The end of the year in the Northern Hemisphere brings with it a chill in the air, tasty seasonal food like sarson ka saag, and, of course, lots of holidays. This year, the festival of lights takes place on October 31, which many people will convert into a four-day long holiday till November 4. If you’re one of those who want to escape the urban chaos of Diwali, consider jetting off to nature retreats and wellness resorts deep in the jungles, beaches and plantations of India.
Here are some of the best places for a festive getaway this Diwali season.
The Ayatana Hospitality Group is distinguished for its chain of boutique hotels and luxury resorts across India. The Ayatana Coorg prides itself on providing a smoke- and noise-free Diwali. Offering a retreat from busy city life, the property has a wilderness spa, a private waterfall, an infinity pool, hiking trails and a rope course. It also offers off-road safari experiences and a special Kodava dance performance, among other cultural celebrations. Visitors can also bring their pets here.
Tariff: Approximately INR 22,040 per night for October.
Meanwhile, the Ayatana Ooty property is a luxury resort in the Nilgiris. With this season's focus on tea harvesting, guests can immerse themselves in the natural landscape by exploring the lush tea plantations and enjoying breathtaking views of the mist-covered hills. There will be bonfire experiences to connect with fellow travellers, a nature session with a naturalist who studies reptiles and amphibians, a Baduga dance performance, a mehendi (henna tattoo) session, and a recital by a flautist.
Tariff: Approximately INR 18,150 per night for October.
Lastly, the Azora Goa in Morjim blends Santorini-inspired wooden cottages and a stunning lagoon pool to provide guests with the perfect deluxe experience. Visitors can taste authentic Goan delicacies at their in-house restaurant, CATCH; relax by their private pool villas; enjoy floating breakfasts; have high-tea sessions in the evenings; dine under the stars; belt out karaoke tunes; and soak in the views of the ocean.
Tariff: Approximately INR 9,000 per night for October.
Situated on the edge of Ranthambhore National Park and against the beautiful backdrop of the Aravalli Hills, the luxurious 10-tented Aman-i-Khas offers incomparable privacy and daily safaris that seek out the reserve’s wildlife. Diwali comes to life at the camp with the warm glow of hundreds of handmade diyas. Join the puja ceremony on the lawn to welcome the goddess Lakshmi, after which you can enjoy traditional Diwali sweets and a special festive menu prepared by the chefs.
Tariff: Approximately INR 185,508 per night for October.
Rambha Palace is a beautifully restored 18th-century boutique luxury palace hotel along the banks of the revered Chilika Lake in Odisha. Steeped in history and grandeur, the property combines luxury with the state’s rich cultural heritage. It features a presidential villa and 14 suites adorned with traditional Odia art, refurbished 18th-century furniture and antique carpets. The property offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities—hosting over a million birds in winter—and is the breeding grounds of the endangered olive ridley turtles. Guests can enjoy boat rides to spot rare Irrawaddy dolphins and engage in exclusive activities like blackbuck safaris, Ayurvedic therapies and personalised wellness meals. Rambha Palace’s unique culinary offerings highlight local Odia flavours and include al fresco dining, complemented by an exclusive darshan at the Jagannath Temple of Puri.
Visit the Hidden India website to determine room rates.
Niraamaya Retreats has a catalogue of opulent private sanctuaries that are cocooned in nature's embrace. Meticulously crafted with the utmost attention to detail, they can be found in some of India's most breathtaking enclaves, like Chikkamagaluru, Kohima, Thekkady, Benaulim, Bengaluru, Kovalam, and more. Their multi-award-winning Niraamaya Spa is a repertoire of wellness therapies that rejuvenate the mind, body and soul, such as traditional Ayurveda and yoga. Guests are introduced to the destination's cultural legacy and treated to a gastronomic extravaganza that embodies the region's magnificence. Designed with an unparalleled emphasis on spaciousness and privacy, the residences provide a sense of indulgence and comfort that is perfect for the festive season.
Visit the Niraamaya website to find the best retreat for you.
The Tranquil Resort is an enchanting coffee plantation stay that combines sustainable living with natural comfort. It is a unique escape that immerses guests in both the art of coffee cultivation and the serene beauty of nature. The resort also features two charming treehouses that provide breathtaking views and the tranquillity of staying among the treetops. While you’re here, go on a birdwatching tour, make an authentic Keralite meal with the host and head chef, swim in the clear pool, relax with an Ayurvedic massage, and play board games at the tree deck lounge.
Tariff: Approximately INR 9,975 per night for October.