AyurVAID Kalmatia Almora

In the year 1867, a British Captain ES Jackson revealed this place of beauty and raised a house in the British colonial style. At the end of the century the estate was purchased by Edward Thomas Chowdhry, the District Commissioner of Kumaon. These days the estate and resort are presided over by his granddaughter Geeta Reeb. 

Boasting of British-colonial style of architecture, the 8 Kutiras (chalets) at AyurVAID Kalmatia, have a Kumaon or pahadi touch. Special attention has been given to the interior, which is absolutely elegant. Bukhari wood burning stoves keep the chalets warm during the winter season. Every Kutira has a different décor, size and feel to it. Savor lovely views of the Himalayas during your stay. Following is the segregation of Kutiras:

Samma Sambuddho: The Enlightened (earlier Eagles Nest)

Referring to the attainment of Nirvana by Siddhartha Gautama (Lord Buddha), Samma Sambuddho offers is very well-equipped stay. Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul while enjoying the views of wonderful surroundings. This is the largest and premium Kutira here that features a sitting room on the ground floor. A huge master bedroom and bathroom are on the first floor. King-size bed is placed on an elevated platform. An extra bed can easily be accommodated in the sitting room.

Amartya: The Immortal (earlier Hoopoe)

Referring to ‘immortal soul’, Amartya is placed below Ekagra and open to the mountain. Suitable for a family of four as well as for a couple, this chalet comes twin or double bed with a capacity of an extra bed being added to it. Two cedar pillars are the highlight of this chalet. The double doors lead you to a private verandah of the chalet.

Bhagavat: The Blessed (earlier Partridge)

Meaning ‘One who has good fortune’, Bhagavat chalet is the 2^nd one of those 2 adjoining chalets that have been constructed on two levels and offer stunning Himalayan views of the capacious attached balcony. On the first level is the twin-bedded sleeping room while the bathroom and sitting room are on the ground level of the Kutira. Both, couples and a family of four can stay here.

Aapta: The Revered (earlier The Owl)

Meaning ‘One who is the revered’, Aapta has been designed to offer rejuvenation to all your senses with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Placed close to the on-site restaurant and the reception area, this chalet has one level, and comes with a private sit-out area. This chalet is perfect for those who have difficulty in walking or for old-age people. It can have double/twin bed with an area of an extra bed too.

Anaadi: The Eternal (earlier Himalayan Magpie)

Referring to ‘the eternal’ or ‘without beginning’, this chalet named Annadi has an octagonal shape and is completely made of stone. This mountain-facing Kutira, is just 20 meters from Samma Sambuddho. Ideal for a family of four or two couples, it comes with a double bed, another bed on an elevated platform, and a huge attached bathroom.

Achala: The Constant (earlier Scarlet Minivet)

Referring to steady and immovable, Achala is another stone chalet here, which is placed in the southern region of the resort so that the guests can relish unforgettable views of the sunset. Placed close to the reception area and the on-site restaurant, this chalet has a double bed and an attached bedroom. Old-age people or those guests who cannot climb steps can opt for this. An extra bed can easily be accommodated in this Kutira, which comes with a private balcony.

Ekagra: The Integral (earlier Cuckoo)

Referring to undisturbed or concentrated, this chalet named Ekagra is huge, is constructed on one level and comes with a spacious sun terrace. It has option of a twin/double beds along with an extra bed being accommodated easily. Couples or a family can opt for this chalet. Stunning views of the Himalayas is the benefit.

Avani: The Nourisher (earlier Pheasant)

Referring to the ‘nourishing Earth’, Aavani is one those two adjoining chalets that has been built on 2 levels. Sit in the private balcony and savor the Himalayan views. While sitting room and bathroom are downstairs, the twin-bedded sleeping room is made upstairs. The chalet has all the contemporary facilities and amenities.

Earlier known as Sangam Restaurant, Naivedya restaurant is easily reachable from the therapy areas as well as the chalets. The guests can savor lip-smacking vegetarian delicacies in an elegant dining space. Enjoy morning breakfast at the terrace accompanied by bird songs and lovely views. Dinner would be special under the star-lit sky.

The chef makes use of fresh herbs and organic vegetables to prepare meals. Buffet lunch is special with Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and European dishes, pita bread, hummus, tomato a la Provencal, baba ganoush along with special pasta and pizza. Exclusive dinner delicacies are from South Indian, Kumaoni, Indian, Tandoori, Continental and Lebanese fares.

Some of the highlights of dining at AyurVAID Kalmatia include Ayurveda cookies, diabetes and weight reducing food, herbal combination, self-made cakes, freshly baked breads, muffins, herbal drinks, homemade and honey pickles, mustard, fruit preserves, cream cheese and mayonnaise.