Shimla has always had a way of drawing travellers into the mountains, whether for its colonial-era architecture, pine-covered hills, or walks along the Ridge. Adding to the hill station's hospitality scene is Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla, which has opened under Kerten Hospitality's Cloud 7 Hotels & Residences brand. Set amid the forests and hills of the city, the property combines contemporary accommodation with regional food, rooftop drinks and experiences inspired by Himachal Pradesh. The opening also marks an important step in Kerten Hospitality's expansion into India, where the group aims to develop 1,000 keys across its Cloud 7, hosme and The House Hotel brands.
Rooms, Dining, And A Rooftop Bar With A View Of The Mountains
The hotel has opened with 50 rooms and suites, with accommodation designed to take advantage of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. Its expansion plan includes nine additional luxury suites and two private cottages, alongside dedicated wellbeing suites. The group has not announced a timeline for these additions.
Dining is central to the property's identity. The culinary programme, curated by Michelin-starred chef Jaume Puigdengolas, focuses on seasonal menus, sharing plates and contemporary interpretations of mountain cuisine. Regional produce sourced from local farmers and suppliers is expected to shape the menus, bringing Himachali ingredients into a more contemporary dining setting.
The standout venue is The Observatory Bar, a rooftop cocktail and whisky lounge conceived around the idea of watching the mountains by day and the stars after dark. Low lounge seating, handcrafted walnut furniture and copper detailing set the scene, while a nautical telescope gives guests a closer look at distant peaks and, after sunset, the moon and constellations. The bar's drinks programme draws on Himalayan botanicals and locally sourced ingredients.
Another signature experience is the Cloudfall Sessions, a daily sunset ritual featuring curated music, a signature cocktail, a featured whisky and premium canapés. Designed for hotel guests and local residents alike, it gives the rooftop a social dimension beyond its views. Outdoor terraces, meeting and event facilities, seasonal programming and cultural activities round out the hotel's current offering.
The property also plans to showcase local artists and craftspeople through commissioned artwork, photography, handmade ceramics and rotating exhibitions. Partnerships with regional farmers, cultural organisations and tourism operators are intended to bring more of Himachal Pradesh's creative and culinary communities into the guest experience.
Exploring Shimla Beyond The Hotel
Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla's setting gives travellers a base for exploring a hill station with both colonial history and easy access to the outdoors. The Ridge remains one of the city's principal gathering places, with views of the surrounding mountains and landmarks including Christ Church and the Gaiety Theatre. Nearby Mall Road is a natural stop for browsing shops, visiting cafés and sampling local food.
For a dose of history, the former Viceregal Lodge, now home to the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, is worth visiting for its imposing architecture and landscaped grounds. Nature lovers can head to Chadwick Falls, around 7 km from the city centre, or plan an excursion to Kufri, known for its Himalayan Nature Park and mountain activities. Naldehra, with its meadows and surrounding deodar forests, makes another option for a day trip.
Jakhoo Temple, perched on one of Shimla's highest hills, is another popular stop. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, it is reached by an uphill walk or ropeway and provides sweeping views of the hill station. Travellers interested in a more leisurely journey can also ride the historic Kalka-Shimla railway, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed mountain rail route known for its tunnels, bridges and views across the terrain.
Back at the hotel, the planned wellness additions are intended to broaden its appeal beyond sightseeing. A destination spa, swimming pool, gym, wellbeing suites, two private cottages and additional luxury suites are scheduled as part of a phased expansion, although no completion dates have been confirmed.
For Kerten Hospitality, the Shimla opening marks the beginning of a wider Indian expansion strategy. Its stated target is to develop 1,000 keys across Cloud 7, Hosme and The House Hotel brands during the current phase. At The Forest Shimla, the proposition is built around mountain views, food, social spaces and connections with local culture, giving travellers another option for a Himalayan break that combines a resort stay with time spent exploring the region.
The Information
Address: Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla, Near Judicial Court, Chakkar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171010
Tariff: Rates vary by room category, travel dates, and availability. Contact the hotel directly for the latest tariff.
Contact for reservations: +91 80918 33044
Email: Stay.cloud7shimla@kertenhospitality.com
Website: cloud7hotels.com/theforestshimla
FAQs
1. Where is Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla located?
Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla is a mountain retreat in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, surrounded by forested hills and offering views of the Himalayan landscape. It is located at Near Judicial Court, Chakkar, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171010.
2. How many rooms does Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla have?
The hotel has opened with 50 rooms and suites. Plans for a later phase include nine additional luxury suites, two private cottages and dedicated wellbeing suites. A timeline for these additions has not been announced.
3. What dining and bar experiences does Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla offer?
The hotel’s culinary programme, curated by Michelin-starred chef Jaume Puigdengolas, focuses on seasonal menus, sharing plates and contemporary interpretations of mountain cuisine. The Observatory Bar is a rooftop cocktail and whisky lounge featuring Himalayan-inspired drinks. Guests can also experience Cloudfall Sessions, a daily sunset ritual with music, a signature cocktail, a featured whisky and canapés.
4. What attractions can guests visit near Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla?
Visitors can explore The Ridge, Christ Church, Mall Road, the Gaiety Theatre, the Indian Institute of Advanced Study at the former Viceregal Lodge and Jakhoo Temple. Chadwick Falls, Kufri and Naldehra are also options for excursions around Shimla.
5. What facilities are planned for the next phase of Cloud 7 Hotel The Forest Shimla?
The planned expansion includes a destination spa, swimming pool, gym, wellbeing suites, two private cottages and nine additional luxury suites. The hotel has not yet confirmed when these facilities will be completed.
