Ladakh, Indian Himalayas, India
Official residence of the Namgyal Dynasty, Stok Palace ranks among the finest surviving examples of vernacular architecture in the Indian Himalayas. The royal family still lives in one of its wings, but several apartments, arranged over four storeys overlooking a series of courtyards on different levels, have been converted for use as guest accommodation, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience an authentic Ladakhi palace as a resident.
You can stay in the old Heritage portion (where the ‘Queens Suite’, featuring original, 200-year-old murals and a collection of evocative antiques) is the pick of the crop, or in snub, mud-walled cottages in the apricot orchards below. Called the ‘Chulli Bagh Villas’, the latter offer more space and are of a more recent vintage than the rooms in the main building. Their interiors make extensive use of warm-toned poplar wood from the nearby river banks, creating a feel best described as ‘Scando-Ladakhi’! Large windows make for a light, cosy feel – perfect for families and groups. Whichever type of room you choose, you’ll have privileged access to the regal dining hall and sunny breakfast terrace in the main building, which afford spectacular views over the Indus Valley.
