Discovering the Essence of “Soil to Soul” at Namah Nainital

A Journey for the Soul

As the temperatures dropped in December, I found myself drawn to Nainital—a destination that promised not just biting cold but also a unique experience beneath the frost. Little did I know that this adventure would awaken a deeper appreciation for the place and the culinary journey that awaited me.

Unveiling the Majestic View

My stay at Namah Nainital by Radisson Individual Retreats began with a breathtaking morning. I pulled back the curtains to a sprawling valley that felt expansive, as if the earth had taken a deep breath. The sun poured in, radiating warmth and inviting solitude, while a swaying jhula beckoned me to enjoy the serene view. I settled in, breakfast on my lap and happiness in my heart.

It was then I spotted something intriguing below—a garden nestled into the hillside. Unlike typical hotel gardens that serve merely as decoration, this one had a purpose. I observed someone tending to the plants meticulously, harvesting fresh ingredients while I enjoyed my peaceful moment.

Understanding “Soil to Soul”

Later that day, I spoke with Medhatithi, the regional head, who passionately explained the philosophy behind the garden. “Soil to Soul,” he said, capturing the essence of their cooking ethos. At Namah, meals originate not in the kitchen but in the very earth itself.

The Namah HariYali Vatika invites guests to immerse themselves in this concept. Visitors are encouraged to stroll through the garden, where they can touch the basil, pluck cherry tomatoes, and choose from an array of herbs like mint and rosemary. Witnessing how these fresh ingredients metamorphose into dishes crafted by the chef felt transformational. It was an experience that transcended the traditional farm-to-table approach, allowing me to complete a circle of nourishment.

A Lesson in Culinary Simplicity

On my second night, I was served the Kumaoni thali, which appeared modest at first glance. However, that initial bite was a revelation—each element felt intentional and harmonious. Ingredients like bhatt, madua, and gehat offered flavors I had never encountered, leaving me in awe. These weren’t just dishes; they were a respectful homage to the ingredients, and each mouthful encouraged mindfulness.

Embracing the Evening Chill

As evening fell, the cold intensified, prompting a bonfire night surrounded by crackling flames. Someone handed me a hot toddy that warmed my hands against the chill. With each sip, I could taste layers of spices and warmth, a liquid manifestation of comfort that was both simple and profound. It showcased how moments in Nainital could redefine what “perfect” means.

The Realities of Mountain Time

But let me share an insight often left unmentioned in travel brochures: patience is key at Namah. Initially, I found myself glancing at my watch, wishing for quicker service. However, by day two, I began to adapt. I watched the sun’s slow descent, savored my chai, and immersed myself in the tranquil pace of mountain time. Urgency felt foreign here; instead, there was richness in learning to be present.

At Namah, everything unfolds naturally. The herbs grow at their own pace, the chef’s craft isn’t rushed, and the meal reflects a rhythm that aligns with nature. It’s a kind of wellness that avoids pretentiousness, offering indulgence that feels inherently justified.

The Lasting Impact of Intentional Eating

On my final morning, I sat on the jhula once again, clouds creeping up from the valley like a tender embrace. My breakfast, composed of garden-fresh tomatoes and herbs picked that very day, was vibrant against the chilly backdrop. This, I realized, was an intentional act of nourishment. It was about experiencing not just food but also the very essence of the place.

Namah encourages you to pause and engage fully with your meal. It invites you to reflect on the origins of your sustenance and the hard work behind it. This journey from soil to soul, from earth to body, creates a deeper sense of fulfillment that transcends traditional dining experiences.