Located about 50Km away from New Delhi, Surjivan Farm is an ideal weekend get away from hectic city life. The approach to the farm is quite scenic with rolling hillocks and wilderness, although the approach roads can take a toll on your car, but its really worth it.
The farm is a wonderful weekend abode. The farm is surrounded by fir trees, and seems like a patch of paradise in the midst of the countryside. The owners have taken great pains to landscape the farm and the entire place is dotted a plethora of plants and trees, some quite so common and some really rare collectable ones. Inside the gates of the main farmhouse, the entire floor is covered with a perfect green grass carpet, and is very inviting as a place for a nice afternoon siesta under the shade of trees, the cool breeze and chirping sounds of birds.
There is plenty to see for the avian lover as well. With the wide variety of flowering plants and trees in and around the vicinity of the farm, all kinds of birds can be spotted here. Evenings are particularly busy and noisy times in this regard as well.
Apart from the main farmhouse, there is an adjoining herb garden, a tour of which is a must. It has an interesting collection of plants on display, from the bio-diesel producing jatrufa to aloe vera to the famous sanjivini booti, they can all be found here(and free samples and tasters are available too).
As you soak in the serenity and beauty of the place, gastric delights are prepared in the adjoining kitchen for you. The food here is a must have. Traditional cooking served fresh out of Earthen pots is very appetising and you would tend to over-eat. Apart from the lunch and dinner, pakodas are served with tea/coffee in the evenings. It is a delightful experience, sitting in the lawns at dusk, sipping on tea and having freshly made piping hot pakodas.
If possible, one must plan a full weekend trip to the farm. An overnight stay on the Saturday is an experience must having. There are mud cottages available for the night. The cottages are very cosy and confortable and each of them have an attached washroom. The insides are well decorated with traditional art and decor. The environment in the place takes you right back to an old age at night when all the lights outside are put out. There is some wilderness around the farm, and jackal cries can be heard well into the night; which just adds to the effect.
All in all, an excellent experience, located just at the right distance from the city. Its a couple of hours drive from South Delhi, and a great place to wind down and get the city rush out of one’s system. Book in advance, and enjoy the weekend with your family.