Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Duo Transforms 10 Acres into Eco-Stay with 6000 Plants
Ankit Rastogi and Pradeep Vijayan bought 10 acres of dry land near Kanha National Park in Madhya Pradesh.
They left it untouched for three years to let nature recover.
Over time, they planted over 6,000 native plants and trees, creating a habitat for 59 bird species.
They built an eco-stay called Surwahi Social Ecoestate using mud walls, recycled materials, and locally sourced furniture.
The project has restored the land, supported local people, and preserved traditional skills.
They also created jobs for local villagers and established a self-help group for women.
The estate uses sustainable practices like evapotranspiration toilets, rainwater harvesting, and solar power.
They aim to reach 100% sustainability and continue to benefit the surrounding communities.
Ankit Rastogi and Pradeep Vijayan transformed 10 acres of dry land into an eco-stay with over 6,000 native plants and trees.
The project has restored the land, supporting 59 bird species and creating a man-made pond for wildlife.
Surwahi Social Ecoestate uses mud walls, recycled terracotta roof tiles, and locally sourced furniture.
The founders funded the project through their corporate incomes and employed local villagers, creating jobs and supporting the community.
The estate uses sustainable practices like evapotranspiration toilets, rainwater harvesting, and solar power, aiming for 100% sustainability.
- Who
- Ankit Rastogi and Pradeep Vijayan
- What
- Transformed 10 acres of dry land into an eco-stay with 6000 plants, mud walls, and local jobs
- When
- Purchased in December 2015, fully operational today
- Where
- Near Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
- Why
- To build a sustainable tourism model that benefits the environment and local communities
Eco-Friendly Development
Local Skepticism
Environmental Impact
Eco-Friendly Development
The project has successfully restored the land, increasing biodiversity and supporting local ecosystems.
Local Skepticism
Some locals were initially skeptical about the project, questioning the benefits for the community.
- Location
- Near Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
- Initial Condition
- Fewer than 300 trees on 10 acres of semi-barren land
- Current Condition
- Over 6,000 native plants and trees, 59 bird species
- Founders
- Ankit Rastogi and Pradeep Vijayan
- Key Features
- Mud walls, recycled terracotta roof tiles, locally sourced furniture
- Community Impact
- Directly employs over 7 people from nearby villages, benefits over 50 others
- Sustainability Goals
- Operates at 70-80% sustainability, aiming for 100%