THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA IN GULMARG, KASHMIR IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY EXPERIENCE.

Last Updated on April 24, 2017 by

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The snow flecked Grand Exterior of luxurious The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir

THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA in Gulmarg, Kashmir has been one of my most luxurious stay with an unparallel view of snow clad mountains. I arrived in the second week of April which made Gulmarg a perfect snow destination. We passed through magical roads, the either sides of which were covered with snow. Fresh snow broke loose on the landscape of Gulmarg few days prior to our arrival. This was the second time I was seeing so much snow after the Roopkund trek and my visit to Rohtang Pass with parents.

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Snow everywhere in the luxury property- The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa in Gulmarg, Kashmir

As I arrived at The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa in Gulmarg, Kashmir I was impressed with its grand entry. We were ushered into Chaikash for snacks, kahwa (Local Kashmiri Tea) and of course hot towels. The welcome drink kahwa was so good that within few minutes of my arrival I had decided that I will be drinking their kahwa every day during my 3 days stay. Here is my review of The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa Gulmarg, Kashmir.

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The grand lobby of the luxury property- The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir

THE ROOM OF THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG, KASHMIR.

I stayed in the Khyber resortโ€™s Luxury Balcony Room with Himalayan view. The moment I entered my room (Number 1015) at The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, what struck me the most was the sheer size of everything. Be it the size of room or bed or the mirror next to it, the size of washroom or the huge balcony, everything was grand. The large bed was soft and comfortable and decorated with assorted pillows. A pillow menu was also offered as part of the turn down service. ย The many lighting options helped me alter the lights as per my mood.

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The Luxury Balcony Room with Himalayan View. At The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir

I never switch on TV whether I am traveling or not. And if the property is so gorgeous I would rather spend time enjoying the property than waste time on TV. That said, the TV installed in the room had huge screen and an added advantage for those who like to catch up on their favourite shows during travel. My favourite part of the room though was the foldable writing table fashioned out of wood from walnut tree. Every day, I would spend 2 hours (7 a.m. to 9 a.m.) writing my travel pieces in this place in absolute peace. I would keep the balcony open while writing to ensure that the fresh air and the chirpings of birds kept me inspired. The complimentary kiwis, apples and bananas kept me fuelled before I hit the buffet breakfast at 9:30 a.m. every day. The room was also stocked with crisp and delicious cookies. I am not a cookie person but I couldnโ€™t help but devour all the delicious cookies during my stay. Cold Drinks and high quality nuts and chocolates were also stocked in the room.

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My luxurious bath tub with a view of snow clad mountains. Where else but in The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir.

 

THE WASH- ROOM OF THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG, KASHMIR.

The first thing that attracted my attention was not the room but the huge bathtub and the large balcony. But then that is what I check out the first thing in any hotel. As I entered the spacious dressing room and moved towards the washroom area, I was delighted to see the bathtub with a view of snow clad mountains. The bath tub was big enough for 2 people. Every morning, I used to lie down in the warm water, gazing at the white beauty dotted with conifers from the window. The washroom was well compartmentalized into W.C area/ shower area/ Bathtub/ wash basin and dressing room. The well lighted dressing room had big storage space to keep suitcase, making it easy for me to retrieve anything. There was ample wardrobe in the dressing room. The slipper provided was soft and warm. The toiletries stocked in the washroom were fragrant and of high quality.

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My balcony at the luxury property- The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir. Yes, its all snow. Bollywood Film Actress DEEPIKA PADUKONE stayed in the adjacent room.

THE BALCONY OF THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG, KASHMIR.

The balcony in the rooms of Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa needs a special mention. The views from here are so breathtaking that it makes the resort a destination in itself. I would sit here gazing at nothing but vast swathes of snow laden mountains with neatly arranged conifers. Small colorful huts in a distance would make it all the more picturesque. The size of the balcony made it a perfect place to chat with my friends who were staying in the other rooms. During my first night, as soon as I entered the balcony, I was so impressed with the view that I called up my friends in the other room and asked, โ€œHave you checked the view from balcony in the night?โ€ Beautiful lamps had lit the entire resort. The full moon made the white mountains look like silver cones. The entire setting was too gorgeous to describe in words. For a moment I thought if itโ€™s for real. Having travelled to 150 destinations across India since 2008, I am still excited about travel because it still doesnโ€™t fail to surprise me.

