An Eco-Conscious Escape
Actress and environmental advocate Bhumi Pednekar recently experienced the tranquility of Himachal Pradesh, choosing an exclusive eco-retreat named Amaya
for her stay. This sustainable luxury haven is situated near the village of Darwa in Kasauli, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle. Pednekar shared snapshots of her time at Amaya on Instagram, highlighting its minimalist design ethos intertwined with environmentally sound practices. Her shared moments included leisurely walks along stone paths, amidst terraced fields and mountain trails, with one image capturing her joyful expression while holding a yellow flower. The retreat also provided a taste of its unique culinary offerings, emphasizing a 'forest-to-table' philosophy. This included enjoying slow mornings with a delightful breakfast spread of granola with pomegranate, fresh fruits, various breads, smoothies, and even wine, alongside participating in the traditional preparation of authentic Himachali dishes. Pednekar aptly captioned her experience as 'Moments of pure joy,' encapsulating the essence of her restorative getaway.
Ryokan-Style Design
The architectural brilliance of Amaya is a testament to Bijoy Jain of Studio Mumbai, who designed the retreat across 20 acres of terraced forest land. Each villa has been meticulously constructed entirely by hand, eschewing cement to embrace traditional craftsmanship and integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape. This approach fosters a unique ryokan-style experience, emphasizing harmony and mindfulness. The property itself is strategically positioned at an elevation of approximately 4,800 feet, providing panoramic and awe-inspiring vistas of the majestic Himalayas and the surrounding verdant pine forests. Its accessibility is also a key feature, located a convenient two-hour drive from Chandigarh, making it a reachable sanctuary for those seeking an escape into nature without extensive travel.
Accommodation Options
Amaya offers a diverse range of accommodation choices, comprising 15 distinct rooms spread across its various villas. These include Chalet Suites, Cottages, and Private Villas, with each villa unit spanning an impressive 3,000 square feet. For those seeking mountain views in a standard one-bedroom Chalet or Cottage, the nightly rates fall between Rs 42,000 and Rs 45,000. If additional space and a dedicated study area are desired, upgraded suites are available from Rs 54,000 to Rs 60,000 per night. The one-bedroom villas, covering approximately 1,450 square feet, are priced around Rs 75,000 per night. For larger groups or families, the expansive three-bedroom private villas represent the pinnacle of luxury and space, with a nightly rate of Rs 1,50,000.
Farm-to-Table Philosophy
The core philosophy behind Amaya is deeply rooted in a commitment to sustainability and local sourcing, as articulated on its official website. Years ago, the initiative began with the rejuvenation of terraced hillsides, once used for traditional farming, with the explicit aim of minimizing food transportation distances. The retreat now cultivates an abundant variety of fresh, organic vegetables right on its grounds, growing them in close proximity to the living spaces. This dedication extends to fruit cultivation, with the planting of a thousand fruit trees that now yield a plentiful harvest of apples, pears, plums, mulberries, figs, and various citrus fruits, ensuring guests can enjoy the freshest produce.
