Delhi's thick winter smog has made life tough. Many want to escape to cleaner air and calm hills. Popular spots like Nainital and Bhimtal are crowded and feel like extensions of city chaos. But nearby, a quieter, fresher choice waits: Naukuchiatal. Sitting 4,000 feet up in Kumaon, this lake town is known for its nine-cornered lake, believed to bring enlightenment if all corners are seen at once. Naukuchia House is the only proper hotel here, blending elegant design with nature’s calm. It offers 42 rooms with garden or lake views and thoughtful service. The hotel focuses on wellness with forest bathing, yoga, and sound healing. "We honour the mystique through rituals like forest bathing, yoga and sound healing," said Sanjeev Kumar, general manager. The restaurant 'Ija' serves food made from ultra-local ingredients sourced within 20 miles, changing with the seasons. Stepping outside, the forest blends seamlessly with the property. The fresh air, steady sounds, and clear lake water make wellness feel natural. The lake is fed by springs, giving it a clear, still surface. Walking the pine and fir forests, visitors find soft trails, shade, and birdlife like kingfishers and barbets. The forest-bathing experience brings deep calm. On the Ghanta Devi trail, fog and wildflowers add to the magical scene. Paddling on the lake at sunset, sunlight sparks on ripples like diamonds. The place feels like a slow, gentle world, a rare find for today’s fast pace. "The greatest challenge is ensuring that its soul remains untouched by over commercialisation," Kumar said. Future plans include deeper nature experiences and village visits, all aimed at keeping Naukuchiatal’s unique vibe. After Delhi’s polluted air, standing by Naukuchiatal offers a soothing return to calm, beauty, and slower living. As famed filmmaker David Lynch said, it’s like "an ocean of pure vibrant consciousness."