The land of the authentic and fiery Goan fish curry, Canacona once upon a time not too long ago used to be the less touristy stretch of Goa. The beautiful crescent-shaped Palolem beach was where you went to, to get away from the crowds. Now, it is among the more crowded beaches in the state especially during peak season. But, you can still get a sense of ‘what it used to be’ by staying in Bhakti Kutir.

Started in 1996 in a two-acre coconut grove, Bhakti Kutir was among the first of the wellness-focussed low-impact accommodations set up in this part of Goa. Even today Bhakti Kutir is quite hidden away among the trees though it is just five minutes away from Palolem beach. 

Right from the start Bhakti Kutir has aimed to create a self-sustaining model to demonstrate that it is possible to live in harmony with nature causing minimum impact on the environment. So Responsible Tourism is at the heart of the venture.

The property has 22 back-to-nature cabanas and no two are alike! The structures are made from local materials like rice straw and bamboo and are built to include trees and leaves “and to let you see the moon and star-filled skies”. While the buildings are rustic, comfort is not compromised. Most cabanas have attached bathrooms, some roofless, and even those that don’t have attached wash areas have a reserved private bathroom a few steps away. 

The open air restaurant is set under the swaying coconut trees and above the village of Colomb. The restaurant is primarily vegetarian (includes multiple vegan and gluten free options) with fresh, local, seasonal food on offer. Most of the ingredients used are organic. The juice bar has an extensive menu and is a godsend for those on a cleanse or are trying to stick to a diet.

Many guests come to Bhakti Kutir for their rightly famous daily yoga and meditation classes. Bhakti Kutir also organises numerous multi-day yoga retreats in association with well-respected yoga practitioners. The property also has a traditional Ayurveda and naturopathic clinic, Kailas Ayurveda Centre.

They also have live music and organise open mic nights that almost always have good reviews. 

Bhakti Kutir is one of those few budget spots in Goa that even after many years retains its cool vibes. Here you will find a sense of community. 

Price: Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,500; tariff depends on time of year and length of stay.

Read more: http://www.bhaktikutir.com/