Perfect Summer Escape: Anant Rasa Resort Is A Hidden Gem In Almora

As you step out of the Kathgodam Station, and the cool breeze hits your face – you know the perfect summer holiday destination is here. Lush green trees, winding hill roads and a resort that only believes in exceptional hospitality and service, this summer, look no further than Anant Rasa for your getaway.

Located in Sitalkhet, Almora, we can personally promise you perfect hill views, freshly prepared food that will leave you drooling for more, game rooms for hours of carrom, pool and more, walking trails and adventurous activities {including rappling and zip-lining} as well spots for watching the lovely sunrise from the Himalayas.

Anant Rasa really spoils you for choice with their cuisine options. With breakfast in bed that includes fluffy omelettes, fresh fruits and juice, hot parathas, delicious cappuccinos – you name it, they prepare it. With trained chefs and friendly, welcoming staff – they make this experience feel like home away from home {the housekeeping guys even leave delicious cookies in the room!}. With Tibetan offerings for lunch – including yummy momo and thukpa, to warm soup, grilled fish and sauteed vegetables for dinner {and a warm bonfire to keep us company on a chilly evening} – Anant Rasa makes every meal an unforgettable experience.

They believe in the  farm-to-fork concept and hence grow and prepare everything organically – including the tea leaves that are grinded for a welcome drink. From fresh strawberries to leafy cabbages, lemons to parsley – the authentic food preparations are a labor of love from everyone from the gardener to the chef. If you’re interested, they take you on a tour across their gardens and the staff happily explains the process, temperature and conditions that ensure their produce is both high on taste and quality. I honestly loved the guided tour, the staff’s happy, positive vibe was both infectious and heartwarming.

The thought of dangling on a rope between two mountains, only secured via a harness made my knees weak {and not in a good way}. But the activity organising team in Anant Rasa is supremely capable, enthusiastic and are talented experts in their field, ensuring fun and safety combine for a thrilling experience. Resident professional Lokesh is both engaging and interactive, answering queries and encouraging both you and your travel companions to try different activities. Whether you love rock climbing, hiking, rappling, zip-lining or even a low-key bird-watching session, the team will make sure you go back with stories to share and reminisce about.

This is one resort that is perfect for anybody. Whether you’re solo tripping in the hills, planning a romantic getaway with your spouse or looking for a family holiday, Anant Rasa has a range of rooms and suites based on your need. With stunning views from their balconies, super comfy beds {getting out of them is a task, since they’ll deliver breakfast in bed} and in room minibars and entertainment, check out their website to plan a getaway like no other. Trust me, you may want to relocate at the end of it.

Well, getting there can be a bit exhausting if you don’t like traveling more than six hours – but it’s totally worth the journey. You can drive to Sitlakhet, which is roughly a nine-hour journey, depending on traffic conditions. The road to the resort is bumpy and patchy, so be prepared for a difficult drive towards the end. There is a longer route via Ranikhet that is a better drive, but that just means you have to wait longer to hit the sack.

You could also take the train, and ask the hotel to send you a taxi at the station. The early morning train means you get in by noon, and reach the resort by late afternoon. Make sure you stopover for lunch at iHeart Cafe Himalayas – they have amazing waffles, pancakes, pizzas and more – so you’ll definitely be travelling on a happy belly.

If you’re looking to cool down in this summer heat, ditch the conventional hill stations and head to this quiet, tranquil resort. Pro tip: you must convince yourself to wake up and watch the sunrise, even if it means wrapping yourself in a warm quilt and sipping tea while you capture the first rays of the sun on the mountains. This is one getaway that creates major envy – and gives you much needed down time with loved ones.