There is a growing discussion of travel’s homecoming to India. But the sudden uptick in outbound travel by 11% towards the end of this year; contrary to 2023, which recorded 42.85% rise in inbound travel, has one bewildered at the emerging travel trends. Government’s efforts at boosting in-land exploration with programs like Dekho Apna Desh – spotlighting Indian culture, landmarks and natural diversity — signals that the totality of escapades is headed within India itself.
In this regard, a select few Indian hospitality businesses have an ace up their sleeve — owing to the well-researched and collaborative experiences set in place. JW Marriott Walnut Grove Resort & Spa is one such place. Situated within the idyllic hills of Mussoorie, this resort offers more than what meets the eye; it curates an experience that celebrates the historical and cultural essence of its surroundings. From its architecture, which blends with the environment, to its seasoned hospitality, this establishment reimagines its model in a way which resonates with the sensibilities of modern-day travellers. Beyond the tangible, one is privy to the curated experience-design, in its historical discourse, its pedagogy, and its practices, coming to term by reimagining itself for the 21st century.
Amongst the abyss of the hills, JW Marriott Walnut Grove Resort & Spa sits proudly
Dining is one such aspect with Kachdi at the top. This Himalayan tradition is what threads the needle. Many such curations make JW memorable and push boundaries beyond borders. Their garden-herbarium, available for one to visit, furthers their agenda of cultural storytelling via food by making oneself understand vegetation and the food cycle. While talking of vegetation, the eponymous walnut tree at the property can not go amiss. The namesake is oftentimes used as a malleable ingredient in many of the dishes alongside the hero walnut halwa.
At the JW Marriott Walnut Grove Resort & Spa, in-room dining takes precedence in experiencing comfort alongside mountain views from your room’s balcony; unparalleled flavours, their restaurant hopping would not let you miss the city bustle. Upon one’s preference, the options available are manifold, with pan-asian, traditional, Italian and continental. While many parallel operations are at go, what is commendable is nothing falls short of perfection.
(L-R) A garden-herbarium for the ages; The possibility of culinary rendezvous amongst the alluring hills
On the other spectrum of dining is their Garhwali thali, perfected for the cosmopolitan audience who wants to experience tradition at their own pace. Along with this thali come seven kinds of completely different preparations, rounded with lentils, curd and vegetable, all unique to the Garhwal area of the Himalayas. Chef Rohit Chadha runs one through the intricacies of the craft, from broken lentils to the process, creating an inimitable and intimate experience that one can speak of, forever.
(l-R) The indulgent Garhwali thali; JW’s fresh produce, lending their complex flavours to each meal; The serene setting of a hearty meal
The social position of JW Marriott as an active community institution becomes apparent when one notices the property’s workforce and the time they took to create experiences around the topography. A commitment to making a positive impact on the local community — interaction at the resorts with town locals who can help one navigate and better understand the culture, traditional stories and the lifestyle of the community that surrounds Marriott is a bliss. The many treks offered around the property highlight important architecture, speaking to the history and letting you bask in the glory of nature untouched.
The unbeatable views of Mussoorie, from JW Marriott Walnut Grove Resort and Spa & Spa
Coming to JW Marriott Walnut Grove Resort & Spa is coming home. On visiting the property one assumes the wonderment of a child and the warmth that you receive from the Marriott family is akin to that of parents who eagerly await for the reunion. One is coddled, fed with love and ingenuity and taken care of. Set in the foothills of Mussoorie with an expansive campus and myriad of activities at hand, one must include the property in their travel itinerary.
Words by Tanya Chaturvedi.
