12 Weird, Wild, And Wonderful Airbnb Vacation Rentals In India - Updated 2024

Kimberlyn
Kimberlyn 
Updated
| 5 min read

India has always been a favourite destination amongst travellers, with its vastly different states and climates, incredible food, and beautiful culture. Now, more than ever, with the power of the internet, listings of warm hosts and authentic experiences are easy to find and enjoy. Among thousands of listings, these Airbnb recommendations are sure to catch your attention with their breathtaking views, rich histories, and immersive experiences.

Looking for somewhere a bit different to stay when travelling around India? Then look no further than these cool Airbnb vacation rentals:

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 08, 2024.

1. Treehouse with modern conveniences: Bangalore (from USD 42)

Experience the true beauty of Mother Nature without going too far from the city in this beautiful treehouse near Bangalore. The treehouse is less than an hour’s drive to the city center, which means you can easily go back and forth to either get supplies or enjoy the city’s conveniences.

The treehouse has one double bed, one sofa bed, and a floor mattress, comfortably sleeping up to three guests. It may feel like you’re far away from civilization but you can still enjoy the comfort and conveniences of a modern home as it features air-conditioning, a TV, Wi-Fi, and a full kitchen.

Stayed at this property?
Bengaluru, Tamil Nadu, India
1743.89 km (1083.6 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
319 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Treehouse 2 Beds 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
a compact cozy beautiful tree house set in a peaceful and clean place
very cozy and brilliant use of space
i especially really like the window shades and the idea of a foldable bed
Cleanliness:
a clean and tidy place
place was very clean and well maintained
the place was really clean and designed thoughtfully
the place is clean quite and comfortable
perfect getaway peaceful clean and beautiful
Host:
the people are very helpful
the host and caretakers are very responsive
thanks for being a great host
the host was kind enough to let us bring our barbeque set for the night
big ups to the owner well done
Location:
great location and cute house for a short trip away from the busy city life
an interesting place to get away from the city
it's a cute place to stay just a stone's throw away from the heart of the city
it's ideal for a quiet stay away from the city bustle for two
itz a nice place by d city border in nearly an hour distance
Read more reviews

2. Whispering Pines treehouse with awesome mountain views: Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh (from USD 61)

If a unique stay is what you’re really after, then you should check out this amazing treehouse. This accommodation is nestled on the side of a mountain, which means you’re going to be treated to some of the most breathtaking views of the forests of Jibhi. Wake up early and wait for the beautiful view of the sunrise while enjoying a cup of coffee right on the balcony.

The cozy double bed is just perfect for a solo adventurer or a romantic couple. The relaxing sound of nature around you will surely soothe your soul but if you want to boost your mood with some soft music, you can use the Bluetooth sound system. Share your adventures in real-time via Wi-Fi.

Stayed at this property?
Jibhi, Himachal Pradesh, India
409.83 km (254.7 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
195 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Treehouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
you'll have beautiful view all around from the cottage as well as the second guest room
but they have wifi and jio and airtel work pretty well
the excellent wifi set up however ensures connectivity when you are at / around the treehouse
it is created with keeping guests’ comfort in terms of amenities - heater in bathroom etc
and to the blissful shock to the ever-connected folks there's wifi that actually works
Cleanliness:
extremely clean & hygienic
the place is clean and tidy
the room was very clean and aesthetically pleasing
place was so beautiful n clean
we were greeted with warm smiles and sparkling clean facilities
Host:
the hosts are very helpful and polite
the hosts are generous and always ready to provide
a great host who is always ready to help
shanu was helpful and generous towards us
he was so friendly
Location:
ideal place for some lovely wild treks
if you wish to visit a place away from city's hustle bustle this should be on your list
let me say - the walk was challenging but beautiful
5 hour easy walk with stops - very pretty)
i enjoyed the evening walks with nabokov(pet) watching the colourful birds around and listening to their voice
Read more reviews

3. Ethnic Cocoon Bamboo Cottage nestled in a serene location: Bokakhat, Assam (from USD 30)

Are you looking for a place to stay that is tucked away in a setting that is known for its peace and quiet? If that is the case, then Ethnic Cocoon Bamboo Cottage is just the ticket. This bungalow is perfect for solo travelers or couples as it can accommodate up to two people.

