Weekend Getaway: Shervani Hilltop, Nainital

There’s something magical about hills that makes my heart yearn for a visit. Whether it’s the joy of the drive, the fragrance of pine trees or just the playfully winding roads. The hills bring out the child in me. Yes, agreed, that the natural beauty has succumbed to commercialization. But that’s where a property like Shervani Hilltop in Nainital presents itself has a dream destination.

Ideal for budget honeymooners and families alike, the 320-odd kilometer distance, and good quality roads make it perfect for a weekend getaway from Delhi.

Technically, the property is located in Mallital, about 2 kilometers away from the main Mall road but the majestic views while climbing up the hills make the distance worth it. The road is narrow and adventurous. The view of the dilapidated houses is beautifully rustic and one can’t help but appreciate the little struggles that so many here undertake with a smile.

Personally the distance from the stuffy, congested mall feels like a blessing. The hotel can be your little piece of heaven, where you can enjoy romantic evenings with your partner. Make sure you carry a diary to write down your thoughts as the place is absolutely inspiring. It offers fun activities like table tennis, basketball, play station, etc.

The garden is simply breath taking with so many colours and varieties of flowers. Perfect profile picture opportunity!

The hotel has an airy feel, with clean comfortable rooms that offer all the basic amenities that one expects. However, don’t expect a Jacuzzi! The whole idea here is to get in touch with yourself and with nature in a very relaxing kind of way. The staff is very welcoming and offers a glimpse of the simple life in their demeanor.

The hotel package includes breakfast and dinner buffets – both are good. The food is warm and fresh. The dining room’s ambience is at another level in the morning. Enjoy your breakfast while basking in the warm sunlight that enters the dining hall through tall windows that help encapsulate you from the chilly winds.

Almost all rooms have adjacent garden space, so feel free to enjoy that cup of tea with your partner in absolute privacy offered by the unique architecture of the hotel.

The hotel offers free of cost pick/drop shuttle service till the Masjid point.

In all, Shervani makes for an ideal quick getaway.

Thumbs Up:

The romance: privacy offered by the hillside architecture perfect for honeymooners

The ambience: warm and welcoming

The staff hospitality

The cleanliness

Thumbs Down:

Although the buffet food is good, the a la carte leaves a lot to be desired. I’d suggest skipping lunch at the hotel, boarding the hotel shuttle and finding a little eating joint in Nainital.

Tip: Travel in the off season to get the same pleasure at half the price.

Tariff : Rs 3500* onwards on twin sharing basis valid till March 2015, as per the website

For reservation: Tel: 011 43508686, 9873664150, 09411197601

Email: reservations@shervanihotels.com

Website: www.shervanihotels.com