Wonderful Wunderhaus

Tucked away in the suburbs in a village called Kuilapalayam, between Pondicherry and Auroville, Wunderhaus- an artist’s getaway, is a quirky homestay with a conscience.  Indira Penubolu discovers what sets this particular destination apart.

The devil is in the details here at Wunderhaus, Pondicherry… Right from that famous aged stained glass window at the entrance, the ancient wooden doorway, the beautiful vibrant blue Athangudi tiles that you step on as you enter and the Chettinad pillars that adorn the central courtyard—everything embodies creativity and art.

Founded and managed by Kedar Maddula, a fashion and space designer, this solar powered homestay also has a beautiful indigenous organic garden- home to fruit trees such as cashew, anmango, papaya, chikoo, soursop, banana, kumquat lemons and lots of other interesting flora and fauna. 

Listed on AirBnB, this homestay is primarily nomadic, and deeply rooted in local culture. Kedar brings back little souvenirs and cultures to the home which in itself is an institution. Each piece of furniture is handpicked and unique, be it the custom-made bamboo recliners, the wooden benches and trunks, the swing near the entrance or the hammocks in the courtyard hanging on the branches of the cashew tree.

The windows of Wunderhaus deserve a special mention and are nothing short of a visual treat, each a unique shape, size and colour. Some are embellished in beautiful stained glass of different colours while others have ancient tiles with roses on them; yet others have artistic cement grills depicting creepers and flowers.

The tiny details on the walls, the cubby holes that hold lamps and candles and shelves holding unique items from the past could be as random as the brass tiffin box carrier or the collection of  brightly coloured wooden animals- the frog, walrus, fish, cow, pig, crow, rooster all souvenirs from different parts of the world. At the foot of the semicircular white wall, onto which movies can be projected, you can also find a few mice painted; one holding an Indian flag and a couple smooching away in love.

The rectangular pond with a tall skunk tree on its island is filled with lotus plants, fish and frogs. The vibrant mosaic wall art of a girl’s legs chilling in the pond with a bottle by her side is visually epic. Stay long enough and you may be able to make friends with the shy fresh water shark in the other pond hidden under the staircase.

Each of the guest rooms has a unique name and theme. The sea room is large and blue with a semicircular wall on one end with waves painted on, and a surfboard finishing off the look.  The ceiling sparkles with sequins and is studded with round paper lanterns. The bathroom wall is partly made of quarried rocks with conch shells built in and has a pebbled flooring. The Budget Backpackers room, also in blue with Athangudi tiles, is a small cosy room with a single bed and no attached bath. The Berlin room, decorated in paraphernalia from Berlin, has a cemented double bed with an interesting cement bag-finish ceiling. There’s also the jasmine, garden, and artists rooms all unique to their themes.

The common kitchen, painted in deep blue with a caricature of a cat and fish on one wall and terracotta fish and snails embedded in another, is a clutter of utensils – some steel, but others even brass and copper and some beautiful hand glazed, terracotta mugs and plates. Equipped with a mortar and pestle, an old oven and a refrigerator, and stacked with a variety of cold pressed oils and spices, one could cook up anything from mushroom stuffed grilled chicken to a black rice payasam. 

Wunderhaus is famous for its breakfast which is inclusive for the houseguests. Be pleasantly surprised by the visually beautiful, cold red banana and millet smoothie bowl, or the double beans and pumpkin hummus served with sourdough bread, tomato egg and chicken spinach salad or a simple red rice dosa with coconut chutney with a side of fruits harvested from the garden. The absolute star is the vegan coconut milk coffee.

The bathing rooms, whether common or attached, have a special place in the homestay. Flooring decorated in mosaic tiles and the walls made of old glass bottles and cement give it a unique feel.

The Terrace’s flooring is covered in little bits of mosaic tiles and is home to the dining area covered with a perennially blossoming drunken soldier creeper for shade.

The Wunderhaus Studio

Wunderhaus isn’t just a cool homestay. It’s also a studio for creating avant garde, indigenous, unisex clothing. The philosophy here revolves around exploring the narrative of historical craftsmanship in the fields of textile and handicraft across India.

