SaffronStays is putting compassion at the centre of travel with the launch of Junglebrooke, an animal-first getaway in Kolad, Maharashtra. Ganesh Nayak, founder of Animals Matter To Me, owns the retreat and envisions it as a cageless haven where stray animals receive the affection of pets, pets come first. A portion of the proceeds, as part of its sustainability initiative, supports the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of animals.
Located across an acre inside the verdant AMTM Kolad campus, Junglebrooke marks a pioneering offering for India’s conscious travellers. The retreat incorporates recycled furniture repurposed from Film City sets and elevated structures to maintain open green spaces, all guided by the philosophy “Pets Over People.”
The property features eight large cottages, an eco-friendly design ethos, and close proximity to an empathetic rescue ecosystem. Guests can engage in guided tours, interact with animals, practice yoga, or enjoy quiet reading sessions in nature. Each stay includes accommodation for two guests with one pet at no charge, along with complimentary pet meals, pool access, yoga classes, karaoke, and more.
From dogs and cats to cows, pigs, ducks, rabbits, and geese, the animals here now enjoy a peaceful and cared-for environment. A sprawling 10,000 sq. ft. cage-free cattery provides a sanctuary for cats, while the gaushala offers a safe grazing space for rescued cattle. Picture this: beginning your day by feeding a rescued calf, splashing in the infinity pool with your dog by noon, and unwinding at sunset with a drink while your pet relaxes beside you—ending the night under a starry sky, comforted by the knowledge that your stay contributes to meaningful change.
AMTM, home to more than 400 rescued animals, has long served as a refuge for dogs, cats, cows, pigs, ducks, and rabbits from Kolad and Mumbai. Philanthropists and industrialists such as Nawshir Mirza, Cyrus Mistry, and the Tata Group have bolstered the organisation’s mission, enabling it to expand its facilities and strengthen its rescue work.
“Junglebrooke is our way of giving a voice to the voiceless, those with paws, claws, wings, and whiskers. It’s built as a space where pets can truly be themselves, and humans are happy companions in their world. A place where dogs can run free, cats can nap under trees, and their people can unwind right alongside them. Every stay becomes a small step toward a kinder world for animals and for us,” says Devendra Parulekar, founder of SaffronStays.
