Regenerative tourism, a new trend that is becoming more and more well-liked in our nation. Instead of merely maintaining the places we visit, this all-encompassing method of travel aims to revitalise and restore them. This change in perspective seeks to improve the environment, ecosystems and local communities. But does anyone in the nation engage in travelling with a conscience?
A biophilic retreat that was created with respect for Sasan Gir land and its people has grown into a regenerative tourist hotspot where nature and nurture coexist! As the well-considered design and immersive experiences blend the rhythms of human existence with the ancient pulse of the wild, visitors set out on a journey of symbiotic discovery, amid the rustling leaves and chirping sounds of the forest. In addition to reducing environmental impact, Woods At Sasan actively supports the preservation of this priceless ecosystem by incorporating sustainable practices and neighbourhood-based projects.
You are taken to the center of the forest like space, where the lines between rejuvenation and reality are blurred, by the inventive healing experiences. The subtle filtering of dappled light through the foliage above and the warmth of the sun-kissed trees seem to whisper sweet nothings as soon as you enter their tranquil haven. The renowned wellness treatments make it seem as though the trees themselves are communicating their sweet nothings to the knowledgeable therapists! In this magical haven, the forest is more than simply a setting; it actively contributes to your path to well-being by sharing its deep wisdom and whispering its age-old secrets.
Another gem that will astound your senses is the Wood Studio, a ground-breaking way of living. Built from sustainable wood and filled with the coziness of natural textures, this charming home appears to have grown naturally from the forest floor, as though the trees themselves had joined forces to create a peaceful haven. The open-plan layout of the studio, which combines sleeping, living and outdoor bathing spaces in a continuous manner, evokes the effortless harmony of nature. From the hand-hewn wooden furniture to the artwork inspired by the forest, every little element tells a tale of connection—to the land, to the community and to life itself.
Chai, crocodiles & catch
You enjoy the cold evening air and the rich, fragrant flavours of the chai while hungry fishes wait. It’s not your typical fishing experience, though, because as you look out over the vast width of the Hiran River, you might see a pair of ancient, scaly eyes looking out from the water’s edge. Indeed, you’re fishing with crocodiles rather than just fish! There is no greater feeling of excitement than catching a fish while swimming alongside these ancient carnivores. Nevertheless, there is a sense of calm in spite of the excitement.
Mango Bar experience
The peaceful haven has been created in the luscious mango orchard! A novel idea has also taken root in the center of this picturesque haven: the Mango Bar, where the sweetness of the orchard’s produce is turned into a variety of mouthwatering drinks that are all masterworks of mixology and infused with the essence of the mango. Imagine relaxing on a luxurious daybed while enjoying a “Mango Mama” while the warm glow of the sunset sun and the soft rustle of mango leaves fill the room.
Unleash the nomad within
The pastoralist community experience welcomes you to a brilliant tapestry of colour, sound and movement that embodies the age-old customs of nomadic herding. The soft lowing of cattle surrounds you as you traverse the jungle and lush pastures. The pastoralists, or “Ness” as they are more well known, greet you with open arms and kind smiles and they will share with you the secrets of their ageless way of life. You get knowledge of the ancient customs involved in herding animals! This settlement, which appears to have developed naturally from the soil itself, is located deep within the forest. The aroma of jungle fruits, which dangle from the branches like jewels and are ready to be picked, fills the air with sweetness. A magnificent Asiatic lion will then nonchalantly pass the gate, reminding you that this is, in fact, a community in the jungle. The distinction between people and wildlife is wonderfully blurred in this magical community, so the residents will look up, nod respectfully and carry on with their day. And then, just like granny used to serve, a steaming cup of chai is set in front of you on a traditional plate rather than in a cup. The memories come flooding back …
Swadesh diaries
Simultaneously, the retreat is experiencing a gastronomic revolution that is motivated by the revolutionary principles of Mahatma Gandhi’s Swadeshi movement. A lively homage to the area’s rich culinary legacy, the on-site restaurant offers a delectable selection of traditional Gujarati fare, highlighting the subtleties of this cherished Indian state. It reminds you of a rural Gujarati village! Isn’t the sight of a local craftsman outside creating elaborate designs on antique looms desi enough? You are looking at Swadesh!
