Nestled within the serene landscapes of Maharashtra, Tipai is a captivating eco-resort that redefines luxury with sustainability. I recently visited this hidden gem, and my experience was nothing short of magical, surrounded by nature while indulging my taste buds.
A smooth 2.5-hour drive from the bustling Nagpur airport led me to this tranquil oasis, where the soft symphony of chirping birds replaced the noise of the city. My only initial complaint? The oppressive heat outside. Yet, as I stepped into my pool residency villa, that discomfort vanished. The air was surprisingly refreshing; I later learned that the rammed earth walls and conical terracotta roof—crafted from local kulhads—efficiently maintain a cooler atmosphere.
The resort embraces its natural surroundings, featuring lush vegetation and a landscape thoughtfully rejuvenated through permaculture, offering a meaningful tribute to the rich biodiversity of the region. It was evident that Tipai was designed with a deep respect for nature; a trait championed by interior designer Ariane Thakur Ginwala, whose five-year journey to create this sanctuary imbued every detail with authenticity.
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A Harmonious Retreat
Upon entering my villa, I was enveloped in an ambiance of peace. The spacious living room, complemented by an expansive bathroom boasting both indoor and outdoor shower areas, offered a delightful touch of luxury amidst Mother Nature. The highlight was the bedroom, which provided unobstructed views of the surrounding jungle—a reminder of the beauty outside. Local craftsmanship adorned the interiors, with handwoven textiles echoing the essence of the region. The sheer curtains featured stunning hand-blocked prints of indigenous leaves, creating an enchanting interplay of light and nature. Step outside onto the veranda, where a swing beckoned me to relax and a bio pool—all-natural and devoid of chemicals—invited me for a refreshing swim surrounded by the whispering jungle. Tipai fosters a sense of calm, making it an ideal retreat from the fast-paced world.
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An Epicurean Journey
At Tipai, dining is an experience intertwined with the local environment and culture, starting with my lunch at Perch. The restaurant’s décor is both charming and whimsical, reminiscent of a weaver bird’s nest, creating an inviting atmosphere. My meal was an extravagant Maharashtrian Thali, showcasing flavours from the region, with highlights like the chicken curry and a refreshing Ambadi sherbet that left my taste buds dancing. The culinary adventure continued at Wadi, a farm-to-table experience where every dish embodied freshness. I savoured a delightful mezze platter and the highlight of dinner was a delightful pizza-making session, a comical affair where my dough-handling skills left much to be desired, much to my mother’s amusement. The tiramisu that capped the meal was the cherry on top of an unforgettable culinary experience. But the true culinary treasure of Tipai lies in the remarkable ‘Palaash’ restaurant. An all-female team crafts dishes that resonate with local heritage; I was enamoured by the sight and aroma of the bustling kitchen. Each dish tells a story, from Gendaphool sorbet capturing marigold petals to Bamboo Smoked Pork echoing flavours reminiscent of my travels to Nagaland. Chef Amninder Sandhu’s commitment to uplifting local women and celebrating their culinary skills resonated deeply, as did the dishes that danced on my palate. One unforgettable moment came through an interactive underground BBQ experience, allowing me to bond with the chefs as they marinated ingredients. Witnessing the transformation of local produce into exquisite culinary delights enhanced my connection to the land. Palaash is also popping up at Hyatt Centric Chandigarh on the 28 th & 29 th of March over two dinners. And I am really excited about attending this one closer to home.
Experiences: Adventure Awaits
The next morning beckoned with the allure of a jungle safari through the nearby ‘Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary’. Guided by a knowledgeable naturalist, we hoped to catch a glimpse of the elusive tigers that call this sanctuary home. We relished the majesty of the forest, encountering sloth bears, peacocks, and myriad birds entrenched in their natural habitat. As the sun dipped, I unwound at Aesta, the resort’s spa, where I indulged in Ayurvedic treatments, drawing upon local herbs and oils. This spa experience was the perfect remedy for a day filled with adventure—the perfect way to rejuvenate after a thrilling safari. Tipai is not merely a resort; it is a sustainable sanctuary, a culinary delight ruched in local flavours and rooted in nature. A must-visit for those yearning for tranquility amidst incredible biodiversity.
Akanksha Dean is an independent food & travel writer, a chef and a catalyst and is the first Indian to have trained at Osteria Francescana, in Modena, Italy, rated as the world’s best restaurant in the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, in 2016 and 2018 and currently in the Best of The Best Category.