Araiya Hotels & Resorts, a distinguished name in luxury hospitality, has announced the launch of two new properties in Uttarkhand, Kinwani House, a boutique luxury retreat under the esteemed Aalia Collection and Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa, a serene resort nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas with direct access to the Rajaji National Park.
“We are thrilled to unveil Kinwani House and Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa – two signature properties under our Anthology portfolio that embody the essence of refined Indian hospitality and immersive luxury. These destinations offer our guests the rare opportunity to reconnect with nature in sophisticated comfort. With their unique locations and curated experiences, both properties promise serenity, elegance, and adventure in equal measure,” said Ms. Amruda Nair, Founder & Director of Araiya Hotels & Resorts.
“Kinwani House, holds an extremely special place in my heart given the memories of a bygone time and the sentiment that goes into a private home such as this. It has been expertly restored in great detail with new improvements by my husband Aditya Paul Lakhanpal. I am confident Araiya under the leadership of Amruda Nair – she herself no stranger to legacy, will enhance Kinwani House further & beyond” said Menaka Kumari, Princess of Tehri – Garhwal, owner of Kinwani House.
“I wholeheartedly echo my wife Menaka Kumari Lakhanpal’s sentiment regarding Kinwani House and share her deep appreciation for the Araiya team’s commitment to honoring the essence of the property. In the same spirit, I would also like to highlight our other cherished retreat—the Aalia Jungle Retreat and Spa—located just a few hours’ drive from Kinwani House, nestled near the famed Rajaji Tiger Reserve. Conceived as a sanctuary of tranquility and natural beauty, Aalia was designed with great care and sensitivity to its surroundings. In my pursuit to preserve the delicate ecological balance of the region, I deliberately limited modern architectural intrusions, opting instead for campaign style Tent’s with minimal brick structures that harmonize seamlessly with the wilderness. Aalia offers more than just an escape from urban life—it is an invitation to reconnect with nature in its purest form, whether through peaceful reflection or exhilarating outdoor adventures. It is a place where the soul finds stillness, and the spirit is renewed. I am confident that Amruda Nair ,Akshay Kulkarni, and the entire Araiya team will carry this vision forward with integrity and passion, helping more discerning travellers experience the distinctive ethos and understated luxury of the Aalia lifestyle” said Aditya Paul Lakhanpal, Managing Director – JPL Hospitality Services Pvt Ltd.
Kinwani House – A Boutique Jewel in Narendra Nagar
Kinwani House, a luxurious boutique retreat nestled in the historic town of Narendra Nagar, the former capital of the princely state of Tehri Garhwal. Perched in the Himalayan foothills, Kinwani House blends regal heritage with modern sophistication, offering guests an intimate escape into history, nature, and spirituality.
This elegant property features six opulent suites with panoramic views of the valley and mountains, a temperature-controlled swimming pool, and thoughtfully curated spaces including a conservatory bar and lounge. The retreat is located along the sacred 79° East longitude, a spiritual axis that links twelve revered Shiva temples across India, deepening its sense of place and purpose.
Set near the spiritual hub of Rishikesh, Kinwani House invites guests to explore a region rich in tradition—from ancient temples and ashrams to royal architecture and scenic beauty—while enjoying personalized service, immersive culinary experiences, and serene luxury.
Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa – A Luxe Wilderness Escape
Nestled in the serene foothills of the Himalayas—just a scenic three-hour drive from the bustling capital—Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa offers a rare blend of luxury and nature. Bordering the buffer zone of Rajaji National Park, a newly designated Tiger Reserve, this idyllic retreat invites guests to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of one of India’s most ecologically rich regions.
Surrounded by golden mustard fields, lush mango orchards, and a vibrant community of wildlife, the resort is a sanctuary for nature lovers and discerning travellers alike. Guests can embark on tailor-made safaris through the National Park, where the chance to spot elusive tigers and experience the region’s breathtaking flora and fauna adds to the sense of adventure and awe.
At the heart of the retreat are 11 elegantly designed colonial-style luxury tents, each seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern comfort. Thoughtfully curated experiences—from locally inspired and globally influenced dining to moments of quiet reflection in the tranquil forested surroundings—make Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa the perfect destination for both rejuvenation and exploration.
