Being one of the best-planned cities in India, with architecture that is world-renowned, and a quality of life, which is unparalleled, Chandigarh is a paradise for every kind of traveller. The city, over time, has also retained the essence of timeless luxury. My stay at The LaLiT Chandigarh only went on to reinforce this further.
Entering the property inspired by the famous French architect Le Corbusier, the interiors and architect of the hotel reflect the dynamic spirit of Chandigarh. Checking into the Executive Suite, Eames chairs, splashes of colour, waste-marble artifacts inspired by Chandigarh’s Rock Garden ‘wowed’ me. Aesthetic artifacts, modern furnishings, and thoughtful amenities made me fall in love with the space. It also offered an expansive bedroom with en-suite bathroom offering splendid views of the forest beyond. The pillow menu was another high-point.
The suite looked on to the park and was replete with some drool-worthy macaroons, cookies, and chocolate pastry to spoil me silly. After satiating my dessert love, I soaked in the relaxed vibe of the all-weather outdoor pool located on the ground floor.
Food-scapes
My gastronomic journey began right after check-in. I reveled in a melt-in-the-mouth Chilly Cheese Toast, gorgeous grills and addictive fish and fries via in-room dining which came across as quick and efficient. For romantic dinners and lavish brunches, I found the lush, green alfresco extension as ideal. For those looking for a private meal with friends, family or associates, there is also a 20-seater private dining room.
At the OKO, I sampled enticing oriental specialties which showcased distinctive cuisines of South East Asia, from Japanese and Thai to Vietnamese, Mandarin and Malaysian. Culinary highlights here included the Spicy minced chicken and prawn dumplings, Rendang Kambing- Indonesian styled lamb dices cooked in dry spices, Nasi Goreng- Malaysian rice preparation with prawns and chicken and the Coconut Caramel Custard that I celebrated every morsel of.
My farewell dinner at Baluchi, the signature Pan Indian destination gave me the feel of a tree-house. Built on a level with the roof of the forest reserve, the magnificent panoramic views of the Shivalik hills from the hotel created an incredible backdrop to my meal experience. Dinner was an impeccable culinary affair with decadent Kesari Thandai, creamy Tandoori Malai Broccoli, Mutton Chapli Kebab flavoured with pomegranate, coriander and black peppercorn and more. According to me, however, the star of the night has to be the Dal Baluchi which was a creamy perfection.
Breakfast at the property was lavish with a plethora of options across cuisines presented impeccably. I was intrigued by the Soya Chaap which to me is nothing less than a culinary masterpiece, given its velvety texture and taste bursting with flavours. While there were regional specialities like hearty parathas, there was also a wellness juice counter. I particularly relished the ABC (Apple, Beetroot, and Carrot) juice and loved the concept. Another noteworthy factor is the property’s dessert selections. Name the dessert you love and it is there, right in front of you, making the restaurants a dessert lover’s dream brought to life.
TLC
The property is also perfect for a well-deserved R&R. The Rejuve Spa with eight treatment rooms and a salon spread over 11,000 square feet offers a wide range of indulgent services. One of its notable features is its aqua bed which is a cocoon of indulgence as it is equipped with shower and steam in itself. I tried the Red Mud Pack coupled with a rejuvenating Ayurveda massage that freed my body of all the aches and pains there were. Initially, I was to try a scrub but the Spa Manager customized it to a Red Mud Pack keeping in mind my acne issue which made me laud the individualization of the spa.
My therapist Teresa ensured that my body wrap was as blissful as it could get completing it with a scalp massage that was no less than a feast for the sense. My masseause Tashi also worked her magic leveraging on relaxing but firm long strokes that won over the spa junkie in me. As if this much pampering wasn’t enough, Farhan at the salon made sure I walked out with luscious locks following a hair colour refresh and blow-dry.
Verdict
From the food to the luxurious facilities and thoughtful touches, the property impressed me on various levels. The hotel has definitely upped the ante on luxury and helped me discover some solace and serenity while living up in opulence. Engulfed in luxury that is beautifully blended with tranquillity, to me The LaLiT Chandigarh is a space where luxury, wellness, gracious staff and hospitality abound.
Prices: Starting at Rs 20,000 per night for the Executive Suite
Where: The LaLiT Chandigarh,
Rajiv Gandhi IT Park, DLF Commercial Complex, Chandigarh, 160101
Phone: 011 4444 7474
Note– The critic was hosted by The LaLiT Chandigarh but all the opinions expressed herewith are her own.