It is within close proximity to the eastern range of Kaziranga National Park and only a half kilometeer (0.3 miles) of walk from the park’s main office. For a hassle-free stay, amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, free parking, WiFi, and a washer are provided.

Stayed at this property?
Bokakhat, Assam, India
1812.87 km (1126.5 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
11 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in bungalow 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
pranab da and other people including devyani tithi da were the most thoughtful gracious hosts
they can organise literally anything for you and we’re so helpful
Location:
wonderful place wonderful people great location and good conversations
if you are looking for an offbeat location with peaceful environment this is the place
Read more reviews

4. Cozy treehouse with spectacular sky views: Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu (from USD 47)

Try to picture yourself waking up to the sound of birds chirping and the swaying of trees; this is just one of the reasons why you should stay in this cozy treehouse. With its elevated vantage point, you can enjoy spectacular views of the sky. It can accommodate up to four people and offers two queen-sized beds. There are stone-paved walkways throughout the property and a bonfire pit near the house.

Amenities such as a solar power backup inverter, RO-filtered drinking water, cutlery, cups, plates, towels, and soaps are provided for your comfort and convenience. You also have the option to make a request for a grill, which would allow you to enjoy an evening of quality time with your loved ones while cooking barbecues.

Stayed at this property?
Yelagiri, Tamil Nadu, India
1789.18 km (1111.8 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
141 reviews   Wifi Available
Treehouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
kids enjoyed the indoor balcony bed
if wifi and water bottles would make more convenient and comfortable
Cleanliness:
the place is clean and well-maintained
our room was clean simple and spacious
the place was kept very clean and it was very peaceful
the stay was neat and clean
best food neat and clean tree house
Host:
best care takers available
the staff are extremely friendly and helpful
ganesh is an excellent host
care takers are good and food was great
the caretakers were to the point and great hosts
Location:
perfect getaway to get close to the mother nature
awesome location & property with camp fire
best place to stay away from the crowd
will surely recommend this place to all and will come back again
such a great place for relaxing
Read more reviews

5. Unique glamping domes: Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka (from USD 133)

Spend your vacation in Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, in total comfort while enjoying some of the most stunning views of nature all around you in these unique glamping domes. This listing comes with two domes—each one has one king bed and a floor mattress to sleep up to six guests. Hiking trails and streams are within walking distance so you can fully experience the natural beauty surrounding you.

You will also have access to the shared kitchen that’s equipped with modern essentials so you can prepare your food and enjoy a meal right on your own balcony overlooking the forest. If you don’t feel like cooking, you can still enjoy authentic Malanad meals upon request.

Stayed at this property?
Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, India
1664.53 km (1034.3 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
94 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Dome 2 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
-2 more extra beds will fit in one dome
Cleanliness:
- sparkling clean - towels and kitchen items were very clean
- washroom is clean and hot water available
rooms are well maintained and clean
the place is just as advertised clean spacious enough for 3 people with excellent views
i was not very happy with the cleanliness but can be improved
Host:
cheers to the host
darshak is a great host
the hosts have been amazing
the host’s we great and very accommodating
the host is really nice and helped us out with everything
Location:
it was a very good stay very good location
overall the place is done up well and perfect for a close-knit circle of friends
this place is an amazing and an unique place to stay
food was delicious domes were well designed and maintained location was perfect
Read more reviews

6. Rustic cottage: Dharar, Uttarakhand (from USD 102)

Take your nature trip to a whole new level by booking a stay in this mountainside cottage. It is designed with luxury and comfort in mind. Its interior is bright and airy and offers great amenities like Wi-Fi, a bathtub, a fire pit, outdoor furniture, an outdoor dining area, and a barbecue grill.

The cottage comes with a double bed to sleep up to two guests in total comfort. The spacious and furnished deck offers relaxation while enjoying the spectacular mountain and valley views.

