Whenever we travel, the first question that comes to mind is about accommodation. We all look for a clean, comfortable place with essential amenities where we can rest. Based on these basic requirements, we search for a hotel or a homestay and make a selection accordingly.
Our trip to Vengurla was a sudden plan. We hadn’t done any online research for hotels or homestays and decided to go directly. By the time we reached, it was already afternoon, which made finding a stay a bit challenging.
However, as they say, everything happens for a reason! After several attempts, we got information about Mandavi Nature Homestay from a woman running a small food stall. That’s how we ended up there, and it turned out to be the best decision for our stay.
Mandavi Nature Homestay
This homestay is located in a serene and picturesque setting. On the way to Sky Bridge from Bandar Road, there is a left turn at the very beginning. Just a little ahead on that road lies Mandavi Nature Homestay.
Though there are only three rooms, they are immaculately maintained and beautifully designed. The roofs of the rooms are made using coconut palm fronds, giving the entire place a charming rustic touch. In the small courtyard outside, chairs are arranged, allowing guests to sit back and soak in the peaceful ambiance. The courtyard is also adorned with flowering plants and homegrown vegetables, making it a delightful spot to relax.
Right behind the homestay, a calm backwater stream flows, and during the evening, the air is filled with the cheerful calls of birds, creating a truly refreshing atmosphere.
The homestay offers delicious, authentic Malvani homemade meals for both lunch and dinner, along with breakfast. The owners, Mr. & Mrs. Hule, are incredibly warm and hospitable. They welcomed us as if we were their own guests at home. Mrs. Hule even shared a few cooking tips with me while preparing traditional dishes like ghavan and shirwale (local Malvani delicacies).
We had arrived late in the evening, so we missed out on dinner. The next morning, we had to leave for Malvan right after breakfast, so we also couldn’t stay for lunch. However, after relishing their finger-licking good breakfast of ghavan, potato bhaaji, and coconut chutney, we made a firm decision—next time, we are coming back just to feast on their amazing Malvani meals!
Hotel or Homestay?
Vengurla has recently become a popular tourist destination, leading to a rise in both hotels and homestays. Since we arrived a bit late and couldn’t find a hotel, we ended up staying at a homestay for the first time—and it turned out to be a wonderful experience.
A homestay offers warmth and a homely atmosphere, which is often missing in hotels. The home-cooked meals and breakfast make you feel like you are staying at a relative’s house, rather than a commercial stay. Plus, homestays are budget-friendly, making them an attractive option for travelers. No wonder the number of homestays in Vengurla has increased significantly.
There are still many other homestays in Vengurla that I would love to explore. But from now on, whenever I visit Vengurla, my preference will always be a homestay over a hotel. And among all, Mandavi Nature Homestay will remain my top choice!
