Nestled along Maharashtra’s Konkan coastline lies Ayra Farms, a tranquil farmstay born from a chef’s vision to preserve her family’s ancestral land with sustainable living and authentic local flavors.
- 4.5-acre farmstay with cottages, gardens, and organic farming
- Seasonal, homemade Maharashtrian meals inspired by family recipes
- Ongoing community water project improves local groundwater
What happened
Ayra Farms is located about six hours from Mumbai on a 4.5-acre stretch of ancestral land in Guhagar, Maharashtra. The dream began in 2014 when journalist Rajan Chaughule decided to create a farmhouse on the family property, which had deep roots tracing back to his great-grandfather, a local zamindar. Despite initial skepticism from others, Rajan and his wife Sadhana committed to transforming the land into a sustainable living space rather than a typical vacation home.
In 2020, during the global COVID-19 pandemic, their daughter Noopur was unable to return to her work in Toronto and gave birth while staying on the farm. This life event strengthened her connection to the land and inspired her to take the project forward. Today, Ayra Farms hosts guests in comfortable cottages and tents, surrounded by organic gardens and spaces designed to thrive amidst the region’s heavy monsoon rains.
Why it feels good
Ayra Farms offers more than just a place to stay—it embodies a lifestyle grounded in heritage, nature, and thoughtful sustainability. Food plays a central role here, with Noopur integrating recipes from her mother along with local Maharashtrian traditions and influences from her experiences abroad. Guests enjoy seasonal meals made from fresh produce grown right on the farm, creating a genuine farm-to-table connection.
Beyond hospitality, the farm supports its community through an innovative water project around a nearby dam, which has notably improved groundwater quality and availability. This mix of personal legacy and community impact underlines a hopeful, regenerative path forward for rural living along the Konkan Coast.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors to Ayra Farms can explore its trails, take part in organic farming activities, and relax in the airy, monsoon-friendly cottages. The farmstead’s focus on eco-conscious design enhances the experience, making it a refreshing break from urban life. Plans for expanding the site include eco-friendly homes, a yoga center, a community kitchen, and workshops—further enriching the welcoming spirit of this special place.
Named after Noopur’s daughter, Ayra Farms carries a promise of heritage and hope for future generations. Along with offering a slow, immersive Konkan retreat, the farmstay encourages guests to embrace sustainable living and a deeper relationship with the land, inspiring many who visit to consider their own impact on nature.