Farmstays Redefine Concept Of Experience-Driven Real Estate Across India

By Ankit Kansal

The concept of farmhouses is not a maiden idea in India as since long, they are perceived as status symbols besides a perfect getaway for India’s rich and growing class. From the posh & spacious localities in Chattarpur & Mehrauli in NCR to the scenic coastal town of Alibaug in Mumbai to the semi-hilly regions of Chikkaballapur in Bangalore, the well-heeled have always invested generously in owning lavish farmhouses.

However, what is strikingly a positive shift is the democratization of the farmhouse segment in India making them the new champions of experience-led living. Alongside those swanky multi-crores and multi-acre large sized farmhouses, we are also seeing a jump in smaller formats comprising 0.25/0.5/ 1 acre (or even slightly larger formats of 5-10 acres). The market is witnessing the influx of organized developers, which are developing large sized community style projects.

Just in the past 2-3 years, we have seen over 150+ organized farmstay projects proliferating all over India. From lush green semi-urban peripheries in the metros to unexplored hamlets in the Himalayas to rustic but scenic backyards in the Konkan, the concept of farmstays are proliferating at an exorbitant speed.

The availability of lush green locales in urban peripheries such as Bannerghatta & Nandi Hills (Bangalore), NH-8 & foothills of Aravalli (NCR), coastal towns of Karajat & Alibaug (Mumbai), Lonavala & Mulshi (Pune) are perfect to develop top-notch branded farmhouse projects. Their proximity to major cities further fuel healthy & steady demand.

Pioneering Nature-Centric And Experience-Driven Lifestyle

Farmstays offer nature centric and experience-driven lifestyle to modern Indian residents marred by urban fatigue and hectic livings. Farmstays, farmhouses and farm plots offer a unique mix of tranquillity, wellness and sustainability. They are associated with an imbibing, slow-paced and mindfulness driven lifestyle, escaping the hustle-bustle of cities. A farmhouse in the midst of nature can be a perfect gateway to relax your mental & physical battery, bond with nature and lower your stress levels.

This is the reason they are becoming so popular these days. From permanently shifting to lead a more nature driven life to simply using them for quicker weekend getaways, farmstays fits all.

There are endless activities that can be done in a farmhouse. From organic farming to dairy farming to indulging in fresh food procured from farms, there are many avenues to lead a healthy life. Likewise, one can do so many fun-filled outdoor activities such as swimming in natural spring, going for long nature walks, playing outdoor games, hiking and trekking (if the farmstay is in a hilly zone), etc. Farmstays are also great avenues for cultural immersion in the form of visiting nearby haats and bazaars, understanding local customs & traditions, learning about handicrafts, etc. Similarly, many organized-style farmhouse projects are introducing value-add on such as wellness and spa, spiritual retreats, camping, etc. to offer a more holistic lifestyle.

A Popular Tourist Getaway

Not just homebuyers and end-users, farmstays are also increasingly becoming popular amongst tourists. Increasing number of tourists are now opting for boutique stays such as farmhouses, villas and eco-hotels rather than mainstream hospitality.

In a time when flexible working models and remote working are becoming very popular, it makes perfect sense to work & operate from tranquil rural destinations. Farmstays can offer a very reliable, peaceful and natural environment to work effectively. Similarly, they are also a perfect getaway to conduct business retreats and corporate outdoors activities, as they offer opportune environs to team bonding, critical thinking and problem solving.

The author is Managing Director of Axon Developers

DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the writer. They do not necessarily reflect Realty&More’s views.