The Kumaon: Healing Himalaya
In the Mountains of India, One Finds the Meaning of Life—or so they say. Especially on Hippie Hill. The spiritual energy of the Kasar Devi Temple extends all the way to The Kumaon, a design retreat featuring minimalist architecture by Pradeep Kodikara and Jineshi Samaraweera. Here, ample space and tranquility provide the perfect setting for a healing quest for truth, wisdom, and freedom. We reach the peak of regeneration through these five experiences that make a stay at this secluded resort truly unique:
YOGA UND MEDITATIONEN
Of course, both can be practiced almost anywhere. But nowhere does it feel as natural as here, at its place of origin. The Kumaon offers daily sessions for greater flexibility, strength, and mindfulness, held outdoors in harmony with the surroundings. The Kasar Devi Temple also serves as a unique spot for yoga and meditation—one that has captivated figures like Bob Dylan and Timothy Leary.
FIDDLEHEAD
Violin head? No, we’re not talking about music here. This vegetable merely resembles the curled scroll at the end of a violin’s neck. It grows in the Kumaon forests and embodies the taste of the Himalayas. As a key ingredient in The Kumaon’s farm-to-table concept, local ingredients are transformed using modern techniques into extraordinary dishes, evoking countless mmmhs and ahhhs.
CHHOLIYA
At The Kumaon, traditional performances feature the Chholiya sword dance, where vibrant costumes move to the rhythm of drums and the melodies of the shehnai, a classical wind instrument. These dynamic movements symbolize the pride of the Kumaoni people and narrate stories from the Himalayas. The lively rhythms and powerful presence of the dancers invite guests to pause and fully embrace the moment.
BIRDS
The Himalayas’ birdlife is a spectacle of colors, their songs enchanting. They evoke an indescribable sense of freedom as they glide between sky and earth. One doesn’t have to be a passionate birdwatcher to feel their magic. Some of the birds native to this region bear almost fairy-tale-like names:
Koklass pheasant, crested pheasant, red-billed blue magpie, white-throated laughingthrush, red sibia, chestnut thrush, spotted barbet, Himalayan woodpecker, brown-fronted woodpecker, mountain hawk-eagle, crested serpent eagle, Eurasian sparrowhawk, lazuli blue flycatcher, grey-headed canary flycatcher, yellow-browed tit, green-tailed sunbird, black-throated sunbird, bearded vulture, and scaly-breasted munia.
In winter, migratory birds such as the white-capped redstart, blue-fronted redstart, and crimson finch join the avian symphony.
THE VIEW
During the day, the majestic snow-capped mountains and lush forests of the Himalayas inspire thoughts to wander far and wide, offering a new perspective. At night, the clear starry sky lures one into a dreamlike world. With expert guides, guests can explore Indian folklore and mythology surrounding constellations, use the stars as a natural map, and observe planets like Venus and Mars through telescopes.
The Kumaon is a member of Lifestylehotels
