The emergence of the term “permaculture” in the 20th century can be attributed to the precarious character of industrial-agricultural practices, which imposed a burden on the land and its resources, resulting in disproportionately unfavorable outcomes. Bill Mollison, an Australian ecologist and professor at the University of Tasmania, initially introduced permaculture as a design concept. Over time, it has evolved into a comprehensive lifestyle approach.
Establishing a way of living that cooperates with nature rather than opposes it is central to permaculture. While there aren’t strict rules, there are guiding principles like “earth care,” “people care,” and “fair share” that provide a general framework. The way these ideas are put into practice varies depending on the resources available and personal choices made to make the most use of those means.
Engaging deeply in a distinct ecosystem may seem daunting, yet it’s possible to explore and experience aspects of such a lifestyle. A growing interest in permaculture, coupled with the proliferation of Permaculture Design Courses (PDC) nationwide, has empowered individuals to establish their own permaculture farms and homestays. This burgeoning community has built a unique realm founded on principles of sharing, environmental stewardship, and communal living. Enthusiasts willingly share their insights with those keen on delving into the world of permaculture.
Below is a compiled roster of homestays and eco-resorts catering to individuals enthusiastic about participating in the permaculture movement. These establishments provide a glimpse into this realm for those who are curious and open to spontaneous getaways.
- BLYTON BUNGALOW, POOMAALE 1.0 COLLECTIVE, KAKKABE, COORG, KARNATAKA- BEFOREST LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS PVT. LTD
The Blyton Bungalow in Poomaale 1.0 Collective is a wilderness guest house in a 128-acre Coffee Estate. The following amenities are tastefully installed in the bungalows: 6 Bedrooms, Coffee forests, Hiking & trekking, Nature walks, Birdwatching, Bonfire & barbeque, Camping, Stargazing, Waterfalls, Shola grasslands, Elephant corridors, Endemic species, Local cuisine, Permaculture farming, Fruit forests, Cardamom & pepper plantations
2.POOMAALE 2.0 COLLECTIVE, KAKKABE, COORG, KARNATAKA – BEFOREST LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS PVT. LTD.
Private Estate Living in a Rainforest Ecosystem 100 Acres, Coffee forests, Spice plantations, Fruit orchards, Wildlife Conservation, Permaculture farming, Food forests, Freshwater streams, Shola forests, Endemic species, Ayurvedic plants.
3. 8 Mile, Gorabari, Darjeeling.
“A forest garden in the hills of Darjeeling”, Tieedi (you can find an explanation for their intriguing name here) is an eco-stay integrated with a forest garden, both of which are deeply rooted in the permaculture philosophy. Run by an easy-going couple, Utsow and Aashna, Tieedi has 3 kinds of accommodation, each sustainable and built for the long-run. ‘Earthy Dwellings’ are earth houses made using regenerative permaculture principles with the help of local artisans and situated in the forest garden; ‘Herb Garden Dwellings’ is situated within Tieedi’s residential area but has its own privacy along and a fish pond to complement the morning vistas; and the ‘Backpacker Hostel’ is for travellers looking for minimalist accommodation, delicious organic meals, and “a cultural exchange in permaculture forest garden”. Tieedi also holds permaculture workshops and other retreats throughout the year. The hosts here are more than welcoming and will often keep you entertained with heartwarming conversations, scrumptious meals, and live music.
4.Chukki Mane
Located very close to the ancient river Kaveri, Chukki Mane is a permaculture rural retreat near Bangalore. Specialising in family outings for people who wish to get a sense of what comprises the rural life, Chukki Mane is the ideal place to run to when the Bangalore traffic and chaos gets to you. You can go visit the Shivanasamudra waterfalls nearby or take a walk exploring the flora and fauna within Chukki Mane’s premises or even trek through the nearby forest – there’s just so much to explore! At this lesser-known eco-resort, bullock cart rides await you. The rooms here are basic but top notch, meals are all south Indian, and the hospitality full of warmth. More than just being hosts, the owners of Chukki Mane are also educators as they take their guests for farm visits and carefully break down the permaculture lifestyle for them. A rustic experience just outside one of India’s bustling metropolises, Chukki Mane’s bonfire nights under the starlit skies are a breathtaking experience for kids and adults alike.
5. Blue Lotus and Khaama Kethna by Kyo Spaces
Meghna Kapoor’s brush with permaculture led to the creation of Kyo Spaces. With a Masters in Design Management from the University of Arts London, she has multi-industry work experience ranging from fashion to media. However, her interests span across yoga, design, music, and obviously, permaculture. She moved to Goa two years ago and now she’s harnessing her experience working with two startups in the fitness and art industries to start Kyo Spaces that offers permanent “coliving, cocreating, cohealing, colearning and coworking experiences”.
At Blue Lotus, the boutique co-living and co-working space, Kyo Spaces’ philosophy of permaculture are reflected beautifully. Housed in a heritage Portuguese villa in Ucassaim in Goa, Blue Lotus has four bedrooms and two co-living spaces. Kyo spaces also holds permaculture design courses and other natural retreats.
