Jaltarang Villa- Spring in Summer

So this post is about an impulsive road trip that we went on over a long weekend in March of 2018. Most people I know, plan long weekends in advance but this one was one of those absolute last minute spontaneous getaways and I am sure, those of you who have traveled impulsively know the thrill of it.

After returning from work on a Friday night, I started looking for places we could drive to for two nights over the long weekend. Within half an hour of googling destinations around Bombay, I realised that I was done traveling to the popular destinations around Bombay and that I would rather do something offbeat. And while I was at it, I came across this beautiful house overlooking a lake, appropriately named "Jaltarang Villa", approximately 8.5 hours away from Bombay.

Well, there are moments in life when you instantly fall in love with something, this was one of those for me. I didn't want to look at any more options after spotting Jaltarang Villa, online. It was too late to make any bookings online but we tried our luck in successfully finding and getting through the Owner's number late that night- Dr. Khalid Shaikh, who was kind enough to let us come over the very next day.

The next morning we started driving towards Ratnagiri, the district where Jaltarang is located. The drive was pretty smooth barring a few stretches here and there but Dr. Shaikh was constantly in touch with us and guided us quite well to the place. We drove leisurely, stopping at a few places to buy some stuff, relish Konkan food at recommended eateries on the way and grab tea every few hours. Finally we made it to Jaltarang Villa early evening, around 5 pm. The last mile connectivity to the property is slightly deceptive and yet most exciting. Not sure if (but I hope) it's still the same.

Jaltarang is cozy and pretty as a picture of course, but what makes it even more gorgeous is the nature and the tranquility engulfing it. It falls in the category of places that manage to live up to the hype and expectation it creates when you browse it online. We were thrilled to be treated with some hot masala chai in the balcony as we entered the place, which also happens to be my favourite spot at Jaltarang. The sunset is spectacular from the balcony fronting the lake with the unceasing breeze.

A lot has to be said about the way the Villa has been designed. Structurally, the lake view has been utilised extremely well. You get to see the lake, both from the living room and the bedroom- so much so that it could pass off as a glasshouse from certain angles. The property retains a unique charm in its simplicity which continues to stay with you long after you've left the place. On the inside, it reflects streaks of creativity well implemented on its walls, ceilings, and corners, giving it a bohemian feel. The place is done up optimally- It can be a great reading or meditation place to instill inspiration in you and a phenomenal party place to make some great memories, at the same time. I have always believed that any space is reflective of the person you are, only to find out that this place has been designed by Dr. Shaikh's daughter who is in the creative field.

There are a handful of outdoor activities that one could indulge in while staying here- you could go for nature walks in the morning, jam by the lake with your folks, hike a few hills around and go rafting. Rafts are made available at the property upon request and availability. 

They say, "It's the people that make the place." The quote certainly holds true for our stay here at Jaltarang Villa. Not only is this place strikingly scenic but it also offers extraordinary hospitality to its guests. We were treated with some lip-smacking home-cooked food during our stay. Both, vegetarian and non-vegetarian food options are available at the property and we loved the food so much that we tried both the options on different days. Dr. Shaikh is a wonderful host. He ensured that we were comfortable right from the time we entered the property. He made time to chat with us and sought our feedback before we left. Bhau, the caretaker, who lives at the property and takes care of the guests is extremely sweet and serviceable. He makes awesome tea and was always ready to pamper us with his tea making skills.

Jaltarang Villa comprises of two stand alone structures, both facing the lake and can accommodate 8-10 people comfortably. Dr. Sheikh and his daughter were planning to expand it further when we visited. It is an ideal place for people looking to spend some quiet time amidst the nature. You could plan a long weekend and spend some quality time with your partner, family or a bunch of friends. We were told that the best time to visit the place is during the monsoons, we loved it in March nevertheless.

Whether you wish to curl up with a book, go on a writer's retreat, paint, meditate, go hiking, soak up the sun or just sit and gaze at the stunning view around, Jaltarang offers it all. And yes, don't leave the place until you've indulged in some Konkan curries.