Everyone wants to get away from their hectic life to a place where they can relax and see places they have heard before. I recently came across one such location off the beaten track. Nandadevi Estate Binsar is an exclusive heritage estate – an invitation for people with a love of the Himalayas and nature. Guests may step back in time and enjoy their holidays in simplicity coupled by style and sophistication. 

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Between 1805 and 1947, the British ruled Kumaon and established their administrative capital in Almora. With a keen eye for the best spots and a great sense of style and good taste, the British discovered Binsar, with its unparalleled natural beauty and sweeping views. Set at 7500 ft in the heart of Binsar Sanctuary, the NandaDevi Estate Binsar was the residence of a succession of District Magistrates from 1856 to 1945, after which it passed into the hands of the Shah family of Almora who owned a store providing groceries and wines to the British. Against a 700 rupee wine bill, Mr Van Renen handed over the property to Shyam Lal Shah who in turn sold it to Vivek Datta, a philosopher turned gentleman farmer from an aristocratic Delhi family, and his Belgian musicologist wife Marie in 1956, exactly a hundred years after it was built. It provides a unique experience, where the awe inspiring peaks in an unbroken chain of 500 kms can be contemplated up close. The wild beauty of virgin Himalayan oak and rhododendron forests surrounding the estate urge you to connect with nature, explore its secrets, and return to time and again. 

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Nandadevi Estate Binsar is located in the core area of sanctuary, which is under the management of Corbett National Park. There are only 5 properties in the higher reaches of Binsar Sanctuary, and they are all separated by kilometres of thick forest. The property, 20 acres of land, comprises of terraced fields and a 155 years old heritage bungalow – originally built by a British administrator in 1854. What makes the Nandadevi Estate one of the most beautiful places in the world, is not only its views but the harmonious way in which the property is naturally set with its own five hills, each with exquisite views, and its terraced fields which once were a thriving farm and apple orchard, and are gradually being restored to their original state a few acres at a time. All efforts have been made so that guests have the unique experience of stepping back in time and enjoying the simplicity coupled by the sophistication. The entire estate is at the disposal of the guests along with the estate staff making it a relaxing holiday.

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The Nanda Devi Estate Binsar has two Bungalows – The Goralkot Bungalow, built in the mid nineteenth century, is steeped in history and atmosphere and has been restored in a typical colonial style with wide verandahs, bay windows, and high ceilinged rooms with plenty of light and space and the Writer’s cottage that was originally a barn located in the middle of the apple orchards and farm and was converted into a cottage in the mid 1980’s. An Italian writer called Tiziano Terzani, an icon in Europe as much for his writing as for his philosophy, stayed in the cottage for five years and wrote his most celebrated book there. They have recently revived the farm and four acres of land have been planted with vegetables and crops slowly we will bring the property back to its former days when there used to be 4000 fruit trees and substantial agriculture. The property also has a cowshed housing five milk cows, a bull, two riding horses, a few sheep, and chickens. Guests can order their meal fresh from the vegetable garden or dairy and watch the cows being milked. The farm, providing fresh dairy and poultry products and a range of local and exotic vegetables and fruit, ensures guests will enjoy Indian and Continental cuisine cooked to their taste and requirements in the bungalow kitchens.  They have a range of activities like hikes and bird watching in the Sanctuary, camping, horse riding, and mountain biking and day treks inside the Sanctuary as well as visits to nearby places of interest. However, the breath-taking surroundings and the luxuries of old world comforts and home grown, home cooked food will make it hard for guests to move out. Having said that I am sure guests would like to explore the countryside and for those walks in Binsar Sanctuary ranging from easy strolls to day treks with picnic lunches can be arranged.  For guests who love riding, Horse riding along the old British horse trails in the Sanctuary can be organised. If you want to taste a bit of culture excursions to Almora to visit the Nanda Devi temple, the Old Bazaar and the main production unit of Panchachuli Women Weavers can be arranged. It’s a unique concept and a one of a kind experience. 

