The 2nd Studio of MettāDhura Homestay, TouchStone is designed to enjoy the solitude and scenic beauty, especially, the play of colours during sunrise and sunset over snowcapped Central Himalayan ranges. It provides a space of living close to nature and experience the simplicity of Kumauni village life, culture, food & flavors.
MettāDhura is an experiential homestead built in a quaint little sub-alpine Himalayan village Merdhura in Jalna Block, Almora. MettāDhura has a studio SoulSpace a cozy chalet Inspire amidst an orchard of deciduous fruit trees and evergreen pine and oak trees spread over an acre.
We, a group of nature lovers (under the banner of Kumaon Elements) have built this small place in the hills to unwind from the drills of our modern-day urban lives. A space for rest, peace and mindfulness built on the Buddhist practice of “mettā” or “maitrī”, loving-kindness and compassion for all beings.
Our cottages are built with locally available material by local artisans and syncs with the serene atmosphere of the village and the forests nearby. Our farm and orchard are occasionally visited by a family of a barking deer and her fawn, butterflies, porcupines, and by monkeys during the harvesting. Every day starts with birdsongs and ends with their lullaby.
This 600 sq. ft. open concept studio with a skillion roof is created with wood, stones and salvaged patals (hand cut local stone slabs) allowing it to merge with the greenery around. Big windows and skylights draw in the visuals and beauty of the Himalayas and the surrounding woods into the home.
Its minimalist décor, wood and stone walls, inbuilt wooden seating and storage spaces and the straditional stone made bukhari (fireplace) to warm yourself up gives it the perfect mountain cabin vibe!
TouchStone is open for both short and long stays (minimum 7 days) with the option of self-cooking or cooked meals prepared at our home.
We aim at experiential tourism and giving our guests a homely feel. They can enjoy the serenity and beauty of the place at their own leisure in the patio or balcony on the first floor.
Guest can roam & relax around the orchard, take walks in the forest trails within & around the property. The surrounding forest & nearby hills with the snowcapped Himalayas as the backdrop creates a lovely frame to lose oneself.
The last 750 mt. of the approaching road is kuchha country road and driving vehicle should be avoided if it rains or snow. Guest should be prepared to walk this distance and come prepared for both rains and cold as in mountains weather can change quickly. Guests are requested to carry any essential medicine/food item that they cannot do without, being situated in a rural and remote area these may not be available locally.
