Journey Through Time : Experience the Essence of Uttarakhand's Art and Heritage in a 113-Year-Old Kumaoni House, nestled in village Diholi, District Almora. The Abode :
1. A 113 year-old masterpiece of Kumaoni architecture, this vintage dwelling is a testament to both history and craftsmanship.
2. Pathans from Afghanistan were summoned to design and construct this unique shelter.
3. The massiv
e Rosewood, Sal, and Oak wooden planks that grace the interior of the house were transported from Ramnagar, a distance of 110 kilo-meters, using traditional Bullock Carts.
4. This extraordinary house had remained uninhabited for the past six decades, a silent witness to the passage of time.
5. In the pre-Independence era, it served as a hidden refuge for numerous freedom fighters, adding to its historical significance.
6. The stones used in its construction, some 10 to 15 feet in length, are hand-carved with such precision that it appears almost impossible to replicate in the present day.
7. The doors and windows of this house are adorned with intricate wooden carvings depicting gods and animals, a testament to a bygone era dating back a century.
8. This dwelling stands not only as a relic of the past but as a living piece of history deeply rooted in the heritage of Uttarakhand. Our Purpose :
Over 5 lakh people have migrated out of Uttarakhand in the past 10 years, there are 734 ghost villages in the state. Eventually, the prosperous art, culture, music, craft, language, and festivals of this Himalayan state is on the verge of extinction. But these deserted villages of Uttarakhand are springing back to life as migrants return to the hills after decades. Some 0.33 million workers have returned to the state after the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lockdown. It states that Pauri-Garhwal and Almora districts witnessed maximum reverse migration. Starting with the village of Diholi, the goal was to prevent reverse migration, providing the residents with an extra source of income and opportunities to explore various job options while staying in their hometown. This initiative aimed to rescue the village from becoming deserted and, in doing so, preserve its vibrant art and culture. The Food :
In keeping with Indian tradition, we do not impose charges for meals served to our guests. Additionally, due to our remote location and distinct purpose, we do not operate a conventional à la carte kitchen. Much of our produce, including vegetables, fruits, spices, pulses, jams, and more, is cultivated organically right here in our village by local residents. The Experience :
1. Immerse yourself in the history of a 113-year-old house, steeped in countless captivating tales.
2. Trace the ancient paths through the dense jungle, once trodden by East India Company Officers during their summer retreats.
3. Discover the essence of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand by delving into the regional folklore, brimming with stories of local deities like Golu Devta and Sam Devta.
4. Explore an extensive repository of Uttarakhand's natural treasures, featuring a diverse array of herbs, medicinal plants, and aromatic species.
5. Unearth the opulent Art, Culture, and Architecture of the Kumaon Kingdom, which thrived as an independent sovereign realm from the 7th century until 1791.
6. Spend your day from sunrise to sunset wandering through the ancient Himalayan village, meandering alongside babbling streams, engaging with local villagers, unraveling the intricate world of traditional Himalayan terraced farming, and savoring an evening banquet accompanied by the melodies of Kumaoni folk tunes. The Charm of Bygone Days -
Immerse yourself in the rustic allure of a bygone era as you journey to Aaranyam. Our concept stay is a living tribute to the traditions and culture of Kumaon region, transporting you back in time to an age of simplicity and connection with the land. Experience Rustic Elegance -
Each corner of Aaranyam is meticulously crafted and tells a story. From hand-carved wooden furniture that exudes old-world charm to cozy fireplaces that warm the soul, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to provide an ambiance of rustic elegance. Nature's Symphony, Your Backyard -
Awaken to the gentle rustling of leaves and the soft murmur of water streams. Aaranyam is cocooned by the embrace of a verdant reserve forest, where the air is pure and the beauty untouched. Explore the labyrinth of forest trails, discover hidden waterfalls, and be mesmerised by the rhythmic flow of the nearby river. Aqua Serenity: Streams and River -
Quench your soul's thirst by immersing yourself in the natural wonder of crystal-clear streams and a meandering river. Whether you choose to dip your toes or indulge in a refreshing swim, the water's embrace is a balm for the spirit. Farm-to-Table Delights -
Savour the flavours of the land as our skilled chefs craft delectable meals using locally sourced ingredients. From farm-fresh vegetables to age-old recipes, every bite is a journey through Kumaon's culinary heritage. Sunsets and Starlit Nights -
As the sun paints the sky with hues of amber and gold, witness a sunset that seems to suspend time. And when night falls, let the canopy of stars above remind you of the universe's infinite beauty. Journey into the Pastimes -
Engage in traditional pastimes that connect you with the essence of this land. From guided treks to local craft workshops, you'll immerse yourself in experiences that enrich the soul and leave you with cherished memories. Escape to Aaranyam: Where Time Awaits Your Discovery -
Are you ready to step into a world where the past meets the present in perfect harmony? Aaranyam invites you to leave the hustle behind and embark on a journey of serenity, surrounded by the embrace of a reserve forest and the symphony of nature. Let Aaranyam transport you to an era where time is measured in moments of pure connection.