Stayed at this property?
Dharar, Uttarakhand, India
415.98 km (258.5 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
10 reviews   Wifi Available
Earthen home 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
even the staff is good
the staff and host are extremely hospitable they treat you to freshly cooked homely food
the staff is super courteous and will go an extra mile for you
Location:
best place to have short break from hustle bustle of city life with your loved one
sukoon is blessed with a gorgeous location and untouched surrounding nature
a quaint well decorated well appointed pretty little place in the heart of the uttarakhand hills
the place goes perfectly by the name of sukoon there indeed is peace
Read more reviews

7. A ravine retreat: Fort Rampura, Jalaun, Uttar Pradesh (from 153 USD)

India is an old country with a history that runs as deep as its rivers. This homestay hearkens back to a time when clans battled each other for territory, and large forts were signs of great power. Fort Rampura, standing proud with 600 years of history, is now open to guests for a one-of-a-kind homestay experience. This fort has been occupied by 16 generations of the Rampura family, and now you can sleep in splendour too. Many names of the rooms in the fort have remained the same since it was built; you are definitely not a number here! Though originally for military use, the fort has been made habitable over the years, with the addition of bedrooms, bathrooms, courtyards, and places for gathering.

The bedrooms are fairly basic, but offer plenty of comfort and interesting flashes of colour combined with period decorative touches. All rooms have a modern en suite bathroom. Though its architecture and spirit are somewhat frozen in time, this gorgeous property has modern facilities, like the internet and air-conditioning. Enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal, prepared by your welcoming hosts, bury your nose in a book from the library’s extensive collection, or play a fe games of billiards on the antique table. People living in nearby villages and towns have many lively festivals, and folk singers from these areas sing songs from a different and grander time. If you are searching for a historically and culturally rich area to spend your time in, this is the perfect place for you.

FORT RAMPURA : RAVINE RETREAT

Area: Jalaun, Uttar Pradesh, India

Price: from 153 USD

Number of Guests: 2

Stayed at this property?

8. High Himalayan home: Manali, Himachal Pradesh (from USD 54)

If you really want to go off-grid, head high! This homestay is 2,000 metres (6,562 feet) up a mountain, and the only way for you to access it is with a 40-minute walk that winds through apple orchards and past waterfalls. Take in the breathtaking mountain scenery every day as you relax in the basic but comfortable living area. Slow down and appreciate the sheer scale of the rocks and granite structures. Feel your troubles melt away as you spend hours away from your screens and from your cities. There is no internet here, giving you the perfect opportunity to disconnect and unwind.

Enjoy life in the slow lane and take pleasure in the simple things in life, such as preparing a meal in the property’s kitchen, and listening to the sounds of nature as you lie in your bed. The dining room can be converted to a second bedroom if more people want to experience the tranquility. For those who believe that spending time in nature is a way to renew the soul, and that you need to shut off from the busy city world for a while, this is a good place to be. Take a small trip down to a nearby village, just a 20-minute walk down. There you’ll find people steeped in culture and temples that are thousands of years old, just waiting for you to explore.

Stayed at this property?
Manali , Himachal Pradesh, India
471.64 km (293.1 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
128 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Farm stay 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the place has all the amenities required to make the stay comfortable
the cottage is extremely good it's cozy and warm
it's got beautiful views of the mountains in front and cozy rooms with a warm fireplace inside
the apartment has all the mod-cons providing supreme comfort and ashima and scott are truly gorgeous hosts
very nice hot shower from solar
Cleanliness:
very clean and well maintained cottage
the bathroom is clean and spacious and has hot water 24hours
house was lovely and clean and very open which was good
the apartment is beautiful clean with good hot water
this place is clean cute and cozy and is perfect for a true getaway from the city
Host:
ashima and scot were the most lovely and warm hosts
amazing and friendly hosts who make you feel more than welcome
scott and ashima are great hosts and will make you feel at home
ashima and scott are wonderful hosts to stay with
aashima & scott are wonderful hosts
Location:
ideal location and perfect hosts
amazing place rare find
and we are glad we chose this place
we had an amazing time in this paradise like place
the location of the house is as good as staying in paradise with its surroundings and fresh air
Read more reviews

