A Tale of Architectural Resurgence and Spiritual Opulence

NESTLED ALONG the sacred banks of the Ganges in the heart of Haridwar, Pilibhit House, IHCL SeleQtions, stands as a living testament to the rich historical tapestry of the region. The genesis of this architectural gem lies in Lahore House, erected between 1925 and 1930 by affluent trading families from undivided Punjab. This enclave of opulent homes, including Batala House, Kapurthala House, Multan Bhawan and Gujranwala House, served as pilgrimage havens for families visiting Haridwar.

Lahore House, distinguished by its dormitory style layout around a central courtyard, offered a unique perspective with steps leading down to the flowing Ganges at the rear. In 2006, the Prasads, the current custodians of the property, acquired it from the second and third generation descendants of Lahore House’s original owners. Renaming it Pilibhit House, they paid homage to their hometown.

What transpired was a remarkable transformation, orchestrated by the visionary architect, the late Pradeep Sachdeva, turning the dilapidated Lahore House into the exquisite Pilibhit House. The Facade The Architectural Metamorphosis Pradeep Sachdeva’s vision for Pilibhit House was an ode to sattvik or pure living, drawing inspiration from Indian minimalism. The design seamlessly intertwines architecture, interior design and landscape, creating a harmonious blend of austerity and luxury in sync with Haridwar’s spiritual ethos.

The property comprises 31 meticulously restored rooms and four graceful suites, arranged around a central courtyard that gracefully leads to a riverside terrace and a private bathing ghat along the Ganges. Guests traverse through a meticulously restored archway from narrow streets, entering a central courtyard that frames panoramic views of the Ganges. The design captures the pilgrimage essence, with a riverside terrace hosting a swimming pool shaded by a mango tree – a tranquil space for guests.

The sweeping views of the Ganges, the sounds of flowing waters, the aroma of local cuisine and serene music in the lobby create an immersive experience, transcending the urban fabric of the neighbourhood. The Verandah The IHCL Partnership In late 2019, the Prasads entered into an agreement with IHCL to manage and operate Pilibhit House under the IHCL SeleQtions brand. Despite the untimely passing of Sachdeva during the pandemic, architect Khozema Chitalwala stepped in to design public areas and re-evaluate guest rooms.

The property was successfully launched in July 2021, showcasing the seamless collaboration between Sachdeva’s architectural brilliance and the meticulous detailing of the Taj team. Pilibhit House is not merely a visual delight; it encapsulates the old-world charm of Haridwar, providing a luxurious retreat. The transformation from the dilapidated Lahore House to the exquisite Pilibhit House is a testament to the dedication and expertise invested in reviving this historical gem.

Culinary Delights and Impeccable Service At Pilibhit House, the dining experience transcends mere sustenance; it is a culinary odyssey, a harmonious blend of traditional Garhwali Thali lunches, Satvik Thali and an array of eclectic offerings including local eats and fusions that elevate the senses. A standout amidst this culinary symphony is the Kachori Chat at The Dining Room, a testament to the innovative and delicious creations emerging from the kitchen. Garhwali Thali and Satvik Delights: A Symphony of Flavours The heart of the dining experience lies in the authenticity of the Garhwali Thali and Satvik Thali, curated with precision by Executive Chef Mani Mohan Pathak.

Each dish is a reflection of local flavours, prepared with a commitment to satvik principles. From the robust regional spices to the freshness of locally sourced ingredients, every element contributes to a gastronomic journey that celebrates the culinary heritage of the region. The Kachori Chat and The Garhwali Thali The Kachori Chat Extravaganza: A Fusion Delight One culinary masterpiece that stands out in the diverse menu is the Kachori Chat.

This dish, a fusion of textures and flavours, captures the essence of local street food with a sophisticated twist. The crispy kachori, filled with delectable ingredients, harmonises with the tangy chutneys and savoury toppings, creating a burst of flavours that lingers on the palate. The Dining Room, with its serene ambience, becomes the stage for this culinary extravaganza.

