High on a mountain spur, suspended between the snow-capped peaks and deep river valleys, Leti is a spectacular design in glass and stone, bringing lodge luxury to the foothills of the Himalayas

The chauffeur driven car journey lifts one out of the river valley (not entirely free of hairpin bends) and ends within sight of Leti, shimmering in the alpine sun, sitting on a mountain spur with the snow-capped peaks towering behind. An hour’s trek from here and one crests the final rise to arrive in the lodge, a startlingly modern design in glass and rock, standing sentinel over the most incredible panorama.

To the north the skyline is dominated by mountains, snow-covered and glacier-ridden rising to heights of twelve thousand feet and below them through all other points of the compass are steep hillsides, verdant with trees and grass, criss-crossed with age-old paths and dotted with little villages and temples. Knife-edged ridges point down narrow river gorges and the distracting pattern of multi-hewed terraces, cut into the mountain side, show how these miraculous people live in this dramatic land.

Only four chalets spread well apart look out in different directions over this view. Floor to ceiling glass on two sides allows guests to enjoy this privileged position from the first light of dawn, tucked up in luxurious emperor size beds until, sundowner in hand by one’s own private camp fire, the scene fades into night. In a modern interpretation of traditional building methods dry stone walling and hand crafted teak form these lovely living spaces – the floor is even made from an extremely comfortable, dung-based clay.

Hot and cold running water, log burners and fabulous cuisine served in the main lodge building - where a large open fire heats both the dining and sitting areas - are all the comforts one needs when served up by the wonderfully friendly local staff. Days are filled with fresh air and exhilarating walks punctuated by tea, tiffin and lovely lunches on picnic or back at the lodge and end with the soft ringing of cow bells as the herdsmen return home signaling the hour for a well-earned G&T.