Nestled in the Kumaon hills of India's Himalayas, Jilling is accessible only by a 2-km trek through a forest of Oaks, Pines, Chestnuts, and Rhododendrons. Home to Steve Lall, a former Indian Air Force fighter pilot who served in the 1965 and 1972 India-Pakistan war. After retiring, Steve left urban life to protect the 145 acres of forest in Jilling. Upon returning to Kumaon in the early '70s, Steve found the forest in decline, with builders and locals exploiting the land. With limited savings, he and his wife Parvati initially struggled, attempting farming, and selling produce. To sustain themselves, they started hosting guests, focusing on a low-key, low-density approach to prevent tourism-related destruction. The Lall’s life involves battling threats to the forest, such as fires, poachers, and wood thieves. Over the years, Steve’s cultivation of fruits and crops has protected the native flora, leading to a flourishing ecosystem. The family's efforts have inspired local villagers, who now engage in conservation and eco-friendly practices. This shift in perspective extends to local farmers using natural fertilizers and embracing eco-tourism. Despite the encroachment of modern development nearby, Steve and the community remain dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and balance of Jilling's environment.