There is something truly magical about the wilderness of Uttarakhand. For years, I have visited the jungles to see tigers. However, this year, I decided to do something different. I wanted to celebrate Holi away from the loud music and city pollution. I chose to stay at Resorts by the Baagh. This decision turned out to be the best travel choice I have ever made. I discovered that Holi in the hills is not just about colors. It is about soul-stirring music, ancient traditions, and warm hospitality.
A Warm Welcome to the Wilderness
When I arrived at the property, the fresh forest air immediately relaxed me. I have stayed at many resorts in Jim Corbett before, but the vibe here was special. The staff welcomed me with a traditional tilak and a refreshing local drink. The resort is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a stunning view of the mountains. I felt like I was entering a different world. My goal was to see how the local people celebrate their festivals. I did not want a typical rain dance party. I wanted to feel the culture of the Kumaon region.
The Charm of Baithki Holi
On my first evening, the resort organized a Baithki Holi session. This was a completely new experience for me. In the cities, we usually play Holi with water balloons and loudspeakers. Here, the celebration started with music. Local artists gathered in a circle. They played instruments like the tabla and harmonium.
Baithki Holi is based on classical ragas. The songs are spiritual and calm. As I sat there under the stars, I felt a deep sense of peace. The singers narrated stories of Lord Krishna and Radha through their songs. The staff at Resorts by the Baagh explained the meaning of the lyrics to me. It was beautiful to see how the local community preserves its heritage. This is why people call these the best resorts in Jim Corbett for cultural lovers. They do not just provide a room. They provide an experience.
Moving to the Beats of Khadi Holi
The next morning brought a shift in energy. It was time for Khadi Holi. Unlike the sitting style of the previous night, Khadi Holi is full of movement. Local men dressed in white traditional clothes called ‘pajamas’ and ‘kurta’ arrived at the resort. They wore small caps and carried drums.
They began to dance in a circle and sing folk songs. The rhythm was infectious. Soon, many guests joined the circle. We danced to the beat of the ‘Dhol’ and ‘Hurka’. There was no loud electronic music. It was just the sound of human voices and wooden drums. This traditional dance felt very grounded and real. Out of all the Jim Corbett resorts I have visited, this was the most authentic cultural interaction I had ever seen.
Playing with Natural Colors
One thing I really appreciated was the focus on nature. The resort provided us with natural colors made from flowers and herbs. We used Tesu flowers to make yellow water. This is the traditional way to play. It did not harm the skin or the environment. Since the resort is located near the forest, it is important to be eco-friendly.
The staff ensured that no loud noises disturbed the birds and animals nearby. We laughed and smeared gulal on each other’s faces. It felt like playing Holi with family. The bond between the guests and the staff was wonderful. I realized that resorts in Jim Corbett can offer a perfect balance of luxury and traditional simplicity.
A Feast for the Senses
No festival is complete without food. The chefs at the resort prepared a special Holi menu. I tasted local delicacies like ‘Gujeeya’, filled with dry fruits, and ‘Kanjhi Wada’. They also served Kumaoni dishes like ‘Aloo ke Gutke’ and ‘Pahadi Raita’. The food was fresh and full of flavor. Eating hot snacks while sitting in the open gardens was a highlight of my trip. The service was excellent. Every member of the team made sure that I was comfortable and happy.
Why This Stay Was Special
As I packed my bags to leave, I looked at the forest one last time. I came here looking for a holiday, but I went back with memories of a rich culture. I learned that Holi is a bridge that connects people. The Kumaoni traditions taught me the value of community and art.
If you are looking for a place that respects local traditions, I highly recommend this property. Among the many resorts in Jim Corbett, Resorts by the Baagh stands out because of its heart. They treat their guests like family. They show you the real India. I am already planning my next trip for the following year. I want to experience that musical magic all over again.
Final Thoughts on My Journey
Celebrating Holi in the lap of nature was a soul-cleansing experience. I escaped the chaos and found a melody. I escaped the chemicals and found natural beauty. Jim Corbett is famous for its tigers, but its people and festivals are equally beautiful. If you want a peaceful and cultural getaway, you should visit this place. It is a journey you will never forget. My Holi was colorful in the truest sense of the word. I left with a smile on my face and a song in my heart.