Life Style : “How long will it take to reach the fort?” I asked Abdullah, who was my guide for the day’s trip. It was 5 am when we set out on a short trek towards the Gorkha Fort (also known as Shoghi Fort), which is located 4,500 feet above sea level. The trek was one of the many activities offered by Moksha Himalayan Spa Resort, which is nestled in the foothills near Kalka, Abdullah said with a reassuring smile. “The fort is only an hour’s journey,” he told me. “The beauty of this hike is that even beginners can enjoy it, as it is neither long nor too tiring.” He was absolutely right. In no time, we found ourselves at the top of the mountain where the fort stood. There are conflicting accounts about the origin of the fort
There are stories,” Abdullah explained. “Local legends suggest that Amar Singh Thapa, the Gorkha army chief, built it during his battles against the British. However, another theory claims that the Gorkhas captured it from the king of Patiala.” Irrespective of the fort’s history, the sunrise from its ramparts was mesmerising. Mesmerised by the surrounding beauty, I couldn’t help but notice a river flowing through the high mountains. “That’s the Jhajra river,” Abdullah told me. “And see that peak over there,” he said, pointing to a mountain peak with his finger, “that’s the Moksha temple.”
Himalayan Spa Resort.” A Himalayan hideaway
I was in for a quick weekend getaway at Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort, a luxurious wellness destination located on a hilltop. With its state-of-the-art facilities, this resort is dedicated to enhancing physical health and wellness. Upon arrival, I was greeted by a majestic canopy of pine and deodar trees that spread across the property, which has 62 deluxe rooms and two luxurious family suites. Akash Garg, Chief Managing Director, Moksha Himalaya Spa Resort, said, “The dream behind this property was my father’s first visit to Parwanoo hills.
It all started with a desire to create a luxurious haven.” Recognizing the potential of the region, Garg’s vision went beyond just luxury. He envisioned a resort that would offer a holistic experience for every guest. “We thought deeply about every aspect of travellers’ needs—from comfortable accommodations and engaging activities for all ages to delicious local cuisine and exciting entertainment options. But most importantly, we
Health and focused on wellness. This all-encompassing approach ensures an enriching and rejuvenating experience for every guest.” Garg elaborates on what makes Moksha different: “The resort has a number of unique experiences,” he said. “Guests can arrive in style via our exclusive Swiss Gondolas, which provide a scenic introduction to the property. We also have Himachal Pradesh’s largest spa, spread across 70,000 square feet, with unmatched facilities like a Turkish Hammam. This, along with the personal guidance of our Ayurvedic doctors, furthers your wellness journey.
For relaxation, unwind in our spacious heated infinity pool or enjoy breathtaking views from our open-air Jacuzzi. Additionally, we showcase the cultural richness of the region through authentic Himachali dhams, which are traditional feasts that are a true highlight.” Decked out in opulent furnishings, my luxury suite was practically a mini-mansion in itself. At over 800 square feet, it had a king-size bed, a dedicated study table for productivity, and a separate living area to relax. Stepping out into the beautiful balcony, I was greeted with breathtaking views of the mountains and the surrounding valley, all adorned with huge French bay windows. The suite’s opulence continued in the bathroom, which featured not only a spacious shower room but also a luxurious bathtub. Wooden paneling adorned the walls, adding a touch of warmth and sophistication. Apart from all this, the suite also had the ultimate in royal amenities—a golf cart service that could whisk me around the resort grounds whenever I wanted. Moksha Himalayan Spa Resort offers a haven for rejuvenation beyond the breathtaking views. The resort’s spas designed with the serenity of a Thai temple has tranquil water features and a lush garden, multi-functional therapy and treatment rooms cater to individual needs, while luxurious couples’ suites with sunken bathtubs offer a romantic retreat. The tranquil outdoor lounge offers open-air relaxation, and the traditional Turkish hammam with separate bathing rituals for men and women offers a unique cultural experience.What sets Moksha apart is its emphasis on individual health. Dr Manish Damodaran, Director, Wellness, explains, “We customize treatments after thorough consultation and in-depth analysis of your constitution. This ensures a customized approach for every individual.
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