A short vacation for the people in North India means a quick getaway to the majestic hills, even during winter. Mussoorie is one of the most popular options and the easy connectivity makes it a viable landing spot to immerse in the natural beauty of the city. When I planned a trip to Mussoorie with my family, I was looking for a cosy homely comfort in a hotel backed by a trusted brand. The Claridges Nabha Residence was the perfect property that exuded the charm and grandeur of the British era yet provided all the modern facilities. Once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Nabha, this heritage hotel offers a glimpse into the royal history of Mussoorie.
The old-world charm of the hotel pulled me from my blankets in Delhi to experience the winter differently in this sunny establishment. As soon as I reached the hotel, I was enamoured by the vast 14-acre manicured property, nestled amid lush forests. The single-story colonial building with breathtaking views of the hills and valleys was just what I needed to unwind.
The Spacious Room And Comforting In-Room Dining
The long journey had my stomach rumbling and craving for food. As I settled in my spacious room equipped with all modern amenities, I ordered an in-room dining meal - Nabha Murgh Curry with parathas. The boneless chicken curry was tangy and flavourful - and gave me the comfort of a home-made food. While I loved the chicken curry - the dessert was even better. I had never had Shahi Tukda which looked so pretty and tasted so luscious and delicate. I wiped off the plate clean and slept with the sweetness lingering in my dreams.
A Sunny Breakfast
The breakfast the next morning was also delightful. The 24/7 restaurant - The Pavilion - gave me and my family the perfect opportunity to soak up the sun in their alfresco dining area overlooking the lush valleys of Mussoorie. The breakfast buffet had many options - from chicken sausages, baked beans, potato wedges, stir-fried veggies, DIY salads, fruits and fruit juices to dosa idli, upma and parathas. Now paratha is my favourite - but here, I chose to try the special regional paratha made with local gahat dal and ragi flour. It was pretty good and nutritious. The club sandwich from the menu was a little too salty, but no complaints about all the other dishes I tried.
After a hearty breakfast, it was time to explore the property and the tour started with a nature walk organised by the hotel. The manager took us through the adjoining cedar and oak forest, densely populated with trees. The lush greenery and fresh air made it a great experience. Then we saw some interesting spots sporting activities and an enticing kids' play area. Of course, we made a long stop there to let my child enjoy the slides and games.
A Heart-Warming Lunch
For lunch, again we chose to sit in the al fresco area of Pavillion to enjoy some more sun (of course). The restaurant offers Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines. For the meal, we had Murgh Makhani and Bhuna Gosth Adraki. While the Murgh Makhani was not bad, it was Bhuna Gosth Adraki that had my attention. The garlicky curry complemented the well-roasted meat perfectly. Lehsooni dal elevated our meal further. While we dug into our Indian spread, my child was quite happy with her noodles and lip-smacking strawberry shake. Thanks to the chef for taking the special order request.
Cocktails At Victorian Bar And Dinner With Bonfire
As the sun set, I thought my agenda for the day was achieved, quite perfectly I must add, but then the evening completely surprised me. I started the dinner with cocktails at The Victorian Bar, which had regal Victorian-era interiors and seating aesthetics that reminded me of the sophisticated bygone era.
Dinner on the lawn was quite an experience. It was a chilly winter night but the bonfire set up next to our table under the clear starry skies gave me and my family a memorable evening. Plus the live music session had everyone swooning to the happy melodies. But the best was yet to come! Yes, the food! We chose to have a light dinner, starting with Ajwaini Fish Tikki - which was mind-blowing. It was the best dish I had during my stay there. The fish was soft and succulent and the flavours were on point. Then we had Chicken Arrabbiata pasta, and it was decent. And the chef again heeded to my special request for simple dal and phulka for my child, which I really appreciated. Ending the meal was again Shahi Tukda - because I just could not have enough of it.
The next morning, it was time to bid adieu to the beautiful hotel which felt like home... but not without relishing their breakfast buffet again. This time, we had masala omelette, fresh fruits, watermelon juice, aloo poori and upma. Aloo sabzi was a bit too salty for my palate but upma and omelette successfully filled my tummy and appetite with deliciousness.
The Claridges Nabha Residence offers a captivating blend of colonial grandeur and culinary delights, which made every moment of my stay a celebration of heritage and gastronomy amidst the serene hills of Mussoorie.