Aesthetics&Philosophy

Soulitude by the Riverside is a charming boutique getaway that features seven exquisite suites surrounded by an organic farm and carefully cultivated flowering and fruit trees. It is conveniently located just under an hour's drive from the Kathgodam railhead. The entry to Soulitude by the Riverside is a dramatic experience, as guests can only travel as far as an ancient bridge near Chanfi village, which is a relic of British design. After crossing the bridge, guests will embark on a 30-minute walk along the Kalsa river, while their luggage is collected by the welcome team, until they reach the quaint wooden gates of Soulitude. The sound of the river is a constant presence, either as a gentle murmur or a loud hush, depending on the season and its flow.

The Lounge and Cottages at Soulitude were designed as polygonal structures, which blend harmoniously with the natural contours of the land. Additionally, the property features a sensitively restored 1930s Village Home and a meticulously deconstructed and relocated building that was rebuilt as staff quarters.

Accommodation

When you arrive at your room feeling exhausted and ready to rest, you will be greeted with spacious and tastefully decorated interiors that feature unique furniture and charming details, such as bird-inspired decor or swing-like beds. Some rooms even come with balconies that offer stunning views. The ensuite bathroom is a standout feature, with a hot shower and heated towel rails, which are not often found in small boutique hotels. Soulitude provides custom-made amenities like aromatic soaps, cleansers, and creams, which adds to the overall luxurious experience.

The dining room at Soulitude serves simple yet delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients sourced from local farms. Some dishes are prepared over wood-fired stoves right in front of you, while others are served hot inside the dining room. The menu includes local Kumaoni curries and lentils, popular North Indian dishes, and a selection of international cuisine.

Experiences

When you're not walking along the Kalsa river with a book and some snacks, you'll likely find yourself spending most of your time at two places - the Dhaba, a riverside spot with picnic tables and endless servings of chai, and the circular lounge which is lit with natural light and filled with fresh mountain air. The lounge boasts inviting couches, splashes of color, books, and games, and has large glass windows and skylights that offer beautiful views of the river. At night, the sounds of the river and the mountain sky create a magical atmosphere.

There are several other nooks and niches at Riverside, including outdoor loungers and shacks with slight canopies where you can sit alone, meditate, do yoga, or watch for birds. Soulitude by the Riverside is also surrounded by several picturesque trails and villages that can be explored on foot. The hotel has a thatched yoga shack overlooking a waterfall and emerald green rock pool that provides a spectacular setting for morning wellness.

The signature experience at Soulitude by the Riverside is a hike to the Mystical Lake, which is fed by a glacial stream that descends as a waterfall. The lake has a mesmerizing effect on its viewers and is only accessible through Soulitude's private estate.

This boutique getaway is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in nature. It's an ideal place for self-discovery and reflection, making it a great base for writing or creative projects.

Soulitude by the Riverside is open year-round.

Conscious Travel

Soulitude embraces the concept of "Conscious Luxury" and believes in using only what is necessary, avoiding excess as it is considered to be a form of greed. The property is committed to nature conservation, preservation of local culture, and supporting the local community's economy. The buildings at Soulitude, including the polygonal structures and the restored Village Home, have been designed to blend with the land, using traditional methods of vernacular architecture like dry stack stone walls plastered with mud and husk.

The lounge features low ventilator windows that allow the cool river breeze to flow in. The organic kitchen garden provides guests with a farm-to-table experience, and the staff are trained in multiple disciplines to support the local community. Soulitude encourages low-impact activities such as village walks, promoting interaction with the local community and supporting local crafts. The buildings are designed for passive cooling and heating, and solar hot water systems are in place. Rainwater is harvested, and a purification filter is used for drinking water to avoid waste water creation from reverse osmosis.

The property avoids single-use plastics by providing dispensers for bathroom amenities, using biodegradable crockery and cutlery for picnics, and avoiding plastic water bottles. Soulitude also reduces paper consumption through digital pre-check procedures and billing practices.