Mary Budden’s Estate
Almora

Unwind at Mary Budden’s Estate located in the birdlife and wildlife rich Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Everything you could possibly wish for in a lodge, Mary Budden’s Estate integrates luxury into this beautifully natural setting.

Understated but elegant in style and taste, this restored 19th century heritage home is an absolute must for those in search of a touch of class amidst their Himalayan journey. Almost 8,000 feet about sea level, the estate was originally inhabited by Mary Budden herself, daughter of John Budden, a Reverend appointed by the British Government in 1850 to set up charitable work in the Kumaon hills. Mary continued a life dedicated to establishing refuges, a hospital and schools for girls in the area and was last to inhabit the estate, which preserves her memory in name, and serves as a fond reminder to the locals of her much-appreciated efforts and endless charitable work.

An array of tantalising suites and cottages on offer are the perfect refuge from days out on safari or a day’s trekking through the surrounding hiking trials. Delicately furnished and softly lit rooms are the epitome of luxury at its finest at the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains. Mary Budden’s Estate’s ethos is designed for you to “relax, reconnect and re-sensitise yourself to your mind and body”. This is absolutely achieved in the layout of the estate and you can fulfil this disposition through yoga with the excellent trained therapist, Samara.

Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to an abundance of flora and fauna, and both resident and migratory birds, is a haven and paradise for nature lovers. To add to this, the stunning backdrop of Nanda Devi Peak caresses the Sanctuary’s skyline adding a unique alpine feel to the surrounding area. Home to the Himalayan black bear and leopard, Binsar is a must stop for visitors to the area.

My favourite thing is to go where I've never been.
Diane Arbus