Sitara Himalaya

Sitara Himalaya

This soulful and stylish sanctuary is located in the pretty, Himalayan foothills just 14 miles below the Rohtang Pass, a few miles north of Manali in the Kothi Village. This sacred hilltop, is believed to be where the great Indian Sage, Rishi Ved Vyas, meditated for 12 years before inscribing the four main Vedas of cosmic wisdom.

Sweeping views of waterfalls, a nearby glacier and snow-capped peaks surround this idyllic mountain top retreat. This Himalayan hideaway is a labour of love, by Anita Lal the founder of the iconic ‘Good Earth’ homeware and lifestyle brand. As expected, the interiors are an artful mix of sumptuous fabrics, ornamental China, Tibetan rugs and the signature hand painted murals throughout.

The library space has a calming monastic air, whilst the ten spacious bedrooms all vary in rich shades of silken wallpaper and plush interiors with the bright coloured, cushions scattered throughout.  The neat bathrooms are finished with underfloor heating and delightful, Good Earth linens and toiletries.    

The cuisine takes you on a delectable journey through the mountainous region with tandoors and Chargrills of the Khyber, to the delicacies of Wazvan from Kashmir.  Steamed momos from Ladakh and Dham Thalies from the nearby hill stations of Himachal.  

At the heart of this boutique mountain get away is the soulful spa.  Set at the highest point of the property it highlights Sitara’s guiding philosophy, the Vedic concept that we are at one with the cosmos.  The hot water plunge pool is delicately scented, and the infrared sauna has inbuild Himalayan bricks to encourage deep detoxification.  The focus here is on the restorative, from soothing sound baths to reiki to guided meditation, fire rituals and gentle floor based yoga.  

Sitara Himalaya can be reached by flights from New Delhi to Manali, or by road as part of a wider Himalayan Foothill itinerary.