This Gorgeous Eco-stay In Goa Is Offering Free Stays And We're Already Packing Our Bags!

Ideal for

The property is ideal for backpackers and travellers looking for budget stays. In addition, Saraya Ecostay's volunteer programme also makes it the top choice for people taking a break, switching jobs or simply wanting to live the hippie life.

About the property

Located right in the heart of the bustling North Goa, Saraya Ecostay is nothing less than an oasis in the middle of a desert. Built with the basic aim of taking its guests on a journey of connecting with nature, Saraya also doubles up as an art community. Following the philosophy of simple living in all possible aspects, Saraya Ecostay combines comfortable stays, scintillating artwork and drool-worthy food all under one roof.

As for the stay options, Saraya has two basic divisions—tree houses and earth houses. These modestly priced accommodations are completely made out of natural materials but that in no way, means a compromise on comfort. Every tree house and earth house comes with comfy double beds, private bathrooms and spacious seating ares.

Since the property is an eco-stay and enjoys a secluded location, there is no shortage of greenery around. Every accommodation has a private sit out and the lush green surroundings make them the perfect place to spend your day lazing about.

What about the free stays though?

Saraya Ecostay's biggest USP is undoubtedly its volunteer programme that lets travellers stay at the property for free. All you have to do is enrol yourself, pick what you want to do and just land up here! Every volunteer has to work at the property for four hours in a day and in return, gets free stay and meals. Travellers have an option of either volunteering at the farm, helping out in the art gallery or waiting tables at the property's cafe.

Food

Since Saraya Ecostay has an expansive organic garden within the property, the dining experience is extremely simple and healthy. Right from the fruits and vegetables used in the preparation to the herbs and spices, everything is plucked freshly, giving the food a unique taste palate.

The property also has an extremely Instagrammable cafe, Saraya Cafe which offers a wide range of Continental and Indian delicacies. The eatery is managed by a group of local women who prepare each and every dish with utmost love and compassion. To add to that, they also don't mind going out of the way and preparing a dish suited to specific needs. Talk about perfect hospitality!

Cost

A tree house at Saraya Ecostay will cost you ₹1,500 while an earth house will cost you ₹1,800 per night for double accommodation. The prices are inclusive of breakfast for the guests. While these accommodations can be booked online, you will have to call up the property to register yourself for a volunteer stay which comes at zero cost!

Best time to go

The months between November and February is the time when Goa really comes alive. So, if you're someone who believes in partying like there's no tomorrow, this is the best time to plan a trip. On the other hand, peace seekers should plan a trip to Goa in monsoons, that is between July and September. Not only will you be able to escape the maddening rush but will also witness Goa at its lush green and pristine best.

Things to do in and around the property

1. Enrol in Saraya's permaculture design course

If you're a nature lover who believes in giving back to the environment, head to Saraya and enrol yourself in the permaculture design course. The property is one of the very few places in India wherein you can get a full length certificate course in permaculture, a system of agricultural and social design principles centred around directly utilising the patterns and features observed in natural ecosystems. The course is designed to teach travellers the art of creating a sustainable and cost effective environment while reducing the ecological footprint.

2. Explore your artistic side at Saraya Art Gallery

While the last few years have seen a sudden boom in the art scene of Goa, Saraya Art Gallery remains one of the finest one can come across in the state. The gallery attracts painters, sculptors, writers, musicians and theatre artists from around the world who flock here to share their craft with the world. Saraya also hosts workshops that are designed to motivate travellers and push them into exploring the artist within them.

3. Test your limits by indulging in water sports

Owing to a gorgeous coastline, Goa is one of the most popular places in India to indulge in water sports. Thrill seekers must definitely try their hands at jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, speed boating and surfing while vacationing in Goa. The beaches of Baga, Calangute, Dona Paula and Colva are lined with adventure activity operators and are the top places you can visit if you're in the mood of adding a touch of thrill to your Goa plans.

4. Experience Goa's crazy nightlife

Goa's legendary nightlife is something that attracts travellers from world over to the party capital of India. North Goa, specifically is best known for its eccentric clubs and beach shacks which witness crazy party day in and day out. Head to the trippy bars of Baga and Candolim or laze under the night sky at Anjuna's hippie cafes but remember, a trip to Goa is just not complete till the time you've really lived its nightlife. When in Rome, do as the Romans do!

Getting there

Here's how you can reach Saraya Ecostay from New Delhi:

By air: There are several direct flights starting ₹5,000 which connect New Delhi to Goa. Upon getting down at Goa's Dabolim Airport, hire a local cab to reach Saraya Ecostay in another hour(35km).

By train: One can also catch a train from New Delhi right up to Goa, a journey that takes anywhere between 24-30 hours. There are several daily trains that can get you to Madgaon, Goa's busiest railway station. Upon getting down at Madgaon, hire a shared cab to reach Saraya Ecostay in another hour and a half (45km).

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