Remote Places by Incent by Incent Tours

Remote Places by Incent

Don't be satis ed with stories of how things have gone with others. Unfold your own myth.” — Jalal ad-Din Rumi

Destination Holidays We pride ourselves in working honestly and transparently. We do not advertise. Most of our business comes from satis ed customers referring us to their friends and industry colleagues. The moment a customer gives us a brief about her/his vacation plans, we start imagining how the trip will ow, most importantly, share our knowledge and experience. So why come to us? We’ll give you everything you need and help you create an exceptional holiday. We will take care of all your needs, answer all your questions. We understand time is a currency that cannot be passed on. It must be spent and we encourage you to spend it wisely. We are not for everyone. Our equity is our knowledge and experience. We want to monetise it. If you are more concerned about getting the best deal then we probably aren't the guys you should be talking to. But if you like being cared for, being pampered, and indulged and want a memorable holiday, then get in touch.

Every now and then it’s important to put your feet up and let someone else take the strain. You owe it to yourself.

A dwelling in the Aravalli, a Palace in the tribal lands, a villa overlooking the Arabian Sea, a 270year-old fort Palace blessed by a sacred river and a quiet place by the river. These destinations are all unique in character, style and substance. We present ten carefully chosen destinations that are private and exclusive, where you'll be safe and secure. We recommend a minimum of 04 nights at these destinations excluding your travel days. You can either book a room or take a partial/complete buyout of the lodging, these places are well-suited for individuals, couples or families travelling together. If you want to be by yourselves, then these are the perfect hideaways.

Accessibility: The nearest airport to these remote places can be as close as 15 km or as far away as 200 km. But let that not worry you. You’ll be picked up and dropped off in a chauffeur-driven air-conditioned vehicle. If you plan to sit behind the wheel yourself, we'll provide the best possible road route to reach the hideaways.

How to book a Remote Place? 1. Call us and set a meeting. An in-person meeting would help us understand your preferences better. 2. Discuss your holiday. Tell us what you are looking for, these hideaways are just a mood board and there's plenty in the vault. 3. Look at ideas. We will share options for both hideaways and experiences. It all depends on the time and duration of the journey and, on your taste. 4. Make Reservations. We need a list of your requirements, from dietary to bed types. The more information we have the better the hideaway can look after you. 5. Booking con rmations. We will process the booking and communicate the itemized costs and provide a detailed program. 6. Direct Payment. You'll make the payment directly to the concerned lodge. 7. Fine-tuning. If there are any last-minute revisions, we will help you with them.

8. Hit the road. We'll be around, whenever you need us during or after your journey.

Why Incent? • Human touch. You'll have one point of contact who will remain available, rather than talking to a chatbot. • Experienced. We have been to all the places we suggest, stayed there and have audited them. • Relationships. We know the owners and lodge managers directly, which has its own advantages. • Destination Knowledge. It’s not just about booking a hotel. We help put together the best experiences, give you insider tips, route planning etc. • Transparency. You will know what you're paying for and you'll be paying directly to the lodges. There’s no ne print and there are no hidden costs. • Privacy. We will not spam your email with offers and discounts after your journey. We’d like to keep in touch occasionally and request that you visit our website regularly. • Flexibility. That's what you need right now and we'll suggest the best way around at the time of changes. • Unusual Requests. Whatever it may be, if it's logistically possible, we will get it done. • Peace of mind. We know people on the ground, and in case of any unforeseen events, we'll be there for you. • Surprise. All the bookings have an element of surprise, especially in our country where you can expect the unexpected.

• Trip, not guilt-trip. We would include an activity that would help you reduce the carbon footprint or contribute to the local environment/community directly

.The Mountbatten Lodge. R ANAK P UR - R AJ STHAN - IN DIA

A Cigar a cionado and an incurable Jazz addict, Reggie Singh is a raconteur and a larger than life personality both physically and otherwise. A true Rajput host whose love for the outdoors brought him to the Ranakpur valley where he built his labour of love, Mountbatten Lodge. Named after India’s last Viceroy, this four bedroomed villa is an intimate hiding space nestled in the Aravali Hills offering the elegance of the colonial times in the Indian countryside.

How to get there:

The Lodge is around 02 hrs drive from Udaipur airport and 03 hours drive from Jodhpur airport. Both Udaipur and Jodhpur airports are well-connected from Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Bengaluru.

