
6 Sustainable Hotels In Remote Indian Locations To Book In 2025
When it comes to choosing hotels in 2025, going off-grid is officially in. From a rainforest retreat near Kaziranga to a restored heritage home in Ladakh, these six off-grid, sustainable hotels in India offer conscious luxury without compromising on comfort. Think oceanfront villas in Sindhudurg, jungle lodges in Kabini, and eco-chic tents in Jaisalmer-all built to tread lightly. Whether you're snorkelling in the Andamans or sipping butter tea in the Himalayas, each property blends local charm with planet-friendly practices. If you're looking to go far while doing good, these stays deliver luxe escapes with a light footprint-no Wi-Fi required (but totally worth it).
1. Coco Shambhala Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Tucked away on Maharashtra's lesser-known Konkan coast, Coco Shambhala Sindhudurg is all about barefoot luxury with a light touch. The four open-air villas are perched above a secluded beach, designed with reclaimed teak and laterite stone to blend with the landscape. Solar power covers most of the energy needs, and rainwater harvesting is standard practice.
Local sourcing is at the heart of the culinary experience — think prawn balchao, homegrown kokum, and craft spirits from small-batch Goan distilleries. It's not just sustainable; it's a proper coastal indulgence without the usual tourist traps. The best part? The in-villa spa treatments and infinity pools are as guilt-free as they are gorgeous.
Where: Bhogwe, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Getting There: Fly to Goa (about 2 hours by road), or the closer Chipi Airport (20 mins)
2. Diphlu River Lodge, Assam
Located right on the edge of Kaziranga National Park-home to the world's largest population of one-horned rhinos — Diphlu River Lodge is your go-to for low-impact wildlife tourism. The stilted cottages are made using bamboo and thatch, inspired by traditional Mishing tribal homes.
Run by Assam Bengal Navigation, the lodge uses solar power, avoids single-use plastics, and works directly with local communities for staffing and sourcing. Safaris are small-group and led by expert naturalists trained in ethical wildlife viewing. You might not have phone signal, but you'll have views of elephants wading in the Diphlu River from your private deck.
Where: Near Kaziranga National Park, Assam
Getting There: Fly to Jorhat or Guwahati, followed by a 3-5 hour drive
3. SUJAN The Serai, Rajasthan
A member of Relais & Chateaux, The Serai is what happens when luxury and sustainability share the same GPS coordinates. Located on a 100-acre private estate in the Thar Desert, this tented camp is solar-powered, waste-conscious, and supports multiple conservation initiatives through the SUJAN Life Foundation.
The hotel partners with local artisans for textiles and furnishings and has banned plastic bottles on-site. The tents themselves are more "safari-chic penthouse" than "glamping": Think plunge pools, copper bathtubs and curated Rajasthani antiques. It's low-impact living-done extremely well.
Where: Bherwa, near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Getting There: Fly to Jaisalmer (or Jodhpur, then 5-hour drive)
4. Barefoot at Havelock, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
This eco-resort on Havelock Island (now known as Swaraj Dweep) has been walking the talk since long before sustainability was cool. Nestled within a patch of preserved rainforest and just a short stroll from Radhanagar Beach, Barefoot at Havelock is built using indigenous materials like cane, wood, and palm leaves.
There's no air conditioning in most cottages-cross-ventilation and fan cooling keep things fresh. Activities include snorkelling, kayaking, and diving, all run by PADI-certified instructors trained in reef conservation. This isn't a party island stay. It's about disconnecting with purpose, where Wi-Fi is dodgy but the stars more than make up for it.
Where: Havelock Island, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Getting There: Fly to Port Blair, then ferry (2-3 hours)
5. Evolve Back Kabini, Karnataka
Previously known as Orange County, Evolve Back Kabini sits on the banks of the Kabini River, close to Nagarhole National Park. Its design borrows heavily from local tribal Hadis (villages), while modern luxuries include plunge pools and lakeside decks.
The brand is big on green operations — organic waste is composted, water is reused via a sewage treatment plant, and over 90% of the staff are locals. There's also an in-house naturalist team that leads guided walks and boat safaris, focusing on low-impact wildlife encounters. Bonus points for being plastic-free and committed to local employment.
