Tucked inside the lush forests near Pangthang in Sikkim, with pristine Kanchenjunga views when the weather gods are happy, is Taj Guras Kutir Resort and Spa, the latest from the association between IHCL and Ambuja Neotia Group. Just 20 minutes away from Gangtok city, the property offers you the best of both worlds — a secluded experience, as well as a city within reach for any activity. Take a walk down any of the hike trails with the property’s in-house naturalist, or go for a picnic at the sanctuary, or opt for destination dining at one of the many spots nearby, there are options aplenty.
“First of all, I think I got enchanted by the location when we were offered the property, in the middle of the pine forest with Kanchenjunga views. It has the pristine quality of being in the heart of the Himalayas,” said Harshavardhan Neotia, chairman, Ambuja Neotia Group.
Snapshots from our three-night stay at Taj Guras Kutir Resort and Spa.
A snapshot of the local thali that was presented to us. We were floored by the local dalle chillies, the radish pickle, and the indigenous saag preparation that got us a peek into the food choices of the locals in the region. Most of the herbs and a lot of the veggies are grown on the property itself.
Breathtaking views from each room is the promise of the property and it more than lives up to it
The entrance has a small lobby and sensory experiential area with fire and water. The water reflects the sky and the fire represents the sun. The small entrance and lobby imitate the feel of a small hut or house and doesn’t prepare one for the dramatic scapes ahead.
The moment you exit the lobby and the sensory area, you walk into the grand Guras Bar and Lounge. As the doors open, you are greeted by an almost circular bar done up in a vibrant shade of red. “The bar is placed in the centre to block the straight mountain view and add to the drama, and one has to go around the bar to the deck to soak in the spectacular mountain as well as valley views,” added Harsh Neotia. A range of black-and-white portraits adorn the walls, along with coffee table books placed strategically at different tables.
Ideal for small functions and destination weddings, the Azalea Banquet hits the right note. The property also has an open terrace party space right next to the specialty restaurant, which is great for both day and night events.