9. Warm tones and atmosphere: Golden Marigold Hotel, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

This place bears a similar name to the 2014 blockbuster, “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”. However, unlike the hotel in the movie, this place is beautiful, well stocked, and has many rave reviews from travellers. But like the movie, it’s very romantic. Filled with colour and stunning decorative touches, there’s certainly plenty to catch your eye in this gorgeous property. The bedroom is comfy and clean, with an en suite bathroom, complete with basic toiletries and towels, and cable TV. Do note that there is no air-conditioning though, which may make sleeping tough in the hot summer months.

The hotel is in a great location close to many points of interest in Jaisalmer. Watch the Jaisalmer Fort melt into the sands of the Thar Desert at sunset right outside your window, then go upstairs for some al fresco dining on the hotel’s rooftop. This hotel provides camel safaris, where you can explore the rolling hills of sand yourself. Alternatively, stay in and chill out in the TV lounge, mingling with other guests and chatting with the friendly hosts. Wi-Fi is available in the property, so you don’t need to worry about feeling disconnected.

Phote and Melissa are such a unique and loving couple. We had the most wonderful stay and Phote went above and beyond to make sure we were always happy! The room was clean and cool and the location was perfect. A totally lovely couple and homestay! Matthew
A wonderfully quiet and calm spot, feel at peace when you stay here.

Stayed at this property?
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India
460.59 km (286.2 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
170 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Room in hotel 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
spacious with big bed tv fan shower and hot water
it’s better to upgrade to the ac room close the windows and you won’t hear much
they serve breakfast until late if one would like to order and this is totally convenient
the room is really clean and despite there is no ac it's naturally cool in general
breakfast and food also was great
Cleanliness:
clean comfortable big bed
bathroom was also clean and hygienic
room was exceptionally clean
it's really clean comfortable and quiet
the room was very clean
Host:
friendly and helpful staff
the staff is very welcoming
amazing hospitality staff behaviour was commendable
the host is very friendly
loved the place amazing hospitality and a very helpful host
Location:
easy walk to fort
great location and very good value
the location is great - just a short walk to the fort
great place very close to the fort
it's walking distance to all the major attractions within jaisalmer
Read more reviews

10. Floating sensations: Canoe Ville, Aryad South, Kerala (from USD 39)

Humans are evolutionary and innately drawn to water; to live in its presence is a privilege. As well as its life-sustaining properties, it’s a way for us to hit reset and clear our minds the moment we look out of the window. On the shores of Lake Vambanad lies a quirky innovative homestay where you can experience this clarity of presence for yourself in a lovely house built on two canoes. This unusual cottage is built on two canoes, but it is tethered to a canal leading from the lake. You don’t need to worry about floating off in your sleep, but you can still enjoy the buoyant sensation of living on the water. You’re sure to nod off in next to no time in the comfy beds. You might be surprised to know that the cottage has Wi-Fi internet access too! The area between the lake and the canoe has many corners to relax (on hammocks!) and equipment to bring out to the waters. Cooking facilities are available, perfect for if you go fishing and want to whip up a mean dish from your catch of the day. Don’t want to cook? No problem! Breakfast is included in the property rate, and you can arrange for lunch and dinner to be provided too if you like (additional costs apply).

Jijo was very kind. This is more like a house standing on water. There you have an view of the East so when you woke up early you will be able to see sunrise above the lake. Krzysztof
If you’re looking for a unique little spot to enjoy the waters and greenery, check this place out.

