Why Literary Retreats Are Becoming the Perfect Getaway for Book Lovers and Writers

Imagine waking up to the sound of birds and the soft breeze of the mountains. There is no rush, no deadlines — just books, words, and quiet time to think. This is what a literary retreat feels like, and many readers and writers in India are now choosing this kind of getaway.

Literary retreats are calm places made for people who love to read, write, and think creatively. These retreats help guests escape the noise of daily life and focus only on creativity. According to a recent Skyscanner Travel Trends 2026 report, almost eight out of ten Indians are planning or considering a book-inspired vacation in the coming year.

A Place to Read in Peace

One of the most well-known retreats in India is the Himalayan Writing Retreat in Satkhol, Nainital. Hidden among forests and hills, it is perfect for people who want to read or write without interruption.

The retreat’s director, Debdatta Dasgupta, said, “We want participants to disconnect, slow down, and just be by themselves. The only thing we ask is reading.” The retreat allows people to join workshops, take long walks, or even enjoy movie nights and book talks — but nothing is mandatory. “If someone just wants to read all day, that’s perfectly fine,” he added.

Another popular spot, the Himalayan Orchard Book Retreat in Shimla, also focuses on quiet time and creativity. Guests can stay for at least three nights, have their own writing desks, access a personal library, and even go on guided hikes.

A visitor named Ankita Chaudhuri shared her experience, saying, “It’s perfect for those who used to finish thousand-page books as kids but now can’t even complete a small novel. It brought back my love for reading.”

These retreats usually cost between ₹35,000 and ₹85,000, depending on the stay, meals, and activities included.

Writing with Guidance from Experts

For those who want to improve their writing skills, the Alekhya Writing Retreat near Kasol offers a more structured experience. It combines nature’s peace with lessons from professionals.

The retreat is located deep in the forest, about 30 minutes from the nearest town, and guests enjoy home-cooked meals and stunning mountain views.

The host, Mahima Sood, explained that Alekhya focuses on workshops guided by editors and published authors. The five-day retreat, which costs about ₹50,000, helps writers develop their ideas and even offers scholarships for talented participants.

Akshay Gajria, a writing coach who attended the program, shared, “It’s been a month since I left, but I still miss the place. Sitting under the sun, writing for hours, and talking to other writers was such a beautiful experience.”

Places That Inspire Creativity

The charm of a literary retreat also lies in its location. The Bound Writers’ Retreat in Goa is set in a 200-year-old Portuguese villa on Divar Island. Every activity — from food tastings to island walks — is designed to inspire new stories.

The founder, Tara Khandelwal, said, “Writing is a solitary job, so having a community is very powerful.” The retreat often hosts famous authors like Samit Basu and Prayaag Akbar to guide participants.

Guests not only learn from experts but also build friendships with others who love writing. Many end up forming writing groups and sharing their work even after the retreat ends.

A Growing Trend Among Creative Minds

Literary retreats are now becoming the ultimate holiday choice for creative people. They offer peace, learning, and a chance to rediscover the simple joy of reading or writing. In a world full of screens and schedules, these retreats remind people to slow down and listen to their inner thoughts.