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View of snow clad mountains from the swimming pool. At the luxury property- The Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir.

 

THE L’OCCITANE SPA AND THE SWIMMING POOL AT THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG, KASHMIR.

The Lโ€™occitane spa at Khyber Resort turned out to be a pleasant experience. I had availed leg massage on the second day because it claimed to be โ€˜the best option for travelersโ€™. ย I loved the massage but somehow it left me craving for a full body massage. No wonder, on the third day, I opted for the Revitalizing Aromachologie Massage by Lโ€™occitane spa on recommendation by the personnel at the reception. The massage was a perfect combo of Swedish strokes, Balinese massage techniques and Chinese acupressure. The soothing music, dim lights helped me relive tension and lose myself in an hour of de-stressing ย session. The essential oils like Tea Tree, Lavender etc helped me relax. The massage session calmed both my overactive mind and body. It also induced sleep in me. Though I didnโ€™t swim but I spent good amount of time just admiring the views from the swimming pool of Khyber Resort.

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The Bath tub and the couple massage room with a view of snow clad mountains. Managed by L’occitane Spa at the luxury property- The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir.

RESTAURANTS AT THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG, KASHMIR.

Chaikash at Khyber resorts: It was a casual dining space which has the best views of the Khyber resort covered in snow. We always hogged the window seat for our leisurely conversations over almond rich and aromatic kahwa , the local Kashmiri tea. I sampled assorted fritters, many pastries and cheese chilly toast (My favorite) in snacks. Just opposite it is a cozy sit out area on the floor. We spent much of our time sitting here cross legged.

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Kashmiri Wazwan Platter. Includes Doon Chetin (Walnut Chutney), Nadur Yakhini (Lotus Stem curry), Muji Chatin (Radish Chutney), Dum Aaloo (Potatoes curry), Haak Saag, Rajma, Hara Bhara Kebab etc. It was served in a traditional Tarami platter in Kashmiri style. At Cloves restaurant. The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir. Luxury at its best. Incredible India!

Cloves at Khyber Resort: The lively restaurant is the largest F & B outlet in Khyber resort. It is open for both buffet and a la carte. Of the 3 breakfast buffets I enjoyed here, my favourites were South Indian delicacies like masala dosa, idli and vada. I stuck to these because it was filling without compromising on my health. Poha and Upma were my other favourites. ย The fresh juices (Cucumber, carrot etc) kept me refreshed. On one of the lunches we were served Wazwan platter. The sheer variety offered to me was overwhelming. A big plate of steamed rice was served with doon chetin (walnut Chutney), Nadur Yakhini (Lotus stem in white sauce), Muji Chatin (Radish chutney), cottage cheese (paneer) in rich tomato gravy, dum aaloo (Whole potatoes in rich gravy), onion salad, haak saag (local green leafy vegetable), Rajma (Curried Kidney beans) and hara bhara kebab (With an innovative flaky crust). It was followed by a saffron rich Firni, a sweet dish par excellence. Needless to say, it was one of my most royal lunches. The vegetarian Wazwan was served in a beautiful tarami (meaning large plate)

The buffet menu was just as varied and rich. My favourite picks were: the exceptional kadhi-rice, mushroom do pyaza, assorted salads and mezze platters (Hummus, tabbouleh, baba ganoush served with pita bread) Desserts comprised of a variety of cakes, mousse, cut fruits and Indian sweets.

Note: I did not avail any service at the other F & B outlets Nouf and Calabash but they sure looked like a refined experience.

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The Cloves restaurant. At the luxury property- The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir.

THE FRIENDLY STAFF OF THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG, KASHMIR:

I reiterate, it is rare to find charming and genuinely warm staff at most luxury properties. Movenpick resort in Aqaba, Jordan was the last time I was impressed with the staff. Likewise, the staff of Khyber Resort exudes warmth, attentiveness, courtesy and a natural zeal to serve. Each of the staff members left a lasting impression on me. Whatever I demanded was presented to me within minutes, as if by magic. The staff spent quality time with me explaining the local dishes, crafts, culture etc. All my needs were taken care of with a big genuine smile. ย Many of the staff is locally hired talent who stay near property.