Things to do: • If you're spiritually inclined, be part of an elaborate prayer ceremony at the Jain Temple dedicated to Adinath. • If you're a wanderer, then hike through past the hamlets into the Aravalli forest and walk on the ramparts of the Kumbhalgarh fort. • If you're a carnivore, then take a Jeep ride through the countryside where you can encounter the Leopards of the Aravallis or the Grey Wolf . • If you're simply a pleasure seeker, then we'll serve you a Bloody Mary under the Banyan Tree.

.KATHIWADA PALACE. KATHIWA DA - M AD HYA PRAD ESH - I NDI A

A royal hunting lodge turned into an upscale retreat, Kathiwada Raaj Mahal is a unique hideaway, physically (and, socially) distant place in the thickets of Madhya Pradesh. The drive on the crumbly roads leading to Kathiwada is worth it once you reach the gates of Raaj Mahal. Sangita Kathiwada has opened her abode ( a milky coloured magni cent villa) that she has aesthetically designed. The interiors here are a stark contrast with the surrounding landscapes with the otherwise mud architecture. Across the garden is a huge swimming pool for afternoon dips, open verandahs look over the countryside, the in-house library stocks more than 2000 books.

How to get there:

The Palace is around 02 hours 30 minutes drive from Vadodara airport, which is well connected to Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.

Things to do: • For the culture vultures, the ancient unearthed site of Champaner and Pavagadh consisting of mosques and temples are just 100 km away. • For the adventure seekers, there’s a guided trek through the wilderness to the waterfalls and a visit to the sanctuary of Sloth Bears and Leopards. • For the human touch, walk through the tribal settlements, peeking inside the mud house laden with Pithora paintings.

• For the textile enthusiasts, the town of Bagh, famous for its cotton prints, is a couple of hours away and a bit further are the Bagh Caves, one of the rar s specimen of rock-cut structure in India dug out during the 5th and 6th centuries.

.QUIET BY THE RIVER. NE R IAM ANGAL AM- K ERALA - IND IA

The name is too literal and describes the place as is. Surrounded by the Malayattor reserve forest by the Periyar River, Quiet by the River is a place to experience nature without a lter. Just reaching the places involves a 30-minute drive through the rugged forest terrain, and then a short ride in the country canoe to reach your destination. Life at Quiet by the River offers the opportunity to enjoy a slow-paced environment, surrounded by the wilderness and observed from the independent cottages. The menu changes daily, and the chef will introduce you to the authentic and forgotten recipes of Kerala and fresh sh from the Periyar river. How to get there:

Kochi airport is an hour’ drive from the retreat and the airport is well connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Bangalore.

Things to do: • Take a country canoe to the middle of the river, and watch the sun setting behind the forest canopy, surrounded by the sounds and smell of nature. • For nature lovers, walk through the woods and nearby islands to spot the wildlife and 250 species of birds inhabiting Malayattoor. • For those who seek simple pleasures in life, look at the gazillion stars in the clear night sky, swim in the in nity pool or even take a dip in the natural pools around the lodge.

• If you are a thrill-seeker, take a night walk around the island and discover the nocturnal inhabitants of the forest, like owls, civet cats and other creatures.

.Kahani Paradise. GO KAR NA - KARN ATKA - I N DI A

Kahani paradise screams luxury, yet subtly. With 06 beautifully designed suites including antique handcrafted doors and customised textiles, a luxurious sea-facing drawing room, a large in nity pool and an impressive dining space with views over the vast jungle and a shing harbour, Kahani’s location is simply too stunning. Spend a night in one of their Villas all by yourself and enjoy the solitude.

How to get there: Goa airport is at 03 hours 30 minutes drive from the resort and the airport is well connected with major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Bangalore. fi

A secret place, a hidden Gem. We can attribute any number of sobriquets to it. Set amidst 20 acres of gorgeous gardens and rolling farmlands, everything about

Things to do: • For the spiritual: Ride a bike or hop into an open jeep to explore the medieval town of Gokarna town, its ancient temples and the famous OM beach. • For the road runner: Reach the shing harbour at Honnavar through back roads, where the Sharavati river drains into the Arabian sea. Then take a cruise upstream in a re-modelled shing boat. • Explore the unique mangroves of Gokarna and get on a cruise through the Aginashini river estuary, one of the richest mangrove species in Karnataka. • Take a day excursion to the Yana Rock to visit the cave temple or to Murudeshwar, home to the second biggest statue of Lord Shiva in the world.

