Discover the charm of Oleander Farms: the perfect getaway for foodies and anthophiles

Have you ever felt like a hamster on a wheel, checking off tasks off your task list as you go through your incessant daily routine day after day? It's like the movie Groundhog Day where you relive the same day again and again, but sans the cute furry animals and the charming small-town feel.

After weeks of feeling like I needed a change of pace, I finally decided to take a break. And this getaway to Oleander Farms in Karjat could not have come at a better time. Karjat is renowned for its serenity and idyllic sceneries, so it really doesn’t come as a surprise that my initial moments at Oleander Farms were spent by me being awestruck by the peaceful and natural beauty that surrounded the property. The lush greenery, crisp air and the serene ambiance is just the beginning of many things that will instantly put you at ease, during the course of your stay here. Not missing out on this opportunity, I chose to spend my days exploring the farm, lounging in a hammock, and indulging in delicious farm-to-table meals. It was the perfect escape from the daily grind, and a reminder that sometimes all we need is a change of scenery to recharge and rejuvenate.

If you too choose to head to Oleander Farms for that much needed break, you without a doubt have made the right and probably the best decision. And while I urge you to try everything that falls under the gambit of relaxing here, these are some memorable highlights from my experience that you should definitely not miss out on. Keep reading.

Lunch at Saltt
Dining at Saltt, Oleander Farms’ in-house restaurant, was undoubtedly one of the highlights of my getaway. Saltt has gained a reputation for its delicious farm-to-table cuisine and it was easy to see why people travel all the way from Mumbai or Pune just to eat here. The menu features an enticing mix of Indian, European, and Asian dishes, each bursting with flavour and made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has both indoor and and alfresco seating, with views of the verdant gardens adding to the relaxed ambiance. I was particularly impressed with the attentive and friendly staff, including our server, Rohit, who provided prompt service throughout our meal. The wood-fired pizzas were a standout, topped with fresh produce from the farm. The small bar had an impressive range of drinks, and I savoured a sleek and sophisticated cocktail to cap off my meal. And the perfect finale to my dining experience was the indulgent tres leches, fully soaked in a mixture of milk and condensed milk, and utterly divine.

Coffee House
I am definitely a huge caffeine aficionado.. And so the presence of a dedicated Coffee House was definitely a reason to fall in love with the place. Conveniently located in the centre of the property, the Coffee House is surrounded by other restaurants and amenities. They serve the classic brews, of which I enjoyed a decadent mocha, along with a refreshing tropical smoothie. Sporting a charming and cosy atmosphere with comfortable seating and a relaxed vibe, this spot even had a small lawn area that was perfect for hosting small parties or even birthdays for your beloved furry friends. It was heartening to see that Oleander Farms catered to all kinds of guests and went above and beyond to make their stay comfortable and enjoyable.

I enjoyed the serene surroundings, grateful for the chance to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of life, as I sipped my heavenly coffee.



Common House
The Common House is another on-site restaurant at Oleander Farms. The rustic and inviting decor, combined with the heavenly aroma of food, made for a delightful dining experience. We opted for the Chicken Ghee Roast with Tomato Naan, which was packed with hardcore Indian flavours. The classic brownie we had for dessert was the perfect end to a satisfying meal. Their cocktail menu is particularly impressive, with many drinks featuring traditional Indian ingredients like kokum and tamarind. It was a refreshing change from the typical cocktail fare. The attentive and friendly staff, combined with the delicious food and drinks, made for a memorable dining experience.

The Stay
Oleander Farms offered great hospitality and comfortable rooms, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. The rooms were spacious and tastefully decorated, with many featuring large balconies overlooking either the garden or the pool. It was the ideal spot to relax and unwind, soaking up the tranquil surroundings. The constant chirping of birds provided a soothing soundtrack that made me forget all about the hustle and bustle of city life. As we entered our room, I was delighted to see that it had been beautifully prepared for our arrival. And after indulging in all the soulful food at Saltt, a quick nap in the cosy confines of our room was just what we needed. Upon waking up, I felt energised and ready to explore more of the property. I decided to take a refreshing dip in the pool, which was surrounded by nothing but trees and lush greenery.

Other Amenities
Apart from the on-site amenities, Oleander Farms also offers a range of activities and experiences that make for a well-rounded vacation. One such activity is wine tasting at Vintage Wines, which boasts a collection of world-class wines. As you enter the winery, you are greeted by a cool boutique store filled with antiques, making for a delightful shopping experience. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to visit the Coco Cart for some delectable chocolates. For those interested in fashion, the Akashi Boutique offers a range of cotton wear that's perfect for the hot and humid weather. Additionally, there's a store that sells natural honey, turmeric and ghee, perfect for those who want to take a little something from Oleander Farms back home. They also have a gaming zone should you and your company need to pass time. Whether you're looking to play a game of pool or table tennis, the options at the gaming zone are aplenty.

Finally, the Kensho Greenery is a must-visit for plant enthusiasts, with a wide variety of plants that you can pick from to take back as a souvenir from your stay here. Honestly, with so much to see and do, it's impossible to be bored at a place as delightful and charming as Oleander Farms.