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HUSHSTAY X GURNEY HOUSE
Ayarpatta Hill, Nainital

ABOUT

02 Rooms

Up to 04 Guests

Breakfast

Included

Entire

Home

10 Mins from Nainital Lake

Private Parking Available

Wifi Internet  Available

Pets Allowed

THE EXPERIENCE

"The time I spent in the jungles held unalloyed happiness for me, and that happiness I would now gladly share." - Jim Corbett

As the sun dipped behind the lush green hills of Nainital, the tranquil cottage nestled on the slopes of Ayarpatta Hills stood silent, except for the occasional rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze. The aroma of pine trees hung in the air, blending with the earthy scent of the forest. Inside the cottage, candles and dim lights cast a warm, inviting glow, illuminating the rustic furnishings.

Jim Corbett sat in his study, surrounded by maps, trophies, and hunting gear. The room was filled with the scent of old books, leather, and a sense of calm. With a worn-out journal in hand, he meticulously documented his latest adventures and observations of the wildlife he so passionately protected.

Hushstay x Gurney House, which was once the tranquil summer abode of the legendary British hunter, tracker, and naturalist Jim Corbett, has witnessed many such evenings. 

Retaining its old-world allure, The Gurney House was preserved as a museum and has now been graciously transformed into a 02 Bedroom Colonial Cottage that will transport you back in time, evoking a sense of nostalgia and a spirit of adventure. The cottage boasts a lush garden, a living room, a dining room, and a covered verandah, each corner steeped in the rich legacy of Jim Corbett. Adorned with his prized possessions, including trophies, a fishing rod, an African Drum, furniture, and books, every corner of the cottage whispers tales of a glorious past.

Immerse yourself in the heritage of a bygone era as you step into this sanctuary, feeling as though you are spending the night in a living museum.

A little extra for Hushstays Guests

Hi-tea in the Garden

On prior intimation only. Savor a selection of delectable treats and premium teas  and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the lush garden, surrounded by the timeless beauty that Jim Corbett cherished.

Do you want to talk to us? 

Call us on +91 8826915266 between 9 am and 6 pm

or simply click on the button below to leave us a message.

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THE SPACE

 Constructed in 1885 for Jim Corbett, this historic Gurney House stands proudly on Ayarpatta Hill, 3.5 km from Nainital Mall Road. The architecture of the Gurney House is reminiscent of a bygone era, featuring thick stone walls, wooden ceilings, and flooring that have stood the test of time.

The colonial-style architecture, surrounded by lush gardens and lawns on all sides, welcomes you into a world where time seems to stand still. 

As you wander through the house, you'll be greeted by artefacts, novels, and writings preserved from the time Jim Corbett and sister Maggie Corbett resided here. The entrance alley, adorned with animal trophies and paintings, leads to the living room on one side and the dining area on the other. The living room, with its cosy carpets, sofas, and seating, provides the perfect space for socializing, just as Jim Corbett enjoyed.

From the living room, step into the garden, where rhododendron, pine, and kharsu trees set the backdrop, painting a picture of tranquility against the twinkling lights of Nainital town at night. The dining area, showcasing crockery from Jim Corbett's time, offers a glimpse into the past, while the covered verandah, adorned with chairs, seems to beckon you to sit and share stories amidst the wonders of nature.

This 02 bedroom cottage exudes an aura of peace, adventure, and the timeless beauty of the natural world that Jim Corbett held so dear.

ROOMS

THE ROOMS

The Gurney House features two elegantly appointed bedrooms, each offering a tranquil retreat. The beds, along with the meticulously preserved furniture, evoke a sense of history and charm. Adorned with Jim Corbett's paintings, trophies, and other artifacts, every corner of these rooms whispers tales of a glorious past.

 

The first bedroom is accessible through the living room, and boasts an attached study room, complete with Jim Corbett's books, novels, and writings, allowing you to delve deeper into history. The second bedroom, while being connected to the first is also accessible through the main alley. There is a carefully calibrated sense of space and light that runs through the home

Both bedrooms are a sanctuary of comfort and history, providing an ambiance of serenity and charm. Immerse yourself in the rich legacy of Jim Corbett as you sleep amidst the echoes of the past. 

OUR SERVICES

AMENITIES

Fenced Private Land
Ensuite Bathrooms​
Comfortable Beddings
Breakfast Included
In-house Chef / Caretaker
Add-on Experiences
Entire Home
Portable Heaters
Wifi Internet Available
Secret Location
Fresh Towels & Soap
Farm-to-table Meals

THIS IS A HUSHSTAYS SELECT PROPERTY 

At Hushstays, we have partnered with extra-ordinary stays that offer our guests something unique. 

 

Each HushStay has a local touch, something unique about itself and a personal character that reflects the hosts. From a traditional cozy Stone Cottage in the Himalayas to a bungalow surrounded by Apple Orchards, all HushStays are as welcoming as they are beautiful.

A HUSHSTAYS SELECT PROPERTY is managed and marketed exclusively by Hushstays and we make sure that we select only the most amazing stays after a thorough inspection. 

Unique Hand-picked Stays at Peaceful Locations

In-house Chef and Verified Amenities

24/7 on-call assistance

Complimentary Add-on Experiences

Safe, Secure and Completely Exclusive

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE BOOKING

Meals:
  • A full vegetarian breakfast is included in the tariff.

