Views from Kumaon.
The vastness of India will be that much closer to you from this private retreat in the mountains of Kassar Devi , one of the highest points in the country in the historic city of Almora, 300 km from the Himalayas.
The Kumaon is that place to heal and rejuvenate the soul, a luxury boutique hotel surrounded by the fragrance of pine trees, fresh air and sun, located in a natural enclave that did not hesitate to visit mythical artists such as bob dylan . Is it possible that this place inspired you for any of his songs? We have no doubt.
The Kumaon, which opened its doors a year ago, has ten luxury villas perfectly integrated into the landscape, taking into account that it is located on a hill, which is why its structure is somewhat peculiar. A work done by architect Geoffrey Bawa and Zowa Architects.
A luxury boutique hotel in the Himalayas.
The Kumaon is a modernist building although with the traditional touch of the typical houses. A sanctuary designed to be as sustainable as possible, that's why the rooms are designed in pairs, one above the other and spread throughout the properties on different levels.
“The roof is made of fly ash bricks lined with bamboo canes to add a sense of lightness. Winking at the natives of the area, indigenous pine wood has been used in the doors and windows, as well as copper and stone accessories handmade by local artisans, as is usually done here”, they say from The Kumaon to Traveler.es.
An ideal place to see the stars.
Sustainability is another of the things that are taken seriously, an example of this is the rainwater harvesting system that they have designed, which collects and transfers all the water to a large holding tank at the bottom of the hotel.
All rooms have bukharis which are wood-burning stoves to guarantee warmth in winter, revolving glass walls from which to see the himalayas and at night, the starry sky. In fact, it is a paradise for stargazers.
The main building houses a library, a reading room by the fireplace, terraces for outdoor dining Y do yoga ; in addition to a gourmet restaurant with mountain views Nanda Devi . There you can taste typical local dishes with products grown by themselves, from a freshly squeezed watermelon juice to a Lamb Curry.
Bathroom of one of the luxury villas.
A UNIQUE ENCLAVE
The Kumaon not only stands out for its magnificent design, but also for its location. From here the possibilities of getting to know India are endless, you can start with Crank's Ridge , the hippie hill that leads up to the temple of Kasar Devi, It is said that many artists came here to seek calm and inspiration. One of them was Bob Dylan.
If you are looking for something calm and relaxing, the walks through the woods and villages they are the best option. the walk of Kassar Devi to know the local life or the excursion to visit the chetai temple who worships Golu Dev . There the faithful make a wish and, if it is granted, they return with a bell to the temple, that's why there are so many.
Another of the excursions from The Kumaon is to visit the meadow of binsaar , to get to know the town of Kaparkhan and reach the famous Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary , a protected nature reserve to observe brown bears and even leopards. Also the walk to know the capital, Almora , a city with a metal tradition, where a visit to its local market cannot be missed.
Surroundings of The Kumaon.