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5 LUXE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN INDIA FOR THE SUMMER

CULTURE
By Gauri Vij
08 June, 2022
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Tucked-away boutique hotels in cooler climes beckon to a getaway in the hills

Even if you don’t believe in the #climatemeregency we are in currently, it’s hard to deny the blistering, energy-sapping summer that we are experiencing. Until mid-May this year, almost all of India was reeling under a heat wave that seemed interminable. But making an escape from the city is always a great idea, especially when we are lucky to have gorgeous mountains and hill stations to lift the spirit, calm you down and just allow you to breathe.

We’ve chosen five secluded luxury stays that are special experiences in themselves. To get to each of these locations from any city will involve multiple modes of transport–a plane or train ride and then driving down to where these boutique stays are located, but the journeys are all worth it.


Imagine a holiday where all you have to eat, walk, read a book or sleep–now that’s true luxury. During the day, enjoy mountain views and exhilarating treks, and at night, look up to see clear skies featuring a carpet of stars. Start planning your getaway now.

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Shel, Ladakh

Rooted in the Ladakhi landscape is a brand new homestay managed by photographer Hajra Ahmad, about a 30-minute drive from Leh airport. ‘Shel,’ named after the ancient royal palace of Shey (Shel), translates into ‘mirror’. Located on a private estate at walking distance from the Sindhu (Indus River) and the Shey marshes, it is a great site for birding. The home is made up of three bedrooms, a library, drawing and dining areas, rooftop spaces and gardens, and is designed keeping local heritage and comfort in mind.

The best part: you can both hear and see the River Indus from the bedrooms.

Website: https://www.shelladakh.in/


Image: courtesy Hajra Ahmad 

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