Namaste Dwaar Resort
By Seema Dhawan
On the journey from Delhi to Haridwar, we discovered a hidden gem in Namaste Dwaar Resort, a magnificent blend of tradition and luxury. With its haveli-like charm from a bygone era, this resort offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. The intricate wooden façade and vibrant cupola welcomed us, and inside, we were greeted by expansive green fields and the enchanting village life that unfolds like a scene from a magazine. Namaste Dwaar, located near Meerut, provided us with a unique chance to immerse ourselves in the heart of rural India.
As we approached this rural wellness resort, its architectural elegance immediately captured our attention. The building, adorned with stone columns, arches, intricate timberwork, and ornate jaalis, stood out against the verdant landscape, inviting us to delve into its rich details.
Warm Hospitality and Luxurious Retreat
Our experience at Namaste Dwaar was made even more memorable by the warmth and attentiveness of the staff. Bijay Kumar, who coordinated everything so thoughtfully, ensured that our stay was nothing short of exceptional. His meticulous attention to detail was evident in every aspect of our visit.
At Namaste Dwaar, we were immediately captivated by the grandeur of the Maharaja Suite, which embraced us with its blend of traditional elegance and heritage. The next day, we enjoyed the unique allure of the Kantha Suite, which offered its own special charm and ambiance. Our room became a retreat of eco-friendly, handcrafted materials that combined old-world appeal with modern comforts. With large windows and spacious balconies framing views of fruit trees and seasonal blooms, it was the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the serene surroundings.
Dining Amidst the Serenity of Chakra Lounge and the Machaans
Our dining experiences at the resort were nothing short of extraordinary, thanks in no small part to the exceptional service provided by the dining team, led by Hardik, Anil, and Neeraj. Their thoughtful approach to curating a menu of light, satvik dishes tailored to our preferences made each meal truly special. My mother, in particular, appreciated the meticulous attention to her dietary needs, which added a personal touch to every dining experience.
The Chakra Lounge, seamlessly blending into the machaans, offered a dining setting that was both enchanting and serene. Nestled amid lush greenery and tranquil surroundings, the machaans—elevated wooden platforms perched among the branches of majestic trees—provided us with breathtaking panoramic views. Whether we sought solitude, a moment for reflection, or simply a serene hideaway to appreciate nature’s beauty, the machaans delivered the perfect sanctuary. Each machaan was thoughtfully designed to harmonize with its natural setting, ensuring an immersive and unforgettable dining experience that made our time there uniquely memorable.
Relaxation and Rejuvenation: Spa Serenity and Poolside Bliss
At the thatched-roof spa, we enjoyed revitalizing Ayurvedic treatments that provided a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The serene setting allowed us to truly unwind and relax. Meanwhile, the lush emerald pool, surrounded by Mughal Char Bagh-inspired gardens, offered a tranquil space to enjoy or simply take in the peaceful atmosphere.
For those seeking more space, the private four-bedroom villa offers breathtaking sunset vistas, a medicinal herbal garden, a badminton court, and a private kitchen ideal for family gatherings. Your furry companions are welcome here, adding to the sense of home.
Engaging Activities and Enchanting Experiences
Each day unfolded with a variety of engaging activities, including morning havan, yoga, and meditation. Guests could also enjoy a tractor ride, pottery sessions, and bicycle rides, or immerse themselves in Ganga art and traditional folk songs. The star-gazing sessions offered a serene night-time experience. I participated in many of these activities and found the rustic charm of each experience truly delightful.
Design Note
Traditional art forms have consistently influenced the design studio’s projects. The architecture of Namaste Dwaar Resort draws inspiration from the traditional buildings of Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, and Rajasthan, reflecting common materials and construction techniques.
The design brief emphasized using locally sourced materials. Consequently, efforts were made to select materials that align with this directive.
The façade features Lakhori Bricks, known for their use in historic buildings. These smaller bricks, joined with lime mortar or ‘chuna,’ allow the structure to breathe. Specially manufactured for this project by a nearby kiln, these bricks are complemented by a Grand Central arch sourced from Darbar Mansurpur, the village where the site is located. Stone columns and arches on the second floor take inspiration from an old Haveli in Molaheri, a nearby village.
The façade also showcases remarkable timberwork inspired by architectural styles in smaller towns surrounding the site. The intricate Metal Jali with a jalebi pattern integrates seamlessly with the timber columns.
Domes are a significant feature in Indian architecture. The project incorporates a dome design inspired by heritage while adding a unique touch. Elements such as stained glass and jalebi grills were added to the metal frame to create a distinctive cupola.
The building’s distinctive character is reflected not only in its façade but also in its services. Guest rooms feature traditional ceilings with brick and timber while offering modern comforts.
The resort’s Wellness Center, set in landscaped gardens inspired by the Mughal Char Bagh, features thatched-roof buildings and an Ayurvedic wellness experience. The gardens are complemented by a swimming pool situated at one end.
Material and Color Palette
The primary materials used include brick, timber, and metal. Brick, a signature element of the design studio’s projects, is used decoratively to highlight walls and structures. This region is renowned for producing high-quality bricks. The project employed a mix of regular and over-burnt bricks, creating a unique aesthetic.
Materials for the resort were carefully sourced and manufactured in India, with an emphasis on recycled content. Patterned Terrazzo tiles from Royal Tiles in Rajkot and KG tiles from Bikaner were utilized. Efforts were made to minimize material wastage, with leftover tiles creatively used in patchwork.
Timber for the façade was upcycled from old buildings. Native flowering trees were extensively planted to enhance green cover and support the local ecosystem. An organic farm was also developed to maintain soil fertility, contributing to sustainability efforts.
