History and Heritage
Opened in 2012, the Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is a modern luxury property in Gulmarg, roughly 50 km from Srinagar, though it’s often considered part of the broader Srinagar-region luxury circuit due to its prominence. While not a historical palace, it draws inspiration from Kashmiri craftsmanship, with wood-paneled interiors and traditional design elements reflecting the region’s heritage. Managed by the Khyber Hotels group, it’s a contemporary retreat set against the Pir Panjal range.
Accommodations
The resort offers 85 rooms, including Premier Rooms, Luxury Rooms, Suites, and Cottages. Rooms feature walnut wood furniture, heated floors, large windows with mountain or valley views, satellite TVs, minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Cottages provide private balconies and extra living space, ideal for families or longer stays. Guests praise the cozy elegance and warmth, though some mention that maintenance (e.g., plumbing) can occasionally falter.
Amenities
A standout for its extensive facilities:
- Heated Indoor Pool: Overlooking snow-capped peaks, a year-round favorite.
- Kaya Kalp Spa: Offers Himalayan-inspired treatments, saunas, and steam rooms.
- Fitness Center: Modern equipment with scenic views.
- Outdoor Activities: Skiing (in winter), golf, trekking, and gondola rides nearby.
- Business Facilities: Conference rooms and banquet halls for events.
The spa and pool are highlights, though peak-season crowds can strain capacity.
Dining
Dining is a strong suit:
- Cloves: All-day dining with Kashmiri, Indian, and international cuisine; the Wazwan is a guest favorite.
- Noufal: A specialty restaurant for Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors.
- Chaikash: A tea lounge with local brews and light snacks.
- Calabash: A hookah lounge with a relaxed vibe.
Food quality earns high praise, though service can slow during busy periods. The outdoor barbecue in summer adds a delightful touch.
Service
Staff are courteous and well-trained, often going beyond expectations with personalized touches like arranging ski gear or special meals. However, some guests note inconsistent response times, particularly in winter when the resort sees heavy traffic.
Location
Located in Gulmarg, 50 km from Srinagar (a 1.5–2-hour drive) and 65 km from the airport, it’s a high-altitude retreat at 8,825 feet. Its proximity to the Gulmarg Gondola and ski slopes makes it a winter hotspot, though the distance from Srinagar’s urban attractions suits adventure seekers over city explorers.
Guest Experience
Rated around 8.8/10 on travel platforms, Khyber excels for its luxurious warmth, stunning Himalayan views, and winter sports access. It’s a top pick for honeymooners and skiers, though its distance from Srinagar and higher pricing (INR 18,000–40,000 per night, $215–$480 USD) reflect its premium Gulmarg positioning.
Conclusion
The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa is a luxurious mountain escape blending modern comfort with Kashmiri aesthetics. Perfect for nature lovers and winter enthusiasts, it trades urban convenience for alpine grandeur, making it a standout in the region.
