North, South, East, West: Eco-friendly Airbnbs to explore after lockdown

If you've just about had enough of home sheltering and need to get out to keep your sanity, we feel your pain. As travel restrictions across the country gradually ease out, we discovered a few hidden gems in order for you to get that change of scenery and go exploring once again.

If this lockdown has taught us anything it's to care for the environment so let your first vacation be a retreat. Now is the best time to take your car out, on that long-overdue road trip and drive into the lap of nature. With a little help from Airbnb India here's a list of the top eco-friendly and green homes in serene destinations across the country.

From a night with the stars in the forests of Uttarakhand, the panoramic views Leh, a dive into the Naukuchiatal lake in Nainital, the peaceful backwaters of Kerala or a simple living amongst the clouds in Dalhousie, you're next adventure awaits you. Read on to discover:

The North

Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

Walnut Grove Tree House and Spa

Located just a few kilometers away from Mussoorie the Walnut Grove Tree House in the midst of the forest makes the perfect destination for nature lovers. Picked out of a fairy tale book, crafted with warmth and love, this treehouse helps you experience the jungle book era. The indoor spa and jacuzzi coupled with starry skies and open balconies complemented by the chirping of birds and jungle animals make this Airbnb the perfect getaway for nature lovers.

Driving distance from Dehradun – 40 km (1 hour)

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

Dalhousie Retreat

Located on the Bakrota Hills, complemented by breathtaking views of the valley and the Pir Panjal range, This Airbnb is the perfect location to get away from the hustle of the city. Whether you want to spend your day surrounded by snow, cocooned next to the fireplace, or enjoying a cup of tea gazing at the clouds, this property has you covered. Guests can also indulge in an array of activities such as treks, cookouts, mountain, and forest trails. Around 200 km from Amritsar, this Airbnb is sure to appeal to the traveler within.

Driving Distance from Amritsar – 202 km (4 hours)

Nainital, Uttrakhand

La Belle Vie Naukuchiatal

This cosy and comfortable house is made with natural stone and reclaimed wood quite like what it is supposed to be for a house in the hills. The serene view from the suites complemented by the quiet natural surroundings is sure to satisfy your wanderlust.

Tucked away amidst a forest, in the Lake District of Uttrakhand, La Belle Vie is just 100 meters to the famed Naukuchiatal Lake and around 280 km from Dehradun. Travellers can indulge in an array of recreational activities such as boating, paragliding, trekking, and nature walks that are perfect for the Indian explorer!

Driving distance from Dehradun – 282 km (7 hours)

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Cottage amidst the mountains

Nestled on the banks of river 'Beas' in Old Manali about 280 km from Chandigarh, this divine cottage enables one to relax and unwind in the lap of nature whilst walking around the apple orchards or dipping their feet into the river below. This Airbnb boasts luxurious wooden panelled rooms with modern amenities, a kitchenette, and an attached private balcony.

Every room opens to a panoramic view of the scenic landscapes. It is best suited for ones looking to spend some quality time in the Himalayas away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. The snowy Himalayan peaks visible all around this beautiful home are sure to make your stay a little more special.

Driving distance from Chandigarh – 288 km (7 hours)

Mashobra, Himachal Pradesh

The Jannat View Duplex House

Step away from the cacophony of the cities to unwind in the thick pine and cedar woodlands. This place is perfect for those seeking respite from their busy lives to loosen up and unwind in the midst of nature.

It is a retreat that will leave you breathless with the enchantment of its surroundings, with fresh mountain air and spectacular forests. Guests can sit back next to a bonfire with a barbeque and enjoy the serene view of the valley below.

Driving distance from Chandigarh – 123 km (4 hours)

The South

Kodamthuruth, Kerala

Backwaters Facing Home

This Family run homestay located in a quiet village between Alleppey and Cochin is the perfect place to unwind whilst indulging in the beauty & the tranquillity of the backwaters from the porch. The glistening light bouncing off the waves would be perfect to way to start your morning. The rustic feel of the home coupled with the local flavourful food is sure to give guests a taste of Kerala. 190 km away from Thiruvananthapuram, this is the perfect destination for your first road trip.

Driving Distance from Thiruvananthapuram – 190 km (4.5 hours)

Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India

Gravityville

Gravityville is a 1936 English house in Ooty, India. Housed in an old colonial building, furnished with antique pieces, new quirky designs and up-cycled objects from various places this Airbnb sure brings the old world charm. From roasting marshmallows on the bonfire to taking in the fresh air from the beautiful surrounding. This Airbnb is the perfect spot for you too cool off.

