Oleander Farms: A magical monsoon getaway in Karjat

As someone who has lived through countless monsoons in Mumbai, I’ve grown accustomed to the chaos that the season brings—waterlogging, endless traffic, and the general inconvenience of navigating the city in torrential rain. Yet, just a short drive away, the monsoon transforms into something entirely different, almost magical, especially at a place like Oleander Farms in Karjat. Unlike the city’s chaotic rains, the monsoon here feels like a gentle embrace from nature. The hills come alive with a vibrant green, and the lakes shimmer under the cloudy skies. Even a simple walk around the property turns into a sensory delight, with the fresh scent of rain and the soothing sounds of nature all around.

The journey itself is a prelude to the escape. As you leave behind the urban sprawl and ascend into the hills, the air becomes crisper, the scenery more lush, and the promise of tranquility ever more tangible. Driving up to Oleander Farms, the stress of city life began to melt away, replaced by a sense of awe and calm.

The first thing that struck me upon arrival was the sheer expanse of the property. Spanning 180 acres, Oleander Farms is a tapestry of panoramic hills, verdant greenery, and serene lakes. It’s the kind of place where every corner invites you to pause and take in the natural beauty. The Ahuja family, who started this luxury farm resort, has crafted a space that feels both luxurious and intimately connected to nature.

On reaching my room, I remember opening the balcony doors to an expansive view of the lake, with two ducks endearingly gliding across the water. It was a scene straight out of a postcard. In fact, everywhere I seemed to look felt exactly like that. The green archways with winding cobbled paths, the clouds emptying themselves into a rippled lake, each stone wall, wicker seat, and wooden table. Most of my first day there was spent admiring this un-insistent beauty.

By the time the sun set and my eyes had finally familiarised myself with the property, it was already time for dinner: yet another experience to take my breath away. A meal at Saltt, Oleander Farms’ multi-cuisine restaurant, had been on my radar for the past two years. Friends and family would rave about their day trips just to dine there, and I never quite understood the allure—until I of course, experienced it myself. We were spoiled for choice with a menu spanning continental, Indian, and Pan Asian cuisines, and we settled on an Italian spread. After a heavy filling of gnocchi, ravioli, and bruschetta, we ended the meal with not one, not two, but three desserts. I cannot attest for the entire menu (though I intend on it with a couple of more visits) but I can most certainly attest for the airy Tres Leches, the rich Salted Caramel Mousse, and the light yet scrumptious Panna Cotta.

There wasn’t much I could do after a meal like that so I felt sound asleep only to wake up the next morning to something wonderfully special. A sunrise at this property is really all Mumbai or Pune folk need to rejuvenate for a new week at work. As if this wonderful sight with a cup or two of herbal tea wasn’t enough, the resort continues to expand on its amenities, committed to curating the most perfect getaway for their guests.

As I explored their new amenities—the state-of-the-art Sohum Spa, the breweries, and the Padel Ball court—I realised just how much this place had evolved. What started as a beloved restaurant has grown into a premier destination for luxury staycations and weddings, all while maintaining its original charm and commitment to nature. One of the most thoughtful touches I appreciated was the availability of golf carts to ferry guests around the property, ensuring we stayed dry even during the heaviest downpours. It’s these little details that make Oleander Farms stand out, blending luxury with a deep respect for the natural environment.

Leaving Oleander Farms, I felt recharged, my spirit lifted by the serene beauty and thoughtful hospitality. It’s a place that redefines the monsoon experience, turning a season often dreaded into one eagerly anticipated.