Overview

Nestled amongst Apple, Cherry and Plum trees, the Almond Villa and Estate is a part of the larger private estate of the erstwhile Dogra royal family. The orchard consists of a mix of old fruit trees and new plantations which is part of a rejuvenation effort by the owners. The main house, Almond Villa, built over eighty years ago is beautifully designed in red brick and stone and occupies centre stage. The Villa and the independent and cosy Walnut Cottage make up the group of buildings set in an expanse of green overlooking the Dal Lake. There is a large back garden which is used exclusively by guests and which, once a year in May, is the location for the Dara Shikoh Festival of the Arts. Perennials and annuals add colour to the landscape. The vegetable garden has all kinds of organic produce and the fruits from the orchard are also used in the making of jams and preserves.