About Us at Mike’s Forest Retreat
At Mike’s Forest Retreat, we believe in the power of legacy, the beauty of nature, and the warmth of hospitality. Nestled in the heart of the forest, our retreat is a place where stories unfold, and moments are made. Every corner is imbued with history, every experience carefully curated to connect you with the land, the people, and the spirit of adventure.
Behind this vision are the people who bring it to life—those who embody the values of dedication, care, and passion that define the retreat. From the curators of experiences to those who maintain the charm and beauty of the property, the team at Mike’s Forest Retreat works in harmony to create a space where guests can unwind, reflect, and reconnect.
Get to know us …
MICHAEL DALVI: Founder & Legacy Curator
At the heart of Mike’s Forest Retreat stands Michael Dalvi, a man whose life intertwines with the rich tapestry of India’s military and sporting heritage. Born into a lineage of valour, he is the son of Brigadier John Parashuram Dalvi, a decorated officer who commanded the Indian 7th Brigade during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. Captured and held as a prisoner of war in Tibet, Brigadier Dalvi’s resilience and subsequent writings, notably Himalayan Blunder, have left an indelible mark on India’s military history.
Michael’s early years were steeped in discipline and tradition. Educated at the prestigious The Doon School in Dehradun and later at St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, he imbibed values of integrity, leadership, and excellence. He is still an active member of the alumni of both institutions.
His academic pursuits were complemented by a passion for cricket, where he showcased his prowess as a right-handed batsman. Representing teams like Delhi, Tamil Nadu, and Bengal, Michael’s cricketing journey was marked by memorable innings, including a century against the formidable West Indian bowler Malcolm Marshall.
Beyond the cricket field, Michael’s discerning eye for elegance and legacy led him to curate Mike’s Forest Retreat—a sanctuary that pays homage to India’s military, cricketing and academic heritage, and to nature and her rich beauty. The retreat seamlessly blends rustic charm with historical artefacts, offering guests a unique experience that celebrates valour, sport, and tradition.
MADHURIKA DALVI: Chief Experience Officer
Madhurika Dalvi, the daughter of Michael, serves as the Chief Experience Officer (CXO) at Mike’s Forest Retreat. Her role transcends traditional hospitality management; she is the heart and soul of the retreat, ensuring every guest experiences warmth, comfort, and personalised attention.
A culinary enthusiast, Madhurika has honed her skills through creative experimentation and hands-on experience. Her expertise lies in curating menus that are both innovative and rooted in tradition, offering guests a gastronomic journey that delights the senses. Whether it’s a rustic barbecue under the stars or an elaborate multi-course meal, Madhurika’s culinary creations are a testament to her passion and precision.
Her meticulous attention to detail extends to event planning and execution. Madhurika has been instrumental in organising numerous destination weddings, corporate offsites, and family gatherings at the retreat. Her ability to transform spaces, coupled with her organisational acumen, ensures that every event is memorable and seamless.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Madhurika is known for her genuine warmth and hospitality. Guests often commend her for making them feel at home, reflecting her belief that true hospitality is about creating connections and lasting memories.
The Team at Mike’s Forest Retreat
The team at Mike’s Forest Retreat is the backbone of our success, combining dedication, experience, and talent to ensure every guest enjoys a seamless experience. From the administrative management that handles bookings, inquiries, and event coordination, to the maintenance team that keeps the property pristine, each member works with passion and attention to detail.
Their commitment ensures that everything, from the comfort of the rooms to the efficiency of the activities, runs smoothly and flawlessly. With years of collective experience, our team brings a wealth of knowledge and a personal touch to every aspect of the retreat.
Every member of the team also goes beyond the call of duty when needed. Whether it’s staying late to ensure an event runs smoothly, assisting guests with special requests, or tackling any unexpected challenge that arises, our staff demonstrates unwavering reliability.
Whether it’s overseeing the daily operations, maintaining the lush grounds, or curating the wide range of activities available to our guests, they work tirelessly to uphold the retreat’s values of excellence, service, and hospitality. Their loyalty and hard work ensure that every visit to Mike’s Forest Retreat reflects our ethos of comfort, elegance, and connection to nature.
Let your experience of Mike’s Forest Retreat begin before you even travel!
Stay in our circle of stories, surprises, and serene escapes—before you even pack your bags. Subscribe to our fortnightly newsletter—The Forest Almanac—and receive a beautifully curated set of three exclusive ebooks—on how to plan your holidays, destination weddings or business offsites with us.
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