The White Peaks in Gagar, Uttarakhand, is where you can slow down and enjoy the simple things in life. By Sushmita Srivastav
Hugged by glistening silver oak groves from three sides and overlooking a breathtaking vista on the fourth, Gagar near Ramgarh in Uttarakhand is an elusive Himalayan hamlet where life is slow, and the air crisp. If you walk up the winding road that takes you to the top of this little village, you will find yourself at The White Peaks—a boutique home that charms you right from the moment you lay eyes on it.
Perched atop a lush foothill, the cottage boasts unobstructed panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of Panchachuli and opens its door to a mystical oak and rhododendron forest. Nestled at an altitude of 7,500 feet above sea level, the cottage is nothing less than a dream for those who love being away from clamour of the crowds, while staying in the comfort of a cosy cottage.
Built in 1990, this old home was found by Abhijit and Aparupa who later turned it into a fairytale homestay. The two rooms in the cottage are your best bet to enjoy a relaxed staycation amidst oak trees that fringe the place. Sit by the fireplace to enjoy intimate conversations, master some yoga poses in your private balcony, or simply lounge in the sun-dappled courtyard gazing at nature’s beauty. There’s also a wide collection of interesting books stacked here to aid those lazy evenings spent over comforting cups of tea or hot chocolate. From delicious finger-snacks to hearty home-cooked meals and everything in between—every dish here is made of organic, locally-sourced ingredients.
However, the soul of the cottage remains to be Kali—the owners’ furry friend who is always up for snuggles from the guests. Enjoy some playtime or take a guided forest walk with her— she makes the best travel companion. Not to mention, the property is completely pet-friendly, so make some memories with your furry babies.
While you are bound to be smitten by Gagar’s beauty that is a constant in all seasons, winter here is exceptionally magical. The sleepy village takes cover under a thick blanket of white that turns the entire place into a winter wonderland.
The magic here extends to the thick oak forests that call for long, idle strolls. Take up a walking trail all by yourself in the lush forestlands or trek to the ancient Jhandhidar Devi Mandir. Laze around in this abode, gaze at the blue skies and the endless lush expanse, and disconnect from the rest of the world.
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