Shakti Himalaya, the pioneer of intimate walking journeys through India’s remote mountain regions, announces an extraordinary new collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Merlin Labron-Johnson, founder of Osip in Somerset, England, for 2026. Together, they have created Flavors of the Himalaya, Reimagined by Merlin - an immersive, nine night culinary experience blending Himalayan adventure, local culture, and fine dining in one of the world’s most majestic mountainscapes.
Merlin comments, ‘A recent trip to the Himalayas left me deeply inspired - particularly by the glittering array ofincredible wild and cultivated ingredients I found growing in the mountains. The colors, smells, and energy of the landscape create the perfect platform to explore a cuisine rooted in local traditions, but seen through my own lens. I look forward to cooking and sharing beautiful meals with other curious explorers.'
This bespoke journey brings together Shakti Himalaya’s unrivalled access to remote mountain villages and Merlin’s deep-rooted philosophy of farm-to-table cooking. Guests will travel from Delhi to the serene Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, where ancient Himalayan peaks frame days filled with walking, cooking, and connecting with local communities. Guests will discover the profound flavors of the Himalayas through Merlin’s refined, yet rustic, lens - one that champions sustainability and simplicity in conjunction with Shakti Himalaya’s renowned, soulful hospitality and deep respect for local suppliers.
About the Experience:
Running from 15 - 24 March and 19 - 28 March 2026, the nine night journey (with six in the mountains) begins in Delhi, where guests stay at The Imperial Hotel, before heading north for one night in one of Shakti’s beautifully restored Village Houses, before arriving at the jewel in the crown Shakti Prana, a sublime mountain retreat perched 6,500 feet above sea level with breathtaking views of Nanda Devi and the Panchachuli range. Shakti Prana (meaning breath in Sanskrit) has just 7 cabins, each with a sitting room with open fire, bathroom and bedroom with exceptional views of the mountain backdrop. All are built with local stone that has been carried by mule trains 2,700 ft up a steep goat path to reach this off-beat location.
Naturally remote, these destinations render the outside world redundant, allowing guests to embrace ‘slow travel’ and be empowered by the inspiring people, cultures and landscapes in the north Indian hill state of Uttarakhand. In addition to Merlin’s teachings, guests can take a variety of daily walks to explore the mountain landscape, see spectacular sunrises from their beds, enjoy the evenings around a fire pit, stargazing and take time for themselves through in-depth yoga and meditation at the yoga pavilion.
Throughout the week, guests will:
Flavors of the Himalaya, Reimagined by Merlin costs £ 8,392 per person (based on twin occupancy) which includes accommodation & transfers in Delhi and fully-inclusive in the Himalayas, plus domestic flights (Delhi–Pantnagar–Delhi), and all local taxes. Single supplement is £3,407.
info@shaktihimalaya.com / +91 124 456 3899 / www.shaktihimalaya.com