If staying at one of the colonial houses in Himalayas and looking out at the impossible bright blue sky or gazing at the snow capped mountains at a distance with a cup of tea entices you, include a stay at Rokeby Manor that was built in 1840 by Captain G.N. Cauthy which is one of the landmarks of Landou

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The house and two acre estate are situated slightly above and to the east of St. Paul’s Church and the old cantonment parade ground, which is now Char Dukan. Like many houses in Mussoorie, its name is taken from the writings of Sir Walter Scott, whose book-length poem describes heroic battles near the original Rokeby Castle in England. Several years after it was built, the house came into the possession of Lt. Col. Reilly, who also owned Ralston, another residence in Mussoorie. In 1878, Reilly mortgaged both properties for Rs. 25,000 to Frederick ‘Pahari’ Wilson, a controversial adventurer and entrepreneur, who was the inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s classic story, “The Man Who Would Be King”.  Since then Rokeby exchanged hand and was used as a guest house throughout the rest of the 20th century. Today, Rokeby has been carefully restored to its original glory. This heritage building is resplendent with character in its elaborate brick arches and niches, intricate stone walls, real wood doors and beams, and cosy replaces. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, the traditions of bygone years – where colonial o cers, renegade soldiers of fortune and pious miss saibs lived under one roof–can still be felt. An air of mystery beckons visitors.

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Each room in Rokeby Manor has its own unique character, having been restored to its original 19th century décor. Rooms are located throughout the Manor between the main house and the tea garden. Their luxurious and charming suite has been designed in a Victorian style with a cozy fireplace. While staying at these colonial houses in Himalayas, one can enjoy idyllic views of the valley and the tea garden from your own private balcony . Rooms have been decorated in quaint English country style with traditional wooden beams and inviting nooks and corners. These are the only rooms located on the first floor of Rokeby Manor and have breathtaking views of the valley.

Emily’s , a homely dining room with scenic surroundings overlooking the valley. Serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu has a mouthwatering selection of Indian and Continental dishes and is open from 06:30 am till midnight. Dining on the terrace, under a moonlit sky, is an ideal for a romantic dinner or enjoy a hot cuppa accompanied by cake in the freshness of the Tea Garden.

While staying at these colonial houses in Himalayas . those who’d like to wander off the beaten track and experience the beauty of nature, trails or scenic drives can be arranged from the property. Walk the forest trail to the top of the Witches Hills or try the longer Flag Hill where beautiful rhondondendron is in full bloom and if you are lucky the guide will point out a barking deer.  I would also recommend visiting Pepperpot and Pepperpot Cave, a mountain so named because the squareness of its top resembles a pepperpot or shaker. Located to the east of Mussoorie, it is a leisurely day hike of around 8 kms. A nice place to see spectacular views of the surrounding hills, valleys and the distant snows. Also, a good area to meet up with some of the local fauna and birds. Don’t leave without visiting Sanji, the corn village, less than 2 hours away. Sanji is like nothing you have seen before with bright orange corn cobs handing to dry in bunches from each ancient house and vast fields of mustard swaying gently in the wind.

Bhutan Holidays are some of the most rewarding to arrange! The country (or kingdom, more correctly) is absolutely awe-inspiring! From the people, to the architecture, to the scenery – everything is a feast for the senses!

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Bhutan offers some of the most beautiful walking in the most spectacular surroundings – in such a serene and peaceful environment! The towns also offer such different experiences – from the more lively capital of Thimphu, where one can see the 13 arts and crafts that the country relies upon for its livelihood, to the more rural retreats of Gangtey (also known for its black cranes ) and Bumthang. Paro has the Taktsang walk which is one of the most amazing and important pieces of architecture in Bhutan – the Tiger’s Nest Monastery.

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We can also arrange special outings not normally available to the public. In addition, we can arrange special Buddhist blessings – whether for health or for a renewal of marriage vows or even for a wedding! These are bestowed by the monks and incredibly moving (even for the most hardened cynic!).

Staying at the Oberoi Wildflower Hall is undoubtedly the best property to consider if you are on an India luxury honeymoon. Situated at 8,250 feet in the magnificent Himalayas, Wildflower Hall is a fairytale luxury resort set in 22 acres of virgin woods of pine and cedar. The former residence of Lord Kitchener, rebuilt to a new magnificence, Wildflower Hall recreates the grand style of the colonial era. Wood panelling and original artwork create an aura of old world charm. Teak wood floors, hand knotted rugs and rich furnishings complemented by spectacular views make the rooms very special retreats. For centuries, the Himalayas have inspired awe and awakened spirituality in the souls of all mortals who encounter their greatness. This fairytale resort offers a tranquil sanctuary in the mountains. The Oberoi spa at the resort offers holistic treatments based on Ayurveda, Oriental and Western traditions in private spa suites or pavilions that are ensconced in a dense cedar forest and offer spectacular vistas of the majestic snow peaks. Enjoy beautiful views of mountains and valleys from the restaurants, outdoor Jacuzzi and the heated swimming pool. Take leisurely walks on the trails winding through the fragrant pine forests and enjoy Gourmet picnic hampers that accompany your explorations.

