Disclaimer: The author was invited to experience this stay as part of a paid partnership. However, the article is completely unbiased and honestly written, to offer valuable travel information to our readers. Read about our editorial policies.
If you are a Chennai dweller craving for a quick plunge into the lap of nature, nothing can beat a stay at an organic farm. I recently got a well-deserved and rejuvenating break at Jacob and Klooster Farms – a unique weekend getaway from Chennai.
Featuring two gorgeous container homes, the farm stay is nestled amidst lush greenery and rooted in a sustainable ecosystem. What’s more? Well, it doesn’t just offer a space to unwind, but curates a complete immersive itinerary for its guests.
Join me, as I take you on a virtual tour of one of the best organic farm stays near Chennai in this article.
Contents
Best Parts Of My Stay At Jacob And Klooster Farms, Chennai
# 1. Volunteering At The Organic Farm
One of the most memorable parts of my stay was joining an organic farming session with the farmers at Jacob And Klooster Farms! Though it’s entirely optional, I highly recommend that you give it a try.
Under the guidance of founder Shammy Jacob himself, I learnt to de-weed and prepare a plant bed for growing okra. Shammy also treated me to a quick tour of the farm, sharing insights into the dedication, challenges and continuous effort that goes into maintaining the thriving ecosystem they’ve so passionately nurtured.
The sweet aroma of damp earth, textured feel of loose soil and cheerful chirps of birds created an enchanting ambiance, and made the experience extra special.
And here’s a fun bonus: You can earn INR 75 for an hour of volunteer work at the farm and redeem it at their organic store – delightful way to immerse yourself in farm life and reap its rewards!
Did You Know?
In 2023, Jacob & Klooster Farmstay earned the prestigious Silver Award in the Sustainable Leadership Homestays category at the Indian Responsible Tourism Award presented by Outlook Responsible Tourism.
# 2. Healing Session With Dr. Charlotte Klooster
An exclusive offering of Jacob and Klooster Farms is the healing session (available at an additional cost) with co-founder, Dr. Charlotte Klooster, an expert Reiki and Pranic healing practitioner.
This was my first time experiencing Pranic healing, a scientifically validated method that enhances the body’s innate ability to heal itself. And the experience was transformative.
I felt a profound sense of calm and a more focussed mind, with a soothing warmth flowing through. A much-needed therapy for my chaotic mind.
The best part? You don’t need to stay at their farm for a session with Charlotte. You can book one separately for a much-needed dose of healing.
# 3. A Tȇte-à-Tȇte With Farm Animals
For an animal lover like me, this was a heartwarming experience. I got to meet the farm’s majestic Gir cows originally from Gujarat, each with charming Dutch names.
There were also chickens, colourful wild ducks and stunningly white Pekin ducks who regally glided around in the catchments.
I was also introduced to Simba, the farm’s friendly brown Indie dog. He came up for a quick lunch before retiring to the parking lot for a short afternoon nap.
TWT Sustainability Trivia: In 2023, the founders took a bold decision to stop dairy farming – a commendable step towards cruelty-free practices. Today, the cows only offer nutrient-rich manure for the farm’s soil.
# 4. Making Organic Hibiscus Juice From Scratch
With no fixed plans in the afternoon, Simba and I tagged along as Charlotte went about her daily farm activities. Together, we collected fresh hibiscus flowers from the farm and headed to their organic store to prepare a juice for the visiting customers.
Charlotte explained how honey and lemon are added to enhance the flavor, and I watched attentively as she and her store manager prepared the recipe.
What truly stole my heart was that even for a moment, I didn’t feel like an outsider who’s just booked the farmstay. Their constant smiles and warm personalities made me feel included and a natural part of their farm life.
The Room At Jacob And Klooster Farm Stay, Chennai
This farm stay near Chennai offers two well-designed rooms that you can choose from – one features a double bed, ideal for couples, and the other is equipped with bunk beds, perfect for a family of four. I opted for the room with bunk beds for a fun experience.
