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Neeralaya

Neeralaya

Kullu
, Himachal Pradesh
, India

Affably known as the house by the river, Neeralaya was born out of owner Muneer Suri’s desire to showcase the region of his childhood. Over a period of time, he sourced the land from a number of different people and planted fruit trees to create an orchard of plum, walnut, apple, peaches, crab apple as well as berries. It is in this fruity space of four acres that the guest rooms reside amidst numerous natural alcoves and breath-taking scenic views.

In keeping with the natural rhythm of things, Neeralaya is built using the age-old technique of timber bonded architecture of the Western Himalayas. The villas are designed with recycled timber from the old houses in and around Raison village, stone and slate and some have balconies with access to private gardens. Every room is ensconced in wide rolling space, fruit trees, the forest and of course, the softly gurgling river.

An idyllic riverside retreat, Neeralaya is haven of peace and tranquillity in a fruit orchard where the hum of the waters of the Beas promise to soothe and rejuvenate. The villas reflect the local vernacular architecture, and the food is finger-licking delicious!

Our Rating: Premium
Property Type: Boutique

Destination

Nestled at the heart of Himachal Pradesh, Kullu is an open valley formed by the Beas River between Manali and Larji, flanked by the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. It is famous for its unique pahadi culture, temples, majestic mountains scented with the fragrance of Pine and Deodar forests. Kullu is known also for its cultivation of apples, traditional handloom in colourful shades of red and ancient settlements including the Naggar Castle, that dates back to medieval times. Every season brings out the best in Kullu, making it a year-round destination.

Accommodation

Neeralaya has 2 Two Bed room Villas, 4 Deluxe Suites, 2 Junior Suites and One Super Deluxe Suite. All the rooms have comfortable beds, ensuite bathrooms with mod-cons and either an indoor or outdoor seating area. Some rooms have fireplaces and balconies as well. The rooms are set around their own patch of green ensuring privacy. Each room accommodates 2-3 people, with one extra bed. The colour scheme brings in the outdoors with furnishings in green and brown to compliment the stone and woodwork.

Dining

The food experience at Neeralaya promises to tantalise your tastebuds. Fresh home-made jams and chutneys accompany every meal. Organic vegetables are grown in the property and poultry is also raised in house. And as fruit abound in the orchard, you will be spoilt for choice having to pick from freshest of juices, fruit platters and desert. Home-style dishes using natural spices adorn the table ranging from local Kullvi, Punjabi, Tibetan as well as popular Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes. For a light supper or a treat, a crisp pizza from the applewood-fired oven can be made to order with toppings of your choice.

While there are set menus to choose from, the chef and hosts ensure they speak to each guest about their preferences and plan meals accordingly, which are served in the Dining Room from 8am to 11pm. Room Service is also available during these hours. One can also dine in the gazebo overlooking the river. And alfresco picnics can be set up within the grounds for afternoon tea or lunch. For that special occasion, like a birthday or anniversary, Chef Rajan will be only too happy to create a bespoke menu and a candlelit venue for your celebrations.

About your host

The Suri family take active part in the operations of Neeralaya. Everything about the property reflects their desire to show case an authentic experience of their corner of the Kullu Valley.

Senior Mr. Suri is a horticulturist and it was under his guidance that tree saplings were carefully chosen and planted to create the wonderful orchards that comprise the grounds at Neeralaya. His wife is the chief jam and chutney maker and her sweet personality adds to the flavour of every preserve she makes. Muneer and his wife Manisha are gracious hosts and ensure they interact with each guest, tailor their immersions into the local area, by suggesting sightseeing routes and treks as well as other adventure activities like rafting and paragliding.

Can’t find a suitable itinerary that features a destination, experience or accommodation you fancy? All our group tours and holiday ideas can be personalised, or we can create a tailor made itinerary for you.

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Our Accommodation Ratings

Opulent: Exceptional, unashamedly the best of sheer luxury. (£££££)

Luxury: Outstanding levels of 5* comfort, hospitality and facilities. (££££)

Premium: Excellent levels of comfort and hospitality and a wide range of facilities. (£££)

Mid-Range: Good levels of comfort and hospitality, with a reasonable range of facilities. (££)

Simple: Clean and simple, no frills. Often in areas of natural beauty or near wildlife reserves. (£)