THE CELEBRITIES WHO STAYED AT THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG, KASHMIR:

I was told that Bollywood superstar Deepika Padukone stayed in a room adjacent to the room I was staying in. Other celebrities such as the Ambanis, Adanis, Raj Thakrey and Bollywood personalities like Saif Ali Khan and Sunny Leone had stayed in Khyber resorts.

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I stayed in one of these rooms facing snow flecked mountains. Luxury Balcony Room with Himalayan View. At The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir.

HOW TO REACH THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA, GULMARG, KASHMIR?

Khyber Resorts is just 50 kms away from Srinagar. It took us around 1 hours and 15 minutes to reach Khyber resorts by cab from Srinagar airport. Khyber Resorts is located in the heart of Gulmarg. It is walking distance from the famous Gondola ride in Gulmarg. It is also nearby major attractions of Gulmarg.

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The beautifully lit resort bathed in full moon night was ethereal. This picture is a big injustice to the real thing. View from Luxury Balcony Room with Himalayan View. At The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir.

THE BOTTOMLINE

I found The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa, Gulmarg (Kashmir) to be an unparallel experience. I was told most of their guests are repeat customers and word of mouth customers. It has rooms which suit the budget of different travelers. The entire property is done up stylishly using the local elements. The wooden khatamband ceiling is made up of small pieces of Deodar fashioned in geometrical pattern. Wagu mats are creatively used as curtains of windows of Lโ€™occitane spa. Wagu mats, the native Kashmiri mats are made up of dried straw. Deodar wood is used in the construction of the hotel as it can withstand water and snow. Kashmiri style windows or jharoka, locally called dab is incorporated in the design of lobby. It reminded me of a real Kashmiri house I saw during the Heritage Walk in the Leh City.

I should sum it up with this: Every time I mention Khyber to people, their eyes light up. It is a dream for many. It is a habit for many.

The View From My #SoulWindow Is Classy!

Related Blogs:

Stories of Kashmiri Migrants in Leh, Ladakh

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View from my Luxury Balcony Room With Himalayan View. The Building on extreme right houses swimming pool and the L’occitane Spa. At The Khyber Himalayan Resort And Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir. Incredible India indeed!

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Ever sweated it out at a more scenic location? The Gymnasium with views of snow laden luxury resort. At The Khyber Himalayan Resort And Spa, Gulmarg, Kashmir.

WARNING : COPYRIGHT TO ALL THE IMAGES AND TEXT HERE REMAINS WITH ME. YOU CAN NOT JUST LIFT THE CONTENT AND USE IT WITHOUT MY PERMISSION. STRICT LEGAL ACTION WILL BE TAKEN IF CONTENT IS STOLEN. YES, I AM SERIOUS.

47 thoughts on “THE KHYBER HIMALAYAN RESORT AND SPA IN GULMARG, KASHMIR IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY EXPERIENCE.”

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  6. gobeyondbounds

    We had appreciated these heavenly views a few years back on the way to Ladakh but could never plan to visit these places again. Kashmir is high on the list. The Khyber resort sounds ideal for a comfortable stay and those vistas from the windows and balcony are mind boggling. Definitely, something to consider if we plan to visit Gulmarg.

  7. I will visit Kashmir soon and the Khyber Himalayan Resort looks like the perfect place to stay. These images are of luxury, not what you normally consider to be Kashmir. The customer service sounds to be genuinely friendly here too which makes a huge difference. I always use the gym when staying at a hotel and you can’t beat the view from the gym here!

  8. Sounds like they started things off right with Kashmiri Tea! As others have said, the view from the indoor pool is stunning. Great shot of the food — my mouth is watering at the sight of Nadur Yakhini. Glad to hear that the staff is so excellent here, and that you enjoyed your stay! Looks like a perfect place to stay.

  9. You had me at the picture of the tub with the view of the snow capped mountains – incredible! This looks like the perfect place to relax, what a wonderful experience.

