10 hygge holiday adventures in India to set off to and hibernate this holiday season!

Cast away those city blues like confetti because we’re brewing up a concoction of plans to whisk you away for the next grand escape—imagine a snug hideaway cocooned in warmth, and the tantalising scent of pine serenading the senses or a regal rendezvous, where history breathes in every stone and the palace whispers tales of splendour.

Gear up for an escapade filled with whimsical charm and the promise of unwinding amidst nature’s embrace at serene retreats amidst snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas or at a palm-fringed beach in Goa, offering the perfect holiday getaway. Browse through our curated list of 10 hygge holiday getaways in India and bookmark one, two or more!

Avalon Cottages, Uttarakhand

Expect to be welcomed to a tranquil retreat defined by luxurious furnishings that blend flawlessly with nature. This unique glamping sanctuary is nestled in the beguiling hillscapes of Kanatal, Uttarakhand. Each corner boasts curated aesthetics, harmonising with panoramic Himalayan vistas. Envisioned by Roshni Kochhar, Managing Director of Avalon Resorts, the property portrays a snowy Swiss experience in one of the cottages designed with European influences, whether you choose a villa, suite, dome or igloo, a sense of hygge is sure to envelop you. At 7500 feet, Avalon Cottages is a picturesque ‘home away from home’ with 15 rooms, catering to travellers seeking an unforgettable stay amidst the Uttarakhand hills.

Six Senses Vana, Dehradun

Go on a bespoke wellness experience at Six Senses Vana, nestled in Dehradun, where Ayurvedic wisdom intertwines with an unruffled way of living everyday — and the palpable elements of air, water, fire, earth and ether (space), inform our existence. Here, wellness transcends trends and is woven seamlessly into senses—sight, sound, taste, touch—merging with lavish hospitality.

Skirted by Uttarakhand’s Sal forest, the 21-acre retreat blends with nature, preserving serene silence. To experience a holistic voyage, put away those gadgets and adorn simple khaki clothes and indulge in sumptuous fresh food that will awaken mindfulness from within.

Lockhart Bungalow – CGH Earth, Kerala

Elevate your palate amid mountain views with signature Lockhart tea or coffee blends at Lockhart Bungalow nestled in Munnar, Kerala. From cinchona to coffee and tea, the estate echoes an elaborate history, beckoning those seeking an escape from the mundane. The property stands as a three-bedroom colonial bungalow, originally built in the 1940s and now restored and refurbished as CGH Earth where scenic hints of the bygone era and the modern age intersect seamlessly. The rooms offer views of rolling hills and tea gardens, promising a true soul-soothing break! 

East India House by The Black Sheep Farm, Uttan, Maharashtra

East India House is a boutique retreat in the heart of nature near Mumbai, perched on a hilltop by a peaceful stream that flows down from the surrounding hills in Uttan. Envisioned by Rohan Salian of The Black Sheep Farm, Partner & Architect at East India House, the space combines rural serenity with personalised cultural adventures, all within easy reach of the city yet secluded in tranquillity. Every stunning view is a call to sustainability, as the site’s undulating slopes cleverly conceal services beneath the restaurant and infinity pool.

Encircled by a mosaic of native stones, the garden becomes a verdant haven. The highlight is a serene sanctuary, the lily ponds, which exude a very tropical feel. Talking about the mindful design, Rohan tells, “The single sided sloping roof is planned in such a manner to hold solar panels which will take care of the entire electricity requirement. Most of our staff are locals in and around Uttan, trained in house. On special occasions we do an east Indian menu which we source from local home chefs in Uttan. We invite the homegrown bands from the local parish to perform and entertain.”

The First House by The Busride Design Studio, Goa

The First House blossoms as a grand villa sprawling across two acres, a haven hosting up to 24 guests across its ten bedrooms—a rare gem among Goa’s rentals. Redesigned by Ayaz Basrai of The Busride Design Studio, it exudes timeless allure, blending wood, stone, and ethereal light. “The First house is designed to be a quiet backdrop, to not impinge on the consciousness of the guest, to conceal functionality rather than display cool stuff,” writes Ayaz in our previously published October-November 2021 issue.