• Stroll on the paradise beach for the slow-paced days or enjoy a session of open-air massage to unload any pains and aches.

.Ahilya Fort.

MAHE SHWAR - MADHYA P RADESH - IN DIA

Timeless. Maheshwar, the city on the banks of the sacred Narmada and its perched beauty, Ahilya Fort are the true personi cation of the word. Lovingly restored by Prince Richard Holkar, this 300-year-old Fort could be a perfect epic drama with the history, location, and characters. And, the lead is the materne of the house, Kunta Bai. The fort is aesthetically laid out with a gorgeous pool lush gardens and, 18 tastefully designed rooms, each different from the other. If you want to encounter old India at its best, then Maheshwar ts the bill.

How to get there:

Indore airport is a 2-hour drive from Maheshwar. It's well connected by air to major cities in India including Delhi and Mumbai.

Things to do: • Hear the sleepy town of Maheshwar wake up every day to the chant of mantras, and rituals and stroll through the ghats as you see the daily life unfolds. • Take an excursion to the hinterland, the historic town of Mandu replete with palaces, mosques, and cenotaphs. • Appreciate a magical sunset boat trip to the centre of the Earth, the Baneshwar temple in the middle of the river on a hand-pooled boat.

• Experience the lineage and nesse of the Maheshwari textile at the workshop of Rehwa Society with traditional wooden handlooms and dye houses.

.The Belgadia Palace. MAY UR B HANJ - ODIS A - IN DIA

The Belgadia Palace is re ective of royalty in modern times, keeping the lineage relevant and alive. The 18th-century Victorian era styled hill-top palace of the Bhanjdeo dynasty has been restored to its former glory and revamped into a boutique hotel to promote Tourism in the region and empower the people. With local community and sustainable development at the forefront, Akshita and Mrinalika Bhanjdeo, the hosts, let you in not only into their private residence but also the Hideaway that Orissa is.

How to get there:

The Belgadia Palace is around 04 hours 30 minutes drive from Kolkata airport, which is well connected to all major cities of India.

Things to do: • History lovers would adore a walk of the town to visit pre-colonial-era buildings and structures such as the airstrip, and the former Myurbhanj State Palace. • Pay a visit to the Santhal tribal village , visit their tribal haat and experience their daily lives and traditions and witness age-old art forms such as Dhokra and Sabai Grass. • Foray in Simlipal National Park, distinguished for its intensively dense forested lands, green vegetation and unique wildlife.

• Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the city of Haripur, the former capital of the state of Mayurbhan and witness Aarti ceremony at the 700-year-old Jagannath Temple.

.Sanctuary at Wandoor Beach. WAN DOO R - AN DAMAN - IN D IA

A raw and rustic jungle lodge with just four bedrooms, ample open spaces, and plenty of sunlight, Andaman Sanctuary is a "Hidden Gem". Viraj, your host, stays on the property, and is a walking encycolpedia on Andamans. Plus, it's an internet free zone. Then there's delicious home cooked food! Beach is around the corner, and sunsets over it can be seen from the balcony. It's THE place to calm your nerves amidst the nature. P.S. There are bugs & mosquitoes but are manageable.

How to get there: Wandoor is located 30 km east of Port Blaira and one-hour drive away via the Andaman Trunk road.

Things to do: • If you want to tick of the touristy stuff, visit the cellular jail in Port Blair or walk through the ruins of Ross Island, the rst British checkpoint of the island. • If you haven't had enough adventure, take a Kayaking session in the day or at night or walk with a Marine Biologist to explore the nearby Chidiya Tapu. • To understand the contemporary issues signi cant to the islands, visit the Andaman Nicobar Environment Team (ANET) centre that promotes ecological and social research and spearhead several on-ground projects focused on the preservation of biodiversity, improving local livelihoods, and much more. From there, go on for a short cruise in an authentic ‘dungi’ off North Wandoor wildlife.

• The last day on this far- ung island will be at leisure and you can indulge in various activities and excursions or choose to stay in the sanctuary, read a book and day drink.