  10. Nicole Anderson

    This resort just looks incredible! And of course, in Incredible India! (which I can’t wait to visit and experience first hand). Your detailed write up was so enjoyable and I loved the photos which conveyed how beautiful and special this place is. This is somewhere I really want to experience!

  11. There is nothing I love more than big, snowy mountains and the Himalayas are the kings of mountains. The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa looks so luxurious, I would love to stay there. The fresh juices and food sound delicious.

  12. This place looks incredible! I didn’t even know it snowed in India, but that’s awesome! I definitely a winter girl, so when I travel to India next I’m definitely visited the Khyber Himalayan Resort!n That bath with those views is amazing, don’t think I would leave! Thanks for sharing ๐Ÿ™‚

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  14. Ah, I’m SO jealous! I’ve wanted to visit Jammu & Kashmir for as long as I’ve wanted to visit India yet here I am three trips later and still Kashmir-less! I blame the fact that my government advises against travel there. Anyway, the Khyber resort looks like an absolute dream!! And to say you stayed in the room adjacent to one Deepika Padukone stayed in. I mean, you’re totally famous by association now right?

    1. Haha. I am not famous. I stayed next to the room of a lovely lady who’s famous and stayed there sometimes ago. You must come to Kashmir. I met some foreigners who were having a perfect vacation when I visited in April 2017. It looks unsafe from a distance. In reality it’s not.

  15. Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa in Gulmarg looks spectacular. The views from the bathtub and huge balcony is enough to spark my interest. Something about the snow and a luxury resort makes you so happy. It’s so lovely to treat yourself to a full body relaxing massage while away. I feel it’s a necessity for everyone to enjoy. Thanks for sharing your reviews.

  16. Oh this looks amazing. That bath is so tempting to hope in. I’d end up spending hours in that bath just watching the snow flakes fall.

  17. Wonderful post about the Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa. It looks so luxurious, and the mountain views are stunning! It’s good to know that the staff are so attentive, too. I would love to visit this resort someday.

  18. Whoa! The resort looks palatial! To wake up in the morning and to see the snow clad himalayas out of the windows would just render me speechless! I can’t imagine how gorgeous it would be on a full moon night! The food looks soooo yumm!!

  19. The Kyber resort looks absolutely stunning, I will definitely consider this for any future trip to Gulmarg. In fact next Summer I’m planning a trip up to Kashmir so it’s perfect I read this before going. Somehow you don’t think of luxury and Kashmir in the same sentence, but it happens here!

  20. 2travellingsisters

    Wow, definitely a must stay when in Gulmarg! The bath tub I feel would the highlight of the room, but the balcony has equally incredible views. lhyber Resort with its location and hospitality seems like a once in a lifetime luxury stay experience.

  21. Sandra Henriques Gajjar

    I’m usually not a fan of snow, but in a place like this I’d be willing to make that sacrifice! The bathtub with that view is definitely my favorite part, just by looking at your photos. The food looks amazing and it made me miss real authentic Indian food (hard to find it in Portugal where I live, unless you cook it yourself at home). I see why celebrities pick this place up to wind down and relax.

  22. This is perfection! I love everything about this luxury hotel. I like the location a lot because it looks peaceful. You could literally forget your work problems when you stay here. Haha! I like the swimming pool the most. It looks lovely and beautiful.

    Iza c/o Kathy James (Walk About Wanderer)

  23. Wow! The peaceful feeling jumps right out of the photos! I would love to sit at a lovely wooden desk, listen to the birds and write all day!! What a glorious spot. I need to look into a get away like this one.

  24. Wow, this resort looks amazing. So luxurious, such spacious rooms, such a Nice Place to stay. I usually stay at cheap, crappy hotels, but every now and then it is Nice to pay a little extra for a Place like this. How you must have enjoyed Your time here. I am very jealous ๐Ÿ™‚

  25. So jealous of you right now. Have been trying to go to Kyber for a good while now and never been able to for one reason or another. Either the situation in the state is bad, or when we plan last minute, the room are full, or else have other obligations. Soon though, because it has been a few decades since we went to J&K and Khyber really is the epitome of style and luxury, the kind I enjoy.

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