While the pandemic has put a halt to our travel plans overseas, exploring the beauty of our country is still an option. And let’s be honest, right now, we all need a break from the monotonous four walls of our home, hectic work life and the hustle and bustle of the city. A family vacation is a great way to refresh the mind and soul and reconnect with your loved ones (after you’re vaccinated, of course). If you’re in search of a destination with a scenic view, away from the crowd and one that gives peace of mind, a hill station is a great place to head to – we’re looking at you, Mussoorie. Nestled amidst the scenic valleys and lush natural foliage, bookmark JW Marriott Mussorie Walnut Grove Resort & Spa to escape the noise of the city. The 5-star hotel is tucked in the foothills of the Garhwal Himalayan ranges, making it the perfect getaway to rest and recuperate.
Besides the scenic landscape, there’s more to the hotel than you might know. From indoor activities to sightseeing trails and wholesome meals, here’s why ELLE thinks the luxurious hotel is the perfect family getaway.
Engaging Indoor Recreations
From an energising yoga session on the JW Lawns to exciting games at the entertainment centre, golfing and cycling for sports enthusiasts, to art classes for creative minds, there are plenty of indoor activities for adults and kids to choose from. Don’t forget to taste the traditional Garhwali style tea under the famed Walnut tree through the hotel’s popular cultural activity, Kachri.
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Nature-Bonding Treks And Sightseeing Activities
You might not be able to step out in a garden for short walks back home due to COVID restrictions. However, at JW Marriott Mussoorie, you can go beyond the hotel property and get closer to nature through exciting experiential activities. Wildlife enthusiasts can visit the Bird Sanctuary (part of the Rajaji National Park), which is home to myriad colourful birds, like Red Build Blue Magpie, White Capped Redstart and the Mountain Quails.
People with an adventurous spirit can choose from an array of treks. The 45-minute Pine Forest trek is the shortest and has a flat surface amongst the pine trees for guests to sit with picnic hampers. If you’re up for longer trails, don’t miss out on the beautiful Kempty Falls, one of the most beautiful and biggest waterfalls in the hill town of Mussoorie. The 5-6 hour hike to the Benog Tibba trek involves a forest walk and a zig-zag climb to the Benog Hill peak where the Jwala Devi temple is located. A trek to Sir George Everest’s home built in 1832 is highly recommended. Although you can’t go inside the house, it’s the panoramic view of Doon Valley on one side and Aglar River valley and snowbound Himalayan ranges on the other that will leave you captivated.
An Experience Of Local Flavours And Food
No holiday is complete without having memorable conversations over great food. Take your pick from a wide range of cafes and restaurants serving global cuisines indoors and outdoors. However, if you want to enjoy the true delight of local food from Uttarakhand, The Garhwali Thali is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Started by the team at JW Marriott to promote local food, The Garhwali Thali brings the different nutritious dishes of different regions of the state to one plate for a unique dining experience.
Shopping For Local Ingredients
Keeping up with this spirit of giving back to the community, the hotel has recently launched a first-of-its-kind retail concept called The Pahadi Social, featuring a diverse selection of local brands and businesses in the organic food space. Shop for pahadi spices, millets, herbal teas and fresh herbs at the pop-up store. What’s more? The chefs at the hotel go a step further by curating an exciting and indulgent menu that celebrate these mountain flavours in the form of teas, detox juices, healthy bowls and salads.
Doing Good For The Environment
As part of Marriott International’s Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy pilot programme, JW Marriott Mussoorie strives to create a positive impact through other initiatives. Case in point: the Implant Nature program. Urban gardening enthusiasts and plant parents can take part in the local ritual of the Garhwal region, which involves you to grow a plant, right from ploughing the soil, planting the sapling and watering it. It not only gives you a chance to bond with your family and nature but also give back to the environment.
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Lush green landscapes, fresh air to breathe in, delightful dishes and unforgettable scenic spots —JW Marriott Mussoorie offers an experience that you and your family will never forget! Are you ready to pack your bags?
