Chapslee
Chapslee, Elysium Hill, Longwood Road, Near, Lakkar Bazar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India
Chapslee is located on Elysium Hill, along Longwood Road, near Lakkar Bazar in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is a heritage property with a timeless appeal.
The Venue
Shimla is a testament to the enduring legacy of the British Raj in India, and it is essential to safeguard this piece of heritage from the rampant and sometimes careless pursuit of development. Despite the challenges posed by unchecked tourism and haphazard construction, Shimla still exudes a certain charm that earned it the moniker of the 'queen of the hills' and convinced the British to choose it as their summer capital. The names of streets, boulevards, avenues, and prominent landmarks in Shimla hark back to the days of the Raj, as do the stately mansions erected here during the 18th and 19th centuries. These structures remain a treasure trove of British history, architecture, and human stories from that era.
From aging wallpaper to priceless crystal, towering tapestries, photographs, furnishings, and rugs, Shimla's grand mansions have transformed into a living museum that is cherished and shared by those who appreciate the essence of vintage.
Who is hosting?
Constructed in 1828 by Dr. Blake, a surgeon working for the East India Company, Chapslee served as a private residence until 1938 when it was purchased by Raja Charanjit Singh of Kapurthala to use as a summer home. The decision to convert Chapslee into a guesthouse was made by his grandson, Kunwar Ratanjit Singh. Today, it is the current owner and great-grandson of Raja Charanjit Singh, also named Kunwar Ratanjit Singh, who oversees the maintenance of Chapslee and the comfort of its guests.
Aesthetics&Philosophy
Chapslee, located just a brief stroll from the Mall road, is an extraordinary heritage building and was the first of its kind in Shimla to be converted into a hotel. Since 1973, it has been operating as a small hotel and is one of the earliest heritage hotels in India, now the eighth. The hotel is deeply committed to preserving the architectural heritage of the building, including its iconic structural dimensions and style, as well as the timeless traditions associated with Shimla from the days of the Raj. The hotel proudly upholds traditions such as silver service, sit-down dinners, Christmas celebrations, slow cuisine, high tea, and quiet conversations, all of which provide a glimpse into the past.
Accommodation
If you seek out renovated heritage, Chapslee may not be your cup of tea. However, if you appreciate a vintage ambiance, then you will love it. Take a moment to run your hands over the fabric, wood, and paper, and admire the intricate designs on chintz, silver, and crystal to transport yourself to a bygone era. The five suites at Chapslee boast a warm and spacious feel, with ample daylight streaming in to create a soothing atmosphere. The low lighting preserves the priceless artifacts and tapestries, making it easy for time to stand still as you explore the gallery or ascend the stairs. The luxurious rugs and dazzling chandeliers, as well as the smooth mahogany banister, are sure to captivate you at every turn.
When it comes to dining, Chapslee's gourmet chef, Kanwar Ratanjit Singh, has curated a collection of recipes from the royal houses of North India, adding his own unique touch. The cuisine is highly regarded for its authentic and delectable flavors that span Indian, Anglo-Indian, and Continental palates, making it a highlight of any stay. In fact, it was even featured in Chef Anthony Bourdain's series Parts Unknown. The best way to appreciate the dining experience at Chapslee is to experience it for yourself.
Experiences
Chapslee is a unique hotel that feels like a living museum with its aged wallpaper, priceless crystal, and wall-high tapestries, as well as an impressive collection of photographs, furniture, and rugs. This heritage building has been lovingly preserved by the late Kunwar Ratanjit Singh, and his wife, Mrs. Singh, now serves as the gracious host, regaling guests with fascinating stories of her friends from the last British gentry.
The candlelight and mood lighting in the evenings create an enchanting atmosphere, and the exclusive dining experience is like stepping back in time to the days of the Raj. For those interested in history, there are several themed walks available, and spending three to four days at Chapslee is an exclusive affair. This hotel is perfect for those who appreciate vintage and history and is ideal for intimate get-togethers and celebrations with its five rooms. Chapslee is closed after Christmas and reopens in March.
Conscious Travel
Chapslee is an epitome of Living Heritage, where the family proudly upholds and offers a glimpse into the past where timeless traditions still thrive. The hotel provides an opportunity for travelers to experience mindful living in an almost museum-like setting where much of the past is preserved. This helps create awareness and respect for the past and adds value to it. A well-presented heritage concept can engage travelers and encourage them to appreciate our past as a source of inspiration or a history that should never be forgotten.
Chapslee follows sustainable practices, such as safe garbage disposal, water conservation through an underground tank for water harvesting, and encourages guests to discover Shimla beyond its modern town through guided walks in the city and forests. The heritage preservation at Chapslee is exemplary, as the building was constructed in the local "dhajji" style and every object and inch of the hotel tells a story. The family takes great care to ensure that any maintenance or renovation preserves the heritage story intact. The royal family recipes that are part of the stay experience also reflect the hotel's commitment to preserving heritage.
Chapslee also offers a human touch that is becoming increasingly rare in this age of modernism. The family's dedication to showcasing an era that is slipping away from collective memory is commendable.
