Windsor Lodge Ranikhet

Originally built in 1909 as a quaint hunting lodge in the midst of a forest rich in wild life, Windsor Lodge soon transformed itself into a favourite retreat of the British elite and Indian royalty during the colonial era. Sadly, a devastating fire in 1948 damaged the property extensively. Windsor Lodge and its out houses remained neglected ruins for the following 50 years. It was not until 1999 that painstaking restoration work began, retaining much of the original colonial-style architecture, retrieved timber and wood work and roughly hewed stones, Decorated with period furniture and artefacts, the refurbishment restored its vibrant antiquity and glory of days gone by. Windsor Lodge re-opened its doors 6 years later; and ever since, several new buildings added to what is today a fusion of colonial splendor and modernity. Perched on hillock, it commands a 360- degree view, overlooking the golf course, pine and cedar forests a stunning panorama of snow- capped Himalayan peaks.