It’s Time For A Break

Jyoti Koul gets a lungful of fresh air at the Wildflower Hall in Shimla

Nestled by cedar and pine trees at 8,250 feet above sea level in the Himalayan range, the Wildflower Hall, an Oberoi resort in Shimla is an expanse of 22 acres of lush green woods. Only five per cent of the property is taken up by the building itself and this too is strategically planned in order to allow its guests ample space for tranquility.

The exterior of the resort looks like an ancient but typical British hill-house and rightly so, because it was once the residence of Lord Kitchener, former commander-in chief of the British Army when India was a colony of the United Kingdom. However, once you step in you are pleasantly surprised to walk into a world of luxury. The resort offers 85 rooms and suites with spectacular views. Teakwood floors, hand-knotted rugs and rich furnishing are complemented by breathtaking views from the rooms.

The guest room facilities include a personal bar, satellite TV and digital video disc player, direct dial telephones with data ports, in room safe and tea and coffee making facilities ensuring that the stay is cosy and comfortable.

The resort offers 24 hours in-room dining and butler services and one is impressed with the quick service.

In the dining options, there is Lutyens, with its large open-air terrace offering traditional Indian cuisine. Its Cavalry bar houses a fine selection of wines, spirits and cigars. To pamper the taste buds of the children, Periwinkle offers special menus and even activities.

One of the USPs of the property is the concept of heath escapades. There are a number of options for a complete rejuvenation of the mind and body at the Oberoi spa by Banyan Tree at the Wildflower Hall which is more than just a spa. It is a destination providing a variety of memorable experiences offering holistic treatments based on western and Asian therapies to relax, rejuvenate and inspire.

Complimenting the spa treatments are some very good meditation, pranayam and yoga programmes. The inviting indoor heated swimming pool and the open air Jacuzzi provide a refreshing experience.

For those want to mix a little business with pleasure, the property provides conference facility for up to 90 people. And for those who want to get a sniff of the outdoors, some unique recreational activities include trekking, picnics, bird watching, nature walks and horse riding.

Wildflower Hall, Mashobra, An Oberoi Resort in the Himalayas Chharabra, Shimla - 171 012 Himachal Pradesh, India tel: (91-177) 264 8585 email: david@wildflowerhall.com website: www.oberoiwildflowerhall.com Tariff: Single occupancy two nights package costs Rs 17,000