Privacy in the Himalayas

The pandemic has made travellers increasingly opt for more intimate accommodation settings that offer minimal contact and maximum relaxation. One such property that invokes the grandeur of the British Raj in a safe, hygienic setting is Jungle House, Shimla.

Lipla Negi

Rising above the middle Himalayas, Jungle House Shimla offers a splendid blend of nature, history and modern comfort. The Shimla home of HH Princess Kusum of Bharatpur, it comes with an illustrious history that dates back to the late 19th century. A witness to the heydays of The Raj, Independence and the birth of Himachal Pradesh, the home has welcomed nobility. Interestingly, it also makes a ‘special appearance’ in the oral anecdotes shared locally as the place where a vicereine once dropped by for a chat! Perched on a sunlit spur at over 7,700 feet on Jakhu Hill, Jungle House commands sweeping views of the middle Himalayas. While the morning tea comes with the complimentary and breathtaking view of the sunrise, the evenings come dotted with a million stars.

With social distancing, work-from-home and staycations becoming the new normal, this immensely private estate addresses the heightened need for solace, peace and privacy.

“People are increasingly looking for private villas, homestays and boutique hotels that do not require them to share facilities with people outside their family bubble, and assure a higher degree of privacy, intimacy, personalisation and security,” believes Karan Singh, Chairman and Co-Founder, 1524 Delhi – that represents Jungle House Shimla.

The estate offers two exquisite suites in a stone cottage that effortlessly combine contemporary style with colonial hill architectural design. The cottage has been meticulously renovated to preserve its original features while providing exceptional levels of modern comforts and luxury. Set in lovingly tended gardens, the rooms offer unparalleled privacy and intimacy. Exquisitely manicured lawns, fragrant nooks and a fire pit provide the perfect setting for a brisk game of croquet, a quiet read or a romantic evening under the stars.

In response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the boutique homestay has initiated additional stringent protocols to further safeguard the health & safety of its guests and employees. Guests are required to furnish documentary evidence of having received two doses of the vaccination against COVID-19. Also, they are required to submit an RT-PCR negative report of a test taken no later than 24 hours prior to arrival. “All staff at the property are vaccinated,” says Singh. As the second wave ebbs and travel within India gains momentum, Jungle House is confident of attracting tourists.