Surrounded by forest; in the lap of nature.
Pricing: USD 1000*
Duration: 7D/6N
Location: Western Ghats, Karnataka, India
Recommended time to visit: Oct-May*
About
Residency/Vacation
Leave your worries in the city, and step into this completely off-the-grid farm for the experience of a lifetime.
You will spend your time in the pottery studio, also located on the farm. The resident artist is an expert and is there to help you with anything you need. Focus on technique, form or improvements in your practice – the schedule is yours to manage.
Though the farm is remote, there are always people around, including the property manager. This week is completely yours to design as you please and work as hard as you want!
Location
Western Ghats, Karnataka
This pottery studio is located in the Western Ghats of Karnataka. It is accessible by road from Goa which is your port of transit.
From Goa, the host will organize for a pick-up. The road journey is around 2.5 hours so be prepared. However, once you step into this magical place in the middle of nowhere, prepare to be charmed! Do bring along your sense of adventure.
Pro Tip: Plan some time in Goa before or after. It’s an experience in itself! Ask for more details.
Season
What to expect/pricing
Time will pass quickly even when you’re far away from civilization and you might wonder how… There’s always a lot to do. But you can settle into your own pace. The studio access is any time you want, there are no hours or restrictions. Just walk in and work when you feel like it.
The price for the clay residency/vacation is USD 1000* for 7D/6N. Longer stays are welcome; do mention it in the form below for pricing. Please note the inclusions and exclusions.
The best season to travel is October to May. The peak summer and rainy seasons are best avoided.
Accommodation
Your abode
Though you’re in the middle of nowhere, we still want to make sure you’re comfortable. There are a couple of cabins, cottages and rooms – all comfortable and well-equipped – in the main building of the property.
There’s usually a breeze running through the day – the advantage of being in a forest area – and the nights are cool. Please note that there are no air-cons/heaters. Depending on your time of booking and availability, we will offer you the best option.
The food is all cooked fresh and farm-to-table is the theme!
Create to the sound of bird song! This unique off-the-beaten-path location will leave you enchanted.
You’re in charge of your vacation! Work at the pace you want once you plan what you want to focus on. The in-house resident artist will be there to help you with techniques, form and other assistance. And don’t miss exploring the area – there’s even a waterfalls on the property. Did we mention it’s a magical place?
YOUR WORKING environment
The studio has 2 kick wheels, amazing wheels for beginners, learning to throw and also for experienced throwers. There is a gas kiln which holds about 50 cups, so firing a few pieces by the end of the week, might be possible. You can explore the possibility during your stay! Clay dries fast and depending on how the first two days go, you can explore the possibility during your stay. Use of the studio is unlimited. The residency includes an hour of guidance/teaching a technique. You can use the rest of the day to practice further.
What to Expect
The bounty of nature is on full display in this gem of a place. It is ideal for people who enjoy communing with nature, being surrounded by nothing but the flora and fauna of the surrounding hills, flowing streams, and towering forests. You are encouraged to spend time exploring and discovering new sights and sounds around the farm! And there’s always someone around to help you with any questions or clarification. (Please note that this is not a resort or hotel!)
Food
The menus are planned keeping in mind the dietary needs of all guests, offering a healthy, fresh spread of mostly delicious vegetarian food.
Get spoiled everyday buffet-style dining beside the stream during the day and by the campfire in the evenings. No room service – we hope you’re not going to be spending much time there!
Surroundings
When not busy getting your hands muddy with clay, you are encouraged to explore the area on foot, gently exploring around on foot in birdwatching, following butterflies, sketching, swimming, or even challenging your balancing skills on the slackline. White-water rafting might be available in season!
Plenty to do. And yet… you can also choose to do nothing!
Inclusions and Exclusions
1
INCLUSIONS: The price of the 7D/6N package is 1000 USD for single occupancy-you will have your room. This includes studio use, accommodation and all meals at the retreat. Local sightseeing is also included, however, please check for longer excursions you might want to go on. Use of retreat facilities (e.g., studio space, common areas, yoga hall) and Wi-Fi. Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included. Please specify dietary requirements in advance. Firing/glazing: For shorter stays of a week, a bisque firing might be possible but please discuss it during your stay. For longer stays you can discuss firing your work and shipping (if required) at an additional cost.
Payment details be made directly to the host and the information will be shared when booking.
2
EXCLUSIONS: The price does not include airport transfers and any excursions that are not already included in the price. They can be organized for you at cost, depending on your flight, train and arrival details.
3
Personal: Any other expenses like snacks purchased on the road, bottled water, etc. are not included.
4
Medical/travel insurance is highly recommended and will be taken care of by the participant. Please check for any requirements in terms of insurance to ensure you’re covered for medical costs when travelling. Medical help and hospitals are accessible but please note that this is a rural area.
5
Travel to India: Please note that depending on your plans, I can help with your travel plan, extending it beyond the retreat should you wish to spend more time exploring the country. Please leave any requirements via the contact form. Booking ahead is highly recommended to get good deals on flights.
CANCELLATIONS: Please refer to our refunds/cancellation section on our FAQs page.