If you’re looking to take a quick break, and unwind in the lap of luxury, far from the madding crowds, we have just the place for you - The Kumaon. Hidden in the Kasar Devi region, near Almora, in Uttarakhand, this gorgeous property was conceptualised by Dr. Vikrom Mathur, one of the co-founders. With the intent to ensure the local community, ecology and environment was well looked after, expect sustainable designs, hospitality courtesy the local people and of course, plenty of cultural and culinary elements from the region.
The Kumaon has 10 chalets, nestled in pairs along the hillside. You can only imagine the stunning views, until you get there. Then it’s a reality of valleys below and mountains as far as the eyes can see! Each of the suites is fitted with traditional bukharis, have en-suite bathrooms and if you get the top room, then the bay windows open out onto terraces while the lower rooms have outdoor patios to unwind at. The architecture here will really intrigue you, especially if you have a keen eye for design. Blending the rustic bamboo with the more edgy glass, you’ll find that while the structure is undeniably modern, it fits right into the rugged hillside. The dining area is our favourite spot at The Kumaon. A cantilevered structure with floor-to-ceiling glass, an uninterrupted view of the surrounding mountains, with a focus on Nanda Devi, it’s understated and sophisticated, yet warm and somehow, homely. The food too reflects that! Expect plenty of Kumaoni food as well as international cuisines, made with ingredients sourced from local farms and foraged from the forests around. Some highlights include soybean daal, bhaang chutney made with ground cannabis seeds, and millet flatbreads, we’re told!
For the nature lovers and the adventurists, The Kumaon will tailor make plans to suit your desires. From trekking trails to get the best views, or to check out local fauna and flora, or even to chase waterfalls, just tell the team, and they’ll be happy to help. If you want to just laze around the hotel, then don’t miss the spa. With oh-so-relaxing champis or full-body massages to take the aches of skipping along the hills, they have quite a few options that use locally-sourced cold-pressed oils.
Room rates are upwards of INR 21,000, plus taxes.