Alpine Allure

BY GRACE CLARKE

As the holiday season draws near, it’s the perfect moment to curate your annual winter escapades. Whether you’re seeking a charming family retreat, a romantic interlude for two, a glamorous girls’ getaway, or a spirited gentlemen’s sojourn, this festive period invites you to indulge in relaxation and reflection, celebrating the myriad challenges and triumphs of the year. And what better way to immerse yourself in the essence of the holidays than enveloped in a blanket of pristine snow? This year, elevate your seasonal experience by venturing to India’s premier chalets fringed by snow-capped mountain ranges, where opulence meets nature’s tranquil beauty. We’ve put together the crème-de-la-crème of snow-filled serenity amidst the awe-inspiring views of India’s peaks. 

JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Amidst the breathtaking Himalayas, Jammu and Kashmir emerges as a quintessential destination for an enchanting ski retreat. With its pristine snow-covered slopes and luxurious lodges that exude opulence, this region offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and indulgence.

THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT & SPA

Naturally, when we delve into the charm of the snow bunny lifestyle, we must also consider the exhilarating sports that accompany the snowy terrain. Renowned as India’s premier boutique luxury ski resort, the Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is celebrated for its excellence in accommodation, fine dining, wellness experiences, and seasonal activities. Set amidst the stunning Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, this exquisite resort spans seven acres and is elegantly crafted to blend Swiss chalet-style architecture with interiors that showcase the rich heritage of Kashmiri art. The use of traditional materials enhances the resort’s captivating design, creating a perfect harmony between luxury and cultural authenticity.

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa offers an exciting range of winter activities, from skiing, snowboarding, and sledging; to snowmobiling, heli-skiing, scenic gondola rides, ATV excursions, and ice skating; all set against the breathtaking backdrop of blanketed mountains and tranquil vistas. After an adventurous day, unwind at the Khyber Spa by L’Occitane, where Mediterranean-inspired treatments promise unparalleled relaxation, or indulge in one of the resort’s six premier dining venues, offering everything from afternoon tea and light bites to local, Italian, and Southeast Asian cuisine.
Instagram: @thekhyberresort

THE LALIT GRAND PALACE, SRINAGAR

Set against the stunning backdrop of Dal Lake, the LaLiT Grand Palace Srinagar, originally built in 1910 by Maharaja Pratap Singh, exudes regal charm and rich history. Once a royal residence, this majestic palace, affectionately known as “Gulab Bhavan,” was transformed into a luxurious hotel in 1954. With elegant rooms, a temperature-controlled pool, and a rejuvenating spa, the property invites guests to immerse themselves in luxury while enjoying breathtaking wintry views of the surrounding landscape, including the iconic landmark chinar tree, where Mahatma Gandhi once met Maharaja Hari Singh during India and Pakistan’s Partition.

Dining at the LaLiT Grand Palace is an experience to be savoured. The Chinar restaurant offers a traditional Indian feast, showcasing the exquisite spices and flavours of Kashmiri cuisine; while the tranquil Chinar Garden invites guests to relish multi-cuisine delights amidst the shade of majestic trees, all with serene views of the Dal Lake and Srinagar Valley. For those seeking an evening of indulgence, the Dal Bar presents a stylish ambiance with its timber and stone accents, serving an impressive selection of malts, wines, and liqueurs alongside a curated collection of fine cigars, making it the perfect spot for a sophisticated nightcap after a day of frosty trails.
Instagram: @thelalitsrinaga

UTTAR AKHAND

Uttarakhand, often referred to as the “Land of the Gods,” transforms into an alpine oasis during winter, making it a premier destination for a snowy escape, where the grandeur of the Himalayas meets winter luxury.

CASA HIMALAYA, AULI

Perched on the breathtaking landscape of Auli, Uttarakhand, Casa Himalaya is a snow-covered haven featuring charming cottages,   summit suites, and family suites. Each spacious cottage, complete with cantilever patios, provides stunning 180-degree views of Nanda Devi, one of the Himalayas’ most iconic peaks. Here, guests can immerse themselves in a variety of natural wonders, enjoying activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, hiking, trekking, jungle trails, birdwatching, photography walks,  horse riding, scenic drives, excursions, sightseeing, cultural trips, and village tours.

After a day of snowy shenanigans, unwind with a culinary experience at Casa Himalaya’s Oryza restaurant, which offers a delectable array of Indian, Chinese, and local Garhwali dishes, complemented by a selection of continental options and enticing desserts. For a leisurely afternoon, indulge in the restaurant’s famed high tea, or savour a romantic private barbecue for two, evoking the charm of campside dining. If you seek a more laid-back atmosphere, head to their Ski Story Café, an ideal spot for an après-ski over sumptuous bites and vibrant beats. 
Instagram: @casa_himalaya_auli

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR A FABULOUS FROSTY FEAT

•  Perfect Timing: For the ultimate snowfall experience in India, the prime window spans from December to March, when the snow is at its freshest!
• Gear Up in Style: Whether you’re renting top-quality equipment from trusted shops or fifine-tuning your own, make sure your gear is ready to take on the season in peak form.
• Shield in Chic: Snow’s reflective brilliance can intensify sun exposure, so protect your skin with SPF 50, and don stylish sunglasses or UV- protective goggles.
• Shield in Chic: Snow’s reflective brilliance can intensify sun exposure, so protect your skin with SPF 50, and don stylish sunglasses or UV- protective goggles.
• Respect Your Boundaries: Snow sports demand both strength and stamina. If you’re a beginner, start with gentle slopes and trails, pacing yourself with breaks to prevent fatigue or injury.
• Emergency Prep: Familiarise yourself with local emergency services, pack a sleek first-aid kit, and stay mindful of your surroundings to navigate the trails safely and with poise.