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It's winter, and that time of the year when you feel sluggish as the holiday season creeps in. It's time to relax and rejuvenate, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. For those who seek respite in the lush forests and snow-capped mountains, these stunning mountain retreats offer ideal solitude.
There is no doubt that the time to be mindful of the fragility of the mountains is now. Opened last year, Amaya was envisioned as a sustainable sanctuary where travellers could seek respite from the fast-paced city life and breathe in the crisp mountain air.
A seven-year journey by its founder Deepak Gupta culminated in this structure that effortlessly blends in traditional know-how of the region with modern design and amenities. The sustainably curated villas are all inspired by the villages of Kasauli in Himachal Pradesh. While sustainability and minimalism are at the core of this quiet retreat, Amaya also offers luxurious experiences like a heated outdoor pool and saunas to those who seek a luxe getaway.
How To Reach: The nearest airport is the Chandigarh airport, which is around 50 kms from Kasauli. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport. Kasauli is 288 kms from Delhi and the drive takes five and half hours. You can opt for a self-drive car or hire a cab. Kasauli is 26 kms away from the nearest railway station in Kalka and it takes one and half hours to reach Kasauli from the station.
For booking a room at Amaya, visit https://www.theamayalife.com/
Away from the din of Almora in Uttarakhand, higher up in the mountains is a transformative retreat that beckons discerning travellers to its biodiverse environment. In the shadow of Kasar Devi lies The Kumaon, which does justice to its name and serves the best of the region to you in the form of organic experiences.
Bring the outdoors into their structure, The Kumaon sits on a slope that is replete with local flora and offers unrivalled views of Nanda Devi and Panchchuli ranges. Partake in one of the many curated nature walks and trails that take you to temples, sanctuaries and a hidden waterfall. Seasonal produce and healthy local ingredients are the driving force behind the culinary experience at The Kumaon, and find resonance with visitors.
How To Reach: The beautiful sleepy town of Binsar in Uttarakhand is 79 kms from the nearest airport, Pantnagar Airport. You can book a cab or taxi to take reach the property. Kathgodam, the nearest railway station, is 28 kms away and a two-hour drive from Pantnagar.
For more information, visit https://thekumaon.com/
Once home to the Namgyal dynasty, the Stok Palace was opened to the public in 1980 and is now a boutique retreat and heritage hotel in Ladakh. An idyllic place that imbues the best that the hilly state has to offer, Stok Palace allows travellers to revel in exquisite and curated elements that tell the tale of Ladakh's culture.
This 200-year-old structure, which overlooks the Indus River, often reverberates with chants that rise within the walls of its private monastery. Its traditional culinary delights are an experience on their own. When here, make sure to head to the Lhakchung Temple on the premises and understand more about Tibetan culture through one of the many books adorning the walls of the hotel's library.
How To Reach: Stok Palace is 15 kms from Leh. Hiring a cab or renting a bike are the best ways to reach here as public transport in this region is limited.
For further queries and booking, visit https://stokpalaceheritage.com/
Deepak Prakash built the Wah Tea Estate Plantation as a place for his family and guests to stay close to the tea factory. The Lodge was built as a homage to the local architectural skills and drew inspiration from the mud houses in the region.
Overlooked by the snowbound Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, the cottages at the lodge are made of local materials and worked on by skilled local craftsmen the slate roofs take inspiration from the 'gaddi' tribe homes. Much of the wood used here is recycled cedar and pine wood that was taken from an old courthouse that was demolished. When here, make sure to partake in the tea manufacturing experiential tour. You can also head to Andretta, the beautiful pottery village, or head out for a day of parasailing at Bir, a 45-minute drive from the lodge.
How To Reach: Pathankot, the nearest railway station, is 90 kms from Palampur. Buses and taxis are easily available. The nearest airport is Gaggal airport in Dharamsala, around 40 kms away.
To book a room, visit https://www.thelodgeatwah.com/
Situated amidst apple orchards with wispy clouds framing the mountains, Larisa Manali blends nature and luxury with its signature style of hospitality. The hotel offers curated experiences that range from indulgent cuisines inspired by local organic produce to a relaxing jacuzzi experience as you bathe in sunlight that peers in through the glass walls. From private balconies to rustic stone fireplaces, Larisa helps you foray into the rustic side of Manali with ease.
How To Reach: Larisa Manali is in Haripur village, 15 kms from Mall Road. The nearest domestic airport to Manali is Kullu-Manali Airport in Bhuntar, which is 50 kms from Manali. A taxi ride will take two hours to reach Manali from the airport.
For further queries and booking, visit https://larisaresort.com/
