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How did Dharā come into existence?

Dharā Ecovillage was born when Ashutosh, after studying and working in the UK and walking across India's Konkan belt, saw his villagers being left behind—their skills unused, pushed by poor literacy and few opportunities into migrating to cities like Mumbai, disconnected from their land and culture.harā Ecovillage was born when Ashutosh, after studying and working in the UK and walking across India's Konkan belt, saw his villagers being left behind—their skills unused, pushed by poor literacy and few opportunities into migrating to cities like Mumbai, disconnected from their land and culture.

Believing change begins in the classroom, he started a library in the village school, which grew into the Nature School. The first real breakthrough came when a young man chose to stay back and pursue carpentry, leading to the Dharā Wood Workshop. To showcase sustainable tourism rooted in traditional living, "Digital Detox" and "Village Immersion" batches were introduced—offering urban visitors a slow-living experience while bringing income to the village.

Today, we work with villagers on ecological conservation, river rejuvenation, curbing plastic pollution, organic farming, and building awareness of their rights and entitlements as citizens.

Dharā Digital Detox

In this fast-paced life, to slow down, to give time to regulate your nervous system, is not just important, it's extremely necessary. But now imagine, what if this can be done while generating a livelihood for the villagers, while also promoting farming, conservation, tradition, local economy while mitigating urban migration?

So here's your chance to live like the villagers, understand the local ecology, learn about digital detox by getting away from the screens and internet and learn more and support the local culture.

We conduct regular workshops, that you can attend by clicking on the link below.

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Explore Dharā Wood Workshop

Urban migration will only stop when we create economic opportunities in the villages. Having this thought in mind, we came up with the wood workshop.

This is a perfect way to blend in traditional skills while putting value on artisanal craft. We asked ourselves this question - Why can't the skilled carpenters be artisans?

Ever since its inception, the Dharā Wood Workshop has reached many corners of the India and also mesmerised a Tech Conference in the United States.

You can buy our best selling products which are made using locally available wood and coconut shells and carved with love and care.

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Nature School

Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn't. The children in our villages are every bit as capable as their urban peers; they simply haven't had the same doors opened for them. With this in mind, Ashutosh, along with Diwadkar Madam and the teachers of the Zilla Parishad School, started a library and later transformed that space into a weekly "Nature School."

The space is built and maintained by the children themselves. Here, they learn about the world beyond their syllabus and meet people from different parts of the globe, broadening their horizons in the process. They explore waste segregation, organic farming, local ecology, and the practical skills needed to thrive in a village—and they're introduced to entrepreneurship too.

Don't be surprised if you meet them and are greeted with a cheerful "bonjour" or "au revoir."

If you'd like to support this project or make a donation, please get in touch with us.

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What our guests are saying

Vaishnavi Dalvi

I recently had the most refreshing experience at Dhara in Narvan, Guhagar, a true hidden gem in the heart of Konkan. With no network, no distractions, and just the sounds of nature all around, it was the digital detox I didn’t know I desperately needed. Waking up to the chirping of birds, enjoying delicious home-cooked meals, and watching the stars at night reminded me how healing it is to slow down and simply be. If you're looking to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with yourself, I can't recommend this place enough.

Piyush Nishandar

We all need a break from digital world hence I would strongly recommend "Digital Detox" programme conducted by Mr. Ashutosh Joshi, a young enthu guy. He has good knowledge of varied things such as bird species, trees & also ocean near by his village. There is no network coverage so no disturbance at all. You can literally skip phone usage if youre not selfie lover/addict. Nature trail, Blue water at one of the spots is truly mesmerising. Can't stop praising this place. Worth giving a try.

Nathalie Nolden

Last week I visited dharā village for the first time, and it was truly unforgettable. Ashutosh welcomed us with such warmth that we immediately felt at home. We experienced the village life, enjoyed beautiful nature walks, visited a local school and learned so much from his thoughtful explanations along the way. The people in the village were welcoming and incredibly kind-hearted. Also, the food was delicious. The whole atmosphere invited us to slow down. We didn’t use our phones and simply lived in the present moment, which helped us unwind from the fast-paced life. I wholeheartedly recommend visiting this beautiful village. This place will forever have a special place in my heart.

Nurturing the Earth from Within

Regenerative Soils

We foster a living ecosystem beneath the surface. Using no-till methods and natural composting, we ensure our land grows more fertile with every harvest cycle.

Heirloom Diversity

Preserving the past to secure the future. We exclusively grow non-GMO, heirloom varieties that have been adapted to our local climate over generations.

Seasonal Flow

We work in harmony with land's natural tempo. From monsoon planting to winter harvests, every season offers a unique gift from the earth

Spotlights

FAQs

Where is Dharā located?

Dharā Ecovillage is located in a village called Narvan in Guhagar Taluka.

Is Dharā Ecovillage a Hotel or a weekend getaway?

No. Dharā Ecovillage is more of a community based space that is spread around a village. We do have an eco-living space where you can experience a slow-paced village life.

Why can't I drink or smoke at Dharā?

The idea behind starting Dharā, was to respect the local community. Smoking and drinking is not a huge part of the village culture. Plus, we work with young kids and hence its a norm to stay away from these activities when you are at Dharā.

What mobile networks work at Dharā Ecovillage?

Narvan only has BSNL network on a few days of the month. None of the other networks work out here. Although, we do have a wifi here. But, we encourage people to stay away from internet while visiting us. That way you can have a more immersive experience.

I am travelling past Narvan, can I come for a day visit?

Usually it is better to let us know beforehand if you are planning on visiting us. We take a fee of 500/- per person. You can send a whatsapp text if you are planning on a day-visit

Lets Connect With Nature

How did Dharā come into existence?

How did Dharā come into existence?

Dharā Digital Detox

Dharā Digital Detox

Explore Dharā Wood Workshop

Explore Dharā Wood Workshop

Nature School

Nature School

What our guests are saying

What our guests are saying

Vaishnavi Dalvi

Piyush Nishandar

Nathalie Nolden