The room’s interiors instantly captivated me with its modern, luxurious vibe. It was skillfully crafted with a blend of wood-tiled floors, light-colored walls, touches of teak and warm lighting. Additionally, the grilled glass doors and windows flooded the room with natural light, creating a cozy, inviting ambiance.
One unique feature I loved was the private window near the top bunk. At night, as the porch lights cast a soft glow, it transformed into a cozy watchtower that offered enchanting views of the farm. The nocturnal sounds of barking dogs, hooting owls, and chirping crickets created an experience similar to a wildlife-stay.
Here are some of the other important features of the farmhouse:
The Porch
The container home overlooks a spacious 10 ft. wraparound porch, featuring a variety of romantic spots for Instagram-worthy pictures. My personal favorite was the honey-colored wooden swing carved from a coconut tree trunk with plush gray upholstery. Here, I idled away hours immersed in a good book.
The porch was well-fenced with iron railings to prevent occasional animal intrusions. It also featured coffee tables and long dining tables that created a picturesque spot for soaking in the serene vistas.
The Bathroom
The farmhouse’s bathroom was a perfect blend of style and function, with its classy, minimalistic design. It featured a modern shower, a grey concrete washbasin, and a mirrored sliding door.
Terrace
The second storey of the farmstay featured a shaded rooftop adorned in warm lights, offering breathtaking views of the endless greenery.
Evenings At The Farmstay
As the sun set, the farmhouse turned into a magical wonderland with fairy lights illuminating the pathways. These twinkling lights
made for the perfect setup for unwinding with your loved ones.
Modern Amenities
- Air-conditioned for Chennai summers.
- A cozy couch perfect for lounging.
- A fully functional kitchenette with an induction stove, utensils and cutlery for midnight snacks.
- A mini fridge, kettle, and small glass jars filled with coffee, tea and sugar.
- A curated collection of books for bibliophilles.
- A tall wardrobe stocked with an ironing board, iron, towels, cloth hangers and plenty of storage space.
- A foldable cloth drying stand on the porch.
TWT Sustainability Trivia: The main water source for the farmstay was an Aeronero, an innovative device that absorbed humidity in the air to provide fresh water. It worked perfectly under Chennai’s hot and humid weather — a thoughtful addition to the sustainably-designed farm stay.
Food & Drinks At Jacob And Klooster Farm Stay, Chennai
Jacob & Klooster Farm Stay offers a sumptuous breakfast that you can savor on the porch accompanied by their signature Marc’s coffee from Auroville. The menu typically features Southern specialties like Idly, Dosa, Sambar, and Chutney, or a continental spread with toast, butter, jam and veg sandwiches, tailored to the preferences of their guests.
They don’t provide lunch and dinner. So, you can either order your meals on food-delivery apps, explore the numerous food joints nearby, or make your own food in their kitchen.
The Journey Of Jacob And Klooster Farms, Chennai
It all began in the early 2000s, when Shammy Jacob and his wife Charlotte Klooster decided to leave behind their comfortable lives in Amsterdam, and move to their 2-acre ancestral farmland in Thazambur village (near Chennai).
Shammy, who retired as the Director Of Sustainable Ventures at NIKE World, combined his expertise with Charlotte’s profound knowledge as an ethnobotanist and anthropologist (specialising in traditional medicinal plants). Together, they envisioned and established a thriving paradise where plants, animals and humans coexist harmoniously.
As we sat at their innovation centre, Shammy shared an old photo of the farm from 2000 – a barren landscape with barely any traces of the lush greenery it displays today. Over the years, they’ve transformed the land into a flourishing haven with various vegetable plots, a fruit orchard, coconut groves, and a banana plantation that envelops the farmstay.
Other Services Offered By Jacob And Klooster Farms, Chennai
Jacob and Klooster Farms offer more than just the farmhouse stay in Chennai. They provide a variety of other services that you can book directly through their website or even opt for during your stay at the farm:
- Farm Picnic
Jacob and Klooster offers one of the best picnic spots in Chennai. You can book your picnic at the farm through their website.
