Mary Budden Estate

The estate's namesake is a British woman named Mary Budden, who in 1899, purchased this secluded property nestled amidst the forests and slopes of the Himalayas. She was the daughter of Reverend John Henry Budden, an English missionary who provided schools, medical dispensaries, and missionary hill stations to the people of Almora. Mary followed in her father's footsteps, operating orphanages and schools around the region. The estate, too, became one of her projects, turning it into a school where children can learn and discover the gifts of education.

Nearly a century later, a couple named Ashwani and Serena Chopra acquired the estate. Serena took the lead and restored the 150-year-old cottage. After restorations, she expanded the estate by adding a lodge, with its design inspired by the colonial style of the old cottage. As their estate was situated within the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary, the couple opened their estate as a mountain hotel, offering a refuge for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the modern world.

The Mary Budden Estate is a 5-acre (2-hectare) historic property nestled in the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Because of this, there's a pervasive theme of 19th-century British colonial architecture complemented by respectful restoration, preservation, and sustainable practices. Amidst the Himalayan oaks and rhododendrons are a pair of beautiful homes; the first is a restored colonial cottage, built sometime during the late 19th century, while the other is a period-style lodge constructed using modern techniques.

As the lodge was heavily inspired by the much older cottage, both buildings share many features. These include a structure made of stone and timber, and fixtures like fireplaces. The interiors are decorated with period or period-style furnishings, while the open terraces offer incredible views of the valleys and mountains. Also integrated into the property are sustainable initiatives, meaning power is provided by solar panels, while water is sourced from rainfall.

Instead of an on-site restaurant, the Mary Budden Estate prepares carefully crafted dining experiences that combine the flavors of Uttarakhand with the majestic beauty of the Himalayas.

The Wild Cat Brunch

Chow down on fresh produce, seasonal pickings, and freshly grilled items, all while enjoying the overlooking views of the valleys.

Himalayan Lunch

Presented in a refreshing picnic setting, guests can look forward to traditional recipes crafted using seasonal ingredients with modern cooking techniques.

Milkway Dinner

Savor a magical dinner with the moon, the stars, and the Milky Way as your companions.

A slew of exciting adventures await here at the Mary Budden Estate. Follow the forest trails of the Lama's Path and discover the many meditation spots situated on the mountain slopes. Another famous path through the forest is the Mayolikhan trail, or Henry Ramsay's Road, which will take you through groves, waterfalls, and to the remnants of an old village.

Wildlife watchers will have a grand time during their stay. The sanctuary is home to around 200 bird species, and mammals like leopards, pine martens, Himalayan gorals, and red giant flying squirrels. For those who love shopping trips, Almora has many bazaars and markets, such as Paltan Bazar and Khazanchi Mohalla, where you can find locally made crafts, clothing, and delicacies.