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During my recent visit, while being shown around the property, the resident Manager happened to mention that they offer a Railways of the Raj experience to their in house guests. One of the most unique and enthralling modes of travelling to or from Shimla has been the quaint Rail Car, that has been running on the Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge track since 1927. A journey back in time, this individual self-powered coach runs on the century old Kalka- Shimla track. If you want to make your India luxury honeymoon extra special, Wildflower Hall offers exclusive charters of the Rail Car in collaboration with the Railways. To further personalize this experience while on a luxury India holiday, Wildflower Hall organises white-glove service by the resort’s food and beverage team onboard the Rail Car. The exclusive charter can be organised for a group comprising of at least 6 guests and can accommodate a maximum of 12 guests.

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Visit Shimla and I am sure it will remind you how vast swathes of this great country have remained the same.

After visiting North India last year on a superbly arranged tailor made holiday, we decided to explore the Eastern Delights a bit more.  We therefore decided to go on a Sri Lanka luxury holiday. Though my son is well travelled and although I shall enjoy the explorative journey; the colonial history, the fascinating culture, the beautiful geography, I would without a doubt opt for the Aman hospitality as they create an exciting and enticing holiday experience for you.  Sri Lanka has, of course, been many things to many people, but to most of us it was this mysterious rich tea country, Ceylon.  Its natural beauty combined with two Aman resorts makes a perfect recipe for a Sri Lanka luxury holiday.

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Nestled in the centre of 400-year old Galle Fort — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — Amangalla is housed in historic colonial buildings formerly known as the New Oriental Hotel. The property was founded in 1863 and traded under this name for 140 years. Amangalla is Amanresorts’ first property in Sri Lanka and perfect place to embark on a Sri Lanka luxury holiday. It re-opened in February of 2005 after extensive renovation and restoration. Traders, merchants, and Dutch and English colonists have all left an indelible stamp on the character of Galle Fort. Today it is part of Sri Lanka’s living heritage and Amangalla plays an integral role. It is here that one can explore the history and understand the unique character of a town that has drawn to its port several famous names including national cricket hero Muttiah Muralitharan and, for my sons, this alone is an excellent reason for going.

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Amangalla provides a tranquil and period styled base from which to explore the fascinating culture and tumultuous history of Galle Fort and Galle, which is acclaimed for its Dutch Fort, intricate Galle lace, ebony, woodcarvings and polished gems. It is surrounded by antiques, old prints, polished aged-floors, crisp white linen, pristine walls, rich mahogany, wood and rattan planters together with a gracious, welcoming and warm staff. Gentle strolls directly from the hotel unravel the unique history of this magnificent 36-hectare hexagonal stone fort, revealing colonial buildings still in use today, bustling narrow streets proffering the crafts of many generations, and the ramparts and seawall, where locals and visitors gather alike to fly kites, play cricket or simply inhale the wonders of its maritime legacy.

Entrance corridors, bedrooms, Chambers and Suites offer views overlooking Galle Fort or the hotel’s lush gardens. Suites feature antiques and well crafted reproductions set on polished teak floorboards dating back 300 years. While on a Sri Lanka luxury holiday one would like to certainly like to rest and relax, something quite welcome while travelling with kids. Amangalla’s spa is known as the Baths. An arched hallway leads to five serene treatment rooms. Centered within the resort’s gardens, the Swimming Pool offers five shaded ambalamas and a series of sun loungers. Also nestled in the gardens is a Meditation and Yoga Pavilion.

For families this is an ideal as its one of the best locations in Sri Lanka for whale watching. Located just 40 minutes drive from Amangalla and 90 minutes from Amanwella is Mirissa Harbour. Here one boards an Indonesian fishing trawler restored for leisure cruising and sets sail for Weligama Bay where the giant mammals are known to cruise by. Guests can swim and snorkel from the boat, watch for whales and dolphins, do a spot of fishing with a hand line and have a picnic in a coconut-fringed cove.