  • Vegetarian meals are prepared by our in-house cook and are made of delectable homemade local cuisine. Meals mostly comprise a wide array of evergreen, Indian dishes that are familiar to the palate. 

  • A menu is shared upon booking confirmation. We request all our guests inform the staff about their meal preferences well in advance.

  • Please follow the meal timings: 
    Breakfast: 8.30 am - 10.30 am
    Lunch: 1 pm - 2.30 pm
    Dinner: 8 pm - 10 pm

Getting There:

  • Hushstay x Gurney House is located just 3.5 kms from the Nainital Lake yet it is hidden from plain sight.
    Nearest Railway Station (Kathgodam) - 40 kms / 1.5 hrs
    Nearest Airport (Pantnagar) - 70 kms / 02 hrs
    Pangot - 15 kms / 30 mins
    Kainchi Dham (Neem Karori Ashram) - 20 kms /  45 mins
    Mukteshwar - 60 kms / 02 hrs

     

  • As with all great places, getting to this paradise-of-a-location requires a slightly steep uphill drive through the narrow lanes of Ayarpatta Hills for the last 2.5 kms. A private parking space is available at the property.

House Rules:

  • Check-in time: 01:00 PM

  • Check-out time: 10:00 AM

  • Slow and soft music is okay, but please do not play loud music. You are in the middle of nature.

  • Services of the staff are available until 10:00 PM

  • We follow a strict no-smoking policy inside the house. You may ask the caretaker for an ashtray and smoke outside the house if you need to.

  • Sustainable Travel: We do not provide mineral water bottles or aerated drinks and encourage our guests to avoid or take back their plastic garbage. Clean drinking water in bottles is provided.

  • We are pet-friendly. If you are coming with your pet, make sure they are well-mannered and that nothing gets broken.​ Please also bring your own pet-bedding and pet-meals along.

Accommodation:

  • This place is offered exclusively to only one group at a time, the price varies depending on the number of guests. Please select the exact number of guests while booking.

  • Rooms are offered on double occupancy up until 04 guests and other rooms are locked. 

  • Electricity:  Electricity is usually not a problem, however, being at an offbeat location, if there is an unprecedented power outage, we have inverters as power backup to keep the lights and some power points running. This might also offer you an opportunity to switch off and gaze at the starry night sky. We promise you will not regret it.

  • Please note that like any other home in the mountains, we do not have an air conditioner at the property. Gurney house has been designed in such a way that there is proper wind circulation if the windows are opened in the afternoon. Besides.

  • We can organise separate accommodation for drivers or male house-helps. Please inform us at the time of booking. Charges are additional.

  • Outside guests are not allowed during the stay. The property is only accessible to guests who have booked with us.

Wifi and Connectivity:

  • We have a WiFi connection that is good enough if you are planning to work from Hushstay x Gurney house.

  • There is a good 4G connectivity for Airtel and Jio users, unless the weather is bad.

Cancellation Policy:

  • Date of booking - 31 days before arrival  : 25 % cancellation fee on the total booking amount

  • 30 Days - 15 Days  : 50 % cancellation fee on the total booking amount

  • Within 14 days from date of arrival  : No refunds

Need more information about this place? 

Call us on +91 8826915266 between 9 am and 6 pm

or simply click on the button below to leave us a message.

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THINGS TO DO AROUND
HUSHSTAY X GURNEY HOUSE

A stay at this erstwhile home of Jim Corbett is about channelling your inner explorer, adventurer and nature-lover.

Begin your day with a cup of tea in the lush gardens, where the morning dew and the sweet chirping of birds create an atmosphere of tranquility. Savour the beauty of nature's silence or pick a book from a selection of Corbett's novels and writings available for your perusal.

Head out for a short downhill hike to the Naini Lake or hire a bicycle and ride through the narrow lanes of Ayarpatta Hills.

Explore the Tiffin Top or Pangot area on a half day trip or drive down to Kainchi Dham Ashram. 

Staying at Hushstay x Gurney House is a profound and soul-stirring experience, leaving an indelible mark on your heart. It's a transformative journey that inspires you to embrace the spirit of adventure and the beauty of the natural world.

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GALLERY

HUSHSTAY X GURNEY HOUSE
IN PICTURES

GUEST REVIEWS

“Very little known about Jim Corbett's house. The house still hosts the things used by Jim corbett and his writings. Although it is a little difficult to visit this place as it is around 1km from main road and a very steep rise to the house but one will feel enchanted after a visit to the famous hunter's home. ”


- Krishnendu Das, Delhi

“Hushstay x Gurney House offers a unique and memorable stay experience. The rooms were beautifully curated, and the vintage charm was simply mesmerizing. The proximity to Nainital Lake and Mall Road made it extremely convenient to explore the area. We enjoyed the serene ambiance of the lush gardens and the delicious Hi-Tea. Perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and history. Can't wait to visit again!”


- Krutika, Noida

“Our stay at Hushstay x Gurney House was an absolute delight. The cottage exuded an old-world charm, and every corner was adorned with Jim Corbett's artifacts, paintings, and trophies. The rooms were cozy and comfortable, and the attached bathrooms were spotless. The Hi-Tea experience in the garden was truly delightful. Highly recommended for a peaceful and relaxing retreat in Nainital."

- Akshara, Mumbai

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