We wanted to escape the unusually hot Delhi summer this year and were contemplating going to the hills. But the horror stories of traffic jams on the hill roads made us rethink and we decided to head to Marchula Estate, a cosy Homestay run by our friends, Mansi and Mustafa. It was a perfect getaway! Only 6 hours from Delhi and in the thick of the forest!

It was a memorable stay for many reasons… Mansi and Mustafa are the perfect hosts and they went above and beyond to make it comfortable and unforgettable for us. Mansi has an incredible eye for detail and would personally be involved in the day to day running of the Homestay, running errands, driving across the river in their 4x4 to the local market, making sure the supplies and provisions are well stocked at all times.

The rooms and the common areas are aesthetically done and everything seems to seamlessly blend in with the natural surroundings. For company, there’s no dearth of four and two-legged furry friends! We enjoyed every meal which was always healthy, delicious and prepared from locally grown or sourced ingredients. And yummy desserts would always follow every meal, both lunch and dinner! My sweet tooth was always satiated :) 

We would wake up to the sounds of the birds every morning and every evening we would take a refreshing dip in the natural pool in the shallow river which runs next to their property. The highlight of the vacation was my birthday which was celebrated under the stars and in the lap of nature. Again, Mansi, Mustafa and the staff made great efforts in making it a memorable one. Beautiful setting in the sit out area, amazing dinner and a lovely homemade cake!

 Will definitely visit you guys again!

What an amazing place set up by Mansi and Mustafa. My seven year old was engaged throughout the day. Feeding the chickens, unsuccessfully trying to pet the loner duck and splashing around in the stream by the river! Not once did I hear “i’m bored mama.” The rooms were fab and the food, a wonderful mix of local and continental food. Highly recommend the pahadi dal!! Can’t wait to return!

This winter was rather long and cold - even those of us who enjoy it , were raring to get outdoors. The idea of a drive, the dhabas, the forest and the stay in the wilderness by the river was a much needed change.

After a fun drive we reached @marchulaestate - passion project and now home for a talented photojournalist couple and their lovely little daughter.

For starters, the home can be reached only by crossing the river in a 4x4 vehicle that is organised by the estate. An earthy abode Marchula Estate overlooks a flowing water body and a lush green forest. The home stay is very aesthetic and thoughtfully designed using solar power , eco friendly and sustainable materials.

For us urban fellas, staying in rooms larger than 600-700 sq feet is a welcome change. Each room is minimalistic , comfortable well appointed and has lovely views - just what one would want to wake up to !

Locally grown or sourced fruits, vegetables and meats add to the charm of the delectable pahadi meals that their cook dishes out.

We would go back in a heartbeat. So if you are looking to unwind amidst nature - we strongly recommend @marchulaestate

The sprawling property surrounded by the hills and the forest, complete with a gurgling stream, gives you the experience of being in the heart of the jungle. Rooms and bathrooms are huge and beautifully done up - 5 star standards. The beds were very comfortable. The deck is lovely where we sat for hours listening to the sounds of the jungle). 

We thoroughly enjoyed the delicious food (loved the chutneys) .. very good staff and service. What makes the place special is that both Mansi and Mustafa are very passionate about what they have created and want each of their guests to enjoy the experience. That truly made it a wonderful stay.

Marchula Estate is meant for people who love the jungles, want the real thing and yet don’t want to give up on high standards of creature comfort. It’s perfect for groups of friends and families who can perhaps book the whole place and have it to themselves or individuals who want to just relax in jungle surroundings. We could stay here for weeks and soak in the serenity.

We set out on a short respite from mundane mayhem, what we got was a perfect match, more than we could imagine. A home stay which felt like home. An isolated island, offering you the solitude, silence and serene surrounding. Waking up to gurgling stream, chirping birds, rustling leaves, morning breeze, this is what dreamscapes are made of. The place exudes warmth, just like them who bring so much of themselves in everything Marchula Estate is. Thank you Mansi, Mustafa, Amna, Chiku for letting us feel at home here.