Price: 3 hour slot – INR 350 per person; 6 hour slot – INR 700 per person
- Organic Store
If you’re a health enthusiast living in Chennai, check out the Jacob and Klooster Farms’ Organic Store that offers fresh and pesticide-free farm produce. They range from a variety of green leafy vegetables, fruits, jams, juices, Marc’s Coffee from Auroville and herbal products like soaps, shampoo, etc. A must-try is their Rosella Jam and herbal Kombucha!
- Work Amidst Greenery at the Innovation Centre
Need a refreshing work-from-home set-up? Book the glass-enclosed Innovation Centre surrounded by lush greenery, a perfect spot for creative ventures.
The center is:
- Equipped with WiFi, charging sockets, washroom, work tables, projectors, full length mirrors, and more.
- Ideal for dance/yoga workshops, office meetings or team building sessions.
Price: INR 350 per person for 3 hours & INR 750 per person for 6 hours
- Counselling Session With Shammy Jacob
Aspiring entrepreneurs can get insights from Shammy Jacob on how to implement futuristic practices in sustainability.
Apart from his role at NIKE World, Shammy is also a certified Marshall Goldsmith coach, a business innovation consultant, and an active member of the Rotary Club Chennai (past president), who is involved in a variety of innovative projects all over the city to create a sustainable lifestyle.
Price: INR 2500 per hour
- Farm Visit For Schools Near Chennai
Jacob and Klooster Farms is the perfect place for farm field trips where young minds can learn organic farming techniques, connect with nature and understand how to adopt sustainable initiatives. Schools in Chennai can book the farm visit through a direct call or message them on WhatsApp.
Contact: 8754140164
Cleanliness At Jacob And Klooster Farm Stay, Chennai
The farmstay, listed with AirBnB, is impeccably maintained, earning Shammy the coveted superhost status. With frequent visits from guests around the world, the property is kept spotless. Thanks to the diligent efforts of their farm staff, the place is regularly cleaned and cared for.
Location Of Jacob And Klooster Farm Stay, Chennai
This farm stay near Chennai is located in the Thazhambur Village, a mere 10 minutes drive from Sholinganallur and 30 minutes away from OMR Food Street, making it a perfect weekend getaway from Chennai. The Chennai Airport is around 23 km from the farm and Central Railway Station is about 34 km away.
TWT Experience Summary Of Jacob And Klooster Farm Stay, Chennai
Nestled amidst lush greenery, the farmstay offers cozy, eco-friendly container homes with modern amenities and serene views. With a perfect blend of luxury and sustainability, guests can enjoy organic farming, interact with friendly farm animals, shop at the organic store or rejuvenate through a pranic healing session.
Evenings here are magical with twinkling fairy lights. Truly, it’s one of the best farm stays near Chennai offering an ideal getaway to unwind, reconnect with nature and embrace sustainable living.
Inclusivity Checklist:
✅Kid-friendly
✅LGBTQ+ friendly
✅Family-friendly
✅Couple-friendly
✅Eco-friendly
✅Vegan-friendly
Check-In Time: 2 pm – 4pm
Check-Out time: Before 11 am
Price Per Night At Jacob & Klooster Farm Stay: INR 5500 (inclusive of tax)
Booking Link: AirBnB
Location: Jacob and Klooster Farms
Phone Number: +91 8754140164
Frequently Asked Questions About Jacob And Klooster Farm Stay, Chennai
1. How far is the Jacob and Klooster Farm from Pondicherry?
Jacob and Klooster Farm is around 123 km away from Pondicherry. It will take you around two and half hours to reach from Pondicherry.
2. Who are the owners of Jacob and Klooster Farms?
Shammy Jacob and Charlotte Klooster are the founders of Jacob and Klooster Farms.
3. Are pets allowed in the farmstay?
While pets are allowed inside the farm during farm visits, they are not permitted within the farmstay.
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