Abundance of nature, fresh seasonal produce, farm-to-table meals, and those home-away-from-home vibes are exactly what you need sometimes. Even just a weekend immersed in these little luxuries can help you break free from the usual bustling routine and come back feeling completely refreshed.
This birthday, I didn’t over-research or get overwhelmed like I usually do. Instead, I simply mentioned to my friends that I longed to see the stars somewhere in the Western Ghats, and that’s when the recommendation for Dudhsagar Plantation, a farm stay, landed in my lap. With just one call to Ashok, my weekend getaway was sorted.
Dudhsagar Plantation, a farm stay in Goa
Now, this offbeat stay in Goa, Dudhsagar Plantation is just a couple of hours’ drive from Panjim and that’s part of its charm. This 50-acre space, which Ashok’s parents bought back in the 1980s, was once barren land. Through sheer hard work and determination, they transformed it into a vibrant farm forest. In recent years, they even built 5 cosy Goan-style cottages, extending this offbeat stay luxury to likeminded folks.
The moment we checked in, I felt instantly at home. We were welcomed with warm, homemade lemongrass tea and Ashok’s heartfelt stories about the space, which immediately set the tone for a weekend of slowing down at the farm stay. And then about Choki, the friendly dog who follows guests around and even runs the Dudhsagar Ultra every year.
Our room
Our room was simple yet airy and spacious, with no disposable items in sight. I loved that even the water came in a glass bottle, paired with two sturdy steel glasses; it was a sustainable stay. The bed was comfortable, and if I really had to, I could easily work at the table in the mornings. The room and the bathroom had a wire mesh between the wall and the roof that let in soft sunlight and offered sneak peeks of the birds fluttering by. All of this made the space feel like a true sanctuary. Out on the veranda, equipped with chill chairs and a fan, I found the perfect spot to read a book, sip a drink, and even simply be.
Spice tour
Just after settling in, we followed Ashok on a little tour of the plantation. We started by exploring the spices—peppers, cardamoms, and gingers—and I was intrigued to learn that nothing here is mass-produced. We wandered through the farm, spotting local greens like tambdi bhaji and other Goan vegetables along the way.
Finding Feni Farm to Bottle Experience
Later, we visited their in-house Goa Heritage Distillery to learn about the farm to bottle Feni. It was the season for cashews in Goa, which is short and cherished each year, much like the mangoes. In the afternoon, when the wind was just right, the summer-coloured fruits fell naturally and were brought over to the distillery. We witnessed the fascinating process of hand-separating cashew seeds from what is known to be the fruit but is actually the stem.
Cashew stomping
Then came the fun part: we washed our feet and legs and got to stomp on the summer-coloured cashew fruits, watching them burst with juice that flowed into a channel. But the remaining juice that comes after this, once the crushed fruits are weighed down with rocks is called Niro. This is non-alcoholic, sweet, and utterly refreshing. I learnt that all the cashew juice is fermented and first distilled into Urrak. Although it is known to have a short shelf life, Ashok has managed to make it last for a year and beyond. This Urrak is further distilled and transformed into their signature, spiced Feni called Ouro. I couldn’t wait to taste it later that night.
Cashew chomping
Soon after, we watched the cashew seeds being roasted over an open fire and then peeled. We tasted them right away, and to my surprise, I was hooked. I’ve never been a fan of cashews, but the nutty crunch, subtle sweetness, and hints of char changed everything.
Natural pool
Just before the sun set, we made our way to the natural pool on the property. I jumped right in to soak up the cool, naturally filtered water, surrounded by the soothing hum of nature and the sight of filtering plants along the edges. I even dove under the water and emerged without burning my eyes, a simple pleasure that reminded me how long it had been since I had truly had such an experience.
Farm to table dinner
Later that evening, we gathered in what felt like the living room of the plantation. Ashok, his partner, and his mum joined us with more stories, even of nature living and the warmth that only a home like this can offer. We spent the night sampling their Urrak and Feni. Their Ouro was smooth and spiced—like Christmas in a bottle. Dinner was a homemade thali centred around cashews, and it was then I realised just how underrated this fruit is. From the spicy curries to the tangy pickles and dessert, every dish told its own story of rustic, genuine Goan cuisine.
After dinner, we walked towards the pool. Even though it was a full moon night, we managed to catch some stars.
Nature trail
After a good night’s sleep at this offbeat stay in Goa, we took a leisurely 45-minute nature trail through the plantation. The path, dappled with soft morning light, wound its way past rows of cashew trees and others. Every step was accompanied by the rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of a hidden bird. We had some fresh coconut juice and cream to cool off and went straight for the pool. After packing up, we had our one last lunch, another wholesome thali before heading out.
This weekend was both a birthday getaway and a soulful escape from the daily grind. Dudhsagar Plantation, an offbeat stay is an immersive experience that invites you to slow down, reconnect with nature, and savour the simple yet profound joys of life. This Gold award-winning spot featured by Outlook Traveler in Sustainable Leadership Homestays is a 100% recommend. I am already planning to go back in the monsoons, and you?
Notes
Things you might want to carry – a handheld fan, mosquito repellent, older clothes to not worry about stains from the cashew experience, full length clothes to protect from insects, toiletries and swimsuit.
Ample parking available.
While you can book a day tour including the spice tour, Finding Feni Farm to Bottle Experience and lunch, go for the weekend escape. Great for one, two or even a whole jingbang.
PS: They have a yogshala for retreats and ample of space for team outings.
Contact Ashok @ +91 9765364456 to fix your plans.
More information on Dudhsagar Plantation and Goa Heritage Distillery
Leave a Reply