A long drive thru thick jungles of Jim Corbett reserve forest suddenly lands you on the hilltop overlooking the site nested on the banks of Kosi River approached by a corniche.

Location: Okhal Dunga, Jim Corbett, Uttarakhand,
Total Site Area: 6.1 acre
Design Team: Ruchika, Sanjeev, Sivananda, Brijesh, Jitendera, Suyesh, Deepak and Associates, IMS Design Consultants

Designed like poetry, in this fairy tale resort

  • The sunshine filters through the interstices of the arching trees,
  • Whirling sound of water takes you in the deep divine experience,
  • Magnificent views and opulent design exude luxury.

The project was divided into two phases. Phase 1 called for 30 keys, villas ranging from one to three bedrooms with supporting facilities.

The northern façe opens to the riverside with a series of deck, restaurant, terraces, tracks, nature trails, viewing pods along the walkway create pause moments that weave together the landscape and the architecture.

To maximize the views towards the river, the design called for the buildings to be placed as high up the slopes as possible.

Orientation of the buildings to take full advantage of the meandering river views, maintaining privacy between the villas and retaining majority of existing vegetation of the site became key driving features in the design of the masterplan.

Architecturally, it is a contemporary expression of vernacular style, instilling pride in the local community, and fueling economic development.

One of the principal ways that the design is conceptualized to create sustainable built environment is through the use of stone readily available on-site, using that as an asset which was rather a challenge generated because of frequent stone slides coming along with natural streams running through the site.

  • Swimming pool: The pool, the restaurant, the deck activates the river front edge of the resort, creating a social magnet that draws together guests.
  • Outdoor areas:  outdoor areas allow building occupants to connect with nature, take in the views and experience the vibrancy of the place.

The design of the terraced hillside provided an opportunity for a small amphitheatre. The cottages and surrounding outbuildings are imagined as small country village providing space for small retail ( with banquet and restaurant block) and a small market like souvenir shops. A small spa is positioned up the hill, Villas are so positioned allowing the mountain stream to cascade through and providing communal spaces and bird-watching machhans.

This little nest of luxury intends to shelter honeymoon couples when they’re not out exploring the Wilds of Corbett National Park.

Perched on a very steep site overlooking the river, the units are so placed protective shells scattered in an untouched ‘eden-like’ landscape, the interiors playing on the themes of purity and uncluttered comfort.

The integration of the native landscape, seasonal water bodies, and tree cover ensure comfortable ambient temperatures