Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas

Perched at an absolutely dizzying altitude of 8,250 feet, Wildflower Hall is a testament to the inadequacy of descriptive phrases like “panoramic views” and “majestic vistas.” And it’s not just its height, or its situation within twenty-two acres of mountainside cedar forest, that makes this Himalayan retreat something which transcends ordinary vacation pictures. The building itself happens to be a stunning example of stately British colonial architecture, and it's got a backstory to match — long before it was an Oberoi hotel, it was Lord Kitchener’s residence, back when he was Commander-in-Chief of India.

The guest rooms are decorated in an understated old-world style, with teak floors and big picture windows to take in that view. Bathrooms are spacious marble affairs, while modern amenities like wi-fi and satellite television are standard throughout. The fourth floor houses the suite that’s named for Lord Kitchener himself, and features a four-poster bed in the master bedroom, a fireplace, and two smaller bedrooms in addition to the separate living room.

Besides the terrace restaurant, which serves Pan-Asian dishes to complement the scenery, there’s a dedicated Indian restaurant and the Cavalry Bar for before- and after-dinner cocktails. If the altitude is getting to you, the spa’s signature indigenous rituals, customized for your body type, will put you on an even keel. A fully equipped gym and heated indoor pool complete the wellness experience, so there’s really no excuse not to leave happier and more peaceful than when you arrived.

How to get there:

Wildflower Hall is 45 minutes’ drive from Shimla, which is accessible via daily flights from Delhi. Please contact customerservice@tablethotels.com to arrange airport transfers.

• 85 Rooms
• Style: Contemporary Classic
• Atmosphere: Quiet

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