What is eco-glamping? Made up of two interesting words “glamorous” and “camping” with an added pre-text of eco, this latest travel trend is all about having a purposeful holiday in the lap of nature, with luxury by the side. In eco-glamping, the accomodations are prim and proper, however, the constant focus is to connect with nature in a responsible manner. Preservation of the environment and sustainability take the center-stage here. If you love adventure, wilderness, camping or just being close to nature, glamping makes outdoor adventures extremely comfortable. With options of pods, luxury tents, tree-houses, eco-lodges, and well-equipped caravans, who says luxury cannot merge with nature? All we need is the intention to be respectful, mindful and aware of the limitations and scarcity of natural resources. Eco-friendly’, ‘Sustainable’, ‘Recycled’ are not just some cool terms, they are meant to be adopted in our travelling lifestyle too. As a traveller, I am happy that India is also waking up to the potential of merging immersive nature, adventure, wildlife, and culture with fun glamping experiences. Some of the Indian states have been doing it in different ways. Kudos to Maharashtra Tourism too for leading with example. Do you know that Maharashtra’s first-ever river-side eco-glamping festival is running in Nashik. (17th Jan to 31st March 2025)
From waking up to picturesque sunrises at the Gangapur dam, learning nauances of Warli art under UNESCO World Craft Council awardee Anil Vangad’s guidance, diving in the cultural ethos of the city, visiting the vineyards, indulging in adventure activities to surrending to nature’s beauty, it offers a different kind of travel expereince. 60 white tents in Deluxe, Royal, and Presidential categories, along with 4 modern Pods offer a wide range of amenities, from essential conveniences to comforting luxuries. The focus on eco-friendly practices, waste management, and responsible local activities makes it a perfect getaway. I had a great time there. The tent setups surpassed my expectations in many ways.
Nature, Culture, and Adventure in Nashik
Located only 190 km north of Mumbai in Maharashtra, Nashik, a small town on the banks of the Godavari River is renowned for its historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. While the city is among the four cities that host Kumbh Mela every 12 years, it also qualifies as a significant stop-over on the Shiva spiritual circuit. From Trimbakeshwar Temple, one of Lord Shiva’s 12 Jyotirlingas in India, to the iconic Kalaram Temple, Sita Gufa, Panchavati, and the sacred bathing ghat of Ramkund, Nashik boasts of several religious sites. But while its character is steeped in mythology, the city also draws parallels with Napa Valley. Why? Because the climate is just perfect for the high production of grapes in the city, so much so that half of the country’s vineyards and wineries are located in Nashik. Over a period of time and thanks to the amazing wine entrepreneurship of the city, it has also won a global identity. Do you know it is called the “Wine Capital of India”. Thanks to this eco glamping festival, I also got a chance to attend a wine tasting session at the Sula vineyards. Though I am a teetotaller but I am always up for new experiences.
Where is the Maharashtra Eco Glamping site?
The venue is Gangapur Dam, Girnare Village (Nashik, Maharashtra). The sunrise and the sunsets moments here, were ethereal.
This was my first time to Nashik and I had no idea that the city is home to several interesting geographical landmarks that are perfect for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts. One such place is Gangapur Dam. And now that I have seen the calming sunrises, scenic backwaters of the Gangapur Dam in Nashik and serene sunsets, the venue seems apt for Maharashtra’s first eco glamping fest. The location is away from the din of the city, offering a perfect blend of nature and serenity. Be prepared to be on the road for atleast an hour if you are coming from the airport but you will not be caught in the traffic snarls though. Hiring a taxi is the best and the only way to reach the site. The road to the tent city can be a little challenging. But before you jump to conclusions, I must tell you that what’s awaiting you is worth a few bumps on the dirt track.
