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A day spent in the lap of nature


The concept of eco-farms has been quite a rage for some time. It encourages a sustainable way of farming which works in harmony with the environment. It is estimated that farming accounts for close to 86% of Green House Gas emissions (source: Google) and there is a growing need to arrest these mal effects in whatever way possible.

Recently, the cab aggregator Ola has launched its line of e-scooters, the bookings for which were handled solely via an application developed for this purpose. None of the consumers showed an interest in test-driving the vehicle, which speaks of a shift in the way they have started to approach the buying process. Such is the power of the technology! It is the future and the customers are willing to go the extra mile in order to adopt it. After all, it leaves a softer carbon footprint on the planet. State governments are also offering umpteen subsidies and relaxation of road & registration tax rules in order to encourage adoption of Electric Vehicles.

Taking a cue from this, we decided to visit an Eco Farm last weekend at Dharbandora which goes by the name of NV EcoFarms. Spread over a burgeoning space of very many acres, its founders take pride in promoting the concept of Sustainable Agriculture & Tourism which thrives on preservation of traditional practices and incorporation of modern techniques while ensuring minimum damage to the environment.

The farm has a plethora of activities to offer ranging from zip-lining to cable rope walk, rappelling and mountain climbing. There is a natural pond which has been beautified and maintained using traditional water-harvesting techniques. My nephew had a good time frolicking in the icy waters while we relaxed with a pint of beer and delicious fried fish to go along with it. There were other activities like trekking, a tour of the spice plantation as well as developed gardens based on interesting concepts like zodiac signs. Did I mention that they have a delectable spread of Goan food to tantalise your taste buds? All of it for a meagre amount of Rs. 800 per person!

While we opted to spend our day at the property and return for the night, there are huts available for rent in case one wishes to spend the evening at this blissful haven. In that case, there are more activities like camping and bon-fires which can be enjoyed with your group of folks.

On a personal level, I cannot remember the last time I had managed to roam without a mask on in these pandemic-struck times, without the fear of being infected. While we ensured our faces were covered up when we interacted with the staff, it provided a much needed opportunity to unwind when we were by ourselves surrounded by the greenery, nestled in the lap of nature. We departed  feeling enveloped by a sense of calm and a truckload of memories to cherish for a lifetime.

 

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