Conceived as a getaway home spread over 6,000 square feet, Aashraya opened to guests to provide a sanctuary for those seeking to be amidst nature – a respite from urban hustle. Tucked away upstream from Rishikesh, it is surrounded by forest and the river is close by. It has been designed with an eco-conscious persona using local artisans without creating a high impact on the location but instead harmonising with the environment. The use of large windows offers views of the surrounding landscape and Ganga, as well as ensuring no need for artificial light during the day while ensuring privacy.

A fully organic kitchen garden along with over 200 indigenous and fruit trees planted adds to the design along with a secluded plunge pool, a lounge-cum-restaurant, a bonfire pit, and an outdoor lounge area.

Three private cottages named after the river – Bhagirathi, Alaknanda, and Ganga come with their own private sit-out, span 1000 square feet, and can accommodate up to four people in one room. These cottages have been built with local materials, repurposed packaging wood sourced from a factory, and minimal cement.

Lover's Pond Cottage is set slightly away from the other cottages and is a blend of dry stone and floor-to-ceiling glass that showcases the surrounding wilderness. Comfortable sofa chairs and an all-glass front opening to a private outdoor area with a pond craft a perfect setting for cosy evenings, while the panoramic mountain vistas serve up an ever-changing backdrop.

The Art House is Depi’s personally designed and executed residence. More than a cottage it sums up the essence of Aashraya on the Ganga. The cottage offers spectacular views of the Ganga and houses an inspiring collection of art from around the world and creations by visiting artists. Comprising two bedrooms, a living area, and large glass windows that merge the indoors with the outdoors, the Art House also includes a modern kitchen serviced by private staff. Only available for weekly or monthly stays, this villa is the ideal choice for families or groups seeking a private and inspiring escape in the heart of nature.

Dining

Breakfast is a mix of made-to-order eggs, Indian options, breads and seasonal fruits. Meals can be ordered a la carte with advance notice and there is a large choice from an Indian menu that changes daily. All-day snacks can be ordered with a selection of freshly squeezed juices, coffee, tea, and Himalayan ingredient infusions. For outings, a packed meal can be requested.

The special Pahadi dinner can be ordered in advance. Showcasing the culinary traditions of the region, it is prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Arrangements for a self-cooked or assisted outdoor barbecue can be made with a diverse menu available.

The location of Aashraya is the biggest takeaway. Situated by the river, it makes for the perfect getaway from urban chaos. The experience begins with the 3km walk from the parking spot – apt for all those with moderate fitness.

Take guided hikes to various picturesque locations such as Shimalu Village (4-5 hours) or Dabud Village (5 hours). Other hiking trails include Kharik (6 hours) and Chandpur (6 hours), or choose the trail of Mahadev Chatti, Baba Temple, and the local school (3 hours).

There are two river beaches accessible from Aashraya that are generally isolated with few visitors. Another hike of about 3 hours takes you to a pristine waterfall. Rafting can be booked with outsourced experienced professionals. Prebook a bonfire experience for cold nights that operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

For those interested in birding, there are plenty to look for, and Aashraya is in the process of putting together a list of birds one can spot within the retreat and around.

While guests are encouraged to digitally detox, there is limited internet connectivity available for those who wish to connect.

Perfect For

Aashraya is ideal for soaking up nature at its best. It is for those who love to explore the outdoors, recharge and rejuvenate with plenty of walking trails. It is also a great way to introduce children to the outdoors and nature’s magic. It is not recommended for those with walking or mobility issues.

Operational Staus

Aashraya on the Ganga is open all year.

Aashraya on the Ganga has set itself a mission statement to provide sustainable eco-travel for mindful guests amidst nature and champion sustainability in every way possible. They are the recipients of the Outlook Traveller and Outlook Responsible Tourism sponsored India Responsible Tourism Summit and Awards 2023 under the Sustainable Leadership Hotels to watch out for.

No Single Use Plastic: There is no single use plastic in the form of bottled water, single use toiletries, sachets, or cutlery offered at Aashraya. Whatever inevitable plastic that does come in, it is recycled or disposed of carefully. Efforts are made to source groceries and supplies without plastic packaging as well. Plastic jars have been recycled into planters. Recycled tins are used as dustbins across the property and the surrounding areas.

Water Conservation: Water is sourced from a nearby stream and recycling of water measures are in place with RO waste water and grey water reused. Water saving faucets and the dual flush system are in place.

Safe Garbage Disposal: Kitchen waste is recycled and converted into manure. Garbage collection and segregation drives are conducted in the region, and most of the scrap is uncycled and converted into art. Termites are added to the toilet sump pits to decompose residue. Usage of recycled glass bottles and metal cans can be seen throughout the retreat. Periodic garbage collection drives are conducted at and around the property and all other areas of walks and treks that are used by the guests.

Energy Efficiency: Being in a remote location, Aashraya uses solar energy that fully powers all the fans and lights, a refrigerator, and a deep freezer that have no electric connection. Energy efficient lighting and appliances are used. The design element of large windows that allow natural light ensures no use of artificial lighting during the day. Solar energy is used on most days to heat water and a diesel generator is used sparingly. Every year, the solar capacity is increased.

Nature and Biological Diversity Conservation: Over 200 indigenous and fruit trees have been planted. While building, careful planning ensured no deforestation occurred. The planting of the trees has brought birds into the area.

Local Community Engagement: The staff is local and Aashraya sources groceries and grains from the nearby villages. They plan to hire more local staff to help reverse rural-urban migration and create more employment in the hills.

Light Footprint Tourism: Right from the construction stage, there was an emphasis on keeping a light footprint. Materials have been sourced locally and recycled materials have been used. The wood used for the cottages has been sourced from a factory; the roofs have been crafted with a recycled tin roof that has been insulated by dipping recycled jute bags in cement to reduce sound; and a machine has been purchased to make earth-stabilised bricks. Walls have been constructed with dry locally sourced stone with mud as the bonding agent. Mules are used to transport goods from the roadhead. Minimal cement and no RCC have been used even for the pool. The water that is sourced from a spring located about 2km away uses the principles of gravity. Aashraya has been built in the local style and architecture to preserve the heritage of the area.

The organic kitchen garden includes herbs, food, and fruits that are wholly organic to provide a farm-to-table experience. Pickles and jams are made in-house and flowers are dehydrated to make tea infusions.

Sensitive Destination Discovery: All the guest activities are nature-oriented: nature walks, experiential hikes that give the guests a peek into the local way of living, a trek to the waterfall, a calming river beach stroll, and gardening.

Human Touch: The hosts at Aashraya visit the local school regularly to educate children on sustainable living and are in the process of starting an education centre for the locals to promote sustainable construction. The staff is given regular training to be mindful of their impact and upskilled to work on jobs required to run the retreat. With the mule man's extensive hiring, he has been able to build a stable home for himself from the income earned.

The RARE Sustainability Quotient is a self-audit tool that is used by our hotel partners to measure, document and assess their planet and people friendly practises and is based on the RARE Touchstones.