Day: September 17, 2025

Discovering Toshali Sands: A Green Paradise in the Heart of Nature

Puri, a name synonymous with spiritual awakening and pristine coastlines, holds a secret haven that redefines the idea of a getaway. Tucked away on the scenic Puri-Konark Marine Drive, Toshali Sands Nature Escape Resort isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an immersive experience where the vibrancy of nature takes center stage.

From the moment you arrive, the difference is palpable. Gone are the concrete facades; in their place, a sprawling canvas of emerald green unfolds. Toshali Sands embraces its 25-30 acres with a passion for preservation, allowing the natural landscape to dictate its charm. Here, ancient trees whisper secrets on the breeze, and vibrant flora paints the pathways, creating an immediate sense of peace that city life rarely affords. It’s no wonder guests often describe it as an “oasis of calm” and “truly a green paradise.”

What truly sets Toshali Sands apart is its unwavering commitment to eco-friendly living. This isn’t just a marketing ploy; it’s ingrained in the resort’s DNA. Imagine stepping into a cottage where the very air feels fresher, knowing that the resort actively cultivates its own organic farm. Fruits and vegetables used in their kitchens travel mere yards, ensuring a true farm-to-table dining experience that’s both delicious and sustainable. This dedication extends to their land management, with traditional, chemical-free methods used to maintain the lush gardens and protect the surrounding Balukhanda Reserve Forest.

For many, the ultimate luxury is a secluded beach experience, and Toshali Sands delivers. While Puri’s main beach buzzes with activity, the resort offers exclusive access to a less-crowded, pristine stretch of the Balighai beach. A complimentary, eco-friendly shuttle whisks you away to this golden sanctuary, where you can stroll along the shore, feel the soft sand between your toes, and listen to the rhythmic symphony of the waves without interruption. It’s a tranquil escape, perfect for quiet contemplation or playful family moments.

Beyond its green credentials, the resort offers a rich tapestry of experiences. The cottages and villas, inspired by traditional Odishan architecture, provide comfortable retreats that blend rustic charm with modern amenities. Indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments at the spa, take a refreshing dip in the expansive swimming pool, or explore the vast grounds on a bicycle. Dining is an adventure, from the multi-cuisine delights of “Phulpatna” to the unique ambiance and wood-fired pizzas of the “Coastline Dhaba.”

But the “secrets” of Toshali Sands run deeper. It’s a resort that champions local culture, showcasing traditional Odishan art and hosting folk performances that keep ancient traditions alive. It’s a socially responsible entity, investing in local communities and providing employment, while also being a pioneer in sustainable travel with initiatives like its on-site EV charging station and strict no single-use plastic policy.

Toshali Sands is more than just a hotel; it’s a philosophy. It’s an invitation to rediscover the simple joys of nature, to relax in an environment that cares, and to take home memories infused with the true spirit of Odisha. For those seeking an escape where luxury meets genuine sustainability, Toshali Sands stands as a beacon—a green paradise where nature doesn’t just come alive; it thrives.

What are the specific eco-friendly practices at Toshali Sands?

Toshali Sands has a long-standing commitment to eco-friendly practices, which is a core part of its brand identity as a “Nature Escape Resort.” Based on their stated mission and various publications, here are some of the specific practices they implement:

1. Organic Farming and Local Sourcing

  • On-Site Organic Farm: A significant portion of the resort’s 25-30 acres is dedicated to an organic farm. This farm cultivates a variety of vegetables and fruits to supply the resort’s kitchens.
  • Farm-to-Table Cuisine: The use of fresh, organic produce from their own farm reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and ensures high-quality, healthy ingredients for guests.
  • Local Suppliers: The resort prioritizes sourcing food and materials from local farmers and artisans, which supports the local economy and reduces environmental impact.

2. Conservation and Land Management

  • Protection of the Balukhanda Forest: The resort is located adjacent to the Balukhanda Reserve Forest. Toshali Sands has an active role in conserving this rich biodiversity by engaging in awareness drives for the local community about beach cleaning and waste disposal.
  • Extensive Green Cover: The property itself is a testament to its green philosophy, with over 1,600 coconut trees, a wide variety of fruit trees, and medicinal plants. The landscaping is designed to be in harmony with the natural surroundings.
  • Soil Conservation: They use traditional, green methods for soil conservation and plant treatment, such as using earthworms, cow dung, and neem, avoiding chemical pesticides and fertilizers.

