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Imagine waking up to the smell of the ocean and quiet streets that have barely changed in centuries. Your only agenda? For reading, writing or simply paying attention to small details. Welcome to the magic of literary retreat.
These dedicated, quiet spaces that are gaining popularity are focused solely on writing, reading, and creative development.
Nearly eight in ten Indians are already planning or considering a book-inspired vacation, according to Skyscanner’s Travel Trends 2026 report, cementing this trend for the coming year.
Uninterrupted reading in the peace of nature
The Himalayan Writing Retreat in Satkhol, Nainital, is hidden amidst tranquil wooded corners, ideal for anyone wishing to read or write without interruption.
Debadatta Dasgupta, who leads the retreat, emphasizes the goal: “We want participants to disconnect, slow down and just be themselves. The only thing we ask is to read.” Although there is a flexible program with workshops, walks, movie nights and book discussions, there is nothing mandatory. “If someone just wants to sit and read, that’s absolutely fine,” says Debdutt. He added, “Many participants reported finding the joy of reading again, which is a difficult feat in this fast-paced world.”
Another location, The Himalayan Orchard Book Retreat in Shimla, allows guests to stay for a minimum of three nights without any fixed itinerary. The property offers guests a private desk, library access, and optional guided walking tours.
Ankita Chaudhary, who attended one such retreat, says, “This is the perfect place for someone who used to read thousand-page books on weekends as a child, but now can’t even read a 100-page novel. It brought back for me the joy of reading with a lot of adventure.”
Additionally, the cost of a literary retreat is determined by the specific offerings, including accommodations, meals, experiences, and workshops. Prices can start around go up to 35,000 more 85,000.
Read, write and learn from experts
For those seeking a more structured experience, Alekhya Writing Retreat near Kasol combines inspiration with professional guidance. Located an hour and a half from the nearest major city, the retreat requires a 30-minute trek to reach its forest location, which offers home-cooked meals and stunning views.
Mahima Sood, who hosts the retreat, says it focuses on workshops led by editors and published authors. This five-day course, costs approx. Rs.50,000 all-inclusive, helps writers gain clarity on their work and even offers scholarships.
One participant, Akshay Gajriya, writing instructor, recalled the community and focused writing time, “It’s been a month since I left there. I miss the place and the people I met there and the conversations… standing in front of the library and sitting under the sun wondering which book to read, I wrote a lot.”
Destinations that Inspire
The location of the retreat is paramount, specifically chosen for its history, culture and atmosphere. For example, the Bound Writers Retreat found its ideal starting point in a 200-year-old Portuguese villa on Divar Island, Goa. Founder, Tara Khandelwal explains that every activity – from food tasting to island hopping – is designed to spark story ideas and help participants pay attention to the small details around them. They also offer workshops with renowned writers like Samit Basu and Prayag Akbar.
A major focus of these gatherings is to build a sense of community. “Writing is a lonely job, so having a community is very powerful,” says Khandelwal. Participants often form lasting bonds, starting writing groups, sharing work, and becoming each other’s first readers.
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