Indian Farmstay Offers Organic Farming Lessons & Treehouse Stays

In Kepu village, Karnataka, the Varanashi family runs a 50-acre organic farm that welcomes volunteers and tourists seeking an immersive agricultural experience. Partha Varanashi, the sixth-generation owner, expanded his family’s tradition of hospitality in 2014 by launching a farmstay and volunteer program inspired by the WWOOFing concept. Visitors can participate in all aspects of organic farming, from planting and harvesting to composting and processing crops like paddy, coconut, and spices.

The farm offers a 21-day program teaching regenerative farming practices and includes unique experiences like a cacao-to-chocolate trail. A notable attraction is a 55-foot-high treehouse built by local artisans, available for 6,000 rupees per night. Varanashi Farms also prioritizes sustainability through solar power, rainwater harvesting, and biogas, employing around 55 people from the local village.

Currently, the family is working to bridge the cultural gap between volunteers and local villagers, who sometimes misunderstand the program's purpose. They hope to expand with family cottages in the future.