Situated amidst the snowy embrace of the Himalayas, The Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa in Gulmarg stands as a beacon of unparalleled luxury and bespoke experiences. As the B2B travel industry continues to evolve, catering to the nuanced needs of affluent travellers becomes crucial. This property does precisely that, bringing together impeccable service, sophisticated design, and immersive experiences.
– Vartik Sethi
Unparalleled Luxury Amidst Pristine Nature
What truly distinguishes the Khyber Himalayan Resort from other establishments in Gulmarg is its innovative approach to luxury. Here, the essence of Kashmir’s enchanting beauty converges with world-class amenities. From rooms that boast an impressive 386 sq. ft. size onwards to bathrooms designed with panoramic vistas of the forests and mountains, every detail has been meticulously crafted to elevate the guest experience.
Additionally, the resort offers exclusive amenities such as the all-weather swimming pool and The Khyber Spa by L’OCCITANE. Managed by international experts, these amenities ensure guests feel the comfort and luxury they seek.
Riding the Tourism Wave
Gulmarg’s escalating popularity as a tourist destination has proven beneficial for The Khyber. With a remarkable 30-35 per cent increase in year-round bookings and off-season occupancy soaring above 75 per cent, the resort is poised to achieve an 85 per cent occupancy rate in 2023-24.
Loyalty Beyond the Stay
The beauty of Gulmarg combined with the unmatched hospitality of The Khyber results in a clientele that keeps returning. It’s not just about the location, which is undoubtedly breathtaking, but the unique experiences the resort offers. From the sight of snow-capped Himalayan peaks to leisurely walks amidst wildflower meadows, each visit ensures cherished memories and renewed experiences.
Innovating Luxury: What’s New?
Keeping with evolving luxury standards, the rooms at The Khyber have undergone a modern transformation, replete with top-notch fixtures and amenities. A special mention must be made of Brava – Italian Pizzeria & Grill. This fine dining establishment, a first of its kind in Kashmir, seamlessly blends European aesthetics with local culinary brilliance, offering a gastronomic adventure unlike any other in the region.
Winter Wonderland Experiences
As winter drapes Gulmarg in a snowy blanket, The Khyber transforms into a magical realm. From backcountry skiing and heli-skiing to the simpler joys of sipping kahwa amidst falling snow, the resort ensures guests have a plethora of activities to choose from.
The Khyber Sojourn
Guests at The Khyber can anticipate a rejuvenated experience as the resort has recently undergone a thorough refurbishment of its rooms. These revamped spaces now emanate a modern, eclectic charm. Every room, be it the premium ones or the luxury balcony variants, now boasts top-tier fixtures, ensuring guests are cocooned in comfort. The attention to detail is evident with the provision of plush beds complemented by special mattresses, curated pillow menus, and premium bath amenities, enhancing the overall in-room experience.
Further elevating the luxury quotient, the Presidential and Luxury Cottages at the resort now offer a unique perk – on-demand butler services. Ensuring each guest’s need is not just met but exceeded, this personal butler service underscores The Khyber’s commitment to unmatched hospitality.
Culinary Adventures at Brava
Taking its gastronomic offerings up a notch, The Khyber has introduced Brava – Italian Pizzeria & Grill. A significant milestone, Brava is Kashmir’s maiden fine-dining Italian Restaurant. Not only has it garnered a wave of accolades from resident guests, but it has also made a mark among the locals.
The setting of Brava is an artful blend of Kashmir’s natural beauty and European aesthetics. The decor, reminiscent of a cozy trattoria nestled in the Alps, offers both indoor and alfresco dining options amidst lush green lawns. This space, whether after a thrilling ski adventure or a leisurely day exploring the outdoors, promises an ambiance perfect for both intimate dinners or lively gatherings.
The real magic, however, lies in Brava’s culinary narrative. With a menu that gracefully transitions from bite-sized delights to hearty sharing platters, it aspires to redefine Gulmarg’s gastronomic scene. Incorporating local ingredients, from the coveted Gucchi (morel) mushrooms to the intense Kashmiri Red Chillies and the native Haaq (collard greens), Brava celebrates the fusion of Italian culinary techniques with Kashmiri flavors. And of course, the pièce de résistance – hand-crafted pizzas, fresh from a mango wood-fired oven.
An Array of Dining Delights
The Khyber’s culinary journey doesn’t end at Brava. For those seeking varied palate experiences, the resort houses multiple dining avenues. Cloves offers an all-day dining experience, while Chaikash provides a serene ambiance for tea enthusiasts. Nouf, the terrace restaurant, offers panoramic views to accompany your meal. Additionally, guests can unwind at Calabash, the hookah lounge, or rejuvenate with a refreshing detox at Aabshar by the poolside.
MICE Offerings
While the picturesque beauty of Gulmarg serves as a perfect backdrop, The Khyber goes a step further, positioning itself as a leading MICE and wedding destination. With over 10,000 square feet dedicated to meetings, banquets, and events, including an amphitheatre and beautifully landscaped gardens, the resort offers unparalleled venues for memorable events.
Commitment to Responsible Tourism
In an age where sustainability is paramount, The Khyber exemplifies the perfect balance between luxury and responsibility. Initiatives such as planting 3,000 trees annually, recycling water even at sub-zero temperatures, and championing local Kashmiri crafts underscore the resort’s dedication to eco-friendly practices.
2024 and Beyond
As The Khyber gears up for another promising year, the agenda remains clear: maintain the momentum, advocate responsible tourism, and foster a symbiotic relationship with the local community and economy.
The Blossoming Tourism Landscape
Indeed, Kashmir’s tourism landscape is experiencing a paradigm shift. With over 25 lakh arrivals (excluding Amarnath Yatris) in 2022-23 alone, the region is witnessing an unprecedented influx of travellers. It’s essential that infrastructure development keeps pace to ensure sustainable tourism and prevent overcrowding. For the discerning traveller seeking unmatched luxury amidst nature, The Khyber remains a destination par excellence.
