The Himalayan Charm of Amritara Chateau Kasauli: An Idyllic Retreat for the Soul

The grandeur of Amritara Chateau in Kasauli

Staying at the Amritara Chateau feels like having a personal quarter in a mansion, thanks to its thoughtfully designed decor and furnishings. Each deluxe and standard room, as well as the family suites, opens up to the breathtaking views of the sub-Himalayan ranges. Taking full advantage of this architectural delight, I spent most of my time on the balcony sipping coffee, reading Rumi, and basking in the different shades of nature.

In March, the mornings were typically misty, with blankets of clouds ensconced between the piercing sunlight. Later, when the bright sunshine dispersed the fog, I could see the sky-scraping peaks of the mountains covered with snow. Looking towards the horizon, I could only see the ethereal natural beauty of the place and nothing else. The mountains were lush green, with tall oaks and deodars swaying in the wind, as if beckoning the chirping birds. In the evenings, I admired the dusky sky, which looked stunning with orange hues gradually turning grey. Late at night, I ordered a serving of hot gulab jamun. And then, I knew nothing could interrupt my starry night conclave with a delightful dessert in hand as I tried to apprehend the constellations twinkling in the pristine sky.

Suddenly, I wondered how the impressive landscapes of the hill station had brought out the poet in me. Was it because I was reading Rumi? But then it dawned on me that I was in Kasauli, the birthplace of notable writer, Ruskin Bond. So, it was no surprise that everything about this charming hill station and its quaint surroundings had the potential to inspire a story. The Chateau itself was enchanting enough that one needn't look outside for inspiration.

Vacationing at The Chateau

Tucked away on a cliff, the mountain resort of The Chateau Kasauli blends beautifully with nature, inside out. While the exteriors mimic a manor, the chic wooden interiors complement the colonial vibes of Kasauli. Aptly named "The Chateau," it royally welcomes you with an ever-smiling staff greeting you. Since I was travelling solo, the hotel employees took extra care to ensure that I had everything I needed. Upon request, they reserved the best spot for me at the restaurant, recognising immediately that my main interest was in the mountains.

Besides my favourite terrace, I found my deluxe room quite lavish and attractive. The spotless bedding seemed to match the snow on the Himalayan peaks and the timbered furniture harmonised with the forests outside my window. As much as I loved waking up early for the sunrise, the comfy beds brought out the sloth in me. The readily available amenities added to my indulgence. Although I had a brief stay, I felt like I was living a grandiose life at The Chateau.

It is not just the rooms here that afford superb views, but even the in-house restaurant, which boasts huge glass windows that offer enchanting mountain vistas. The dining area also features a small patio where I always preferred to have my breakfast in peace. I was welcomed to my breakfast table each morning with fresh, crispy waffles with banana slices or mouth-watering chhole bhature along with a piping hot cup of coffee. As I savoured the flavours, my eyes simultaneously feasted on the verdant views.

Practical information for a hassle-free stay

The Chateau Kasauli is located only a short drive of an hour and a half from the city of Chandigarh. Situated around 64 km from the Chandigarh International Airport and only 4 km from the Kasauli bus stand, the resort is easily accessible. As someone who is always on the lookout for such stays, I was happy to find that the location wasn't isolated from the hustle-bustle of the main road, yet it was secluded enough to provide a tranquil retreat away from the buzz of the town. The location also allowed me to explore other attractions in the vicinity, such as the Gilbert Trail.

I had previously experienced Amritara Hotels' eye for detail in hospitality during my stay at their resort in Varanasi. That intrigued me to book The Chateau in Kasauli. And it didn't disappoint. The wonderful stay at this resort added a royal charm to my holiday in the hills and surpassed my expectations. When I need a relaxing holiday, I prefer to check in to an elegant resort where I spend most of my time rejuvenating myself. Considering this, I'd vouch for a stay experience at The Chateau, in Kasauli, any day!

The trip comes to an end

On my final night at the retreat, I retired to my cosy bed with a heavy heart, unwilling to end my splendid holiday and bid goodbye to the luxury that surrounded me. However, I consoled myself by thinking that I still have one more morning to enjoy the sunrise views and sizzling waffles. The next morning, the local driver added salt to my wound and showed me pictures of The Chateau covered in snow from the previous winter on his phone. As the resort faded from my view, I made a promise to myself that I would return in December. How could I possibly resist a glimpse of this magnificent castle covered in a blanket of snow?