3. Waste Management and Recycling

  • Plastic Reduction: The resort has a ban on single-use plastics on its premises.
  • Waste Segregation: They have implemented a proper system for garbage segregation, disposal, and recycling to minimize their environmental footprint.
  • Recycled Materials: The resort makes use of recycled paper for guest services and other operations where possible.

4. Energy and Water Conservation

  • Solar Water Heaters: The resort has installed solar water heaters to reduce its reliance on conventional energy sources.
  • Energy-Saving Devices: They use energy-efficient lighting and other devices throughout the property to reduce power consumption.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: They have an effective rainwater harvesting system to conserve water and manage its usage efficiently.

5. Sustainable Transportation

  • EV Charging Station: Toshali Sands was one of the first hotels in Puri to install an EV (Electric Vehicle) charging station, catering to eco-conscious travelers and promoting the use of electric vehicles.
  • Battery-Operated Vehicles: For internal transportation, such as shuttles to the beach, the resort uses battery-operated vehicles to minimize emissions.

6. Social Responsibility and Community Empowerment

  • Local Employment: A significant part of their sustainable model is to provide employment to local villagers for tasks like gardening, farming, and maintenance. This helps empower the local community and gives them a stake in preserving the environment.
  • Promoting Local Culture: The resort’s architecture and interior design are a tribute to local traditions, using materials and art forms from the region, which helps preserve and promote the local culture.

10 Surprising Secrets About Toshali Sands Hotel You Never Knew!

 

  • It’s a Microcosm of Odisha’s Architecture and Art: Toshali Sands isn’t just a resort; it’s a living showcase of Odishan culture. The design of its cottages and villas is inspired by the ancient “YANTRA” diagrams and the architecture of the Lingaraj Temple. The interiors are decorated with authentic tribal Saora art, Pattachitra paintings, and handicrafts made from terracotta, wood, and metal, all sourced from local artisans.
  • The Private Beach Isn’t Exactly Private: While it’s marketed as a “private beach,” the stretch of Balighai beach is actually a public government property. What makes it exclusive is the resort’s dedicated access and complimentary shuttle service, which ensures it remains clean, less crowded, and reserved for guests, creating the feeling of a private escape.
  • It Was a Pioneer of Eco-Tourism: Long before it became a popular buzzword, Toshali Sands was built with an eco-friendly ethos. The resort was designed to harmonize with the Balukhanda Reserve Forest, using locally sourced laterite stones for walls and engaging nearby villagers in its construction. This commitment to sustainable tourism is a core part of its identity.
  • Its Landscape Is an Organic Farm: The resort’s lush greenery isn’t just for show. The property boasts over 1,600 coconut trees, a wide variety of fruit-bearing and ornamental trees, and a dedicated organic garden. The fresh produce from this garden is used in the resort’s kitchens, ensuring a farm-to-table experience for guests.
  • They Have a Hidden “Viceroy” Restaurant: While the main multi-cuisine restaurant, “Phulpatna,” is well-known, the resort also has a restaurant called “The Viceroy Restaurant” that dates back to the British era. This lesser-known dining spot offers a glimpse into the history of the property and its legacy.
  • They Are a Custodian of Local Folk Art: Toshali Sands actively works to preserve and promote age-old traditions of Odishan folk dance and art, some of which are on the verge of extinction. They often host local performances and cultural events for guests, providing an authentic taste of the region’s rich heritage.
  • It Has Puri’s Largest Conference Hall: While known for its natural setting, the resort is also a major corporate destination. It houses the largest conference hall in Puri, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, making it a surprising hub for business events and large-scale gatherings.
  • The Resort Has a Social Mission: Beyond hospitality, the Toshali Group has a strong community-focused initiative. The resort has adopted a school in a nearby village, providing special tuition for underprivileged students and sponsoring health camps, including immunization programs for the local community.
  • They Practice a “Green” Philosophy Behind the Scenes: The resort has an extensive list of green practices that guests might not notice at first glance. These include a ban on single-use plastics, using recycled paper, installing energy-saving devices, and relying on solar water heaters to reduce their environmental footprint.
  • It Offers a Unique “Full Moon” Experience: The resort’s villas are said to offer a “heavenly experience” during a full moon night. The elevated position and large windows provide a breathtaking view of the moonlit landscape and gardens, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere that is perfect for a special occasion or a peaceful retreat.

 

Natural Beauty – Surrounded Toshali Sands Puri this destination offers breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Hotel Toshali Sands is located in Puri, a destination with a unique blend of spiritual, cultural, and natural facts that make it a compelling place to visit. While the resort itself is a tranquil escape, its location provides a gateway to a world of fascinating local features.

