From Fort Treks To Traditional Cuisine, Maratha Culture Abounds At The Radisson Resort & Spa In Lonavala

No one really requires an iron-clad reason to travel anymore and yet, the reasons to pick up one's bags and take off on a trip, are numerous. The most popular ones include downtime with the family or a romantic sojourn with a significant other. Seeking a fresh cultural experience is steadily finding itself at the top of the list. The greater majority may be still travelling to layabout by the poolside or set up shop in a hammock with a book but more travellers are choosing a destination which opens their eyes to a brand new perspective.

Some head to the Himalayas to find purpose beside sages. Others dive deep into the Indian Ocean to discover a new world beneath the sea. For me, it didn't involve going so far. A short road trip away from Mumbai is the Maharashtrian hill station of Lonavala, a famed destination for weekend getaways from maximum city. Here lies the Radisson Resort & Spa, a 5-star resort which is bordered by the majestic Sahyadri hills on one side and the lush Tungarli Village on the other. Expect to check-in to a hilltop destination with a glorious ambiance piqued by chilly breeze and pure air, exquisite spa treatments and manicured open spaces.

But there's more to this resort than blissful self-care; although that's pretty great too. The Radisson's Maratha Heritage Marvels package is designed to show a new side of Lonavala through its food, its architecture, its surrounding historical monuments and its stories interwoven in unsuspecting corners of the property. A walk around the property will reveal the usage of stone textures, earthy tones and accents of greenery which reflects the region's natural aesthetics and inspiration from Shivaji's surrounding forts.

A guided tour to Lohagad fort is undoubtedly the highlight of the itinerary. Situated at an elevation of 3,450 feet, the trek begins moderately and gets more tricky as one ascends. The journey starts on an ascending path from the base village of Lohgadwadi and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills, valleys and Pawna Lake below. Pass through several ancient gates and impressive fortifications while in the secure care of the hotel guides. The fort is known for its impressive ramparts, bastions, and the Vinchu Kata a.k.a. Scorpion's Tail, a narrow ridge that extends from the top like a scorpion's sting. Its historical significance dates back to the 18th century when it was used as a stronghold by the Marathas. At the summit, a panoramic view of the Sahyadri range and nearby forts like Visapur and Tung awaits, as well as a sense of accomplishment of having walked into the pages of history.

Dining at Hirkani will satiate your hunger pangs and craving for lore too. It blends Maratha history into every dining experience by offering fare inspired by a mother's love. The restaurant pays tribute to Hirkani, an underprivileged mother from a nearby village, who was trapped inside Lohagad Fort when the gates closed at dusk. Determined to reach her infant, she scaled the perilous cliffs through the night and even slaughtered wolves during her journey, which ended in her reuniting with her child.

An unforgettable memory to take home with you will be the Khema dining experience under the stars. Step outdoors into a decorated tent a.k.a. khema set with cushions and lamps for a diffused ambiance inspired by the historical Maratha military camps. The dining part of the evening features an extensive Maratha Thali, which is large enough to deserve its own table. The dishes include a spicy mutton Kolhapuri gravy, chicken biryani, a variety of vegetable dishes and sides like thecha, a simple but scintillating dal, rice bhakris and a cooling sol kadi. The array of authentic Maratha dishes are prepared using traditional recipes and local ingredients, showcasing the taste of traditional Maharashtrian food in a spectacular set-up.

Along with the spotlight experiences of the package, expect a treat for the senses during the 2-night stay with a botanical bathtub immersion, hi-tea in the garden with local touches, mixology and cooking classes as well as storytelling sessions and karaoke nights.

The memories you leave here with will be plenty, shaped by the warm hospitality of the hotel and historical significances you encounter. One thing is certain; you're going back from here changed in the best kind of way.