A Weekend Getaway at Fazlani Nature’s Nest Lonavala
- Amy
- May 12
- 5 min read
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The wedding madness had ended, and everyone had scattered back to their homes. After three days of Mumbai’s unforgiving summer heat, struggling in and out of wedding lehengas that made us feel like we were ploughing fields, we desperately needed a breather.
I skimmed through a dozen options for a quick escape from Mumbai’s chaos and stumbled upon this gem, a luxurious nature retreat just two and a half hours from Navi Mumbai, tucked into the hill station of Lonavala.
Fazlani Nature’s Nest, also called Fazlani Wellness Retreat, looked like a spa for the soul. Endless greenery, serene views of the Sahyadri mountains, a peaceful lake, and a bonus, it had tons of activities to keep the kids busy. We booked ourselves a stay and packed off for a weekend getaway.
The drive was smooth and scenic, with the ghats tempting us to stop for snacks, which we heroically resisted in favor of lunch at the retreat.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed with refreshing masala lime juice and a quick tour before a buggy whisked us away to our rooms. Spread across seventy-five acres, with about seventy rooms ranging from garden-facing to lake-view villas, the property was an absolute stunner. The Sahyadris framed the backdrop beautifully, and I could only imagine how magical it would get during the cooler months.
If I could change one thing, though, it would be the rooms. The Standard garden View rooms at Fazlani Nature’s Nest are simple and functional, nothing too fancy, but clean and comfortable. Our room in Chinar was a bit on the smaller side, though, and I quickly realized that the real charm of the place is to spend time outside, with plenty of gardens and open spaces to explore. For me, the room had everything I needed, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. It wasn’t too modern or rustic — just very basic, and I found myself wishing for a bit more character. Maybe I’m just used to a little more luxury! Looking back, I think I would have been happier in one of the more indulgent options, like the Lake View Villas or Premium Lake View Villas. These suites are spacious (600 sq. ft.), with private jacuzzis and living areas. The views of the lake are stunning, and I believe the decor has Italian furniture and Malaysian art. That surely adds a touch of elegance that feels more relaxing and luxurious.
Tariff:
Standard Garden View Rooms: ₹17,000 to ₹20,000 per night (including meals and select activities)
Lake View Villas and Premium Villas: ₹25,000 to ₹35,000 per night, depending on the package and inclusions
Next stop was lunch at The Hive, the lake-facing restaurant. We initially aimed for à la carte but the buffet looked too good to pass up. With farm-fresh produce and a generous spread of vegetarian and vegan options, it was an easy, delicious choice. Even in the afternoon heat, the outdoor seating stayed breezy and pleasant, although there is an air-conditioned indoor section if you prefer.
Post-lunch, we bolted to the cycling zone while I eyed the hammocks and kathiyas (desi beds) in the garden. I made a mental note that it would be perfect for post-dinner chilling.
Across the way stood the Amarine Medi Spa, offering massages, hydrotherapy, chromotherapy, and a full fitness center. We signed up for an Abhyanga massage later in the day, but first, kid duties called.
The retreat runs a wide list of activities such as goat milking, horse riding, glass painting, pottery, yoga, and more. Some are complimentary, others chargeable. If I could mention a small gripe, the horse riding (₹500 plus taxes per head) was just a short round in the arena, and goat milking (₹100 plus taxes per head) lasted barely two minutes. It felt a bit steep, especially considering longer activities like pottery and glass painting cost about the same. Still, the kids had a blast, and the staff — mostly students from Fazlani International School located on-site — were patient, sweet, and helpful.
Later, I sent the kids off swimming with their dad and grandfather, while Amma and I snuck away for that much-anticipated Abhyanga massage. It was pure bliss. The Malayali masseuses were absolute pros, offering a full body, head, and foot massage, followed by steam and a cup of herbal tea, all for a reasonable ₹3500 for seventy-five minutes. Hands down, one of the best massages I have had outside of Bali.
After that heavenly session and a long bath, we were absolutely famished. Dinner at The Hive was pure indulgence, with a sprawling buffet, live pasta station, chaat counter, and even a sizzling roti counter. Bellies full, I stretched out under the cloudy sky on a hammock, listening to my kids’ giggles echoing in the background. It was pure, peaceful bliss.
The next morning was meant for Yoga at the amphitheater, perfectly positioned to catch the sunrise over the lake and the Sahyadris. However, having forgotten to pack my sweatpants, I opted instead for a refreshing morning walk. Coffee in hand, I soaked up the early sun before heading toward the reception.
Near the reception, I stumbled upon a lively goat pen, home to a herd of goats and their adorable kids, lovingly cared for. Just across stood a stable with about eighteen to twenty horses and their foals, alongside a neat horse-riding arena. The clubhouse nearby buzzed with indoor games such as carrom, table tennis, and chess, perfect for some family time.
Walking further, I passed the sprawling school grounds used for football and cricket, and the design studio where all the artsy magic happens. Closer to the accommodation clusters were the meditation amphitheater, spa, restaurant, café, organic farm, and swimming pool, all beautifully tucked into the greenery.
The Fazlani International School is located right inside the property and adds a special touch to the whole retreat experience. It is a co-ed day and boarding school where students not only focus on academics but also learn about caring for the environment, animals, and wellness. Many of the young helpers who guide guests during activities like goat milking, horse riding, and pottery are actually students from this school. They get real-life experience while helping out, which brings a lot of warmth and authenticity to the retreat. We loved seeing how much heart they put into everything.
It is a lush, expansive property that I can only imagine becomes even more breathtaking once the monsoon or winter chill sets in. If you're interested in this retreat and would like to know more about it, head to their website Fazlani's Nature Nest.
Fun fact: Fazlani Nature’s Nest is owned by Dr. Abdul Kader Fazlani, with their registered office located on the 21st floor of the Nirmal Building, Nariman Point, Mumbai.
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