Old-world allure in a new-age setting! The Ganga rushes through the foothills of the Shivaliks and these cottages are set on its bank amidst mango and lychee orchards. There are red-tiled verandahs, sloping roofs and lumbering fireplaces. But what bowls you over is the view – seen from the huge glass windows, the Ganga flows by, cutting through verdant hills and valleys, so near that you can dine on its shores. All the rooms are named after Indian rivers and done in warm brown tones with cane and bamboo. The orchards abound with the exotic birds, the air rings with their songs and butterflies flutter by. The murmur of the Ganga is always in the background, soothing your frayed nerves, lulling you into relaxation.

USP: Peace and tranquility, culture, history.

Glasshouse on the Ganges is located 34 km beyond Rishikesh, en route to Badrinath.

Air: Nearest airport is Dehradun's Jolly Grant, 68 km away. Daily flights to and from Delhi, twice a day.

Rail: Rishikesh is well connected with Delhi and the rest of India by rail. A convenient option is to take daily Shatabdi Express and the Rajdhani Express (overnight) from Delhi to Haridwar and then hire a taxi to the hotel, an hour and a half long drive. The train journey takes 4-5 hours.

Road: There are regular bus services from Delhi (293 km), Haridwar and other major North Indian destinations to Rishikesh.

A private sandy beach by the Ganga, natural spring water competing with the likes of Evian, books to read, fires to snuggle by and barbecues under the stars, besides the river. The management organises river rafting, camping, jungle walks and fishing. Come here for solitude, for introspection, for good conversations amidst nature.