The state of Maharashtra has a very rich, vast and diverse agriculture industry, backed by the availability of multiple agroclimatic zones. Numerous grains, fruits, cash crops, spices and fragrant plants are grown in the state in abundance.
The state’s vast treasure in the agribusiness segment is complimented with its myriad natural beauties. Espoused with breath taking hilltops, vast coastlines and scenic backyards, rural Maharashtra intrigues tourists from all walks of life. Unique blend of a rich agrarian economy and picturesque country sides, also positions Maharashtra as a viable farmstay destination.
In a time, when demand for nature-driven, sustainable and immersive stays are rising, curated farmstays can be a pioneer of the
Agritourism can be apt for both, a quick weekend gateway or an extended staycation or villacation. It can be great way to get frequented with how foods are grown, learn about the nuances of local culture and enjoy scenic beauties. Agritourism can also entail longstanding positive impact on the local rural economy in the form of employment generation and peripheral infrastructure development.
Mentioned below are the five key destinations in the state of Maharashtra, which either holds a great potential or is already witnessing an uptick in farmstay projects.
Ratnagiri: The district of Ratnagiri is well acclaimed for its natural coastline, serene Konkan vibes, lush greeneries alongside scenic waterfalls and riverways. Located across the Arabian sea, Ratnagiri is situated in southern Maharashtra on top of Sindhudurg district. Towards the left are Sangli, Satara and Sholapur. Ratnagiri is known for world famous Alphonso farms, which also makes the region perfect ground for agritourism. From simple cottages to premium villas, mango tourism is on a rise in Ratnagiri.
Kudal: A census town with ~ 25,000 population in the district of Sindhudurg, Kudal is located on the Karli backwaters. Spread across a hilly terrain, Kudal is known for mango and cashew farms. Kudal, which is at a 1-hour drive from the newly built MOPA airport in Pernem, Goa can become a prominent destination for farmstays, branded villas and retirement homes.
Bhogwe: The pristine region of Bhogwe is a nature’s true paradise. Green capped hills, offbeat trails, mangrove forests and sparsely dense sea beaches are getting a lot of attention in the past few years. The opening of dual airports of Chipi domestic airport (~ 25 mins) and MOPA airport (~ 45 mins) has further resulted in a gold rush in Bhogwe’s property and hospitality industry. Plenty of crops including coconut, paddy, mango, kokum is grown in the region. Many local residents who have moved to GCC or other Indian metros are now investing back in orchards, farmhouses and estates,
Tilari: The verdant region perched on the northern parts of western ghats offers a unique mix of thick forests, celestial waterfalls, hills and wildlife. The scenic region located within a 50 km radius of Belgaum and Sindhudurg is acclaimed for lush green plantations of paddy, banana and rubber plants. The clam, serene and noise free idyllic environs of Tilari can be an ideal ground for both a quick 2/3 days short trip or indulge in an elongated immersive staycation, stretching weeks of time. Tilari with its tapestry of natural beauties and a rich agriculture mix can be a perfect for farmstays and farmhouse style vacations. From trekking in the misty mountains to taking casual strolls in the nature, Tilari’s pristine beauty can offer a lot to the new age urban dwellers in India.
Panchagani: In the southeast of Mumbai, lies the scenic hill station of Panchagani. One of the highest peaks on the Sahyadri ranges, Panchagani has traditionally been a favourite destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The hill station with panoramic views of the mountains & valleys, is also abound with quant villages and endless strawberry farms. This has led to a thriving agritourism industry. Panchagani and its nearby hill stations are also seeing a quick rise in organic farming, dairy farms and farm-to-table restaurants.