Driving Distance from Bangalore – 265 km (6 hours)

Coorg, Karnataka

Coffee Estate

Nestled amongst the lush greenery of the Western Ghats in Coorg, this coffee estate is a perfect retreat for nature lovers and anyone who needs a break from their stressful city life. Overlooking the coffee plantations for as far your eyes go, this wooden cottage is chipped out with relaxation and tranquillity. The aroma from the coffee plantations and the serene views and the vast variety of birds chirping around is sure to make your mornings at this Airbnb extremely special.

Driving distance from Mangalore – 140k (3 hours)

Puducherry, India

Villa Al'Mar

If you want your first trip away from home to be exciting and filled with adventure, what better than the serenity beach in Pondicherry. This beautiful Aribnb located on right on the beach is perfect for your first getaway. With activities like surfing being right at your doorstep, this homestay is sure to keep you coming back for more.

Driving distance from Chennai – 150 km (3 hours)

Candolim, Goa, India

Beach touch Villa

Goa is always explored best when you're on the beach. This palatial Airbnb villa gives you the best of both worlds, your own privacy coupled with access to the Candolim beach. The sound of the waves and the Goa beach nightlife are sure to make your experience extremely memorable

Driving distance from Mumbai – 600 km (9 hours)

The West

Udaipur, Rajasthan

Organic Farm House with a lake view

Udaipur has always been known for its serene lakes and what better way to enjoy this natural wonder than in your own villa. This Airbnb, with its infinity pool overlooking the lake, is sure to put a smile on your face every time you look outside the window. This celestial farmhouse is ideal for those that want to unwind and indulge in the true fauna of Udaipur.

Driving distance from Jodhpur – 250 km (4 hours)

Matheran, Maharashtra

Hazel Villa

Matheran has always been one of the most popular hill stations in India. If you are looking for that old-world charm, you'll love staying at this Airbnb. This old British era style bungalow is in a great location overlooking the mountains and a pleasant walk away from the market area, the best of both worlds. You could ride a horse or seat yourself in a hand-pulled rickshaw to go see the Charlotte Lake that is just around this beautiful property. This homestay is sure to provide you with the best of Matheran.

Driving distance from Mumbai – 95km (2.5 hours)

Jaipur, Rajasthan

Krishna Palace

This heritage property in Jaipur will take make you feel like royalty with its architectural design. Recommended by Lonely Planet, Routard, and Rough Guides, this property has a beautiful courtyard and rooftop restaurant where guests can enjoy traditional Rajasthani style food. Conveniently located near the train and bus stations, this unique home has some quaint and quiet corners and a relaxing lawn to retreat to with a book.

Driving distance from Delhi – 282 km (5 hours)

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

Jog Niwas

Tucked away in a rural area 20 kilometers outside of Jodhpur, Jog Niwas conceived to revive the luxurious, time-intensive, distinctive arts of courtly India before they were lost forever. Jog Niwas is open for guests to immerse themselves in the local culture. From Jog Niwas's special rooms and interior courtyard to its indigenous gardens, stunning art, and wildlife around, the guests are bound to have a memorable stay. The hosts are dedicated to the protection and conservation of the natural areas and wildlife and to offer the guests an authentic old-world Rajasthan experience.

Driving distance from Jaipur – 332 km (6 hours)

The East

Gangtok, Sikkim

Loft with a stunning panoramic view

With windows on all sides offering a panoramic view of Ranka Valley and the Kanchendzonga peaks, this loft is a beautiful getaway in Sikkim. Though centrally located, the calm and serenity of the penthouse is one of its many selling points. Spacious, with a warm, cozy wooden interior, this two-floor loft is the perfect place for those looking for a quiet, home-like environment while still within walking distance of MG Marg, the pedestrian mall, as well as the best restaurants, night clubs, book shops and cafes.

Driving distance from Darjeeling – 100 km (4 hours)

Darjeeling, West Bengal

Tieedi Earthy Dwelling

This Earthy Dwelling an endeavour to rediscover and connect with nature. This abode has been handcrafted in a forest garden by working with local artisans and applying the regenerative principles of permaculture. It is a blend of the age-old tradition of earth houses using local resources with some comforts and amenities of a modern-day holiday home.

As a part of a forest garden project aimed at reviving a neglected acre of land into a forest that's bursting with life, this getaway in the lap of nature will have you surrounded by brooding trees, chirping birds and gurgling rivers.

Driving distance from Bagdogra – 68 km (2.5 hours)