DUMMERSTON, VT.- You may know that famed British author Rudyard Kipling had a home right here in Southern Vermont, but have you experienced it in person? The Landmark Trust USA invites the community to enjoy this historic 1892 treasure and its expansive grounds firsthand June 5-7 at the historic preservation nonprofit’s largest annual event and fundraiser - the Naulakha Estate & Rhododendron Tour.

Normally open only to guests renting the properties for overnight accommodation or small gatherings, Naulakha, its Carriage House, and its newly rehabilitated Stable open their doors to all for one weekend each June when the rhododendrons are most likely to be in bloom. The Rhododendron Tour is the only regular event each year when the property is open to the public in this way and is a rare opportunity to experience the inspiring site firsthand. Naulakha served as home to the Kiplings from 1892-1896 and was the only home ever built for Rudyard Kipling. It was later owned by the Cabot/Holbrook family for nearly a century before being opened to the public by The Landmark Trust in the 1990s.

Visitors will have the opportunity to take a self-guided tour to learn about the property’s history and architecture, sit at the desk where The Jungle Book was written, wander the famous Rhododendron Tunnel, and enjoy the grounds. This is also the first year the 1896 Naulakha Stable loft, just rehabilitated into a new overnight rental this year, will be open to the public. The popular Cocktail Party returns as well and offers a more exclusive and intimate experience. These special tickets include the same access as daytime tickets with the addition of delicious hors d’oeuvres and drinks, including a signature cocktail and Scott Farm hard cider.

This year’s event is especially significant, as the organization is also in the midst of raising funds for the Naulakha Campaign in support of a climate resilient future for the estate. In addition, the event is being recognized by the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing as a statewide Signature Event.

“This is shaping up to be the best Rhododendron Tour yet,” says Executive Director Susan McMahon. “An addition to the always spectacular Rhododendron Tunnel and the treasures that Naulakha holds, we think visitors will really love seeing the newly rehabilitated Stable, which retains the building’s historic character while converting the loft into a beautiful new overnight rental space.”

The Naulakha Estate & Rhododendron Tour will take place on June 6 and 7 from 10:00am-5:00pm. Tickets are $25, with all proceeds supporting the nonprofit’s work. The Cocktail Party will be held on Friday, June 5 at 6:00pm, and tickets are $80. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged, as tickets regularly sell out. On-site registration will be available as space allows.