Soulitude by the Riverside

Mountains
Waterside
Rural
Wellness
Wildlife

Peaceful riverside stay perfect for retreats and slowing down in nature

Soulitude by the Riverside is a six-acre retreat on the banks of the Kalsa River near Nainital, reached by a half-hour trek downhill from the road; staff meet guests where the path ends to carry luggage the rest of the way. Just seven rooms are spread across two rustic cottages and a restored village home, over 90 years old, rebuilt using traditional methods and materials.

Spend the day on a nature walk through the surrounding forest, birdwatching along the riverbank, or simply following the sound of water from a hammock. There's no phone signal here, perfect for a digital detox. Evenings are for local chai, home-cooked meals, and the soothing sounds of the river.

Sustainability

Climate & conservation

Local or organic food, The hotel operates its own organic farm on-site to provide fresh ingredients for guest meals.
Protects access to natural rock pools and waterfalls on the Kalsa River
Offers guided treks and nature walks in the Chanfi valley
A small footprint of just 7 rustic rooms near Nainital

Community & culture

Hosts the Himalayan Baithak with Amarrass Records to showcase Kumaon music
Employs local people from the village of Chanfi in Uttarakhand
Partners with the Amarrass Society for Traditional Arts on musical tours
Organises cultural programmes like 'Qawwali in the Hills'

Commercial

Featured for its hospitality in Conde Nast Traveller and Rolling Stone
Sources produce from its own organic farm and Chanfi village growers

In brief

Price bracket: £££
Type of property: Lodge
No. of rooms: 10 rooms
Max guests per room: Seven rooms/cottages, mostly doubles; some suites/village home sleep families
Facilities: Restaurant, Wifi, Garden, Fireplace
Activities: Hiking, Yoga, Meditation, Birdwatching
Setting: Mountains · Lake · Rural

Kids

Children of any age are welcome, though the property is not suitable for small children unable to comfortably manage a 1km, 30-minute trek from the road-head; children must be supervised at all times, and swimming in the river is prohibited

Accessibility

Reached only via a 1km, 30 minute trek from the road-head (longer and steeper via the alternate route in rain); not suitable for guests with accessibility issues

£££pp / night Visit website

Guide price · £ <£100 · ££ £100–300 · £££ £300–800 · ££££ £800+ pp / night