Where: Kabini, Karnataka
Getting There: Fly to Mysuru (2 hours by road) or Bengaluru (5 hours)
6. Nimmu House, Ladakh
Set in the quiet village of Nimmu, 45 minutes from Leh, Nimmu House is a 100-year-old traditional Ladakhi home turned boutique eco-retreat. Surrounded by apricot orchards and snow-capped peaks, it's about as off-the-beaten-path as it gets.
The restoration has stayed true to Ladakhi architectural techniques — using sun-dried mud bricks, poplar wood and stone. Solar panels provide hot water, and all waste is sorted and composted. With just seven guest rooms and glamping tents in summer, the vibe is slow, quiet and beautifully disconnected. The kitchen serves mostly organic, vegetarian meals sourced from the garden or nearby farms. Morning yoga, hiking trails and heritage walks with local guides round off the experience.
Where: Nimmu, near Leh, Ladakh
Getting There: Fly to Leh, then 45 minutes by road

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India.com
3 hours ago
- India.com
Discover Goa's Top 5 Cycling Trails For Eco-Friendly Adventure
While Goa's golden beaches with a vibrant nightlife and colonial architecture are a unique feat within themselves, the region also possesses mighty cycling trails that call out to be explored. Whether you ride for fun, or you are an experienced cyclist, Goa has many scenic paths across dense forests, beautiful beaches, amazing villages, and captivating hills. Traveling around Goa with a cycle doesn't just promote an eco-friendly mannerism, but is also a distinctive way to take in the area's culture along with its natural beauty. The region has so many breathtaking views that are a must see from the eyes of a cyclist. Here are 7 biking trails that promise to bring adventure, peace, and memories that cannot be forgotten; 1. The Divar Island Cycling Trail This trail is best suited for more tranquil and relaxing rides. It's located near the Mandovi River enabling you to be at peace and secluded from the crowd. To get to the island, simply ride the ferry that goes from Old Goa. When you reach, begin cycling through the beautiful paddy fields, Portuguese style huts, and charming small towns that surround the island. This cycling route is also pretty flat, making it ideal for beginners to enjoy the beautiful landscape as they ride across the river and the bountiful greenery. Highlights Distance: 12-15 kilometers Difficulty: Easy Key Attractions: Old churches, traditional Goan homes, and paddy fields 2. Chorao Island and Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary The Chorao Island route is a paradise for nature lovers as it passes through the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary. An early morning ride is always best, as you will get to see kingfishers, egrets, herons, and so much more. After the sanctuary, the path leads you to peacefuls views of the mangroves and backwaters. Highlights Distance: 8-10 kilometers Difficulty: Moderate Key Attractions: Bird sanctuary, mangroves, and ferry rides 3. Agonda to Palolem Coastal Ride This trail between Agonda and Palolem beaches is perfect for those who enjoy riding along the coast, especially when there is the flat road grade. In addition to the warm sun and the refreshing sea breeze, the views of the Arabian Sea, coconut palm trees, and colorful fishing boats are like a cherry on top. When you reach Palolem Beach, you can relax on the crescent shaped shoreline. Essentials: Distance: 15 km Difficulty: Moderate Key Attractions: Untouched beaches, coastal seafood shacks, and ocean views 4. Assagao To Vagator Trail From Assagao, this trail offers a bohemian vibe with a convergence of countryside charm and coastal allure. Start off in Assagao on a bicycle, passing by one of the boutique cafes and art galleries and take a peaceful journey along the banyan tree shaded lanes. The trail then leads to the Vagator Beach area where cliffs and a stunning sea view are only part of the display. Make sure you stop at Chapora fort as it's a quick detour from the main route and snap a few pictures. Essentials: Distance: 10 km Difficulty: Easy To Moderate Key Attractions: Chapora fort, Vagator Beach, Assagao vibes 5. Mollem National Park Trail For those wanting an adventure, the Mollem National Park trail offers a dive into Goa's broad national forest. This trail is best suited for experienced cyclists as the terrain is rough and it is known for its steep climbs. The reward? Waterfalls, rare wildlife, and utter peace in nature. End your cycling at the iconic Dudhsagar waterfalls for a magnificent sight. Highlights: xDistance: 20 – 25 km Difficulty: Challenging Key Attractions: Dudhsagar Waterfall, evergreen forest and fauna Tips for an Unforgettable Cycling Adventure Rentals: Cycle renting services are available from countless vendors at cheap prices. A mountain bike is recommended for off-road cycling. Timing: Start in the morning when the weather is cool and the surroundings are peaceful. Safety: Don't forget your helmet, bike water bottle, and make sure the bike is well maintained. Essentials: Keep sunscreen, snacks, and a small first aid kit with you. Respect Nature: Littering is prohibited as well as disrespecting the wildlife and local culture. Final Thoughts Cycling in Goa is not only a means to get around; it is an opportunity to discover the state's most interesting features and scenery at your own speed. Each highway and path, whether through the calm backwaters or over forest pathways, promises to be a new adventure and another moment of delight. So grab your bike, enjoy the sights, and become a part of Goa's natural beauty, one of the most stunning states in India.


Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
Tourism dept plans international roadshows to attract tourists to Goa
Panaji: The tourism department plans to conduct international roadshows in the Gulf region, Denmark, Norway, Uzbekistan, Finland, Sweden, and Poland this year. 'These are the top countries based on social media statistics and the quantum of visitors,' said a department note. The department hopes to attract international tourists to Goa, including first-time travellers for wellness, MICE, leisure, and medical tourism. The department could tentatively spend at least Rs 4.3 crore on the roadshows, which officials say are crucial to depict Goa and India as favourable tourism destinations. As of now, the dates for the roadshows have not been announced, but the department has moved to appoint an event management agency to host the tourism roadshows. The department stated that the international roadshows help enhance Goa's 'visibility and presence' while also providing a platform for Goan tour operators, travel agents, hoteliers, and airlines to network and connect with their international counterparts. 'The target of this participation is to attract international tourists to Goa for various segments of tourism, and accordingly, the agency will have to evolve a strategy to achieve these goals,' said a department official. A six-member team from Goa is likely to participate in the international tourism roadshows. While critics, including the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa, have expressed concern about the expenditure on these roadshows, the tourism department believes that such outreach helps Goa compete with international markets. 'We need to promote Goa as a safe and world-class tourism destination to ensure a sustained flow of tourists into Goa. We will present a marketing plan for approval,' said an official. In April, the tourism department's empowered committee called for a rethink on the department's participation in roadshows and expos, particularly in foreign countries. The department's top officials agreed to 'restructure and streamline' roadshows and trade shows — both domestic and international — based on a cost-benefit analysis. At that time, the tourism department said that participation in trade expos and roadshows 'must be aligned with clear performance benchmarks and measurable outcomes' so that govt funds were efficiently utilised.


The Print
4 days ago
- The Print
‘What about Goanness?': Goa taxi drivers resist govt proposal to bring in app-based cabs
The fear is that the move will threaten the 'Goanness' of Goa's private transport industry, hurt the livelihoods of local taxi owners and flood the market with drivers from outside the state. While Goan taxi owners cite several technical objections to the entry of private app-based aggregators, at the heart of the argument is one key insecurity that is being voiced across multiple sectors in the state. Mumbai: Even as the summer recedes and the rain sets in, Goa is on the boil with the state's taxi drivers protesting against the Pramod Sawant-led government's plan of opening up the market for private app-based taxi aggregators. 'Goa's taxi drivers are the state's brand ambassadors. When tourists arrive, they first sit in the taxi from the airport. We are the first locals they interact with and we give them information on where to go, what to try, what to stay away from, etc,' Savio Valencio Goes, vice-president of North & South Goa Taxi Owners Association, told ThePrint. The overall fear is that Goa is being taken over by non-Goans everywhere, whether it is the staff that works in the state's hotels and resorts, or at restaurants and shacks. 'If all jobs are done by non-Goans, then what is the Goa that the tourists will experience?' asked Goes. The Goa government last month published draft guidelines on enabling the entry of private app-based taxi aggregators in the state. While taxi drivers in Goa have staunchly resisted the idea, tourists have often complained about Goa's taxi drivers overcharging them, not being available at all times and so on. This April, a video of a tourist slamming Goa's cab drivers as 'mafia' had gone viral on social media platforms, after which the taxi union leaders filed a police complaint objecting to the remark. The state's guidelines lay down a regulatory framework for private app-based taxi aggregators, listing the licensing fees, the tariffs, the kind of vehicles and drivers they can onboard, the fare to be received by the taxi owner, and so on. The North & South Goa Taxi Owners Association has called upon all the 23,000-24,000 taxi drivers of the state to submit their objections to the draft rules. The Goa government, meanwhile, has called upon private taxi drivers to join the two government-supported taxi aggregators that are already functional in Goa—Goa Miles and Goa Taxi app. 