Nestled in the Himalayas at the grand height of 8,000 feet, staying at Leti 360° is a once in a lifetime experience. Only open from October to the end of May, the resort is an hour’s walk from the nearest city – and yep, it’s true what they say – good things come to those who wait.
Expect crystal clear skies and crisp nights – the perfect antidote to HK’s stuffy weather and polluted fug. The four cottages, made from local materials, are luxuriously modern (think brass fittings and Burmese teak furniture). Each has its own little sit-out and warming bonfire, a cosy treat on the cooler winter evenings. The bedroom also has sheer glass walls on two sides – stunning views without having to get out of bed!
Seeing as you have the Himalayas virtually to yourself, stay put and do a little yoga/ meditation or we also suggest grabbing a picnic lunch (fishing gear available for hubbies/boyfs) and hiking down to the river at the base of the valley. Accompanied by a private guide, we loved walking to local Hindu temples and villages to get a real feel for the area. Children over the age of three are welcome – thank goodness for the friendly porters who are more than happy to dish out piggy backs to tired (little) ones.
Come evening time, the lovely Chef Yeshi serves up a variety of cuisines including Indian, Tibetan, Continental and Asian alongside fab wines. You share the communal living and dining area with the other guests – though with only four cottages on site, it’s hardly crowded!
This gorgeous property takes you right off the tourist trail and closer to India’s landscape, people and culture than most of the usual luxury travel in the region. Although we must stress that Leti 360°, is NOT for the workaholics among you….with a minimum stay of three nights, no internet and limited mobile phone reception, this is THE spot at which to escape from your Blackberry and have some “at one with nature” time.
Leti 360°, India. Three nights, four days from USD1825 per adult based on two people sharing a private cottage on a fully inclusive basis (travel within Kumaon only so you’ll need to add flights).
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