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Located about 90 km from Mumbai, this eco-friendly retreat offers a range of wellness programs, yoga courses, ayurvedic treatments, organic farming, animal care, rural development and cultural activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, a spiritual journey or a learning adventure, Govardhan Ecovillage has something for everyone.
Unique or special aspects
What sets Govardhan Ecovillage apart from other resorts is its holistic approach to sustainability and community. Inspired by the ancient Vedic wisdom of simple living and high thinking, the ecovillage strives to create a model of symbiotic development that benefits both humans and nature. Here, you can witness how traditional practices such as cow protection, rainwater harvesting, earth construction and biogas production can coexist with modern amenities such as solar power, green buildings and eco-friendly transportation. You can also participate in various initiatives that empower the local tribal communities through education, health care, organic farming and women empowerment.
Setting
Govardhan Ecovillage is nestled in the beautiful mountain ranges of the Sahyadris, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views. The ecovillage spans over 100 acres of land, with 80% of it dedicated to natural conservation. The ecovillage houses a biodiversity park that replicates the holy land of Vrindavan, where you can find water bodies, plants, birds and butterflies that evoke a sense of divine connection. The ecovillage also has a farm that grows organic fruits, vegetables and grains that are used for cooking and offering to the deities.
Style
Govardhan Ecovillage has a rustic yet elegant style that blends with the natural environment. The ecovillage has 120 well-furnished guest rooms that are built with locally made compressed stabilized earth blocks (CSEB) that keep them cool and comfortable. The rooms are decorated with traditional motifs and paintings that reflect the rich culture and heritage of India. The rooms are equipped with modern facilities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV and attached bathrooms. The ecovillage also has a conference hall, a yoga hall, an ayurveda center, a swimming pool and a restaurant that cater to the needs of the guests.
Sustainability
Govardhan Ecovillage is a pioneer in sustainable living and has received several national and international awards for its efforts. The ecovillage follows the principles of zero waste management, renewable energy generation, water conservation and organic farming. Some of the notable features of the ecovillage are:
Solar panels that provide 70% of the electricity needs
Biogas plant that converts cow dung into cooking gas
Rainwater harvesting system that collects and stores 10 million liters of water annually
Vermicomposting unit that produces organic fertilizer from food waste
Organic farm that grows over 40 varieties of crops without chemical pesticides or fertilizers
Cow shelter that houses over 200 cows of indigenous breeds
Earth construction that uses natural materials such as mud, bamboo and stone
Govardhan Ecovillage is not only a place for guests but also a home for 350 residents who live as families, students, volunteers and monks. The residents follow a simple and spiritual lifestyle based on the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita and practice yoga, meditation and service. The residents also engage in various social welfare activities that aim to uplift the neighboring tribal villages. Some of the projects undertaken by the ecovillage are:
Eye care program that has treated over 100,000 cataract patients
Primary health center that provides free medical services to all
Innovative education program that has reached over 9,000 students
Organic farming program that has trained over 1,300 farmers
Water resource program that has supported over 7,000 communities
Entrepreneurial program that has empowered over 300 women self-help groups
Skills development program that has enrolled over 70 students
Forest land cultivation program that has benefited over 50 landless families
Rooms
Govardhan Ecovillage offers four types of rooms to suit different budgets and preferences: standard rooms, deluxe rooms, executive rooms and cottages. All rooms are spacious, clean and cozy, with comfortable beds, soft linen and pillows. The rooms have large windows that let in natural light and fresh air, as well as balconies or terraces that offer panoramic views of the mountains or the gardens. The rooms have attached bathrooms with hot water supply and toiletries. The rooms also have amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, TV, kettle, wardrobe and safe.
Food and drink
Govardhan Ecovillage serves delicious vegetarian food that is prepared with organic ingredients grown in its own farm. The food is cooked in a hygienic kitchen using biogas and solar energy. The food is offered to the deities before being served to the guests, ensuring its sanctity and purity. The food is served in a spacious dining hall that can accommodate up to 300 people at a time. The menu includes a variety of dishes from Indian and continental cuisines, such as soups, salads, curries, rotis, rice, pasta, pizza, sandwiches, desserts and beverages.
Things to do
Govardhan Ecovillage offers a range of activities to keep you engaged and entertained during your stay. Some of the activities are:
Farm tour: A guided tour of the organic farm where you can learn about various crops, techniques and benefits of organic farming. You can also participate in farm activities such as planting, weeding or harvesting.
Animal care: A visit to the cow shelter where you can interact with over 200 cows of indigenous breeds. You can also feed them, milk them or groom them. You can also visit the dog shelter where you can play with rescued dogs or adopt them if you wish.
Cultural tour: A tour of the biodiversity park where you can explore various aspects of Indian culture such as temples, sculptures, paintings etc. You can also witness various festivals such as Janmashtami, Holi etc. celebrated at the ecovillage throughout the year.
Yoga course: A course on yoga where you can learn about its philosophy, history and benefits. You can also practice various postures, breathing exercises and meditation techniques under expert guidance. The course is suitable for beginners as well as advanced practitioners.
Ayurveda course: A course on ayurveda where you can learn about its principles, types and diagnosis methods. You can also learn about various herbs, spices and oils used in ayurvedic medicine. The course is suitable for anyone interested in natural healing.
Wider region
Govardhan Ecovillage is located in Palghar district, which is known for its rich cultural diversity and natural beauty. The district has several attractions that are worth exploring, such as:
Jivdani Temple: A hilltop temple dedicated to Goddess Jivdani, the patron deity of Palghar. The temple offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Kelva Beach: A serene beach with golden sand, coconut trees and clear water. The beach is ideal for relaxing, swimming or enjoying water sports.
Shirgaon Fort: A historical fort built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. The fort has a church, a well and a watchtower. The fort offers a glimpse into the colonial past of Palghar.
Dahanu Bordi Beach: A picturesque beach with casuarina trees, mango orchards and chikoo plantations. The beach is famous for its sunset views and its annual chikoo festival.
Getting there
Govardhan Ecovillage is located in Palghar district, about 90 km from Mumbai. The easiest way to reach the ecovillage is by car or taxi, which takes about 2 hours from Mumbai. You can also take a train from Mumbai to Palghar station, which takes about 1.5 hours, and then take a rickshaw or a bus to the ecovillage, which takes another 30 minutes. The ecovillage can arrange for pick-up and drop-off services from the station or the airport upon request.
- Actively reduces consumption
- Sustainable build
- Solar powered or renewable energy
- Employs local people
- Local or organic food
- Education
- Preservation of cultural heritage
- Community led or owned
- Empowerment
- Nature
- Culture
- Rural
- Restaurant
- Up to 2
- Cabin
- Yoga
- Meditation
