Project Year: Proposed
Location: Ajanta, Maharashtra
Client: Kewal Hospitality.
Area: 2.3 Acres.
Typology: Hospitality- Resort & Landscape.
Poised along the mesmerising ghats near Ajanta, a region of deep historical and cultural significance, this proposed cliff resort for Kewal Hospitality is envisioned as an immersive retreat shaped by the dramatic natural landscape that surrounds it. The design celebrates the rugged terrain, the panoramic views, and the serenity of the cliffs—offering guests a harmonious blend of nature, comfort and experiential luxury.
Master Planning Rooted in Nature:
The master plan is intentionally fluid, organic and terrain-responsive, respecting the natural contours rather than imposing geometry upon them. Every pathway, platform and built form follows the lay of the land, making the resort feel like it emerges from the earth itself.
Two distinct levels of contour lines define the placement of the 35 uniquely positioned rooms and cottages, allowing them to overlook valleys, cliffs and landscaped greens from varied vantage points. Some cottages are accessed from a higher contour level, giving them elevated, dramatic views of the ghats. Others nestle into the lower natural contour, surrounded by lush, curated landscaping and sheltered outdoor spaces.
This multi-level planning creates a sense of discovery—guests wander through gently sloping paths, cross landscaped pockets and arrive at their rooms through meandering, beautifully planned resort walkways.
Connectivity Through Architecture:
One of the defining elements of the master plan is the elevated connecting platform that runs through the resort at a strategic level. This pathway links clusters of rooms and cottages, ensuring:
- Efficient service movement
- Seamless guest access across different levels
- Discreet hospitality operations running behind the scenes
This elevated spine becomes both a circulation system and an architectural feature, adding clarity and cohesion to an otherwise free-flowing, organic layout.
A Destination for Travel, Celebration & Wellness
Designed as a 35-key boutique cliff resort, the property is envisioned to cater to:
- Destination weddings
- Corporate retreats and events
- Leisure travellers seeking restorative escapes
To support these varied functions, the master plan incorporates:
- A Grand Lawn
A sweeping, open green expanse sits at the heart of the resort. This lawn is proportioned to accommodate large celebrations—from wedding mandaps and receptions to cocktail evenings and corporate gatherings—against the breathtaking backdrop of the Ajanta cliffs.
- Spa & Wellness Spaces
Dedicated zones for spa, rejuvenation and wellness therapies are placed strategically to capture tranquillity and natural calm. Their location ensures immersive views, privacy and a deep connection to nature.
- Recreational & Social Spaces
Indoor and outdoor recreational pockets are interspersed throughout the property—offering opportunities for social activity, relaxation, contemplation and vibrant resort experiences.
Landscape as Experience:
The landscaping is planned as an ornamental yet naturalistic composition, using proportion, scale and volume to complement the cliffs. Planting is layered to create moments of lushness, moments of openness and dramatic frame views at key points across the resort.
The landscape not only beautifies the resort but elevates the experience—guiding movement, framing vistas and ensuring climate comfort on this elevated terrain.
An Architecture of Place & Purpose
This cliff resort is envisioned as a seamless interplay of:
- Terrain-responsive planning
- Contemporary hospitality needs
- Immersive natural experiences
- Quiet luxury and subtle elegance
Every built form, pathway and open space is shaped to enhance the connection between the guest and the unique environment of Ajanta’s ghats.
In essence, the Kewal Hospitality Cliff Resort becomes a place of rejuvenation, celebration and discovery, rooted in the drama of its landscape and elevated through thoughtful, sensitive design.