Once you will arrive at the venue, you will be ushered to a large and aeasthetically done reception-cum-living area decked up with lovely Worli and wildlife paintings. And there is a warm and hospitable team awaiting to guide you through the check-in process. My favorite are the modern pods because they have the best view but if you are looking for lavish rooms and have a family with you, go for the others. Every room type is a delight. The prices of the rooms are value for money and they come inclusive of three meals. The workshops and adventure activities are chargeable as per the activity and people. One may find the price-list at the reception. For the adventure activities, you may need not pre book but for the workshops, like photography, Worli Art, Biodynamic Farming, Indigenous Cooking, and Naturopathy, you must pre-book. They need to be arranged as per the availability of the instructors. Eco Glamping team also arranges for your sight-seeing tours. All you have to do to pick and choose and let them know what all you want to do. The team is happy to help and guide.
My three days itinerary at the glamping fest
Day 1– It was a relaxed day. The early morning flight from Delhi was hectic but helpful in a way because it gave me a whole day at the venue. I landed in Nashik at 9 a.m. and was already in my tent by 10.30. a.m. It was sunny though but it was fun to soak in the vibes of the tent city, walk around, take photographs, chill in the games room and then sleep before the Warli workshop in the evening. I am extremely fond of Indian tribal art and learning from the best, Mr. Anil Vangad ji was a great opportunity. I did not even realize how time flew while making one of those Warli village setup. The sun had set and the weather had become nippy. People were enjoying their high tea with some pakodas. This was not the end of the fun. Next, we walked towards the stage where the cultural programme was due in some time. Some energetic performances were awaiting us. Few traditional dances of Maharashtra like Lavani, Powada, infused cheer in the air. This cultural progarm takes place everyday and is free for everyone staying at the tent city. Besides the stage, some people also enjoyed grapes stomping. How can you miss it when you are in Nashik? This is how wine was made in the past but not anymore.
Day 2 – On the day of Mouni Amavasya, I visited the Triyambakeshwar temple. For VIP darhsan, please remember to fill a form on the website. Only then, the darshan will become a cakewalk. We had to go through a long waiting hour because we had chosen a special day for the darshan. But it was worth the wait. By the time I returned to the tent city, I was already exhausted. We had other plans to venture out in the city but I decided to rest and chill in the tent city only. The evening was well-spent enjoying the sunset and indulging in some of the adventure activities. There is lots to choose from. I indulged in a few but you may try all of them – Paramotoring, Parasailing, ATV, Air Rifle Shooting, Star gazing, Kayaking and Paintball. One evening must be dedicated for the sunset and chilling by the backwaters. Later, in the night, I also enjoyed a star gazing session where I saw Mars and Jupiter. The food here is perfectly fine, from simple meals like lentil-rice to interesting combos, there are doing their best.
Day 3 – Woke up for the sublime sunrise. This is a great place for birding too. Did some early morning yoga guided by a yoga teacher. The first half of the day was dedicated to Sula Vineyards, which was fun but okayish. Our lunch was arranged in an agro farm where we had a farm walk and learned to make misal, the popular dish of Nashik. Chef Madhuri from Vinis Cooking Institute treated us to a feast. The cooking workshop was also lot of fun. After the lunch, we explored the grapes orchards and walked around to see some turmeric and other vegetables grown there. This definitely qualifies to be one of the most memorable lunch under the shade of a tree. Later, in the evening, we had a guided tour to the various temples, Panchwati, Kala Ram Temple, Kapileshwar Temple. There is more to the spiritual character of the city but it was already time for the evening aarti at the Ghat. Last but not the least, don’t forget to take some blessings from the Godavari temple.
If you are a history buff, do visit the Kumaramangalam Artillery Museum (Asia’a only museum dedicated to artillery) and the Coin Museum. And even if you decide to take it slow and not step out far in the city, there is lots to keep you engaged at the camp site. I really enjoyed the mornings and the evenings with the view of the backwaters. My favorite were the early morning walks, the Warli workshop, the adventure activities, the stargazing evenings and the cultural performances. When I was not doing any of the above, I was either reading a book in my tent room or enjoying the lovely views from the restaurant while feasting on lavish food spread. There is a games/recreations room too.
The festival is on until March 31, 2025. For bookings, you must refer to the website -maharashtraecoglamping.com or check out Mahabooking.com or call +91 8623978834, 862497884