Embrace Sustainable Luxury at Gaj Retreat: An Eco-Friendly Resort in Hoshiyarpur

February 1, 2024
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Hoshiyarpur – A small village in Punjab

If you are new to Hoshiyarpur, there’s something magical and surreal about staying in this remote area. The rustic village vibe, ethnic approach and friendly locals make this small village worth visiting. Approximately 7 hours from Delhi by road, you can reach Gaj retreats.

Another option is a vande bharat express train that leaves from New Delhi Railway station and reaches Anandpur sahib station in just 4 hours. The Gaj retreat is an hour away from the station.

Originally built in 1948 – 1963 , the Gaj retreat enjoys an unrivaled position overlooking the forest cover. The property was renovated in 2019 after undergoing an extensive restoration, providing a rich backdrop for its modern-day story.

During the resort’s renovation, master craftsmen, artisans and designers worked tirelessly to strike a deliberate and delicate balance between conservation and transformation.

The resort’s 53 villas, embody a residential style that is equally warm and refined. The Gaj Retreat also features fine dining venue, 3 lovely swimming pool areas, and a recreation area.  Gurudwaras and temples are just around the corner from the resort and the famous Anandpur Sahib with its rich belief an hour away by road.

Elegantly embodying the traditional spirit and contemporary decor, the interiors that have retained the historic soul and gilded style brings in all the necessary comforts for 21st century travelers.

Designed to captivate and dazzle generations of visitors, the architecture with the perfectly proportioned façade is the centerpiece and resort’s dominant image. Behind the imposing façade is a beautiful courtyard, perfect for enjoying the sun in winters.

The lobby features a show-stopping interior, with a blend of contemporary and traditional design elements.  A neutral color palette of immaculately polished marble floor and arching sandstone walls playfully contrasts with sumptuous compositions by the resort’s architect. Every inch of the lobby oozes with resplendence and grandeur, yet the place still feels intimate and private.

Villas

53 private pool villa suites, rooms and tents are luxuriously furnished, spacious and blessed with spectacular uninterrupted views of the surrounding ravines and forest.

Rooms and suites are elegantly decorated with a mix of bespoke furnishings, beautiful antiques and carefully chosen upholstery that underscore an exceptional attention to detail. During my visit, I stayed in a beautiful villa.  

Mirroring the heritage and charm, the villa was designed in a quintessentially French style. It offered a separate living room, spacious bedroom with kingsize bed, and large marble bathroom featuring a walk-in rain shower, bathtub, one sink, marble flooring, bespoke toiletries, and a large looking glass.

The best part was the run rays peeking in my bedroom, adding warmth in the chilly January month. The soft bedspread and fluffy pillows only add to the comfort as you glide into luxury basking in the sunrays and enjoying the pool view.

Dining

The resort has a terrace restaurant that offers buffets in their breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can enjoy the large seating capacity or sit in the fresco area, enjoying the sunrays and enjoying the view of the forest cover.

The food is worth trying as they have excellent Indian dishes to indulge in, especially makki ki roti and saag – that simply wins the heart.

Excursions and experiences at the resort

Outdoor experiences are worth mentioning as you get close to nature, while strolling in nearby farms, cycling around the village belt, making friendly conversations with local villagers, watching the making of jaggery in a traditional way. These are some of the worth mentioning experiences at the resort.  

The recreation inside the resort includes badminton, cricket, cycling, table tennis or taking walks in their well-maintained lawn.

Off-roading experience with Gaj retreat

One of the most memorable experiences I had while staying at the resort was an off-roading experience with the team of rally drivers. We drove inside the deep jungle that went through sharp rugged roads and rough terrain.

Once we reached the streamside, I took the steering wheel and drove for a few miles on the rocky terrain. The sundowner that happened later was equally fabulous. The team of Gaj retreat was well equipped with tea, coffee, cookies and cakes right in the middle of the jungle.  Watching the sunset with coffee in hands was a phenomenal experience.

Later, back at the resort, a bonfire was waiting for us. We indulged in a glass of wine and some snacks, while enjoying the warmth of the bonfire. Guests can get the bonfire as per request.

Conclusion

The resort impressed me with scenic vistas and green cover. Gaj retreat ensures a comfortable stay right in the middle of the jungle, where you can enjoy a conjugation of luxury and traditional elements blended well. The retreat is also a perfect choice for weddings, conferences and family gatherings. You can visit their website to know details about packages and reservations.

Address: V & P.O. Garhi Mansowal, Tehsil Garhshanker, Distt. Hoshiarpur, Hoshiarpur, Punjab 144523

Phone: 098141 23104

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