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Wildflower Hall, An Oberoi Resort
Shimla

Sitting at 8,250 feet above sea level, Wildflower Hall in the Himalayas is an elegant mountain retreat offering sweeping views of cedar-clad valleys, snow-dusted peaks and crisp mountain skies. Just a 45-minute drive from Shimla, the former summer capital of British India, this grand hotel sits in serene isolation and feels a world away from the frenetic energy India is so often known for.

Built on the location of the former residence of Indian Viceroy, Lord Kitchener, this luxurious hotel is set amidst 22 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and forest cover. From its vantage point on top of a knoll, it looks out onto a magnificent vista of rugged mountains, snowy peaks and thick forests. The rooms are cosy and comfortable, and many have fireplaces. The stunning indoor pool opens onto a large conservatory and terrace with outdoor Jacuzzi and is complemented by a state-of-the-art spa.

Rebuilt by the Oberoi Group after a fire destroyed the original structure, the current incarnation of Wildflower Hall captures a bygone colonial charm with the quiet confidence of a luxury retreat. Interiors are tasteful and atmospheric: polished wood floors, high ceilings and warm tones are complemented by rich carpets and fine antiques. Rooms are elegant and snug, designed to cocoon guests in warmth, particularly welcome after a day in the brisk mountain air.

The hotel is particularly well suited to those looking to disconnect and recalibrate. Nature walks, yoga sessions and guided treks can be arranged directly from the property, while the award-winning Oberoi Spa offers holistic treatments using traditional Ayurvedic techniques. The indoor pool, set beneath grand archways, opens out to a sun-drenched terrace with outdoor Jacuzzi and views that stretch endlessly across the Himalayas.

Dining is an intimate affair. The restaurant offers Indian and international cuisine, often served alfresco on the terrace when weather allows, and always with those mountain views. Evenings are best rounded off in the drawing room by the fire, with a book or a whiskey in hand.

Whether you visit in summer, when the grounds bloom with rhododendrons and birdsong, or in winter, when the landscape transforms under a blanket of snow, Wildflower Hall offers an atmospheric base for experiencing the magic of the Himalayas; steeped in history and wrapped in modern comfort.

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The first condition of understanding a foreign country is to smell it.
Rudyard Kipling

Client Testimonials

I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka

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