As soon as I stepped into the Aalia Jungle Retreat and Spa, I was greeted by the pure silence of nature. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this luxury jungle resort felt like a heaven of peace. Situated near the Rajaji National Park in Uttarakhand, this enormous green campus was the latest addition to the Claridge Collection.
The sweet note of a Himalayan bulbul from a nearby Saal tree and the friendly and smiling hospitality staff welcomed us as we entered the resort.
The reception area looked like an artistic blend of tradition, nature, and luxury. The collection of books and magazines, indoor games, and wildlife frames on the walls made the place even more alluring.
Already rejuvenated and excited anticipating the hint of a perfect holiday for the coming two days, I headed toward my tent. The sweeping carpet of tall lemon grass and trees created a perfect jungle ambiance. As I unzipped the tent, I was pleasantly surprised by the luxurious accommodation that awaited me. The tent was spacious and had all the modern facilities one could expect from a Clarridges Collection resort. The tent’s colonial charm, simplicity, and contemporary style caught my attention and created an uplifting mood.
The resort had 11 tent accommodations with luxe bathrooms, exquisite furniture, and bespoke lighting. The blend of wilderness and luxury was captured in every aspect, making the resort a perfect holiday destination.
The Food Story
But what made my stay even more memorable was the food. Curated by Chef Ritesh Negi, the multi-cuisine menu at the resort’s restaurant was a delightful culinary experience. From continental to South Indian and North Indian cuisine, every dish had an authentic flavour and ingredients that created a memorable gastronomical experience. The Uttarakhand Devbhoomi Special Thali served during my last dinner at the restaurant was the cherry on the cake, comprising mouth-watering authentic and organic elements.
The Romantic Dinner
The resort had thoughtfully set up a provision for an open outdoor dining area for couples looking to celebrate their special occasions, lit and decorated with candles. As the sun began to set, the sky was painted with hues of oranges and pinks, casting a warm glow over the entire area. Soft background music played, creating a romantic ambiance. The red wine along with every bite was a burst of flavour, expertly crafted by the talented chefs at the resort. We savoured every morsel, enjoying the conversation and the breathtaking view. It was a moment of pure bliss, immersed in the beauty of nature and love.
After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the campus. It was a perfect night, free from the noise and chaos of the city. The peace and tranquillity of the jungle engulfed us, providing a much-needed respite from our busy lives.
Activities and Experiences
The next morning, we woke up to the sound of birds chirping outside our tent. We stepped outside to breathe in the fresh mountain air and took a walk through the resort’s lush gardens. Apart from the delicious food, the resort offered various activities that added to the experience. we decided to try our hand at archery. With expert guidance, we aimed our arrows at the target, feeling a sense of accomplishment each time, we hit the bullseye.
From jungle safaris and horse riding to archery, each activity was a way to integrate with nature and meditate. I enjoyed cycling on the forest path, passing by the troop of monkeys busy searching for breakfast and listening to the chirping of birds. The nature trek accompanied by an expert guide from the resort left me awestruck by the beauty of the surroundings.
The Wellness Spa
Afterward, we indulged in a rejuvenating spa session. The highly skilled therapists kneaded away our stress and triggered a deep sense of relaxation. The spa treatments were a perfect blend of ancient traditions and modern techniques, leaving us feeling refreshed and revitalized. The serene environment, aromas, and soulful music created peace and tranquillity that lifted my spirits.
The Sunset
As quoted by Albert Camus, “You cannot create experience. You must undergo it.”, it is indeed some experiences in life that one needs to live through them and that makes all the difference. One such experience during my two-day stay in this beautiful establishment was an incredible sunset picnic moment curated by the Aalia. A short journey by the safari gypsy through the surprisingly smooth roads that pass through dense forest and a small village would take you to a river bank. Suddenly the narrow village paths and jungle roads opened up to a wide green river bank surrounded by lash green and white kaashfuls. The setting sun made the entire landscape look like a kingdom of Gold. There was something magical about the place and the moment that we knew that it was time to just speak nothing and feel the blessings of nature in silent admiration. As we were returning after sunset, the sound of the flowing water and the chirping of crickets created a serene atmosphere. We spotted fireflies dancing among the trees, lighting up the night sky like a magical spectacle. It felt like we had stepped into a fairytale.
Overall, the Aalia Jungle Retreat and Spa is a must-visit destination for all who enjoy luxury and nature. The resort’s immersive wellness experiences, luxurious accommodations, and delicious food created an unforgettable experience. I left the resort with memories of breathtaking landscapes, delightful cuisines, and an overwhelming sense of peace and relaxation.
The Property :Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa, Claridge Collection
Location : Bandarjudh, Uttarakhand 247662
Website : https://claridges.com/
3 hours drive from New Delhi
For booking enquiry : [email protected]
Call: +91 9999361801
Written by : Anirban Dasgupta
