Words by Kriti Saraswat-Satpathy
The concept of slow travel lets you explore a place to its fullest, and trust us when we say, that’s the best way to explore the lesser-known region of Sindhudurg. A coastal district in Maharashtra, India, it has risen from merely being a fishing village to having attractions that are befitting for all kinds of travellers.
From the historic Sindhudurg Fort, to water activities like snorkelling and scuba diving, treks and birdwatching, these are just a few things visitors can do here. And for those who love a relaxed stay, close to the beach and drenched in luxury, head to the award-winning Coco Shambhala, possibly the best hotel in the area that also celebrates the local flavour through its design, food, and luxurious offerings.
Hotel
There is no large signage that announces Coco Shambhala’s presence to guests. Being discreet is part of its charm, and this also makes it a great getaway for several celebrities who want to soak in the sun, sand and sea in peace. The local red laterite stone finds its way on the boundary walls as well as the steps that lead you inside.
Surrounded by ample greenery, Coco Shambhala creates a cosy cocoon that instantly warms your soul. Sensitively designed keeping the local environment and vernacular style in mind, the villas here create a seamless connection between humans and nature, be it through their no main door design, the Mangalore-tiled roofs, coconut wood furniture or the chemical-free swimming pools overlooking the Arabian Sea.
Room
The boutique property boasts four bespoke villas, each offering a living pavilion, kitchenette, two en suite bedrooms and a private pool. The expansive view of swaying trees and the beach from each of them is a sight to behold.
If you can tear yourself away from the mesmerising view, admire the architecture and amenities that merge local with luxury, making your stay comfortable and customised. Wake up to birdsong, take a lap in your infinity pool, and enjoy nature’s bounty with a side of pampering as you laze around in your villa. From complimentary Wi-Fi to a 24-hour concierge, the kind staff ensures your requests are taken care of in the best way possible.
Food and drink
At Coco Shambhala, fresh and local define their food philosophy in every sense. The culinary team gets in touch with guests prior to their arrival to discuss their meal preferences, yet surprises one with their take on dishes curated using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients within a 50km radius.
From the fresh catch of the day to herbs from their garden, each meal is a culmination of blending local and global flavours with careful consideration to its nutritive value. Despite no restaurant at the property, the meals are served in innovative ways — at the usual dining setup in the villas, a candlelit dinner by the pool, a beach-side barbeque, and a beautiful meal under the cashew tree. Guests can also try their hand at cooking, learning local recipes from the hotel’s in-house chef.
The drinks at the hotel feature freshly-made, in-house mocktails to a fine selection of wines and single malts. They have also partnered with a homegrown craft brewery, serving chilled ales in the villas.
Spa and wellness
Offering holistic wellness treatments of Ayurveda and aromatherapy, the spa here uses its signature blends of oils and products, created by Ayca, a luxury brand that is natural and paraben-free. From indulgent facials to relaxing body massages, there’s a lot on offer that the head therapist can guide guests to choose after an initial consultation. The calming vibe inside the therapy rooms helps guests to relax completely.
To do
With ample things to do in and around the property, your trip to Coco Shambhala can be as relaxing or as packed with activities as you like. Discover Sindhudurg’s marine life by going scuba diving or snorkelling with a trained expert, while boating, water sports, fishing and dolphin spotting are other attractions at the beach. Head out on a guided trek through the lush landscape that ends with a bird’s eye view of the surroundings, discover waterfalls, set up a beach picnic or go birdwatching. For history buffs, a trip to the Sindhudurg Fort is ideal and a short boat ride away from the property.
Getting there
Coco Shambhala is a 15-minute drive from the Sindhudurg (Chipi) Airport. From Goa’s Mopa airport, the hotel is an hour’s drive away, while from its Dabolim Airport, it takes two-and-a-half hours. The hotel arranges pick up and drop off services on request. One can also drive down from Mumbai, reaching the hotel in seven to eight hours. Several trains ply between Mumbai and Kudal, the nearest railway station that lies 30 minutes away.
In a nutshell
The serene landscape of Sindhudurg, coupled with a luxury holiday experience created by Coco Shambhala, makes for an ideal getaway for those looking for a relaxing yet invigorating vacation in a lesser-explored part of coastal Maharashtra.
Factbox
Villas can be booked from approximately £528 per night.
Address: Coco Shambhala, Bhogave Beach, Near Parole Village, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra
Phone: +91 8007374123
Email: reservations@cocoshambhala.com
Website: cocoshambhala.com
Photography courtesy of Coco Shambhala.
