 2006. "Our idea is to let the homestay out to those who are looking for an experiential stay instead of just a place to crash over the weekend," says Manasvi. They only recently opened bookings via AirBnB, Facebook and Instagram.

"We are open to guests learning farming in the 20,000 sq ft organic garden by the lake, kitchen gardening, practising yoga outdoors and meditating," Kamlesh adds. Maushi, the caretaker, is also one of the many reasons people love to visit the place and enjoy her cup of chai made from ingredients planted from the garden of the property. The white walls of the property can be used for projecting films and movies. Inside, the comfy marbled seating in the living room and bedroom, with high ceilings make for cosy corners to simply laze around and chat.

Around the place: Try local eateries. Trek to Lonavala's famous points
Alcohol: Discounts available at the local shop
Pet friendly: Yes
Child friendly: Yes

Where: Valvan, Lonavala
From Mumbai: 2.5 hours
Rates: Rs 1,500 per person
contact: 9820068611

Take a dip in nature at Serenity
When entrepreneur couple Amrit and Neil Borkakoty shifted from New Delhi to Mumbai 10 years ago, they bought a holiday home before a city home. "I am glad we did that as it has given us so many lovely weekends," says Amrit, who has personally done up the interiors.

The structure, made with natural stone and wood, gives the villa a charming appeal. Add to that slanting roofs and large airy windows that make the place cosy and inviting. "We do not allow parties or loud music as it is located in the middle of a village. Upstairs, there is an open space where we can see the tree tops and green grass. With gentle breeze blowing all the time, this is my idea of serenity," says Neil.

Around the property: Beach is just a 15 minute walk
Pet friendly: Yes but not in the pool
Child friendly: Yes
Alcohol: BYOB

Where: Nagaon, Alibaug
From Mumbai: 4 hours
Rates:Rs 12,000 per night for six people
Contact: 9920766894

A room with a view at The Fragrant Sun
A year ago, Sanjiv and Kavita Berry decided to convert their 14 acres of land near Mulshi lake back to its natural state. "We thought of cultivating a food forest the permaculture way. For this, we decided to open up our eco-friendly home, perched on a hillside, to people who love nature," says Kavita, who lives on the premises with her husband.

The place has a rustic vibe with a wonderful view of the expansive Mulshi Lake. The villa is made with natural materials and decorated in subtle hues, natural fabrics, organic textures and wooden interiors. The house is surrounded by lawns with a bonfire sit-out, gardens, fruit trees, herbs and vegetable patches with the lake literally to yourself. They also have several board games, a TT table and carom. A 2000 sq. ft. open kitchen with a wood-fired oven is where meals are cooked using fresh organic produce grown on the lawns. For non-vegetarian fare, carry your own meats and the cook will prepare the meal for you.

Around the property: Go for a swim in the lake or a trek
Alcohol: Permissible within limits
Pet friendly: Yes
Child friendly: Yes

Where: Gothe, Mulshi
From Mumbai: 4 hours
Rate: Rs 7,080 (for two guests)
Contact: 9820328842

Soak in history at Aapli Wadi
What was meant to be Vasant Tapale and Sheetal Dighe's second home is now shared with others from across the country. This small property is apt for a small group. "The Konkan region always dear to us due its pristine coastline, humble inhabitants and lip-smacking cuisine!" says partner, Jayesh Dighe.

There's a swing in the garden and in the veranda. Just pick up a book and laze. "Relax is the word that aptly describes the activities you can do at Aapli Wadi. Indulge in learning local dishes from our cooks, take a dip in the pool, stroll inside the wadi to look at pineapple plantations, and areca nut and coconut trees - it's the perfect stress buster," adds Dighe. Authentic Konkani cuisine ranging from fish to ukdiche modak is cooked by chefs here.

Around the property: Visit the Peshwa house The beach has water-sports Alcohol: Not permitted
Pet friendly: Yes
Child friendly: Yes

Where: Ojhale Pakhadi, Shrivardhan From Mumbai: 5 hours
Rates: Rs 2,000 (room)
Contact: 8983328902

Get arty at Joshi's Homestay
As you drive through the narrow lane between a buruj (an elevated exterior ruin from an old fort) and line of trees, you are led into the ancestral family home of the Joshis, built more than 150 years ago. Managed by the third and fourth generations of the family, the traditional Maharashtrian Brahman house has a huge courtyard, an outhouse, a well with a cartwheel, and space for farming, too.

The outer rooms of the main house have been converted into an art and pottery studio with clay ovens. "The house was opened for homestay almost five years ago and includes a village tour, bullock cart ride, rice field plantation visit, pottery and Warli painting workshops, and homecooked meals," says family member Janhavi Sahasrabuddhe. The play area in and around the house is perfect for chatting with family or simply enjoying the peace. You could start a barbeque or bonfire when it's not pouring.

Around the place: Explore the village and its ancient Hanuman and Garmata Temple. Take a boat ride at Patalganga river, and swing on trees
Alcohol: Not permitted
Pet Friendly: Yes
Child friendly: Yes

Where: Raasaini Village, Panvel
From Mumbai: 2 hours
Rates: R1,500 (per adult)
contact: 9820267251

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