Hotels that have stories courtesy decades of existence offer a whole new world of hospitality
BY BINDU GOPAL RAO
Heritage hotels have a fascinating past and offer a great way to explore the destination. After all, travel today is about finding a unique story and these restored and revamped properties can give you the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday. The best part is that they have a charm that is infinite and makes for a refreshing break too.
BLAST FROM THE PAST
Heritage properties offer a unique blend of heritage, comfort and natural beauty that sets them apart from other hotels. Sterling Park Kalimpong, for instance, is a heritage hotel with a fascinating past. Built in the early 1900s, the property was once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Dinajpur.
The British colonial-style house and sprawling estate have been lovingly converted into a hotel while preserving much of the original grandeur and character. Perched atop a hill at an altitude of 4,100 feet, Sterling Park Kalimpong offers breathtaking views of the majestic Kanchenjunga range and surrounding peaks.
“The vintage rooms feature British Raj architecture and plush decor. Guests can savour a delectable mix of Indian, Continental, Chinese, Nepalese, and Tibetan flavours at the signature Kokomendo restaurant. The charming patio is perfect for relaxed conversations over Darjeeling tea and cookies, with a lingering colonial legacy. The restobar, Sterling Local, serves up drinks and local cuisine-inspired fare in a historic setting,” said Harinath Mohanasundaram, Senior Vice President, Marketing, Sterling Holiday Resorts.
He added: “The property was converted into a hotel around 42 years ago, allowing curious travellers to discover Kalimpong’s historic charm and natural beauty. As a quaint hillside retreat, it offers a unique blend of character, heritage and stunning vistas that set it apart from modern hotels in the area.”
GRAND STAYS
Naturally, heritage hotels have a vintage charm that is a calling card. WelcomHeritage Fernhills Royal Palace in Ooty was once the esteemed summer retreat of the Royal family of Mysore. Today, the palace stands as a living testament to both colonial splendour and Indian royalty.
“In keeping with the Wadiyar dynasty’s grandeur and elegance as well as the colonial flavours, WelcomHeritage Fernhills Royal Palace is a beauty – the grand ballroom, adorned with intricately crafted paper-mâché ceilings and Burmese teak panelling, sets the stage for unforgettable gatherings. Our award-winning restaurant, Curry & Rice, offers a tantalising array of Indian, Continental, Chinese, Anglo-Indian, and Nilgiri cuisines, including closely guarded recipes from the royal Wadiyar kitchen,” said Parasuram Krishnamoorthy, Hotel Manager, WelcomHeritage Fernhills, Ooty. Accommodations at WelcomHeritage Fernhills Royal Palace are no less regal with 19 exquisite suites exuding Victorian elegance and colonial refinement. Each room is thoughtfully appointed with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and luxurious stay for every guest.
ADDING VALUE
Converting heritage homes and palaces into hotels also gives an opportunity to build a story and narrative that is bound to resonate with well-heeled travellers. Fort Jadhavgadh, originally constructed in the 17th century by Maratha warrior Pilaji Jadhavrao, stands as a testament to Maharashtra’s rich heritage.
“One of the notable features of Fort Jadhavgadh in Maharashtra is its rich historical significance, deeply intertwined with the legacy of the Maratha empire. Converted into a hotel, this fort offers guests a unique glimpse into Maharashtra’s cultural heritage through attractions like the ‘Aai’ museum, showcasing Dr. Vithal Venkatesh Kamat’s personal collection,” said Nitin Sud, General Manager of Fort JadhavGadh.
He added: “Upon arrival, guests are greeted with traditional Nauvari saree-clad staff and refreshing limbu sarbat, accompanied by the melodious tunes of the tutari instrument. This property was converted into a hotel to offer guests an immersive historical experience while enjoying modern comforts, with attention to preserving Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage.”
REGAL PAST
Shimla’s Jungle House has been welcoming guests since the 19th century and the earliest record of the cottage dates to the 1880s where it appears on a government map of Simla (as it was known then).
An early English settler bought the property from a local shepherd and built the original cottage. The home then passed into the hands of a family that owned and managed some of the finest hotels in India.
“An authentic heritage home with an illustrious history this has been meticulously restored to preserve its original features while providing exceptional levels of modern comforts and luxury. Perched on a sunlit spur at 7,700 feet, Jungle House commands sweeping views of the Middle Himalayas. This is where guests have unsurpassed privacy, intimate and highly personalised service, luxuriously appointed rooms, and delectable cuisine,” explained Karan Singh, Chairman & Co-Founder, 1524 Delhi.
MAINTENANCE CHALLENGES
One of the key issues that heritage properties face is their upkeep and maintenance which is harder than modern hotels. Heritage properties require special attention so that all the original features are preserved and maintained.
Ramit Sethi, Founder, Seclude, who has the 155-year-old architectural gem from the British era Shimla Taraview in its portfolio, agreed.
“Maintaining a property with such a rich heritage comes with its challenges. The dense forest surrounding Shimla Taraview requires constant vigilance against forest fires. Additionally, the upkeep of vintage furniture and artefacts demands meticulous care and expertise. Balancing the preservation of historical elements with the provision of modern amenities is a delicate and ongoing effort.”
He continued: “It was decided early on that the preservation of as much of the original architecture as possible was key and many of the original beams which were used to support the stone structure had to be restored. This was quite a time-consuming and cumbersome process but worth it after seeing the finished property.”
Additionally, the wear and tear caused by natural elements over time necessitates regular restoration and conservation efforts. This requires a dedicated team of skilled professionals, including architects, conservationists, and craftsmen, who understand the historical significance of the property and are adept at employing traditional techniques alongside modern methods.
BESPOKE VIBES
In today’s fast-paced world, where travellers crave authentic experiences, historic hotels have the potential to become more than just places to stay. They can become cultural landmarks and living museums, offering insights into bygone eras, and preserving heritage for future generations.
“By staying at our palace, guests not only enjoy world-class amenities and hospitality but also get the chance to step back in time and experience the grandeur of Rajasthan’s royal heritage. Whether it’s dining in the opulent halls, exploring the manicured gardens, or simply soaking in the serene ambience of the lake, every moment spent at our property is a testament to the timeless allure of Rajasthan,” said Jitendra Singh Shekhawat, General Manager, WelcomHeritage Bal Samand Lake Palace.
He added: “By curating immersive experiences, such as guided tours, cultural performances, and culinary journeys, we ensure that every guest leaves with not just memories, but a deeper appreciation for the rich history and heritage of the region.”
So the next time you are choosing a hotel, look for a heritage property – you are sure to return with more memories and stories. After all isn’t that what a good holiday is all about?
