Onora Hospitality, the parent company of boutique hospitality brand jüSTa Hotels & Resorts, has signed a heritage-style retreat in the forested surroundings of Jakhu Hills, the highest point in Shimla. With this signing, the group will introduce its sixth property in Himachal Pradesh, thereby strengthening its presence in the region’s growing leisure hospitality market.
Currently, the company operates several properties across the state. These include resorts and hotels in Mashobra, Dharamshala, Manali, and Palampur. In addition, the company manages a property under the Bookmark Resorts portfolio in Manali. The newly signed hotel will officially open its doors in mid-March.
Located at an elevation identified as Point 7707, the upcoming property sits around 700 metres from the iconic Mall Road Shimla and approximately 500 metres from the revered Jakhu Temple. The property, named juSTa Darkwood Lodge & Spa, occupies a late-19th-century residence that once served as the home of a British engineer who contributed to Shimla’s early water supply infrastructure. Notably, the engineer played a role in developing the Seog Reservoir and its surrounding catchment area.
Developers have carefully restored the heritage structure; therefore, the property now meets modern hospitality standards while preserving the architectural charm typical of historic hill-station residences. As a result, the building maintains its original character while delivering contemporary guest comforts.
Moreover, the property sits within a cedar forest and connects directly to an established forest trail. This trail leads toward the Seog Bagh area through Sanjauli and Jakhu, thereby offering guests a nature-focused walking experience that reflects the region’s historic landscape.
“With this signing, jüSTa Hotels & Resorts further strengthens its footprint in high-potential leisure destinations across North India, with a focus on character-rich properties that deliver authentic and memorable guest experiences,” said Ashish Vohra, founder & CEO, Onora Hospitality.
Designers have used deodar wood extensively throughout the structure, and consequently the interiors showcase the colonial-era architectural style associated with Shimla. At the same time, designers have interpreted traditional craftsmanship through a modern design approach. Each room offers views of the surrounding forest, while the property will feature three distinct room categories that differ in layout and spatial configuration.
Furthermore, the boutique retreat will include a full-service spa, dedicated yoga spaces, and indoor recreation facilities. Guests will also participate in guided nature walks, which will further enhance the experiential stay. In addition, the hotel will feature an English-style café overlooking the forest, thereby providing a tranquil alternative to the bustling environment of Mall Road.
Although the lodge stands close to Shimla’s main commercial hub, the surrounding forest ensures a quiet and secluded atmosphere. At the same time, convenient vehicular access and on-site parking will address logistical challenges that visitors often face in hilly destinations with limited accessibility.
Through the upcoming launch of juSTa Darkwood Lodge & Spa, Onora Hospitality continues to strengthen its presence in Himachal Pradesh’s premium leisure hospitality segment. By combining heritage restoration, nature-centric experiences, and boutique luxury, the brand aims to deliver a distinctive stay experience while further expanding its footprint across the Himalayan tourism market.
