It’s hard to imagine what Maharashtra looked like under the Maratha rule. The glory of those days might not reflect in the modern-life we live today, but you see glimpses of it along the Mumbai-Pune highway. The mighty Maratha forts reflect the might of the Maratha army, the wadas in Pune are an insight into the traditional but grand living of those times. And naturally, the food sings of local ingredients and cooking techniques that have been used for eons.
It’s hard to find that kind of life and experience it in present day. But there’s a boutique resort near Lonavala that’s aiming to offer that royal Maratha experience. Inspired by the transit camps that were common during the Maratha Empire, Chavni (meaning transit camps in Marathi) is a boutique resort near Lonavala. It’s proximity to Lohagad Fort gives the resort scenic views and a stay here puts you in the ideal setting to enjoy a weekend, a little like the Marathas used to.
Photo: Chavni
A stay at this resort is enough to make you fall in love with the rolling green hills and the landscape of Lonavala. Sitting at the foothills of Lohagad, Chavni has all modern-day amenities but an old-world charm to it as it is inspired by the transit camps and cantonment from the 16th Century. You can immerse yourself in the glorious art and architecture of the Maratha Empire. The property also boasts of a small museum showcasing a private collection of original artefacts from Maratha and Peshwa time period.
To give you the true Maratha experience, the boutique resort has three style of rooms (naturally with varying tariffs too). You can choose to stay in Rahuti, which are royal tents that manage to offer you a glamping experience of sorts. The tents are equipped with modern-day amenities but hold the feel of a different era. Another option for stay include Royal Carts, these are designed as wayside bullock carts that offer a simple stay but you naturally won’t feel like you are sleeping in a cart. If you prefer a more luxurious stay, opt for the Yeshwant Wada, which is an expansive wada complete with wooden carvings and jalli work that Maratha wadas have been known for. Chavni aims to give you the experience that unassuming travellers did in days of the Maratha rule.
Photo: Chavni
And as it’s a resort sitting in the lap of nature, there are ample other experiences too you can indulge in. Chavni strives to offer experiences that inspire with various activities such as nature trails, fort expeditions and guided tours. For an additional fee, you can tr
The property also features an all-day dining restaurant, Randhanhaat which serves rustic yet authentic menu from various regions of Maharashtra. There’s a private fine dining space offering customised culinary experiences as well. And, Shamiana, a banqueting space with an elegant dinner deck and a luxurious infinity pool were you can wear the choicest swimwear and take a dip to further enjoy your stay..
