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Discover the most serene mountain, forest and plantation retreats offering nature-led luxury, mindful experiences and peaceful escapes across India and nearby regions.
Whether tucked away in the hills, wrapped in wilderness, surrounded by tea gardens or nestled beside a peaceful lake, retreats across the subcontinent invite us to pause, breathe and reconnect.
There is a special kind of magic in stepping away from routine, into places where the air feels lighter and time moves a little slower. Travel reminds us that beauty often lives in quiet corners in the rustle of forest leaves, in sunlit mountains, in the warmth of people who open their doors and stories to us.
Whether tucked away in the hills, wrapped in wilderness, surrounded by tea gardens or nestled beside a peaceful lake, retreats across the subcontinent invite us to pause, breathe and reconnect. They encourage us to savour mornings without rush, listen to the rhythm of nature, and rediscover simple joys: a walk through the woods, a meal grown from the land, a night sky unspoiled by city lights. This is the season to seek places that ground us, heal us and remind us of the gentle luxury of being present.
Tiger Mountain Pokhara Lodge, Nepal
Perched on a quiet ridge outside Pokhara, this lodge stands as a benchmark for sustainable, community-focused hospitality. Far from the busy lakeside hotels, it offers a tranquil mountain retreat where hillside cottages echo traditional Nepali architecture with stone, slate and mud-plastered finishes that blend seamlessly with the gardens and woodland. The main lodge crowns the ridge, with inviting sitting areas, a bar, library and dining room. Comfortable rooms with private verandas open to sweeping Himalayan vistas. Fresh, locally sourced menus showcase Nepali flavours alongside continental classics. Guests can explore nearby forests and villages on guided bird walks and gentle hikes led by trained local experts.
Pench Tree Lodge, Pench
Spread across 40 acres of rewilded forest in the Karmajhiri zone of Pench National Park, this lodge is a haven for the modern, eco-minded traveller. As the first lodge established in this lesser-developed region, it supports a conservation-led vision, ensuring tourism benefits local ecosystems without overwhelming them. The estate has been restored with native vegetation, now home to abundant birdlife and small mammals. With six tree houses and ten cottages, the lodge maintains a light footprint while offering an intimate, nature-immersed stay. Guests can enjoy an organic garden, the unique Mushroom Hut, an outdoor pool, a luxury photography hide and the guidance of experienced naturalists. Farm-to-table regional cuisine completes the experience, making it a distinctive wildlife retreat in Central India.
Premkunj, Udaipur
Nestled among the Aravalli hills, this boutique retreat blends privacy, natural beauty and thoughtful hospitality. Located just 20 minutes from Udaipur’s key attractions yet far removed from the city’s noise, it offers an ideal balance of tranquillity and convenience. A short walk leads to a serene lake, and its proximity to Sajjangarh Wildlife Park often rewards guests with sightings of birds, deer and even the occasional leopard. Designed with striking colonial architecture and expansive rooms, the retreat reflects the vision of its founder, who spent years shaping the project. Panoramic hill views frame every moment whether guests are unwinding, exploring wellness experiences, riding horseback or enjoying curated activities. With warm service and elegant décor, the property captures the essence of Udaipur with understated luxury.
Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling
Set on a 1,600-acre plantation in the Darjeeling hills, this boutique retreat sits on a hilltop above the River Rungeet, with the Kanchenjunga range rising dramatically in the distance. Surrounded by slopes of tea bushes, preserved forests and estate settlements, the property blends the charm of an English country home with Himalayan warmth. Two beautifully restored bungalows featuring four-poster beds, hand-embroidered linens, fresh flowers and cosy wicker seating, anchor the experience. Curated by its owner-hotelier, the stay includes intimate dining, high teas with baked treats, tea and nature trails and picnics by the river. Every detail, from airport pickups to sunset views, is crafted to offer a timeless and immersive plantation experience.
