To experience the real “Kohinoor” of India’s Crown Jewel I visited the Khyber Resort & Spa in Gulmurg, Kashmir. The Khyber is the perfect symbolism of a luxury Inn. With several options to choose from, like the forest view, valley view and mountain view, one look at the pine and snow-covered hills is all it takes to mesmerize every visitor to want their Mountain view room. Ceilings with carved wood panels, teakwood floors, traditional upholstery showcased through embroidered bed covers and classic Kashmiri woven silk carpets, etc. all came together to make us feel like we were in our own luxurious yet cozy Inn.The staff, from the housekeeping/security team till the Senior Management, personifies Kashmiri hospitality. The Khyber, not just surpasses, but also sets an example of what luxury hospitality truly and rightly stands for (“Atithi Devo Bhava” at its core). The experience we had truly made us believe that the true beauty of Kashmir is in its people and this heaven exists because of it’s angels – everything was offered to us with the brightest of smiles (much like the sunlight gleaming through the hotel’s panoramic windows) and due promptness.
We’ve all heard of “Wazwan”, a multi-course meal in Kashmiri cuisine, the preparation of which is considered as an art and a point of pride in Kashmiri culture and identity, but have we all experienced it? Given the abundance of meat-based dishes in a traditional “Wazwan”, we obviously couldn’t try them all but the sight, aromas, preparation and intricacy of the vegetarian accompaniments were sublime and a real sensory explosion. Having stayed at The Khyber for 4 nights, we got to experience the entire breadth of their culinary offerings – from North Indian, to Chinese, to even continental favourites, the food served to us was nothing short of absolute excellence. We asked and they made it – served fresh, piping hot & exactly as per our personal taste preferences. The way to our hearts is through our stomachs & the food here not only won our hearts but left us longing for our next meal.
The Khyber Resort & Spa is the epitome of winter luxury activities and adventure. Also adjacent to the hotel is world’s highest golf course, The Gulmurg Golf Club which has an international standard 18 holes – the challenging wind and weather conditions and the breathtaking scenery make this one of the most acclaimed golf courses among the followers, professionals and lovers of the sport. For the adventure and adrenaline junkies, Gulmurg is also renowned for ATV rides, Snow Mobiles, mountain biking, jeep safaris, trekking and rock-climbing.
