Once the palatial home of a distinguished member of the family of the royals of Tehri-Garhwal, Kinwani House has been thoughtfully transformed into a boutique hotel that honours its rich heritage. For Kavinder Besoya, COO of Aalia Collection, this project is about more than architecture or opulence – it’s a journey that invites guests to connect with history and culture. “Our vision was to create a place where the elegance of the past meets the comfort of today,” he explains, emphasising on how Kinwani House’s legacy is woven into every corner, each detail carefully crafted to tell the stories of a bygone era. Here, modern luxury embraces the beauty of tradition, offering a space where guests can immerse themselves in the heritage of Tehri Garhwal.
Besoya informs that The Aalia Collection are luxury boutique hotels, defined by their unique locations, bringing together the beauty of the majestic Arabian Sea, the magnificent Ganges River, the mesmerising Himalayas and the mighty jungle. This rare combination makes The Aalia Collection one-of-its-kind experience in the luxury hospitality segment. The Aalia Collection includes Aalia Villas Anjuna, Goa launched in January ’24, Kinwani House- a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts in Narendra Nagar, Rishikesh in May ’24, Aalia Ganges, Haridwar by Amatra, Aalia Jungle Retreat & Spa by Claridges Collection, a member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. “We are a vertical of the JPL Group which first forayed into hospitality with Aalia Ganges in 2012,” he informs.
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Preserving heritage
The conversion of Kinwani House into a boutique hotel required a careful blend of restoration and innovation. Besoya and his team were committed to maintaining its iconic art-deco design and regal architectural elements. “The intricate details, from the original facade to the vintage interiors, were maintained to honour its history,” he notes. These preserved features provide guests with an experience that combines the grandeur of the past with today’s comforts, making Kinwani House a unique and immersive escape.
Cultural immersion in Tehri-Garhwal
Luxury at Kinwani House is about connecting deeply with the culture and history of the region. “We’ve meticulously designed experiences that immerse our guests in the heritage of Tehri-Garhwal,” Besoya explains. From guided tours of Narendra Nagar to visits to sacred sites like Kunjapuri Devi Temple, Kinwani House curates experiences that reveal the region’s spiritual and historical essence. Paired with local dining experiences, these activities provide an authentic and enriching journey into the local culture.
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Emotional journey beyond luxury
The team at Kinwani House aspires to create an emotional journey that extends beyond traditional luxury. “The old-world charm, paired with modern luxury, creates an environment where nostalgia meets comfort,” says Besoya. This atmosphere ensures that guests leave with a sense of peace and connection to the property's cultural legacy. It’s more than just a stay, it’s a meaningful escape that lingers long after departure.
Storytelling is at the heart of Kinwani House’s guest experience, bringing the property’s history to life. “We focus on creating an experience that goes beyond luxury – it’s about immersing guests in the stories of the estate,” Besoya shares. Every aspect of the hotel, from guided tours and decor to traditional meals served with tales of the region’s heritage, reflects Kinwani House’s rich past, allowing guests to forge a personal connection to the property’s legacy.
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Signature experiences
Setting Kinwani House apart from other boutique hotels are its signature services, curated to reflect the essence of the estate. Guests can enjoy a culinary journey with multi-course menus that blend local and global flavours, tailored spa treatments and guided cultural tours. “Every service is crafted to reflect the uniqueness of our heritage property,” notes Besoya, ensuring each stay is both luxurious and culturally authentic.
Inspired by Nature
The breathtaking surroundings of Rishikesh influence Kinwani House’s design and guest experiences. With large windows and open layouts that capture the stunning views of the valley, Besoya describes how the interiors reflect the natural beauty outdoors. “These elements inspire guest experiences, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the peace and beauty of the Himalayan foothills,” he says. This blend of architecture and nature fosters an environment of tranquility and renewal.
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Future plans
Kinwani House also has plans to enhance its offerings with more personalised experiences and sustainable practices that honour its heritage and surroundings. Besoya hints at future projects, saying, “Our goal is to offer guests exceptional experiences that celebrate local culture and heritage.” By expanding the Aalia Collection with similar transformations, the team is committed to preserving the unique stories of each heritage property while offering guests a profound connection to the past.
