Shimla, Feb 7,
Bollywood actress, filmmaker, and Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut is stepping into the hospitality industry with her new high-end café, The Mountain Story, in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. Set to open on February 14, 2025, the café blends her love for the mountains with her passion for food and hospitality.
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Kangana has always shared her deep connection with her hometown. In an Instagram post, she called The Mountain Story a “childhood dream come alive.” She sees it as a tribute to her mother’s home-cooked meals and the comforting flavors of traditional Himachali cuisine.
Designed by Shabnam Gupta, the architect behind Kangana’s Mumbai and Manali homes, the café combines rustic Himalayan charm with modern elegance. Its wooden and stone interiors, large windows, and cozy fireplace create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space is decorated with traditional Himachali artifacts, adding a cultural touch.
The menu features a mix of local Himachali dishes and popular international foods. Guests can enjoy an authentic Himachali thali alongside pizza, pasta, and cakes. Kangana aims to give visitors a taste of the region’s rich flavors while maintaining a modern café experience.
Located 66 miles from her hometown, the café is designed as a peaceful retreat for both tourists and locals. Its outdoor seating offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy good food.
Kangana faced setbacks while working on this project. She had originally planned to open a restaurant in the valley but had to delay due to financial constraints. However, her determination kept her going. She has always expressed her love for cooking and her desire to create a space that reflects her roots.
Kangana is known for her versatility—from acting and directing to politics. With The Mountain Story, she is now exploring the hospitality industry. Despite past controversies, she continues to evolve and take on new challenges. The café is expected to attract both tourists and her fans, drawn by her love for the mountains and local culture.
Opening on Valentine’s Day, the café promises to be a place where nature, tradition, and warmth come together. In her own words, “The mountains are my bones, the rivers my veins, the forests are my thoughts, and the stars are my dreams.” The Mountain Story is Kangana’s love letter to the Himalayas, inviting everyone to be part of her journey.
