Mountain Sanctuary Unveiled
Actor and environmental advocate Bhumi Pednekar recently experienced the tranquility of Himachal Pradesh, choosing Amaya, a sustainable luxury eco-retreat
located near Darwa village in Kasauli. This retreat, designed by Bijoy Jain of Studio Mumbai, sprawls across 20 acres of terraced forestland. Its villas are meticulously constructed by hand, eschewing cement and instead embracing traditional craftsmanship merged with modern living to create a distinct ryokan-style experience. Perched at an elevation of approximately 4,800 feet, Amaya offers breathtaking vistas of the Himalayan range and surrounding pine forests, accessible within a two-hour drive from Chandigarh. Pednekar shared glimpses of her stay through photographs on Instagram, depicting her walking along stone paths amidst terraced fields and mountain trails, highlighting the resort's minimalist aesthetic and its deep integration with nature.
Culinary Delights & Local Flavors
During her stay, Bhumi Pednekar savored a curated 'forest-to-table' breakfast, a testament to the retreat's philosophy of using locally sourced ingredients. Her breakfast spread included a nutritious mix of granola topped with vibrant pomegranate seeds, an assortment of fresh fruits, freshly baked breads, invigorating smoothies, and even a glass of white wine, marking moments of 'pure joy' as she described it. Beyond enjoying prepared meals, Pednekar also actively participated in traditional cooking methods to prepare authentic Himachali dishes. This immersive culinary experience underscores the resort's dedication to celebrating local produce and traditional gastronomy, ensuring guests enjoy meals that are not only delicious but also deeply connected to the region's heritage and agricultural practices.
Diverse Stays & Pricing
Amaya provides a range of accommodation options, totaling 15 rooms spread across its various villas, designed to cater to different guest needs. These include Chalet Suites, Cottages, and Private Villas, with each space offering approximately 3,000 square feet of living area. For those seeking a comfortable stay with mountain views, a standard one-bedroom Chalet or Cottage is available, with nightly rates ranging from Rs 42,000 to Rs 45,000. More expansive upgraded suites, which include additional study areas, are priced between Rs 54,000 and Rs 60,000 per night. For individuals or couples, a one-bedroom villa, approximately 1,450 square feet, can be booked for around Rs 75,000 per night. The pinnacle of luxury is the expansive three-bedroom private villas, ideal for families or groups, which come with a nightly rate of Rs 1,50,000.
Sustainability at Core
The ethos of Amaya is deeply rooted in sustainability and rejuvenation, as highlighted on its official website. Years ago, the property embarked on a mission to revive the terraced hills previously used for farming, with a core principle that food should be consumed locally, minimizing travel distances. This commitment is evident in the abundance of fresh, organic vegetables grown on-site around the living spaces. The resort has also planted a thousand fruit trees, contributing to a landscape now flourishing with apple, pear, plum, mulberry, fig, and citrus varieties. This dedication to regenerative agriculture and local sourcing forms the foundation of the guest experience, ensuring a harmonious relationship between the resort and its natural environment.
