On a quiet slope in the hills of Malshej Ghat, Maharashtra, where dry land once stood barren, now blooms a green paradise — home to over 1,500 fruit-bearing and indigenous trees, buzzing with birdsong, fresh farm produce, and eco-conscious travellers. This transformation didn’t come from a big company or government project. It was the dream of one man — Ajit Mishra — and the commitment of his two children, who joined hands to create Nehamrit Farms.

What began as an experiment in farming and reforestation is now one of Maharashtra’s most loved agrotourism destinations, combining nature, hospitality, and sustainability.

From Dust to Green Dreams

In 2012, Ajit Mishra bought a 20-acre denuded plot in Malshej Ghat with the vision of retiring close to nature. At that time, the land was rocky, dry, and devoid of life. But Ajit, inspired by natural farming principles and permaculture, believed it could be revived.

Slowly and steadily, he began planting trees — starting with hardy, native varieties like neem, jamun, custard apple, and tamarind. He implemented rainwater harvesting, mulching, and natural composting to enrich the soil. His children, who had settled in cities, initially watched from afar. But the transformation moved them — and within a few years, both chose to return and support the growing dream.

Over 1,500 Trees and Counting

Today, Nehamrit Farms boasts:

  • 1,500+ trees, including mango, chikoo, banana, amla, and wild fig

  • A thriving organic vegetable and herb garden

  • Natural water bodies that support birds, butterflies, and bees

  • An ecosystem that has regenerated itself over time

The family plants at least 100 new trees every year and works with local farmers and forest officials to ensure biodiversity conservation.

Building the Eco-Friendly Homestay

To sustain the farm and share its beauty, the family opened eco-accommodations on the property in 2019. Built using mud blocks, lime plaster, and upcycled wood, the cottages reflect local design and climate sensitivity.

Each stay includes:

  • Farm-to-table meals prepared from freshly harvested produce

  • Interactive farming experiences like sowing, harvesting, composting

  • Nature walks, birdwatching, and guided forest treks

  • Sessions on natural building, permaculture, and sustainable living

The farm avoids plastic use, treats greywater, and runs partially on solar power — a working model of sustainable tourism in action.

Creating Rural Impact

The Mishra family didn’t just green the land — they helped revive the local economy:

  • They employ local women and youth full-time on the farm and in hospitality

  • Partner with nearby villages for fresh milk, grains, and traditional food supplies

  • Run workshops and school visits to educate urban children on rural ecosystems

  • Offer internships to college students in agriculture, hospitality, and sustainability

“Our goal is not just tourism, but transformation — of mindsets, of soil, and of community,” says Ajit’s daughter, who now manages guest experiences.

What Makes Nehamrit Farms Unique?

  1. Climate-Resilient Farming: The family follows agroforestry and regenerative practices to conserve water and rebuild soil health.

  2. Minimal Footprint Stays: No concrete jungles here — the cottages blend into the landscape and run on renewable energy.

  3. Authentic Rural Experience: Guests can milk cows, cook on a chulha, or simply read under a banyan tree.

  4. Family-Run Warmth: Every corner of the farm carries a personal story — from the hand-painted walls to the recipe books.

The Road Ahead

The Mishras plan to:

  • Convert part of the land into a community seed bank

  • Host seasonal eco-festivals celebrating local food, music, and crafts

  • Expand into wellness retreats focused on forest therapy, meditation, and organic living

  • Publish a farm journal documenting their decade-long transformation

They also hope to inspire more families to turn to sustainable rural entrepreneurship.

Final Thoughts

In a world racing toward development often at the cost of nature, the Mishra family reminds us what’s truly possible when we pause, plant, and persevere.

Through their farm, they’ve created more than a business — they’ve nurtured a living classroom, a healing retreat, and a green inheritance for generations to come.

Whether you're a weary city dweller or an aspiring farmer, Nehamrit Farms offers a breath of fresh air — quite literally.