Looking outside my flight on the way to Sindhudurg, I felt I saw a carpet of green, but my view was blocked by the clouds. As I continued to stare outside, the clouds cleared and the landscape revealed itself in full glory – greenery in all its shades, and I knew that this was a trip that was going to be memorable.
Luxe living
A ten-minute drive from the recently opened Sindhudurg airport, through lush landscapes and almost no traffic, brings me to my destination, Coco Shambhala. The retreat that is located on an elevation (yes you need to climb up a few steps) has only four luxury villas that are a nod to a well thought out architecture and design as well as top notch interior design.
Giles Knapton, Director, Coco Shambhala, has been inspired by the local vernacular open living pavilions of the region that have been given a contemporary reinterpretation in the design of these villas. I stayed at Villa Amaresha that has a living, dining and kitchenette space and is flanked by two bedrooms on either side.
The living area is open and has a private infinity pool while also offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. There is no main door to the villa, and if you don’t want to be disturbed, there is a rope that you can fix at the entrance to indicate the same. A small bell also hangs outside which the staff always ring when they come to the living space. All the verdant, lush greenery around the villa firmly establishes privacy.
The rooms are well appointed with a comfortable bed, television, a large balcony, and a spacious bathroom. The block print furnishings in pastel hues merge with the tropical vibe, giving the room an easy, breezy feeling.
Gastronomic delights
One of the distinguishing elements of the retreat, however, is its culinary offerings. All guests are called prior to their arrival, and based on their dietary preferences, an elaborate menu is designed for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on all days of their stay. Interestingly, no meal is the same. I was served authentic Malvani dishes, Asian fare, Continental food and more when I was here.
Interestingly you can also learn about Malvani cuisine – the cuisine of the south Konkan region of India (Maharashtra and Goa) – in a guided, interactive, cooking class. I learnt to make the famed Kothimbir Vadi, a combination of gram flour, rice flour, coriander and local spices that is steamed and stir fried to create a delicious dish that you cannot stop eating. I also learnt to make a simple Black Eyed Bean Curry with roasted coconut paste curry, cashew nuts and the typical Malvani masala that tasted perfect. The chef is happy to give you a copy of the recipe as well.
All meals are served at the villa and it is usually a course-by-course affair. There are special dining experiences as well, weather permitting, under the cashew tree and a beach setup at sunset. The resort emphasises on fresh, local food, that is sourced within a 50-kilometre radius, and uses home grown herbs and vegetables. This makes every meal an experience that shows the attention to detail of the chefs who make it for you. A copy of the menu is placed in the villa, and the team makes sure to reconfirm your choices for the next meal.
Action mode
Coco Shambhala offers much to do. For starters, do book an appointment at the inhouse spa that offers relaxing massages, facials, body wraps, body polish and more, that will ensure you have a relaxing break. Do make time for a pottery experience where a potter comes to the retreat to give you a lesson in handmade pottery. Get your hands on the wheels and you will understand how challenging it is to make well shaped pots.
If you would like to explore Sindhudurg, visit the Bhogwe beach located adjacent to the property, that has a 300-meter-long promenade with benches that are perfect to enjoy the sunset. Also check out the Nivati beach that can be accessed by a trek (not for the faint hearted) or by road. The beach has two parts that are separated by a small island. The clean, pristine beaches, bereft of hordes of people, will allow you to enjoy the waters with complete privacy.
If you seek something more active, then trek to see the ruins of the Nivati fort and witness a bird’s eye view of the ocean and surrounding landscape. There are several old temples in the region, including one dedicated to the Sun God. Visit them for their calming vibes. If you are visiting in the non-monsoon period, a visit to the Sindhudurg fort is also recommended.
You can also indulge in a spot of snorkelling, scuba diving, and water sports when the weather is conducive. Easier on your feet and mind, the Walawal Backwater Boat ride will give you a great lesson in slow travel as you glide on the river, soaking in the sights and sounds of nature. In fact, you can simply do nothing and revel in your surroundigs from your villa itself.
A visit to Coco Shambala is all about giving yourself a break from urban life and returning feeling rejuvenated – exactly what a holiday must be.
Fact file
Reach: The newly opened airport at Sindhudurg is ten minutes away and Fly91 operates direct flights from Bengaluru and Hyderabad. Goa’s MOPA airport is about 70 kilometres away and connects to other major cities.
Good to know: The weather is humid for most part of the year, so it is good to wear comfortable cotton or linen clothes. Also carry mosquito repellent and sunscreen when you are here. Monsoons are wet so an umbrella comes handy.
LF Says: ★★★★★
Coordinates: Bhogave Beach, Near Parole village, Bhogwe, Maharashtra, India
