Nestled on a quiet ridge overlooking a lush forested valley in Uttarakhand, The Sen offers a private sanctuary designed to engage and restore the senses. Surrounded by hills and untouched nature, the retreat invites guests to experience complete seclusion where days unfold at an unhurried pace, mornings begin with drifting clouds and birdsong, and evenings glow with the golden hues of a fading sun.
Thoughtfully built across levels that follow the natural contours of the hillside and its magnificent trees, the retreat reflects the intuitive design philosophy of founder and creative director Nakul Sen. After more than four years of careful planning and dedication, The Sen has emerged as a refined and intimate escape shaped by deep respect for the surrounding landscape.
“When I first discovered this quiet area in the hills of Velda Bada, the untouched surroundings resonated deeply with me. It marked a new chapter of creative evolution where materials, light, proportions, and atmosphere would come together to form a private sanctuary for sensory immersion. The Sen is an ode to the hills that welcomed and shaped it,” says Nakul Sen.
A veteran of the fashion industry with over three decades of experience, Sen brings his passion for layered interiors and thoughtfully crafted spaces into the world of experiential luxury hospitality. Drawing inspiration from Old Delhi and his travels to remote destinations, he remains committed to working with local artisans and celebrating regional materials. His attention to detail and instinctive design vision create an environment that feels intimate, restorative, and deeply personal.
Operational leadership at The Sen is guided by Anand Shekhawat, a seasoned hotelier and sustainability-focused entrepreneur. Currently the founder of Sariska Lodge, Shekhawat brings more than two decades of experience with globally renowned hospitality brands, including Aman Resorts—where he served as Global Sustainability Head and Regional Director for India, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka—and Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. His influence shapes the retreat’s personalised service, culinary philosophy, and curated guest experiences.
Spread across four acres of private forested land, The Sen is designed around the natural beauty of its surroundings. Guests enter through a rustic pathway lined with stacked riverbed stones that leads to thoughtfully designed structures surrounded by lush foliage and hills. The retreat features only four private suites, along with a lounge, outdoor pool, dining space, kitchen with an organic garden, and several discreet outdoor areas for quiet moments and panoramic views.
The architecture embraces a minimalist yet warm aesthetic, with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that invite the forest indoors. Natural fabrics such as cotton and silk blend seamlessly with stone, wood, and metal, while sustainably sourced materials—including slate stone, handcrafted artefacts, and carpets—create a balance between rustic authenticity and refined detailing.
Dining at The Sen is designed as an immersive, multi-sensory experience rooted in fresh produce and seasonal flavours. Guests can enjoy regional Pahadi delicacies as well as global cuisine prepared with ingredients sourced from the on-site organic farm and neighbouring villages. Meals are often served outdoors around a communal table overlooking the valley, enhanced by handmade crockery, elegant table settings, and the gentle mountain breeze.
The culinary programme is led by Chef Pankaj Sharma, whose experience with Aman Resorts informs a refined yet grounded culinary style. Complementing the dining experience are artisanal tea sessions and workshops curated by tea sommelier Anamika Singh of Anandini Himalaya Tea.
The surrounding ecosystem plays a vital role in shaping the guest experience. Activities include guided birdwatching walks, where guests may spot some of the more than 238 bird species recorded in the area, including Himalayan Warblers, Red-billed Blue Magpies, and White-crested Laughing Thrushes. Guests can also explore nearby villages, enjoy forest drives with naturalists, embark on river treks, practise yoga in the forest, or take reflective morning walks through nature.
The retreat is also designed for intimate celebrations and private gatherings. With the capacity to host groups of eight to twelve guests, The Sen offers an ideal setting for milestone anniversaries, birthdays, proposals, and private retreats. Poolside spaces, glass-fronted lounges, hidden forest corners, and scenic outdoor locations provide unforgettable backdrops for curated experiences and personalised celebrations.
Located in Velda Bada near Lansdowne in Uttarakhand, The Sen is approximately a 5.5-hour scenic drive from Delhi (around 200 km). The nearest airport is Dehradun, about 140 km away, while the nearest railway station is Kotdwar, located roughly 40 km from the property.
