Pilibhit House by IHCL SeleQtions is a stunning heritage property restored by the Taj Group in the middle of the bustle of Haridwar. An oasis in this charged Holy city, this is the perfect retreat to take a beat, hit pause, and rejuvenate for the weekend.
This sprawling property welcomes you with a traditional Aarti, and a Rudraksh garland, and just like that you step away from your regular humdrum into serenity. Take one of their healthy shots, we had the aam panna for summer and check-in. Check out their welcome ceremony and my stay snippets below –
Exploring Pilibhit House
Pilibhit House was once an ancestral home to a renowned family from Pilibhit (UP). The family that had settled in the Terai region after the Partition had built this house for the parents who would come to Haridwar for Pilgrimage. It was originally known as Lahore House. Over time, this place was renamed Pilibhit House because the family was based at the time.
Taj Group acquired this ancestral home and after a year of restoration, was open to the public in late 2021.
With 35 rooms including 2 suites, this boutique property retains the charm of a home. The warmth and iconic Taj hospitality, of course, shines through. The property will vaguely remind you of Taj Falaknuma in Hyderabad, but the serenity here is completely different. Both situated amidst the bustle, Pilibhit House will feel like home. The perfect getaway from Delhi to re-connect with your spiritual self. And yes, gorgeous views of the river and Ghats!
A glass elevator overlooking the Ganges, rooms with the river or courtyard view, a courtyard, and a restaurant with Indian and global delicacies. But, the highlight has to be the infinity pool that overlooks the Ganga. Oh! And it is complete with a beautiful mango tree! They also have a reading room by the private Ghat which literally opens onto the river.
Private Ghat and Arti
You can’t be in Haridwar and not partake in the Holy Ganga Arti. The Arti takes place at the main Ghat of Har ki Pauri. Of course, the sight is one to behold when hundreds of lamps are let go in the Ganga, every evening. Well, it is also extremely crowded and not particularly COVID friendly. But, you can enjoy the Ganga Arti at the private ghat! Sit by the serenity as the night takes over.
Food at Pilibhit House
An all-vegetarian kitchen, helmed by Chef Mani – the food is simply impeccable! From traditional Garhwali food to International favourites and some local delicacies. The breakfast and dinner are buffet spreads while lunch is an a la carte affair. There is also a great spread of hi-tea with live stations when the weather is favourable.
The salad and dessert spreads are amazing, you will find delicious Thai curries and Corn au gratins but the Indian fare is what you should really look out for. Whoever said Indian is all about dal makhni and shahi paneer is oblivious to the wonders of vegetarian delicacies. From stuffed karelas to nargisi koftas, parval to mung-masoor dal, get ready to experiment with your palette.
Besides being the perfect place to unwind – they can also organize a bunch of activities for recreation including a food walk around Haridwar, a safari across Rajaji National Park (hello, fresh oxygen) palmistry, genealogy, and yoga!
Pilibhit House
38/1, Niranjani Akhara Marg,
Sharvan Nath Nagar, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249401
Average rate per night – INR 25000 ++
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