Waghoba Eco Lodge, Tadoba
Set across 12 serene acres in the buffer zone of Tadoba National Park, this lodge is a showcase of sustainable design and mindful luxury. Its 14 independent cottages feature private sit-outs, double vanities, generous storage, writing desks and balcony loungers to help guests unwind in nature. The property includes a multi-cuisine dining hall, a presentation room for naturalist talks, a cosy library and a dedicated bird-photography hide. An in-house organic farm supports fresh, seasonal dining. A partially covered pool with 80% shade ensures comfort during the intense summer while still offering winter sun.
Bookmark Resorts, Manali
Close to Mall Road yet peacefully removed from the bustle, this resort offers a serene retreat surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, orchards and lush greenery. Guests can indulge in restorative wellness experiences ranging from spa therapies and forest-bathing sessions to guided village walks that offer a glimpse of mountain life. The culinary philosophy focuses on holistic, locally sourced food prepared with garden-fresh produce and traditional wisdom. Whether seeking renewed vitality, a deeper connection with nature or simple, unhurried rest, the resort blends comfort, wellness and refined Himalayan luxury.
KAAV Safari Lodge, Karnataka
Located on the edge of Nagarhole National Park, this secluded ten-room retreat combines contemporary design with the quiet rhythms of the wilderness. What began as a simple forest guest house has grown into an intimate lodge with elegant chambers, luxury tents overlooking the tiger reserve and a private pool villa. Days unfold in harmony with the surroundings, misty morning safaris, gentle coracle rides and unhurried village walks foster meaningful connections with both nature and local communities. Founded by two visionaries with roots in architecture and agriculture, the lodge reflects their belief in mindful living and thoughtful design. Clean lines, natural textures and expansive windows keep the focus on the forest, while seasonal, locally inspired menus are served in a cosy al fresco setting alive with natural sounds.
Sitla Estate, Mukteshwar
Perched in the Kumaon Himalayas, this estate offers a retreat shaped by serenity and sweeping 200-degree mountain views. Set within the clean air of a Reserve Forest, it creates an environment that nurtures stillness and a deeper bond with nature. Apple orchards, vegetable gardens, fragrant shrubs and hidden nooks form a landscape ideal for unwinding. The bright, spacious suites pair comfort with refined style, allowing dramatic vistas to take centre stage. Architectural details blend colonial-era influences with modern touches—stone walls, wooden beams, heritage furniture and patterned carpets come together to enhance the natural surroundings.
Pepper Trail, Wayanad
Set within the lush rainforests of Wayanad, this retreat lies at the heart of a historic plantation, offering a tranquil escape steeped in nature and heritage. The 140-year-old planter’s bungalow, with its high ceilings, wide verandas and stately columns, embodies the charm of old British estates. Thoughtfully restored, it maintains its character while offering modern comforts. Elevated tree houses built atop sturdy jackfruit trees provide secluded hideaways 40 feet above the ground. With personalised service, curated dining, plantation walks, local stories and soothing Ayurvedic therapies, the retreat offers an intimate stay infused with history and understated luxury.
jüSTa Luxé Cliffend Resort & Spa, Mashobra
Surrounded by orchards and oak forests in the Himalayan foothills, this resort offers a serene escape from city life. Snow-capped peaks frame its 28 spacious rooms, which blend warm wooden interiors with modern comforts and offer sweeping valley or forest views. Guests can unwind in the temperature-controlled infinity pool or enjoy evenings at the rooftop air bar. For adventurers, the resort curates nature experiences such as guided treks, birding trails and relaxed bonfire evenings under the stars.
Swati Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 13 years of experience in journalism, digital content strategy, and editorial leadership across top national media houses. An alumna of Lady Shri Ram …Read More
Swati Chaturvedi is a seasoned media professional with over 13 years of experience in journalism, digital content strategy, and editorial leadership across top national media houses. An alumna of Lady Shri Ram … Read More
November 17, 2025, 15:29 IST