Stayed at this property?
Aryad South, Kerala, India
2096.04 km (1302.5 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
50 reviews   Wifi Available
Private room in tiny home 2 Beds 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
must visit if you want a beautiful view from your room
wifi wasn’t running very well but the host solved it quickly
Cleanliness:
a clean and cosy place and amazing food
the houseboat is rustic but we were provided with clean sheets and clean towels
the bathroom was clean and so were most of the other areas
the room is clean and very well located
room was clean with all amenities
Host:
jijo and his staff are always present for help questions or to call a tuk tuk
jijo and his staff were co operative and helpful
jijo is one of the warmest hosts ever
jijo was so helpful he provided everything we required
he is a wonderful host and the homemade food is very yummy
Location:
the location is amazing the floating room is just beside back waters
it’s a very relaxing place
loved the stay at jijo's place
Read more reviews

11. Historic and atmospheric: Indra Vilas, Alsisar, Rajasthan (from USD 41)

Located in a desert area, this hundred-room haveli, built by Indrachand Kejriwali, is a decadent symbol from a bygone era. This homestay allows you to partake in the luxuries of the rich traders of previous centuries. The spacious guest rooms perfectly blend modern comforts with period styles, letting you take a step back in time without compromising on your creature comforts. Wi'Fi is available too.

At every corner, an artisan’s work tells the stories of heroes, myths, and legends past. The streets of the nearby villages are lined with colourful and detailed mansions that were abandoned by traders who sought prosperity on new trading routes. Left in the care of local farmers and artisans, the nearby architecture is pleasant to look at. In this beautiful, sprawling compound, you can enjoy painting tours of the area, take a dip in a large pool, and fall in love with the splendour of Rajasthani hospitality. Those interested in anthropology can also take a trip to nearby villages to meet nomadic and snake-charming communities. If you are looking for a place to feel like royalty, be surrounded by art, and get away from the usual tourist traps, check this place out.

Stayed at this property?

Indra Vilas

Address: Jhunjhunu, Alsisar, Alsisar
5.39 km (3.4 mi) from Malsisar Gadh

12. An artist's getaway: Wunderhaus, Puducherry

If Salvador Dali designed a townhouse in the lovely coastal region of Puducherry (formerly known as Pondicherry), this would probably be it. Art from around the world fills this strange and surreal space, perhaps traces of the nearby Auroville, an experimental utopia where people from around the world gather to live without boundaries. The compound not only has personality, but an attitude of sustainability. All the power in this homestay is from solar panels, and many of your meals come from the organically grown vegetables in the courtyard. Each spacious and airy room opens out onto a central inner courtyard, which is complete with a leafy cashew tree. You can mingle in the common areas and cook in the communal kitchen, or retreat to your character-filled bedroom for some private time. Wi-Fi is available.

Wunderhaus was an experience in itself. The decor is absolutely amazing and has got an element of funk to it. Must stay place in pondicherry. Also Kedar is a really chilled out and helpful guy. Makes the stay even better! Kunal
If you are looking for a place to escape the world in funky style, make sure to take a look at this homestay.

Stayed at this property?
Puducherry, India
1881.09 km (1168.9 mi) from Malsisar Gadh
40 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire bungalow 7 Beds 13 Guests 6 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 13

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
amazing breakfast too - nutella croissants omelets and the amazing foamy coffee
the hospitality was outstanding- we were not expecting the absolutely fabulous breakfasts and the constant offer of help
the highlight of the stay was the breakfast on all the days that we stayed
Cleanliness:
quiet clean comfortable and homely
however the cleanliness in and around the house can be improved for better experience
Host:
kedar acted like an awesome host
very friendly owner and pets
the hosts are friendly and helpful
kedar was a welcoming and helpful host
kedar is a friendly and very generous host
Location:
the place is ideal if you want to get away from the daily hustle bustle
the place is in a very calm and cozy location amidst greenery
it's an incredibly peaceful place close to everything; beach auroville restaurants etc
there's always something interesting to notice at every nook and corner
there are so many lovely places to relax at the wunderhaus
Read more reviews

India: a land full of awesome discoveries

As the world opens up and becomes more connected, previously lesser-known gems of India find their way into the public eye. If we work together to support these places while treating properties and people with respect, great adventures will be more accessible to everyone in the future. Plus, you get to have a unique stay in a comfortable property in an incredible location! Is India calling your name? Book one of these terrific Airbnbs and have a fantastic stay to remember.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Kimberlyn is an avid writer and traveler captivated by intriguing stories and unique locales. Her penchant for memorizing facts and histories complements her creative pursuits. In addition to her...Read more

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