At the heart of Ahmedabad, a vibrant city steeped in history, lies jüSTa Diwans Bungalow, a stunning boutique hotel that seamlessly marries the timeless allure of a 150-year-old ancestral home with contemporary grace. The hotel, skilfully transformed from architect IM Kadri’s family estate, offers guests a unique glimpse into Gujarat’s architectural legacy while providing luxurious accoutrements and a rich cultural experience. With each of its eight bespoke rooms named after family members, this abode is as much a homage to lineage as it is an exquisite retreat.
Reviving Architectural Elegance: A Feel of the Past
Walking through the corridors is like stepping into a beautifully preserved time capsule. The well-worn wooden doors and intricate stained glass windows narrate stories of a bygone era, inviting you to relish the charm of colonial Gujarat. This grand property, originally built in the 1860s, has undergone thoughtful restorations that honour its historical significance while integrating modern amenities. Throughout the hotel, guests will notice the careful curation of heirloom artifacts, from vintage perfume bottles to enchanting portraits that evoke nostalgia. Architect IM Kadri’s meticulous approach to restoration infuses a renewed vibrancy into the space—every nook and cranny has been smartly utilized like creating delightful reading corners. With an abundant sense of openness, combined with refined luxury, the hotel feels both intimate and expansive, ensuring that visitors can unwind comfortably.
Culinary Wonders: A Gastronomic Journey
The culinary offerings at jüSTa Diwans Bungalow are equally exceptional, featuring the allure of family heirloom recipes transformed into sumptuous dishes at Dalan, the hotel’s restaurant. Here, diners can indulge in an eclectic array of authentic Gujarati flavours, including delectable khagina and succulent chicken Hussaini kebab. The quintessential highlight, however, is the melt-in-your-mouth paneer begum bahaar, perfect for savouring that nostalgic family essence.
Sweet endings at Dalan are nothing short of magical, with desserts like the richly aromatic halwa and the indulgent shahi tukda, both of which will undoubtedly have you returning for more. In fact, the Kadri family is eager to pen these treasured recipes into a cookbook, allowing the world to relish their culinary heritage long after the last bite is savoured.Moreover, the hotel is not merely a feast for the senses; it plays a pivotal role in the community by donating proceeds from guests’ stays to support the education of nearly 3,000 girls at the Rah-e-Khair Girls’ School run by the Kadri Foundation. Such a commitment to social responsibility makes each visit an enriching experience that transcends typical hospitality.
Exploring the City’s Heritage: Curated Tours Await
Beyond the confines of this enchanting haven, guests are encouraged to step into the pulsating heart of Ahmedabad through curated heritage walks and architectural tours. Explore the city’s historical gems, from the striking Mill Owners’ Association Building to the splendid Sun Temple in Modhera. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of sculptures and textiles that thrive in the Calico Museum and the Patan Patola Heritage Museum, where every exhibit narrates the artistic brilliance of Gujarat. A heritage walking tour of the old city is an absolute must, revealing iconic sites like Teen Darwaja and the stately Jama Masjid. The warm embrace of local culture awaits, including a rendezvous with the famed Hussainy Bakery, renowned for its delights. If you seek a unique experience with a tinge of the eerie, Lucky Tea Stall, nestled adjacent to the historic Sidi Saiyyed Mosque, combines a cup
Akanksha Dean is an independent food & travel writer, a chef and a catalyst and is the first Indian to have trained at Osteria Francescana, in Modena, Italy (In the Best of The 50 Best List) and loves to share her food and travel stories.