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Destinations Workation At India's First Geodesic Retreat In Manali: A First-hand Account
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Workation At India's First Geodesic Retreat In Manali: A First-hand Account

Ever wondered what a workation at India's first geodesic retreat looks like? Here's a first-hand account of one such lockdown escapade.

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By: Deepika Gumaste Published: Jan 27, 2021 07:00 AM IST

Workation At India's First Geodesic Retreat In Manali: A First-hand Account

Ever wondered what a workation at India’s first geodesic retreat looks like? Here’s a first-hand account. By Deepika Gumaste

India's First Geodesic Retreat
GlampEco Stays Manali is a 50-year-old traditional Himachali house.

I am stressed about travelling during a pandemic. Having spent most of 2020 indoors and expecting the same to follow suit for a considerable time in 2021, my anxiety prevents me from stepping out of the house. So, when my partner suggests a workation at GlampEco Stays Manali, perched at a height of over 2,600 metres, I decide to take the dreaded plunge. I could do with a change of scenario which involves clean air, floating clouds and sheer rejuvenation with endless Shinrin-Yoku sessions—the Japanese ritual of forest bathing. I also look forward to glamping at India’s first geodesic domes, where rustic nature and modern luxury converge amid snow-laden vistas of Hamta valley.

India's First Geodesic Retreat
Digital nomads can avail ‘work from mountain’ packages at the site.

Rahul, GlampEco Stays Manali’s manager—who also doubles as the in-house guitarist—welcomes us on a chilly winter night. Nauseous and exhausted from a whirlwind hilly drive, I reach the craggy trail to the domes, hoping I did not make a mistake. Akshat and Shilpi, our hosts, greet me with warm smiles, assuring our arrival on the night of the annual Geminid meteor shower as a celestial blessing.

India's First Geodesic Retreat
One can enjoy magical mountain views from inside the geodesic dome.

My month-long adventure here is an experience of many firsts. My mornings are busy with early work calls. The jet-speed internet with the towering Alpines as a Zoom backdrop in the common sitting room makes for an exciting proposition. The minimalistic, yet spacious interiors adorned with mud walls, small wooden desks, pampas grass and pinecone wreaths inspire feelings of a sun-kissed Danish winter morning paying an ode to hygge. Mahinder bhaiya, who specialises in gourmet Italian fare, indulges my hot chocolate pangs every hour between scrumptious breakfast, lunch and dinner spread. Each meal is pampered with organically-grown ingredients to pass the test of sustainable travel. Think an abundance of greens like thyme, celery, spinach and a dash of my favourite, broccoli.

India's First Geodesic Retreat
Day treks and hikes are available at the property on request.

A visit to Hamta valley is incomplete without a gob-smacking portion of siddu, an authentic regional delicacy available at the Kalzang Dhaba run by a charming local couple. Situated just a minute’s walk away from the retreat, the dhaba is the ultimate point for connoisseurs looking to sip on a local brew called lungri, or spot city-dwelling Bollywood celebrities flocking to the village for jaw-dropping shots.

India's First Geodesic Retreat
Enjoy stellar sunset views every evening.

I alternate my sunlit hours between client calls huddled around the traditional tandoor in the newly-built cafe, and hiking to Sethan, a village nearby where locals are busy building igloos and playing with the friendly mountain dogs. Toshi, who clearly seems to be enjoying my spoils, follows me as I end my evenings sitting on a hammock under the now-barren cherry tree, setting the right tone for mesmerising sunsets. A starry night slowly descends.

ABOUT THE PROPERTY

India's First Geodesic Retreat
Tibetan prayer flags flutter over the frozen Pandu Ropa lake.

Floating above the clouds, GlampEco Stays Manali houses three futuristically designed geodesic domes, two private mudrooms, and one dormitory with five beds and amenities such as comfortable mattresses, cosy blankets or duvets, WiFi and electric kettles among others. The eco-friendly and thermally-insulated domes, however, remain the star highlight. Complete with attached washrooms and furnished with modern amenities, the sturdy structures offer breathtaking, uninterrupted valley views.

DISCOVER

India's First Geodesic Retreat
Hamta valley is a winter wonderland.

Curated day hikes to Prini peak, Jobri waterfall and lush forest walks are available most of the year. In winters, travellers can enjoy snow views and walk to Sethan, India’s first igloo village. For the more adventurous folks, backcountry skiing, snowboarding, paragliding, mountain biking, trekking expeditions, etc., are available on request.

GETTING THERE

GlampEco Stays Manali is just 12 kilometres away from Manali and is easily accessible by road from Chandigarh and New Delhi, both.

Related: #TnlSupportsLocal: Check Out These 5 Hotels In Kullu-Manali To Kickstart Your Rebound Travels

Written By

Deepika Gumaste

Deepika Gumaste

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