.HAPPY HOUSE. P HAPLU - NEPAL

At 2,500 meters above sea level in the remote eastern Himalaya, The Happy House sits amid pine trees, rhododendron forests, and ancient yak trading route. Secluded by pine groves near the village of Phaplu, this traditional Sherpa house has long been a salon for the mountain literati. This is where Sir Edmund Hillary, the summitconquering Everest climber, used to stay on his return visits to the Himalayas. Now run by the Sherpa family who built it, the house can be taken over for high-altitude adventures of your own. After a graceful restoration made over with all modern comforts and the necessary upgrades, the lodge now has 10 rooms and can accommodate 20 guests. How to get there:

An hour long helicopter ight out of Kathmandu enjoying close-up views by helicopter of eastern Himalayan giants—including Mount Everest.

Things to do: • With a yoga master on hand, reconnect with nature and unwind after days exploring. • Go for monk-led meditation, and singing bowl therapy sessions • Camp atop the ridge line and watched dawn break as drums echoed through the valley below. • Go for mountain biking, crashing through rivers and down switchback paths or day hikes to remote monasteries and Sherpa villages. • Witnessed the spectacle of Mani Rimdu – one of the oldest Tibetan-Buddhist festivals in Nepal, when the monks wear costumes as richly embellished as an early Galliano show.

• Savour mouth-watering feasts served on copper plates using the nest produce such as homegrown vegetables and local yak meat.

.GANGTEY LODGE. P OB JHI KA VALLEY - B HUTAN

Bhutanese folktales have been passed on orally for generations. You can nd these tales of wisdom on your pillow each night at the Gangtey Lodge. An old traditional farmhouse that Khin, Brett and Yeshey have restored to its original state in the remote Pobjhika valley. They named this boutique luxury hotel, after the town where it is situated. It’s 12 suites are elegantly decorated in the vernacular style on two oors and offer spectacular views of the valley which is also the place of refuge for the very rare black-necked cranes. There’s no Spa, but the lodge will set one up for you upon request. In your room. Certainly not to be missed. Chic yet unusual.

How to get there:

Fly to Paro by Druk Air ight from Delhi or Kolkata and take helicopters to get to Gangtey Valley.

• Find spirituality through morning prayers at the Shedra (Monks College • Join a meditation class with the Lama at the 17th century Gangtey Goenpa (monastery) • Spend your day at the neighbourhood farm. • Engaging in a game of archery and darts (Bhutan’s national sports). • Head to the timber and stone bathhouse complete with a traditional Bhutanese wooden tub lled with mineral-rich water and placed next to the huge glass windows that capture panoramic views of the peaceful valley below. • Head out for a chance to spot the world’s rarest migratory birds – the Black-Necked Crane as it stops through the valley on its journey from Tibet. • Savour mouth-watering feasts served on copper plates using the nest produce such as homegrown vegetables and local yak meat.

Things to do:

.LUNUGANGA. BE NTOTA - SRI LAN KA

Geoffrey Bawa was one of the most in uential architects of his generation. In the 1940s, he bought an abandoned rubber plantation on the Southwest coast of Sri Lanka which later became his residence. It stands till date as Lunuganga. Bawa incorporated minimal design elements in his structures long before it became fashionable. This tropical paradise with lily ponds, frangipani trees, and romantic pavilion comes with glorious lake views. The six antique rooms are lled with Dutch furniture, natural light & space along with antiques and artworks from Bawa’s personal collection. The glass room here is plain stunning. This is one of Sri Lanka’s nest spaces. Period. How to get there:

Colombo is well connected by ight from major Indian cities and a two hour long drive from Bandaranaike International Airport at Colombo will get you to Lunuganga.

Things to do: • Wander through Lunuganga Estate to discover elements of Italian Renaissance gardens, English landscaping, Japanese garden art, & the water gardens of ancient Sri Lanka, • Bask on soft golden sands and under the shade of swaying coconut palms. Swim in the turquoise Indian Ocean and discover a new passion with ocean adventures and a wide range of water sports at Bentota. • Take a private boat for a safari adventure up the ‘Maadu River’ to explore the preserved wildlife sanctuary and local communities • Drive to the village of Handunugoda (1 hr & 20 minutes drive one way) to visit a low country tea plantation Handunugoda Tea Estate which is perhaps be the closest tea plantation in the world to the sea.

• A 60 min transfer will get you to the Galle Fort, founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, it’s the best example of a forti ed city built by Europeans in South and South-East Asia, showing the interaction between European architectural styles and South Asian traditions.

Your style of fantasy, at your kind of pace.

Get in touch with us or WhatsApp Nagesh at GSM : +91 98 101 81062 e: team@incent-tours.com w: www.incent-tours.com