Gauri Khan Unveils The Chestnut Grove: A Luxury Heritage Retreat in Dalhousie
While widely recognized as the wife of superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan has firmly established her own identity as one of India's most sought-after interior designers. Her portfolio includes numerous celebrity homes, famously beginning with her own residence, Mannat. Now, she has added another significant achievement to her illustrious career by transforming her ancestral Dalhousie property into an exquisite luxury retreat open to the public.
A Century-Old Family Legacy Restored
Named The Chestnut Grove, this six-bedroom heritage villa is more than just a picturesque mountain property; it represents nearly a century of family history. Originally acquired by Gauri Khan's great-grandfather, Suraj Bhan Tiwari, in 1933, the estate has been owned by her maternal uncle, Tejinder Tiwari, and has served as the backdrop for generations of summer holidays, lively family gatherings, and serene mornings enveloped in mountain mist.
Sprawling across approximately 8,000 square feet, the property holds deep personal significance for Gauri. It was the setting of her childhood summers, filled with memories of time spent with cousins amid pine-scented air, echoing verandahs, and evenings warmed by crackling fireplaces. When restoration discussions began, she collaborated closely with her cousin, Rustam Tiwari, ensuring that any transformation would honor the original spirit and heritage of the home.
Blending Heritage Charm with Contemporary Elegance
The restoration brief was thoughtful yet clear: retain the heritage soul while seamlessly incorporating contemporary comforts. The finished space masterfully achieves this balance, offering a nostalgic ambiance without feeling dated, and exuding elegance without sacrificing warmth.
Surrounded by towering trees and dense greenery, the villa features a sunlit living area framed by expansive glass windows that allow natural light to pour in, illuminating wooden textures and earthy tones. A grand fireplace anchors the room, providing a cozy refuge during Dalhousie's colder months, while plush seating and subtle design accents create an inviting, lived-in charm.
Distinctive Accommodations and Exclusive Stays
Each of the six bedrooms carries its own unique personality while staying true to the hill-station aesthetic. Wooden ceilings, understated stone elements, and soft, muted furnishings lend a sense of quiet sophistication. Guests can choose from garden-facing rooms, a spacious king suite, or an attic suite that feels tucked away in the treetops. The dining space, highlighted by a skylight, remains bright and airy year-round, merging rustic architecture with thoughtful modern detailing.
The Chestnut Grove is now open for private luxury stays, primarily catering to families and close-knit groups seeking exclusivity in the hills. Pricing varies by season, with individual rooms ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per night, while the entire estate can be reserved for approximately ₹1.2 lakh per night.
This project marks a significant milestone for Gauri Khan, demonstrating her ability to infuse personal history and emotional resonance into her design work, while expanding her influence beyond celebrity interiors into the realm of luxury hospitality.