Beyond Amangalla one can extend their Aman experience and their Sri Lanka luxury holiday by visiting Amanwella which is situated in a mature coconut grove overlooking the mesmerizing Indian Ocean with a crescent shaped beach. The resort has 30 suites each with a terrace and plunge pool. Architecturally it looks stunning and has used natural materials, clay, stone and timber, to incredible effect. It is modern and calm, serene and stylish, a retreat dedicated to its environment with an innate understanding of what is required to enjoy the spoils of this rich land without compromising on location, authenticity or modern necessities. The scenery is tropically stamped: long white beaches, tall leaning palms, rocky outcrops, dense turquoise ocean, a buzzing local village life, nearby rock temples, and heart-surging wildlife.

Suite interiors are decidedly contemporary, with ocean or coconut plantation views on one side and access to a plunge pool on the other which you will expect whilst on a Sri Lank luxury holiday. Each has a spacious private terrace. The Restaurant offers vistas of the coconut grove and beach. It serves both Mediterranean and local cuisine, with fresh fish delivered daily by the local fishermen. Amanwella offers a number of cultural and nature tours, starting with the famous rock temples at Mulgirigalla. The Uda Walawe National Park is 75 minutes away and is renowned for its large herds of elephants and other wildlife. Even closer to home, there are several beaches where giant turtles lay their eggs every season

For families looking for a luxury holiday to Sri Lanka, Amanwella’s golden sand beach is located in an 800m crescent-shaped cove, fringed with palm trees. During the winter months guests can enjoy swimming on calmer days, while snorkeling is possible along the southern headland, usually protected from the ocean swell during the dry season. During the summer months large waves make swimming conditions less favorable, but beach strolls and sunbathing are particularly enjoyable with the cooling onshore breeze.

Combining these two stays is known to Amanjunkies worldwide as the ‘Aman Sri Lanka Experience’ where culture, history and national treasures are brought to you in unparalleled style. Yes, we are the envy of many, but you, too, can experience this luxury holiday to Sri Lanka first hand.

A Nepal Tiger Safari takes you into the very heart of some of the world’s finest tiger country – the terai region which is the lowland stretch of interior valleys and fertile plains bordering the Himalayas. A typical terai forest is a rich and diverse mix of alluvial flood plain grasslands, riveraine forest and moist deciduous jungle dotted with ox-bow lakes full of fish, crocodiles and otters; the whole densely interlaced with streams and rivers that drain into the Ganges. Not so long ago these terai forests stretched for virtually 1500 unbroken miles right along the length of the Himalayas. It was a habitat that supported such densities of tiger, leopard, sloth bear, rhino, elephants, buffalo, deer, crocodiles and much else, that sportsmen considered them to be virtually inexhaustible. In one incredible hunt, in 1930 in Chitwan in Nepal, 120 tigers were shot in a month. What was astonishing was that within 2 years the population had recovered so well that a smaller hunt accounted for about 80 tigers. As malaria was eradicated these magnificent forests fell victim to human land hunger and by the 1970’s were reduced to fragments of their former glory. Fortunately Nepal moved firmly to protect and enlarge what was left. Two great National parks, Chitawan and Bardia, were created and, bolstered by many other smaller reserves, the charismatic cats and other large mammals began to make a come-back.

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 Our Nepal tiger safaris are focused on these areas. But because of long and close association with the Nepalese parks, lodges and guides we tailor our safaris carefully to create the perfect wilderness experience in tiger country – but in a way that is right for each of you individually. The amazing thing about the Nepal parks is the possibility of a range of game viewing options: one can walk, ride elephants through the high grass and dense forests; go on game drives or take boats down the rivers. Where you stay is very much dependant on your interests. Are you a birder who wants to enjoy the rich range of birds while also looking for the big cats? Do you prefer walking? Do you like to fish or take pictures? Do you want to combine a safari with visiting the high mountains while taking in some of the unique culture of the incredibly diverse hill regions of Nepal? These are all the factors that we take into account before creating just the right Nepal tiger safari for you.

