A Serene Mountain Sanctuary
Nestled in the verdant hills of Kasauli, near the village of Darwa, lies Amaya, an exquisite eco-retreat that promises a harmonious blend of luxury and
sustainability. Actor Bhumi Pednekar recently offered a peek into this tranquil haven, showcasing its minimalist aesthetic and profound commitment to environmental practices. Situated at an elevation of approximately 4,800 feet, the retreat commands breathtaking vistas of the majestic Himalayas and the surrounding dense pine forests. Its strategic location, a mere two-hour drive from Chandigarh, makes it an accessible yet secluded escape. Pednekar's glimpses revealed serene stone pathways winding through terraced fields and along mountain trails, painting a picture of peace and connection with nature. Her experience was marked by moments of pure joy, including an appreciation for local flora and a delightful culinary journey that emphasized fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Ryokan-Style Eco-Villas
Amaya's architectural brilliance is a testament to its sustainable ethos, expertly designed by Bijoy Jain of Studio Mumbai. The villas are meticulously crafted by hand across 20 acres of terraced forest land, eschewing cement to integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape. This approach results in a unique ryokan-style experience, merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary comfort. Each of the 15 rooms, comprising Chalet Suites, Cottages, and Private Villas, is a spacious retreat, with standard units offering approximately 3,000 square feet of living space. The thoughtful design ensures that guests are immersed in the serene mountain environment while enjoying modern amenities. The commitment to natural building methods not only minimizes environmental impact but also creates an atmosphere of authentic tranquility and refined living, a rare find in luxury accommodations.
Culinary Delights & Farm-to-Table
The culinary philosophy at Amaya is deeply rooted in its 'forest-to-table' approach, reflecting a commitment to local sourcing and sustainable food practices. The retreat actively cultivates a vast array of fresh, organic vegetables on its premises, significantly reducing the need for long-distance transportation of produce. This dedication to hyper-local ingredients is further enhanced by the abundance of fruit trees, including apple, pear, plum, mulberry, fig, and citrus varieties, planted across the estate. Guests like Bhumi Pednekar have experienced the pleasure of slow mornings savouring curated breakfasts featuring granola with pomegranate seeds, fresh fruits, assorted baked goods, nutritious smoothies, and even fine white wine. The resort also offers immersive experiences in traditional cooking methods, allowing visitors to engage with and learn about authentic Himachali dishes, connecting them directly to the region's rich culinary heritage.
Luxurious Stays & Pricing
Amaya offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit various preferences, from cozy cottages to expansive private villas, all designed to provide an unparalleled luxury experience within a sustainable framework. The property features 15 distinct rooms, including Chalet Suites, Cottages, and Private Villas, each crafted to offer comfort and stunning views. A standard one-bedroom Chalet or Cottage, boasting beautiful mountain vistas, is priced between Rs 42,000 and Rs 45,000 per night. For those seeking additional space and amenities, upgraded suites with dedicated study areas are available from Rs 54,000 to Rs 60,000 per night. A one-bedroom villa, approximately 1,450 square feet in size, comes in at around Rs 75,000 per night. The pinnacle of luxury is the expansive three-bedroom private villas, perfect for families or groups, which are priced at Rs 1,50,000 per night, offering an exclusive and comprehensive mountain retreat experience.