The intent is to bring these into focus for the youth and carve out various interventions, collaborations and skill exchange in the rural sector but in a language

that appeals to the youth and to create economic opportunities for them and the people in rural India. It also collaborates with artisans with special skills in craft and textiles to create short capsule wearable art fashion collections to sell to a global audience.

The label “Wunderhaus” presently makes allwear clothing and accessories and has a strong focus to popularise indigenous Indian handloom, indigenous cottons, and handicraft amongst the youth.

So if you’re looking to get your creative juices flowing, or taking a workation, Wunderhaus Pondicherry is the right place to come to.

  • Wunderhaus is famous for its breakfast which is inclusive for the houseguests; its vegan coconut milk coffee is a star.
  • Wunderhaus Culturals: Just when you think there’s nothing left to explore here at Wunderhaus Pondicherry, Kedar Maddula, the founder surprises you by telling you about the cultural soirees he curates for intimate crowds in this space. It could be anything from a simple movie night to musical storytelling sessions by travelling artistes or even a food festival.

For Bookings, contact: [email protected]

or DM @wunderhaus.pondicherry on Instagram.

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

From Rishikesh to Rameswaram: Spiritual Retreats for Gen Z

Many Gen Zs are turning inward in a world buzzing with digital noise, seeking solace and meaning beyond screens. India’s spiritual retreats offer a unique blend of ancient wisdom and contemporary practices, providing the perfect escape for young souls yearning for connection, mindfulness, and adventure. From the serene banks of the Ganges in Rishikesh to the sacred shores of Rameswaram, Dhanush Kumar embarks on a transformative journey that resonates with the modern seeker. 1. Rishikesh- Yoga Capital of the world Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Rishikesh is renowned for its yoga and meditation centres. Ashrams like Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda offer immersive programs that blend ancient practices with modern needs. These retreats provide Gen Zs with tools to manage stress, enhance mindfulness, and foster deeper connection with themselves. Don’t miss: 2. Dharmshala-Tibetan Spirituality Dharamshala is home to the Dalai Lama and offers a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhism and Indian spirituality. Retreats here focus on meditation, compassion, and mindfulness, providing young travellers with a serene environment to explore inner peace amidst the majestic Himalayas. Don’t miss: 3. Varanasi- The Spiritual Heartbeat of India As one of the oldest living cities, Varanasi offers a profound spiritual experience. Witnessing the Ganga Aarti, exploring ancient temples, and participating in meditation sessions along the Ghats allow Gen Z travellers to immersive themselves in India’s rich spiritual heritage. Don’t miss: 4. Rameswaram- Sacred Shores and Soulful Reflections Located at the southern tip of India, Rameswaram is a significant pilgrimage site. The town’s tranquil beaches and historic temples provide a peaceful setting for introspection and spiritual growth, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a deeper connection with their inner selves. Don’t miss: 5. Kanha Shanti Vanam- Modern Spiritual Oasis Situated near Hyderabad, Kanha Shanti Vanam is the headquarters of the Heartfulness Institute. This retreat

UDAIPUR AND ALL THE BEST PLACES TO VISIT

India’s diverse landscape offers stunning destinations year-round, with Udaipur standing out as a winter gem. Known as the “City of Lakes,” it captivates visitors with its breath-taking lakes, grand palaces, and rich cultural heritage. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM on a journey through Udaipur’s must-visit spots, famous lakes, and top hotels to make the most of your trip. Nestled in the Aravalli Hills, Udaipur attracts travellers with its serene landscapes, royal architecture, and vibrant markets. Its temples, forts, and museums add to its historical charm, while stunning lakes like Pichola and Fateh Sagar enhance its beauty, making it a perfect blend of nature and culture. THINGS TO DO THINGS TO REMEMBER THINGS TO DO- It is a beautiful garden that is in the northern part of the city and has fountains and kiosks, a lotus pool and marble elephants.  This garden was laid for a group of 48 maidens by Maharana Sangram Singh for royal ladies who accompanied the queen after marriage to Udaipur. THINGS TO DO- THINGS TO DO- Artificial freshwater lake located in Udaipur, which was created in the 14th century. It spans approximately 4 square kilometres and is surrounded by picturesque hills, temples, palaces, and Ghats. The lake is famous for its serene beauty and its reflection of the historic City Palace, Jag Mandir, and the Lake Palace, which appears to float on its waters.  THINGS TO DO- This is one of the best hotels located on Lake Pichola in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Built in the 16th century, it was initially conceived as a retreat for Maharana Jagat Singh I. The palace features exquisite marble and sandstone architecture, with beautiful courtyards, gardens, and intricate carvings. It offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas, making it a popular destination for tourists and a symbol of royal grandeur. THINGS TO