Here are some key facts about Puri as a destination, which enhance the experience of staying at Toshali Sands:

1. A Major Hindu Pilgrimage Site: Puri is one of the four original Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus in India, making it a place of immense religious significance. The city’s economy is heavily dependent on its religious importance, with nearly 80% of its economy driven by the Jagannath Temple and its festivals.

2. The Enigmatic Jagannath Temple: The 12th-century Jagannath Temple is the heart of Puri. It’s not just a temple but a monument steeped in mystery and unique facts:

  • The Idols: The main deities of the temple—Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra—are made of wood and are replaced every 8, 12, or 19 years in a special ritual called Nabakalebara.
  • A-Gravity-Defying Flag: The flag on top of the temple’s dome is said to always fly in the direction opposite to the wind.
  • No Shadow: It’s a popular belief that the main temple has no shadow at any time of the day, a mystery that has puzzled many.
  • No-Fly Zone: Another popular belief is that no birds or planes fly over the temple’s main dome.
  • The “Mahaprasad” Miracle: The temple’s kitchen is the largest in the world, and it’s said that the same amount of food is cooked every day, yet it’s never wasted and is always enough to feed the thousands of pilgrims who visit. The food is also said to cook in a peculiar order, with the pot on top cooking first.

3. The Famous Rath Yatra: Puri is synonymous with the Rath Yatra or “Chariot Festival,” a grand spectacle that attracts millions of devotees from around the world. During the festival, the deities are taken out of the temple in massive, beautifully decorated wooden chariots and pulled through the streets by devotees. This festival alone is a huge part of the city’s cultural identity.

4. Unique Local Art and Culture: Puri is a center for traditional arts and crafts.

  • Pattachitra: This traditional art form involves intricate paintings on a piece of cloth, often depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
  • Sand Art: The Puri Beach is famously associated with internationally acclaimed sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik, who creates stunning sculptures with a variety of themes.
  • Applique Art: The village of Pipli, a short drive from Puri, is renowned for its applique handicrafts.

5. A Natural Paradise on the Coast: Beyond its spiritual importance, Puri is a coastal destination with unique natural features.

  • Golden Beach: The Puri Beach is known for its expansive golden sands and the unique experience of the sea breeze.
  • Reverse Sea Breeze: In most coastal areas, the sea breeze blows towards the land during the day and from the land to the sea at night. In Puri, this phenomenon is said to happen in reverse.
  • Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary, located on the Marine Drive, is known for its casuarina forests and wildlife, including blackbucks. Toshali Sands is located right next to this sanctuary, adding to its “nature escape” feel.

Staying at Toshali Sands allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural tranquility of Puri while being perfectly positioned to explore these fascinating cultural and spiritual facts that make the destination so remarkable.

What are the best times to visit Chilika Lake for birdwatching?

The best time to visit Chilika Lake for birdwatching is during the winter months, from October to March.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the birdwatching season:

  • October – November (The Arrival): This is when the first waves of migratory birds start to arrive at the lake. You can witness the initial groups of species settling in after their long journeys.
  • December – January (Peak Season): This is the absolute best time for birdwatching. The lake is at its most spectacular with the highest diversity and population of birds. Over a million birds from places like the Caspian Sea, Siberia, and Central Asia can be seen at Chilika during this period.
  • February – March (Breeding Season): Many species begin their breeding activities, offering opportunities to observe courtship displays, nesting behaviors, and more. The birds start their homeward journey towards the end of March or early April as temperatures begin to rise.

Tips for a Great Birdwatching Trip:

  • Visit in the Early Morning: Birds are most active during the early morning hours, so an early start will significantly increase your chances of spotting a wide variety of species.
  • Hire a Local Guide: A local guide, especially in areas like Mangalajodi, can be invaluable. They have intimate knowledge of the birds’ behavior, their specific habitats, and where to find rare species.
  • Go to the Right Spots: While the entire lake is a bird haven, certain areas are particularly famous for birdwatching. Nalabana Bird Sanctuary (an island within the lake) and Mangalajodi (a village on the northern edge of the lake) are considered prime spots.
  • What to Expect: Look out for a vast array of migratory waterfowl, including flamingos, pintails, common teals, gadwalls, bar-headed geese, and many more. You might also spot resident birds like white-bellied sea eagles.

What are the nearby attractions to Toshali Sands?

