As the sun sets over the Ram Ganga river, I sit on the stairs that lead down to the stream and dip my toes in the cool water. A piping hot cup of sweet, milky Pahadi chai is handed to me and, for a second, I am distracted by the squirrels scurrying in the leaves of the tree just above. Apart from the rustling leaves, birdsong, and the rhythmic gurgling of the stream, it is so quiet that I can hear the faint sounds of a Hindi film song coming from a house across the stream. I thank my good fortune that I came across Shervani Pebbles and Pines on a travel-booking app and decided to book a 3-day escape into the wilds.
Tucked away at the end of a tiny hamlet, Kyari Gaon, in Uttarakhand’s Ramnagar district, one has to drive through the gloriously scenic forest for 5 kms and traverse another 2 kms of village roads to reach the resort. The large gates open up to reveal what feels almost like a secret. Pebbles and Pines is thoughtfully designed to soothe guests’ city-jangled nerves by immersing them in the quiet cocoon of nature. We were greeted with smiling faces and glasses of chilled “buransh” juice—an infusion made with the pink and red Himalayan rhododendron known for its cooling and detoxifying properties. What a great start to our weekend!
Once the check-in formalities were complete, we headed to our room. Made up of four different semi-circular buildings, each housing 8-10 rooms, a refreshingly large swimming pool, and well-manicured lawns that can easily host 200 people for weddings and events, Pebbles and Pines embodies the spirit of luxury in the wild. We had booked into their Superior Jacuzzi room, which boasts of a fairly large, airy and bright room with comfortable sheesham wood furniture, Egyptian-cotton bed linens, a Spanish-tiled balcony for your quiet cuppas, a roomy shower, and a two-person jacuzzi that beckons after a long day of forest walks. They had all the common amenities (organic and vegan) and provided us with refills every day of our stay.
When it comes to food, Pebbles and Pines prides itself on providing an organic and locally-sourced culinary experience. There is a set buffet of vegetarian and non-vegetarian fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Though breakfast does offer some Continental options, lunch and dinner are primarily Indian with some pasta or noodle options on alternate days. You can even (with prior notice to the staff) relish a traditional Garhwali thali or high tea by the banks of the stream that runs next to the resort.
And since you are in the land of Corbett’s legendary tigers, you definitely need to book a safari to experience the jungles of Ramnagar just as Jim Corbett did. The hotel has a dedicated guide and you can easily book your safari knowing that you are in safe hands and are not getting scammed. Apart from the traditional safari, Pebbles and Pines also has some exclusively curated experiences. You can choose to immerse yourself in village life and experience rural Garhwali culture and homemade, local food. If reptiles are your thing, you can hire a boat to take you up Ram Ganga River to Crocodile View Point. And if, like me, you just wish to chill by the pool with a drink and a good book, or daydream and journal by the stream, this resort is apt. There is also an in-house spa where you can book a massage to further dissolve your aches, pains, and cares.
Whether you’re craving a jungle adventure or a peaceful, soul-restoring escape, Pebbles and Pines offers a slice of luxury that feels unhurried and intimate. If your travels take you to Jim Corbett National Park, do spend a night—or three—at this perfect jungle hideaway.
What to Know Before You Go
- Getting There: It’s a 250 km or 5-6 hour drive from New Delhi, if you choose to take a cab. You can also take a flight to Pantnagar and drive for 85 km or 1.5 hours to reach Jim Corbett and on to Pebbles and Pines.
- When to Go: Winter is the best season to visit if you want to ensure that you get to see plenty of wildlife. Avoid visiting during the monsoon because bugs and creepy crawlies abound. You’re in the middle of a jungle, remember?
- How Much Will it Cost: During the season (November to February) prices start at INR 10,000 per night. You can visit their website for attractive packages and discounts on direct bookings.
How to Pay: Use HaveMony to securely pay the hotel via UPI. You don’t even have to carry cash because almost all restaurants, pubs, and shops in India have a means to accept digital payments.