God’s Own Country Awaits: The Best Places to Visit in Kerala This Season

Edged by the Arabian Sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the east, Kerala is rightly called God’s Own Country. January and February are the best months to visit, offering pleasant weather and an escape from the state’s extreme heat and monsoon rains. From serene backwaters to lush hills, Kerala is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. Join SAMBHAVI GAUTAM in discovering its breath taking landscapes, and you might just add Kerala to your travel bucket list. Kerala’s diverse attractions span from cultural landmarks to pristine natural beauty. This journey through the state begins in Ernakulam, centrally located, and extends south to Poovar Island, offering a seamless travel route. Each destination has been chosen for its accessibility, ensuring a convenient and enriching experience for every traveller. THINGS TO DO- (1-2 Days) 2) Alappuzha – The smallest district of Kerala, Alappuzha, known as “The Venice of the East,” is a perfect New Year getaway with its scenic network of canals, lagoons, and lakes. While there’s plenty to explore, creating a priority list will help you make the most of your experience. THINGS TO DO – (1 -2 days) Experience the splendid sight of the glowing sun passing through the calm waters of the Ashtamudi Lake which is the prominent attraction of the town. Asthamudi town signifies a total eight islands which jointly contribute to be a significant part of the wetland ecosystem in the area. The town is best for escaping the city rush during the vacations and experiencing the biodiversity featuring mangroves and avian species.  THINGS TO DO – (1 DAY)  Kovalam beach (95 kms from Ashtamudi towards south) If you love beaches and want to enjoy the sand and the sea, Varkala and Kovalam beaches are your spots!  THINGS TO DO- (1 DAY) Located in Thiruvananthapuram

Why Finland is the Happiest and Smartest Country

Finland consistently ranks as one of the happiest and most intelligent countries in the world. It has been crowned the world’s happiest country in the United Nations’ World Happiness Report for several years in a row. Additionally, Finland is known for its outstanding education system, high literacy rates, and innovative thinking. The country’s unique combination of social policies, education system, work-life balance, and connection to nature contributes to its exceptional well-being and intellectual prowess.  Hashtag Magazine explores the key factors that make Finland both the happiest and smartest country in the world. 1. The Finnish Education System: A Model of Excellence Finland’s education system is regarded as one of the best in the world. Unlike many countries that emphasize standardized testing and long school hours, Finland takes a different approach. Finnish students enjoy a relaxed and student-centric learning environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. A. Minimal Homework and No Standardized Tests One of the most striking aspects of Finnish education is the lack of standardized tests. Instead of relying on high-pressure exams, teachers assess students through continuous evaluation. This approach allows children to focus on deep learning rather than memorization. Additionally, Finnish students receive minimal homework, allowing them to have a better balance between academics and personal life. B. Highly Trained Teachers Teachers in Finland are respected professionals, much like doctors or lawyers. Becoming a teacher requires a master’s degree, and only the top graduates are selected for teaching positions. The rigorous training ensures that teachers are well-equipped to handle diverse learning needs and create an engaging classroom environment. C. Equal Opportunities for All Education in Finland is free, from preschool to university, ensuring equal access to learning regardless of socio-economic background. Schools do not compete with one another, and there are no rankings. Instead, the focus is

You May Also Like

Connect with us