Nestled in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Dharana at Shillim has quietly established itself as a distinctive wellness retreat. Contributor Katha Nauriyal checks in to its inviting décor – inspired by the region’s ancient spirit and natural landscapes…
Originally operated as a Hilton property, Dharna at Shillim has reimagined itself into a healing estate. Experiences here are individually tailored, guided by in-house doctors and health specialists. Guests can choose between long-term stays (a minimum of five nights) and shorter visits (one to three nights), designed for quick restoration.
Image credit: Dharana at Shillim
The retreat’s backdrop is central to its identity. Tucked away in Shillim Valley and flanked by the dramatic Sahyadri Mountains – part of the UNESCO-listed Western Ghats – the setting is hailed as an ecological marvel. It’s only a three-hour drive away from Mumbai (India’s commercial capital and Bollywood epicentre), so it comes as little surprise when the staff tells me that the retreat regularly welcomes prominent celebrities and business figures who come here to rest and unplug.
Generously sprawled in size and spread across 2,500 acres of ancient forest, Dharana at Shillim feels like another world unto itself. While the core architecture has remained the same from its Hilton days, Gavin de Souza, MD at Writer Corporation and CEO of Dharana at Shillim, shares that it has since evolved into a more immersive, integrative environment where nature and local heritage are woven into the design narrative. “The retreat draws inspiration from the vernacular architecture of Maharashtra and the Western Ghats.” Additionally, it celebrates indigenous craftsmanship and traditional art forms.
Image credit: Dharana at Shillim
Upon arrival, a breezy foyer and lobby greet you with earthy colour palettes and natural textures, mirroring the topography and cultural tone of rural Maharashtra. Handcrafted textiles, pottery and woodwork by regional artisans are dotted around the property, while minimalist, grounding aesthetics – typically found in ashrams and traditional Indian village homes – also recur throughout.
“But these enhancements go beyond aesthetics,” clarifies de Souza. “We offer intentional spaces that align with Dharana’s philosophy of scientific wellbeing, restoration, and long-term vitality.”
Image credit: Dharana at Shillim
The estate features tranquil outdoor pools, a pond, 17 treatment villas, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre – alongside other relaxation zones and healing spaces. There are three restaurants, a library lounge, a culinary studio, a tea house and apothecary, and a farm where much of the estate’s produce is grown. The yoga shala is serene and bathed in sunshine, opening onto calming valley vistas. In contrast, the meditation cave – Dhyana – is acoustically designed to cocoon guests. It’s crowned by a circular skylight, which allows a profusion of natural light.
Image credit: Dharana at Shillim
“The abundance of daylight supports healthy circadian rhythms, while sound-insulating materials and gentle colour palettes create a deeply calming environment. Spaces are intuitively zoned for movement, meditation, rest, and community—encouraging guests to slow down and reconnect.”
I settled into my One Bedroom Garden Pool Villa – among the retreat’s most frequently booked accommodations. Spanning 205 square meters, it unfolds like a self-contained sanctuary, complete with a private pool and a sunken bathtub that gazes out to your very own garden – in fact, if you’re fortunate like me, you’ll be visited by local birds in the garden.
Image credit: Dharana at Shillim
Inside, the villa balances comfort and openness with a spacious living area, a dedicated study desk and a snug bedroom with a king-size bed. Bath amenities are organic, with premium Ayurvedic ingredients like Brahmi (Water hyssop) and neem (Indian lilac) used for sanitisers.
Sustainability lies at the heart of Dharana’s architectural ethos. “Every effort has been made to preserve the environment here, ensuring that not a single tree was felled for construction. Buildings are also designed to follow the natural slope of the land, minimising ecological disruption,” shared de Souza.
Image credit: Dharana at Shillim
Interestingly, during the estate’s early phase, rustic thatched huts were constructed to accommodate workers and visitors. Built from earth and bamboo, these huts became prototypes in sustainable living at Shillim. They taught how natural materials could regulate temperature, allow buildings to breathe, and support wellbeing without sacrificing comfort. “Our key takeaways included the emotional warmth of tactile materials, the use of natural light to enhance mood, and the effectiveness of passive cooling. These insights now live on in the use of lime plaster, bamboo, shaded verandahs, and sensory-driven spatial design – proving that sustainability and serenity can coexist beautifully.”
Today, Dharana at Shillim serves as a peaceful oasis – ideal to escape the clamour of city life. It’s designed for guests seeking rest, restoration and unhurried exploration.
Main image credit: Dharana at Shillim
