StayVista at Colonial Retreat

The Colonial Retreat offers a unique escape from the chaos of everyday life. Located in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, in the picturesque town of Ranikhet, at an elevation of 6000 ft, this 120-year-old colonial house is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Owned by a local family who migrated with the Indian army during the British Raj, this quaint and regal property provides a chance to rediscover the lost traditions and architectural designs of the colonial era. The bungalow has been recently restored by expert architects and designers, offering a glimpse into the country's rich history. This abode promises a world of calm pleasure and isolation while being perched on a hill surrounded by lush woods and steep terrain. Spend time outdoors and meditate while hearing the chirping of birds and crickets. A totally immersing experience in the splendour of the Himalayas can be enjoyed at the property, which is home to a diversity of flora and wildlife, including 40 kinds of birds, wild creatures like leopards, and a variety of plants.

Enjoy a walk in the forest, live close to nature, and savor a meal alfresco. Raise a glass to the sun beating down, give a tree a hug, dance, sing, or simply be yourself. Savour the traditional cuisine of Kumaon while disconnecting from the city and enjoying the natural life. This abode offers the perfect space to start that book you've been planning, or just to take a breather and unwind in opulence while living a laid-back lifestyle. For self-discovery, spiritual growth, and quality family time, the Colonial Retreat is undoubtedly the ideal setting. 

For a comfortable and secure stay, please take the time to read the Home Truths, House Rules and Policies thoroughly. 

Colonial Retreat is special because of its:
- Mesmerising location cocooned away in the canopy of lush deodar & eucalyptus trees
- Classic interiors reminiscent of a 120-year-old colonial era
- Relaxing and soulful ambience that makes you feel at home
- Unique variety of flora and fauna that can be spotted in and around the property
- Mini library with a curated collection of literary classics
- Plethora of indulgent experiences that make this hillside accommodation one-of-a-kind
- Provisions for candlelight dinners, barbecue, and bonfire nights
- Proximity to Ranikhet’s major tourist attractions
- Landscaped lawn that blends well with verdure around

We care for your absolute comfort! To that effect, we provide:
- Inverter, Wi-Fi, dongle, heater, TV
- Barbecue kit, bonfire, library, indoor games
- Iron, torch, clothes dryer
- Medical kit, mosquito repellent, fire extinguisher
- Wardrobes, hangers, electric kettles
- Geysers, towels, toiletries
- Parking space up to 20 mtrs. away from the main villa for up to 3 cars

This is a wheelchair-friendly and pet-friendly property.

The Space:

BEDROOMS
- A dreamy getaway nestled in the lap of nature, this colonial home is where luxury meets an age-old charm.
- With colonial interiors recently restored by an elite group of architects, this home houses 3 bedrooms - all on the ground floor.
- Each bedroom with its wooden ceilings, muted colour pastels, chandeliers, and modern amenities exude a dash of warmth and comfort. 
- All bedrooms are replete with amenities such as a king-sized bed, extra mattress, portable fans, heater, wardrobe, electric kettle, and Wi-Fi access.
- The bedrooms also offer massive ensuite bathrooms brimming with all modern essentials, geysers, and toiletries.
- One of the bedrooms opens up to a backdrop of the lush lawn overlooking the canopy of trees, perfect to just sit back and relax while sipping on your favourite brew.

BATHROOMS
- There are 3 ensuite bathrooms and a powder room with a separate entrance near the lawn.
- All bathrooms are equipped with modern necessities, including geysers, towels, and toiletries.
-  A hairdryer can be provided on request.

COMMON AREAS
- With interiors that make you relive an age-old charm, and lost traditions set afoot this heritage home where simplicity marries luxury.
- The first space you come across on the ground floor is the elegantly designed living room with hints of woodwork and a vintage aesthetic.
- With comfortable sofa-style seating, this space can seat up to 10 people comfortably and offers a range of amenities such as a TV, Wi-Fi, heater, portable fan, and music system with built-in karaoke.
- A little further away from the living area is the dining space where one can relish delectable Kumaon’s traditional cuisine. 
- The dining area can accommodate up to 9 people at a time.
- Given the pleasant weather here all year round, the living room and dining area are not equipped with an AC.
- With cosy nooks and sit-out spots, each lovingly tailored space offers a backdrop of the lush flora and hills around.
- For all avid readers, there is a mini-library right near the porch where guests can immerse themselves in their favourite literary world.
- The exteriors are the highlight of this quaint hillside abode and feature a lush lawn spreading up to an area of 5000 sq. ft.
- It is replete with ample seating space for 10 people where guests can unwind in the company of twittering birds, abundant flora, and their loved ones!
- Guests can choose to meditate here to the sounds of nature, birds, crickets, and gushing winds that offer to heal and nurture one’s inner self.
- Surrounded by a dense awning of alpine jungles and trees one can spot around 40 species of birds, flying foxes, swamp deer, wild boars, nilgai, and more fauna than one can imagine!

KITCHEN
- Guests do not have access to the kitchen.
- The kitchen is equipped with a water purifier, crockery and cutlery.

FOOD
- Breakfast is complimentary.
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals can be provided at an additional cost.
- A barbecue kit/meal can be arranged at an extra charge.
- The costs for the aforementioned food and beverage offerings and events are subject to an 18% GST charge.
- Prices and items may vary subject to availability and peak season rates.
- Consumption of non-vegetarian food is allowed.