'We don't mind joining them, but there is absolutely no transparency. And there are basic issues that come up in the functioning of app-based aggregators,' Goes said. Speaking to reporters in Goa Monday, state transport minister Mauvin Godinho said: 'This is just a draft notification. We will take all stakeholders in confidence. We are having consultations with different bodies of industry, the tourism sector, the common man. We have given everyone one month to take feedback. It is not that the guidelines are final.' Also Read: Goa's resentment toward outsiders and settlers is rising. Calangute tourist tax is a sign The many objections The foremost concern of local taxi drivers over the new draft guidelines of the Goa government is that none of them was called as stakeholders in discussions that were held in the run up to the formation of the draft. In the memorandum of objections that the drivers are submitting to the Goa transport department, they call themselves the 'primary stakeholders of Goa's transport business'. 'Our practical experience and insights into the local transport landscape are invaluable, and their omission has resulted in a document that appears to overlook the ground realities and welfare of existing operators,' the memorandum, seen by ThePrint, says. It adds that large cab aggregator companies will have vast resources and aggressive market strategies. They fear that these companies could easily monopolise the transport sector and drive out local operators. 'This would lead to a significant loss of income and employment for Goan families,' the memorandum adds. It further suggests that the role of aggregators should be limited to pick-up and drop facilities in Goa, and they should not be permitted to enter the area of tourism services. These include facilitating bookings for local sightseeing tours, transporting to and from events, spice plantation visits, cruise bookings and so on. The memorandum also says that app-based services will not work in Goa because the state lacks the supporting infrastructure in many places. At several tourist spots, it states, there is inconsistent and poor cellular phone network. Tourists will have trouble finding a cab, and drivers too might be unwilling to ply to such destinations. 'Mandating a system heavily reliant on smartphone applications will disproportionately disadvantage both taxi operators and tourists in these areas,' the memorandum adds. Finally, it says that the guidelines are not transparent regarding fare structure for aggregators. It asserts that the current fare structure for private taxis is also outdated and needs to be revised keeping in mind the increase in petrol and diesel prices. Anand Naik, a taxi driver based in Vasco da Gama, told ThePrint that most Goans have their own cars and two-wheelers and don't need taxis. It is the tourists who do. 'If the tourists start using aggregator services, what will happen to Goans like us who have been driving taxis for generations?' Naik asked. He said that aggregator services may not be feasible in Goa as a lot of journeys are one way. Drivers would have to return to their main stand without a fare, he explained. State's guidelines for app-based aggregators In 2018, the Goa government had launched the Goa Miles cab aggregator service in collaboration with a private company. In 2023, it also launched the Goa Taxi app that allows people to book cabs online to travel anywhere in the state. Private taxi operators say that only a handful—about 2,000 to 3,000 taxi owners—have come on board these two platforms. The new draft guidelines, published on 20 May this year, aim to smoothen the entry of private companies in the app-based transport aggregator business too. The guidelines state that only companies which have obtained a valid licence from the Goa government can operate in the state. The aggregator should also either have a registered office in Goa or have a registered office somewhere in India, and a branch in Goa. The aggregator further has to ensure health insurance for drivers of not less than Rs 10 lakh with a 5 percent increase every year. According to the guidelines, the aggregator has to ensure that the cab owner receives at least the fare that has been prescribed by the government and not make any deductions from it. Moreover, the fare has to be settled with the taxi owner within 72 hours. In case the aggregator fails to settle the dues within the prescribed time frame, the company will have to shell out 25 percent of the dues as penalty for every day of delay. The guidelines also provide for a grievance redressal mechanism. (Edited by Nida Fatima Siddiqui) Also Read: The real problem to Goa tourism isn't from social media. Sea view homes are killing mangroves