Toshali Sands is strategically located on the Puri-Konark Marine Drive, making it a great base for exploring the region’s most famous attractions. Here are some of the nearby places you can visit:

Within Puri

  • Shree Jagannath Temple: The most famous and revered landmark in Puri, this ancient temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus. It is the center of the annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival). Toshali Sands is approximately 8-9 km away from the temple.
  • Puri Beach: Known for its golden sands and stunning sunsets, Puri Beach is a popular spot for leisurely strolls, camel and horse rides, and enjoying the local atmosphere. It’s about 10 km from the resort.
  • Raghurajpur Art Village: A heritage crafts village where every family is involved in creating traditional artwork, most notably the Pattachitra paintings. It’s a great place to witness local artistry and buy unique souvenirs, located about 14 km away.
  • Balighai Beach: This beach is very close to Toshali Sands, at a distance of only about 3 km. It’s known for being less crowded than Puri Beach, making it a perfect spot for a tranquil walk.

Day Trips from Puri

  • Konark Sun Temple: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 13th-century temple is a magnificent architectural marvel shaped like a giant chariot. It’s located on the Marine Drive, about 30-35 km from Toshali Sands.
  • Chilika Lake: Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, Chilika is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The lake is a popular destination for its migrating birds and the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins. It is approximately 50-60 km from the resort.
  • Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary: Located between Puri and Konark, this sanctuary is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered blackbuck. It’s a great spot for a nature walk or a safari.
  • Dhauli Hill: An important Buddhist site located near Bhubaneswar. It is known for its Peace Pagoda (Shanti Stupa) and the ancient rock edicts of Emperor Ashoka. This is a longer drive, about 55 km from the resort.

Escape to Nature’s Embrace: A Guide to the Serene World of Toshali Sands Puri

In the heart of Puri, where the spiritual fervor of the Jagannath Temple meets the rhythmic lull of the Bay of Bengal, lies a different kind of sanctuary. Toshali Sands Nature Escape Resort is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience curated for those who seek to disconnect from the chaos and reconnect with the tranquility of the natural world. Spread across a vast, lush expanse on the Puri-Konark Marine Drive, this resort embodies a philosophy where nature isn’t just a backdrop, but an integral part of your stay.

The moment you arrive, you’re greeted not by a concrete jungle, but by the whisper of casuarina trees and the sight of immaculately maintained gardens. The resort’s architecture, inspired by traditional Odia aesthetics, blends seamlessly with its environment. The accommodations, ranging from charming cottages to rustic villas, are designed to offer a sense of privacy and peace. Wake up to the gentle chirping of birds and a view of the sprawling greenery, a true feast for the senses.

A defining feature that sets Toshali Sands apart is its direct access to a private beach. While Puri’s main beach is a vibrant hub of activity, the resort’s private stretch of golden sand is an oasis of calm. Guests can enjoy a complimentary shuttle ride to this secluded paradise, where the waves are yours to enjoy in peace. The private beach is exceptionally clean, offering a pristine setting for leisurely walks, quiet moments, or a playful dip in the uncrowded sea.

Beyond the peaceful surroundings, Toshali Sands offers a wealth of amenities that cater to every kind of traveler. The resort’s large swimming pool is a perfect spot for a refreshing dip, while the wellness spa, with its rejuvenating Ayurvedic and Panchkarma therapies, promises complete relaxation. For the active guest, there’s a well-equipped gym, a variety of indoor and outdoor games, and even bicycle rentals to explore the vast property.

Dining at Toshali Sands is an adventure in itself. The resort’s multi-cuisine restaurant, “Phulpatna,” serves a delectable array of local and international dishes. For a truly unique experience, head to the “Coastline Dhaba.” Praised by guests for its ambiance and wood-fired pizzas, it’s a perfect spot for a casual meal or a romantic candlelight dinner under the stars. The resort’s commitment to nature extends to its cuisine, with a dedicated organic garden providing fresh produce for its kitchens.

What truly makes Toshali Sands shine is its family-friendly atmosphere. The resort provides a dedicated children’s play area and a range of supervised activities, allowing parents to unwind while their little ones are entertained. The courteous and professional staff are frequently commended in guest reviews for their attentive service, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay for everyone.

For those who wish to explore beyond the resort’s tranquil confines, Toshali Sands serves as an excellent base. Its location offers easy access to Puri’s iconic landmarks, including the Shree Jagannath Temple and the vibrant Puri Beach, as well as the world-renowned Konark Sun Temple.

In a world where travel often feels rushed and impersonal, Toshali Sands Puri is a refreshing reminder of the simple joys of a nature escape. It’s a place where the air is cleaner, the sky is clearer, and every moment is an invitation to slow down and savor the beauty that truly comes alive.