GUEST ACCESS
The guests have access to the entire villa except for the kitchen. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, guests may have restricted access to any shared amenities.

INTERACTION WITH GUESTS
The host is not present at the property but is always accessible via call or message. A trained and responsible caretaker is present to resolve any concerns and help you have a perfect stay. The caretaker will be available from 8 AM  to 9 PM.

STAFF ACCOMMODATION
We can provide accommodation for your personal staff at an additional cost of Rs. 1000 per person, per day exclusive of meal charges.

ACTIVITIES
Tucked away in pastels of green lies this luxe holiday home in Ranikhet offering a spectrum of experiences to indulge in. These carefully designed experiences ensure that you and your tribe have a pleasant and unforgettable stay with us. Start your day with an elaborate breakfast, as you soak in the refreshing breeze and the splendid views that surround this home. Enjoy a brisk morning walk on the beautiful lawn, or indulge yourself in a rejuvenating meditation session. The outdoors prove to be a haven for all bird watchers as you can spot around 50 different species of birds such as Grey Quail, Kala Titar, Whistling Thrush, Chakor, Monal Pheasant, Cheer Pheasant, and Koklas Pheasant. The mini-library with a curated selection of books and novels allows oneself to be one with nature all while being transported in one’s favourite literary piece. One can indulge themselves in nature walks and guests can also bring their cycles and trail through the nearby jungle streams. Living so close to nature, you can also spot the wildlife, have a candle dinner right under the stars, raise a toast to the setting sun, dance, sing or just be! Reserve your evenings for a scrumptious barbecue meal while huddling around the bonfire. This charming abode is bound to leave you with a trove full of memories.

ADD-ON SERVICES
- A barbecue kit/meal can be arranged at an extra charge.
- A bonfire setup can be arranged for an extra charge of Rs. 1000 for a duration of 2 hours.
- Guests can access amenities such as iron, torch, clothes dryer, and indoor games for no extra cost.
- A DJ can be arranged for an additional charge.
- Prices may vary subject to availability and peak season rates.

HOME TRUTHS
While we do promise you a welcoming home and a great stay, here are a few things we’d like to mention so as to ensure there are no unpleasant surprises later!
- Please note that guests need to park their vehicles at least 20 mtrs. away from the main villa. However, only in case of emergency guests are allowed to drive up to the entrance.
- The location of the property is secluded.
- This is a pet-friendly property.
- In case of a power outage, the 5 KVA inverter can support all lights for up to 3 hours. 
- Mobile networks such as BSNL work fairly well here.
- Guests can stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi. Network is subject to availability at any given time. Additionally, there is an internet dongle at the property.
- Consumption of non-vegetarian food is allowed.
- Please be mindful and keep noise to a minimum after 10 PM.
- Provided the pleasant weather all year round, the premises of the property are not equipped with an air conditioner.
- Guests are advised to stay cautious of wildlife, bugs and insects provided the location of the property.
- There are CCTV cameras around the property that capture the external areas for security purposes.
- The caretaker resides on the premises of the property.
- This is a standalone property.

NEIGHBOURHOOD
Lush green meadows, beautiful fruit orchards, and soaring forests, together make Ranikhet truly a hilly paradise. Known for its mesmerizing Himalayan panoramas, Ranikhet is an all-season tourist hotspot, tucked carefully in the mountains. So, while you’re enjoying your peaceful stay at this property, here are a few nearby places and activities we recommend to make your stay even more memorable.
- Experience the divinity of Jhula Devi Temple 
- Stroll through the orchards of Chaubatia Gardens 
- Witness the resplendence of the Himalayas at Majkhali 
- Explore the architectural grandeur of Katarmal Sun Temple  
- Visit the Ranikhet Golf Course; known to be the 2nd largest golf course in the world
- Take a trip to the Army Museum or Kumaon Shawl Factory
- Explore the Apple and Choubatiya  Garden

Getting Around:
- Distance from Pantnagar Airport - 107 km. | 3 hours
- Distance from Haldwani Railway Station - 79 km. | 3 hours
- Distance from Haldwani Bus Stand - 78 km. | 2 hours 30 mins.
- Distance from Ranikhet Market - 3 km | 8 min.

HOUSE RULES
- Please be mindful and keep noise to a minimum after 10 PM.
- Alcohol consumption is allowed in designated areas such as the living room, dining area, and lawn. 
- Smoking is allowed in the exteriors only. 
- Guests are earnestly requested to treat the home with care.

POLICIES
- The full payment must be made for your booking to be confirmed.
- The number of guests must not exceed the count mentioned at the time of booking.
- Only the guests who have been accounted for are allowed at the villa.
- All guests must be able to share valid ID proofs when asked. This could be at the time of booking, and also upon arrival.
- All foreign nationals must be able to share their passport and visa details prior to their stay.
- Any damage to the property caused by the guest will be charged as per the actual cost of repair or replacement.
- Any illegal activity - including but not limited to prostitution and the use of narcotics - is strictly not permitted.
- Any commercial activity is strictly not permitted.
- A refundable deposit may be collected before check-in. 
- This entire amount is refunded within 5 working days, provided the total number of guests does not increase and the check-out time is adhered to. 
- In case of any delays or other grievances, guests can reach out to guestsupport@stayvista.com for assistance.

We look forward to hosting you soon. As soon as you book, our team will get in touch to help you with any additional information that you may require, and we will be at your service until check-out.

From Team StayVista: Welcome Home!