Personalised Service: The Taj Hallmark Complementing the culinary excellence is the hallmark of Taj hospitality – personalised service. The staff at Pilibhit House, well-trained and attentive, surpasses expectations to cater to the diverse needs of a discerning global clientele. The dedication to providing a memorable dining experience is evident in every detail, from the warm greetings to the meticulous attention paid to individual preferences.

Luxury and Adaptability: A Seamless Fusion Taj’s renowned expertise takes centre stage in the execution of personalised attention, seamlessly blending luxury with adaptability to the unique demands of Haridwar’s locale. The culinary journey extends beyond the plate, creating an immersive experience where guests are not only satisfied with their meals but enchanted by the overall ambiance, service, and attention to detail. Activities and Experiences A stay at Pilibhit House goes beyond luxurious accommodation.

Guests are treated to a range of curated activities, including the iconic Ganga Aarti at Har Ki Pauri and a special private Ganga aarti at the property’s private ghat. Heritage walks through the bustling streets of Haridwar, visits to iconic temples like Mansa Devi and Chandi Devi, and forest excursions to the Vindhyavasini Temple and Uttarakhand village life offer a diverse range of experiences. In-house activities such as Navgreh Pooja and palmistry/ astrology sessions on the deck add a touch of spirituality and mystique to the overall guest experience.

The property’s Hotel Manager, Vikas Nagar, and Front Office Manager, Jitendra Champawat, deserve special mention for their exceptional attention to detail and guest handling. Haridwar: Gateway to Spiritual Exploration The accessibility and connectivity of Haridwar are unparalleled, making it a remarkably convenient destination for pilgrims and travellers alike. The city’s allure as a pilgrimage site is immense, drawing visitors from far and wide.

Intra-City Commuting: Seamlessly Exploring the Heart of Haridwar Within the confines of Haridwar, transportation is a breeze. The city, though compact, offers various commuting options. Pilibhit House, strategically and centrally located, serves as a perfect base for exploration.

Whether on foot or using cabs and e-rickshaws, readily available throughout the city, guests have easy access to any desired destination. The Dining Room Pilibhit House: A Tranquil Retreat for Short Getaways With its inherent allure, Pilibhit House stands as a significant attraction in itself, making it an ideal retreat for a short getaway. Furthermore, when combined with the myriad offerings of Haridwar, it becomes the focal point for crafting a comprehensive itinerary spanning a few days.

Convenient Commutes to Haridwar: Bridging Spiritual Journeys For those eager to embark on a spiritual journey, Haridwar is conveniently located 240 km from Delhi, a mere four-hour drive on one of India’s most well-maintained highways. The city is also excellently connected by both rail and air. Arriving at the Jolly Grant Airport, situated 40 km away near Dehradun, guests can reach Haridwar in under an hour, ensuring a swift and comfortable transition to the sacred city.

The Deck Overlooking The Ganges Extended Excursions: Diverse Landscapes and Cultural Treasures For those looking to extend their trip, Haridwar serves as a central hub, providing convenient access to several other captivating locations in Uttarakhand and Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Dehradun is a mere 57 km away, Mussoorie 88 km, Corbett National Park 136 km, Roorkee 38 km, Saharanpur 63 km, Lansdowne 135 km and Nainital 234 km. This strategic positioning makes Pilibhit House an ideal starting point for exploring the diverse landscapes and cultural treasures that this region has to offer, ensuring a memorable and enriching travel experience over the course of several days.

Pilibhit House, IHCL SeleQtions, stands as a beacon of heritage, luxury and holistic living in the sacred town of Haridwar. The conversion of Lahore House into this architectural marvel, guided by the late Pradeep Sachdeva and enhanced by the expertise of the Taj team, is a story of revival and transformation. The property seamlessly marries tradition with modernity, providing guests with an unparalleled experience that resonates with the spirituality and cultural richness of Haridwar.

As you step into Pilibhit House, you not only witness the architectural grandeur but also embark on a journey that transcends time, inviting you to savour the beauty of old-world charm amid the lap of luxury. This article was published in BW hotelier issue dated ” with cover story titled ‘BW HOTELIER THE BLEISURE SPECIAL’.