Indulge in sumptuous breakfasts boasting artisanal delights, while meals spotlight the freshest local produce—fish from the boats, red rice from neighbouring fields, and greens nurtured on-site. Culinary maestros like Chef Ivan of Olive Goa and house chef Shubhra Shankwalker weave culinary magic. Embrace the villa’s allure, gazing upon sweeping rice fields from al-fresco jacuzzis or dual pools. This retreat embraces the spirit of savouring life’s languid moments. Ideal for celebrations or soulful gatherings, The First House weaves nostalgia with new tales, a sanctuary where treasured memories linger and new adventures beckon.

Tipai Wildlife Luxuries designed by Ariane Thakore Ginwala, Maharashtra

In the middle of Yavatmal’s wilderness, Tipai Wildlife Luxuries rises as a realm of its own, where time slows down and our sensorial interaction with the surrounding ascends. A metaphor for the tranquil passage through nature’s domain, the property designed by Ariane Thakore Ginwala, our winner for EDIDA India Sustainable Achievement 2023 award, displays a spectacular use of rammed earth construction, echoing sustainability in design. Tipai — a testament to sustainable hospitality, balances vastness with intimacy, offering villas and communal spaces that redefine luxury.

This sanctuary reshapes sustainability’s essence, nurturing locals, resources, and design with reclaimed soil, local resources, and thoughtful training, making it an ultimate getaway to experience nature.

Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa by Anil Badan, Kashmir

With its indigenous charm, the design of the Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa evokes images of merging of Mughal grandeur and colonial grace. The native pinewood is a sight to behold, serving dual purposes: decorating and heating the interiors. Imagined by Anil Baden of Studio B Architects, through its arched windows, pine patterns, and emerald tones, the property’s lobby mimics the an unforgettable scenic setting amidst the scapes of Kashmir. Dine at the restaurant while observing the carvings, which are a tribute to local masjids that stand out against the vivid upholstery and subdued colours.

Marvel at the stunning views from the colonial-style coffee shop. Artistic accents that complement the beautiful vistas include crewel textiles and Namada carpets in the rooms, a rich fabric of tradition and modernity. A getaway here is a cultural refinement where architectural magnificence is showcased at every turn.

KAIA by Spiro Spero, Goa

Amidst Goa’s coastal allure, KAIA emerges—an ocean-kissed retreat weaving slow living into crafted experiences. A sanctuary of rooted heritage, ten boutique rooms, a four-bedroom villa, and an all-day bar unveils a seaside haven in the middle of Ashwem Beach’s perfect sands and lush greens, visitors are invited to reconnect with nature as it intertwines effortlessly. In partnership with Bhumi Pednekar, KAIA pledges a sustainable escape.

“The pervasive utilisation of bamboo and consciously selected pieces of driftwood throughout the property serves to unite its various elements. Each room has its own unique feel, while harmoniously contributing to the overarching village concept. Handcrafted artworks, ingeniously fashioned from recycled materials, breathe life and beauty to the place. The roofs adorned with paddy grass and coconut palms gently carry one away from the harshness of conventional urban landscapes, consistently reinforcing the notion that one is within a beachside oasis,” says the team at Spiro Spero, helmed by Smriti and Keith.

Gudliya Suite – City Palace, Rajasthan 

Embrace the City Palace, a portal to Jaipur’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and royal traditions by staying at The Gudliya Suite. Cocooned within the private realms of a regal palace, it unveils a lavish hideaway—a lounge, kitchen, deluxe bath, and an exclusive indoor pool.

Your guide, a discreet butler, will curate bespoke experiences: shopping escapades, museum odysseys, and treasured excursions. Savour Rajasthani delicacies on the terrace during your stay, serenaded by peacocks amid the Aravalis. A stay here will definitely ignite your curiosity about the historic sagas, so be ready to be whisked away by some incredible folk tales.

Devi Ratn by Khozema Chitalwala of Designers Group, Rajasthan 

Relax in the serene setting of Devi Ratn, tucked away in the foothills of the Aravalli Mountains. The heavenly architecture of the property captures Jaipur’s history imagined by architect Khozema Chitalwala, Founder and Principal Designer of Designers Group. This 20-acre boutique hotel sees the Pink City in a new light, redefining its identity. Its extension, which centres on weddings in beautiful settings, fits in with the original storyline without a hitch.

The entryway is flanked by majestic elephants, and contemporary metal screens reflect the geometric patterns of Jaipur. Guests are greeted by corridors that showcase geometric designs and light-play. The rooms are decorated with exquisite art inspired by diamonds, capturing the soul of Jaipur. Designed as a contemporary wedding venue, this architectural wonder pays homage to the past. A holiday at Devi Ratn captures the true spirit of the Pink City.

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