Into the wild
And then, the piéce de rèesistance… Every instant of the wildlife safari experience is filled with breathtaking natural beauty, making it a voyage of discovery. The thrill increases and the senses are awakened as you traverse the untamed landscape in a specially built gypsy, escorted by experienced guides who possess a thorough awareness of the nature. Magnificent Asiatic lions suddenly rise out of the brush, their imposing presence demanding attention and their sharp eyes serving as a reminder of the wild’s unbridled strength. One experience that will stay with you forever is the excitement of seeing such situations up near and personal.
Encounter with the green thumb guru!
By exploring the realm of herbal plants, the horticulturalist’s knowledge will highlight the complexities of natural wonders, from the intricate ecosystem balance to the amazing ways they have been utilised for ages to foster peace, health and well-being. You’ll realise how much of an influence these plants can have on our lives with every new finding! The experience will leave you feeling rejuvenated, inspired and more connected to the world around you.You will also have a fresh respect for the herbal kingdom’s amazing beauty and wisdom, as well as a sense of awe that will last long after you leave the gardens. Get up close and personal with the horticulturalist, uncovering wonders of herbal plants.
Pottery, marble painting & self-discovery
The pottery wheel is a siren’s call to let your creativity run wild with its leisurely, rhythmic spin. A feeling of apprehension gives way to unrestrained enthusiasm as you sit down and hesitantly stretch your hands for the cool, damp clay! When you shape, sculpt and coax a piece of art that is exclusively yours, the world disappears and just the physical excitement remains. Marble painting is also a nearby attraction that is impossible to avoid due to its captivating patterns and hypnotic colours. You lose yourself in the creative process and time stops. And when you eventually blink into the brilliant sunlight, you’ll be holding not just a stunning work of art, but also a physical reminder of the liberating delight of self-expression and the transformational power of creativity.
Of sound sanctuary & healing waters
Something really special, a sound cocoon where vibrations reverberate deep throughout your body, taking you to a place of deep inner peace and relaxation! Greetings from the Sonorium Experience, another revolutionary trend that is reinventing the practice of sound therapy. A symphony of gongs, singing bowls and tuning forks starts to resonate around you as you settle into the specially constructed SOM; each sound is expertly produced to alert your senses and soothe your mind. The murmur of sound waves fills the air, as though reality itself is being subtly adjusted to a higher frequency. There is more to the Sonorium Experience than just a sound bath! Or, the bath salts experience can also be viewed as a voyage of surrender, where the beauty of the present moment is waiting to be discovered, like to a secret garden. It appears that bath salts have been utilised for their therapeutic properties and that taking a bath or taking an outdoor shower together is evidence of the body’s ability to expel toxins! A new experience is waiting.
Giggle & gossip over steaming cups of jungle tea
The newest craze to hit the forest floor, Bonnet Breakfasts, has the animal community deep in the jungle buzzing. Enjoying a delicious breakfast is the perfect way to embrace the trend, which is all about enjoying life’s small pleasures! With each animal competing to outdo the others in a stunning demonstration of millinery ability, the breakfast club, donned in bonnets, transforms into a brilliant display of colour and inventiveness as the morning goes on. The genuine essence of the Bonnet Breakfast trend, however, is still one of warm companionship and shared joy in spite of the glitz and glamour. It is a celebration of life’s small joys and the magic that occurs when family members gather to take in the splendour of the jungle.
As you read this, a thoroughgoing trend that combines community, environment and nurturing has emerged in the center of Sasan Gir. From the lively Bonnet Breakfasts to the tranquil Sonorium Experience and from the rustic appeal of the Wood Studio to the thrilling wildlife safari activities, it’s all about exploring the latest tourism trends!