A Bhutan holiday is quite an extraordinary experience. Bhutan truly is one of the Earth’s blessed Acres. It’s a small country with a very low population density – itself a unique gift in over-populated south Asia. The landscape – straddling the Eastern Himalayas from the foothills to the spine – is some of the most beautiful on Earth and further embellished by a particularly harmonious architecture, essentially Tibetan in origin but feeling just right for these densely forested mountains as well. And the forests are extensive. By law Bhutan must have a minimum of 65% of land area under forest. At the present more than 75% of the country is under a range of different types of forests – from sub-tropical moist deciduous to montane evergreen, birch and alpine meadow. And the forests are absolutely bursting with life. The Eastern Himalayas are a world bio-diversity hotspot and with the highest percentage of land under forest, Bhutan is the very epicentre of this coffer of biological riches. Walk a trail through a forest of giant hemlocks and one gapes in amazement at just how much life a single tree can support – Spanish, moss, ferns, fungi, rainbow flocks of birds in the branches. I reckon you could spend a fair few days just identifying and counting up what a single tree supports!

But here’s the thing – you could be doing this while threading your way along a tree shadowed path to a remote little monastery made sacred with the hum of Buddhist prayer; draped in bright strings of flags in the colours representing the five elements recognised by Buddhists and Hindus as the basis of the cosmos.

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In the modern age we increasingly make the distinction between natural and man-made worlds. And by extension we label our holidays as nature safaris or cultural tours. But with a Bhutan holiday these distinctions are blurred to the point of non-existence – nature and humans live in harmony and so any Bhutan holiday is automatically an experience of nature and human culture. Something that the Bhutanese themselves are deeply proud of.

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Do you have to live in yak hair tents in the pastures of high altitude nomads to experience Bhutan? Not exactly – although that option is very much available! In recent years Bhutan has seen the arrival of some wonderful small hotels like the Uma Paro and the Amankora hotels in Paro, Punakha and Bumthang along with some excellent Bhutanese five star options like the luxurious but ethnic Zhivaling in Paro. Ideally, you can mix and match – using normal Bhutanese accommodations for most of the trip with a few days in the lap of luxury.

Visiting the Ceylon Tea Trails must be one of the most romantic things to do on the island. A collection of four colonial-style bungalows built for British tea estate managers in the days of the Raj, they enjoy spectacular views overlooking the rolling green of Sri Lanka’s hill country. We boarded the old steam train at Kandy for the delightful journey to Hatton. If you are planning a Sri Lanka honeymoon, this will be a thrilling ride through the undulating hills. At Hatton We were greeted by my cheerful driver from where it was a short drive to Castlereagh, the stunning residence overlooking the reservoir.

Guests staying at any of the Tea Trails bungalows are welcome to visit the three other bungalows for lunch or afternoon tea. Days can be spent walking from one bungalow to the other or on a tour of one of the factories nestling either side of the valley followed by a tea tasting. The bungalows come with staff and the food and service are exceptional. This is high-end tourism at its peak. From here you have a panoramic view of the reservoir and dam where half of Sri Lanka’s energy is created.

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From the Tea Trails we travelled down to the Yala National Park where we camped inside the pristine forest. The camp set up by Mahoora Yala Safaris was beautifully laid out. We had a super tent with a double bed and en suite facilities. Food was delicious and was arranged either by the river (offering plenty of bird watching opportunities) or candle lit dinner under a humungous banyan tree. Spending the night in the heart of Yala gives you the opportunity to stargaze in the crystal skies above, listen to the occasional sound of elephants in the river close by and the calls of the  nocturnal creatures around. Yala National Park is mostly open parkland which makes the wildlife easier to see, particularly in the December-March dry season. The landscape is varied, with rock outcrops, scrub jungle, lagoons, lakes, rivers and even beaches, and it has a rainy season from April to June. Yala West is one of the few places in Sri Lanka where it is relatively easy to see a leopard, either strolling beside the track or, with luck, draped elegantly in a tree. There are estimated to be around 35 leopards and 400 wild elephants here, as well as wild buffalo, musk deer, mongoose, pangolins, sloth bears, macaques, jackals and numerous species of bird.  I would highly recommend it as part of any Sri Lanka honeymoon.

After a bit of adventure at Yala we drove along the southern coastline to arrive at our gorgeous beach villa.  There are several dotted around the coast between Tangalle and Bentota. Our personal favourite is The Reef, a spectacular villa set in three acres of exotic tropical gardens with palm fringed pavilions and reflection pools that recreate the romance and grandeur of Sri Lanka. They offer only seven unique and exclusive palatial suites designed on Indo–Colonial lines with exquisite furniture and very tasteful decoration. The property boasts a vast sandy beachfront, huge lily ponds and a fabulous spa. It is intimate, beautiful and a truly excellent finale to a stunning Sri Lanka honeymoon.

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