Himachal Homestays – What's Next?

Inside SaffronStays The Divine Hima – A Himalayan Retreat in Dharamshala

14th August 2025Posted in UncategorisedTagged Dharamshala, family get together, family holidays, Himachal Homestays, Himachal Pradesh, Himalayan holidays, Himalayan tourism, homestay, long weekend getaways, saffronstays, travelogues, Weekend getaways, weekend tripsLeave a comment

Life shaped by Earth

With a life dedicated to exploring the planet’s hidden layers, it was only natural that pieces of it would come home with him. A geologist by trade, each stone, driftwood fragment, and photograph was chosen with reverence, gathered from years of exploration. More than data, he gathered meaning. Nature stirred something deeper within him: a penchant for words, for perfect frames, for flavor, all through which he rediscovered himself. Over time, his home became a museum of his evolving identity, consumed from floor to ceiling by his photographs, rocks, written poems, and recipes. But as the years passed, one question begged for an answer: what should he do with all these memories?

Born of the earth and shaped by memory, The Divine Hima is a Himalayan sanctuary built to honor the land it rests upon. Here, stone, wood, and story converge to create a space ingrained in terrain and tradition.

A cozy and decorative indoor space featuring natural elements, artwork, and plants, with comfortable seating and warm lighting.

An exhibition of stories

Built with intention and rooted in sustainability, The Divine Hima is more than an inn— it’s a vessel of memory and meaning, evoking a sense of deep peace and security, named for the Sanskrit word for snow. Local stone, reclaimed wood, and earthen tones ground the space in its Himalayan surroundings. Every room is made in an original, idealized design: furniture expertly crafted to his specifications, natural artifacts embedded into the design, and his photography displayed like visual poems along the walls, a love story to his career and the surrounding nature.

The layout reflects logical flow. From cozy private rooms to open communal spaces, a restaurant and bar that invite connection, and a mezzanine library, the inn has a space for everyone. A private dining room hosts shared meals and deep conversations. Even the annex, styled after Swiss chalets, whispers of ambitious alpine adventures.

A cozy and inviting room at The Divine Hima featuring a wooden bed with an orange accent, surrounded by natural wood walls, large windows, and warm lighting. A chess set is on a wooden table alongside two coffee cups.

A Menu That Maps Terrain

A personally designed menu is yours for tasting, infused with memories and flavors of the forests of India. From wood-fired pizzas and pahadi (mountain) delicacies to barbecue, the food is both nourishing and nostalgic.

Even the pickles are homemade, exotic, sharp, and unforgettable, like preserved fragments of time, offered to guests who wish to taste the journey, accompanied by descriptions of their creations.

A pizza is placed on a metal peel, ready to be inserted into a wood-fired oven, with flames and smoke visible in the background.

A Himalayan Sanctuary

The Divine Hima is a spiritual sanctuary in Dharamshala, Sanskrit for shelter, where Tibetan society finds space to flourish, echoing whispers amongst cedar forests, and framed by Himalayan peaks. Mornings begin with soft light filtering through windows. The hum of sitar melodies dances through cozy library lounges while the fireplaces crackle to life with the first touch of chill.

Terraces open to mist-wrapped valleys and sunrise views. Vines crawl across walls and ceilings like nature reclaiming its canvas. By nightfall, gentle lights glow like fireflies, cool mist cloaks the landscape, and the sound of water flowing into a fishpond soothes the senses as stars glow above.

A serene garden pathway surrounded by lush greenery, potted plants, and wooden structures, creating a peaceful outdoor space at The Divine Hima.

A Lasting Memory

Peaceful, restorative, and deeply personal, SaffronStays The Divine Hima is more than a place to stay— it’s the embodiment of one man’s self-discovery through his career and his art. The property as a whole is an unspoken invitation to look closer and find your reflection in the stillness of nature.

Entrance to The Divine Hima, featuring illuminated signage, banners, and a cozy atmosphere at night.

Handloom Shopping in Himachal & Uttarakhand: A Traveller’s Guide + Stays Nearby

14th August 2025Posted in UncategorisedTagged cottages in dehradun, dehradun, family get together, family holidays, Himachal Homestays, Himachal Pradesh, Himalayan tourism, homestay, long weekend getaways, north homestays, saffronstays, shimla, travelogues, Uttarakhand, Uttarakhand homestaysLeave a comment

If you’re heading to the mountains for your next holiday, don’t just pack warm clothes, make space in your bag for treasures you’ll find along the way. Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are handloom shopping paradises, offering woolens, shawls, and handicrafts that are as much a part of the landscape as the pine forests and snow peaks.

This isn’t just shopping; it’s bringing home the mountains.

Why Buy Handlooms in the Himalayas?

Buying from local artisans keeps centuries-old weaving traditions alive, supports families in remote villages, and gives you a piece of the hills that lasts far beyond your trip. Whether it’s a Kullu shawl, a Bhotia carpet, or an Aipan-printed runner, every item carries a story.

Close-up of a person's hands weaving colorful threads on a loom, showcasing traditional craftsmanship.

What to Buy in Himachal Pradesh

Kullu Woollens – No trip to Himachal is complete without a Kullu shawl. Woven from fine merino or angora wool, these shawls are known for their earthy base colours and bright geometric borders. Head to Akhara Bazaar in Kullu town or visit Bhuttico outlets, a co-operative that ensures fair pay for weavers. For authenticity, look for the GI (Geographical Indication) tag stitched into the fabric..
Stay nearby: SaffronStays Monarch Manor, Shimla — a colonial estate with easy access to shopping streets.

Exterior view of a beautifully designed villa at dusk, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains, featuring warm lighting and landscaped gardens.

Kinnauri Shawls – If you’re travelling towards Reckong Peo or Sangla, keep an eye out for Kinnauri shawls. These are heavier and more intricate than Kullu shawls, often taking months to weave. Their elaborate borders are inspired by Buddhist symbols and local mythology. Best places to buy include local co-operatives in Kinnaur or craft shops in Shimla’s Lakkar Bazaar.

Chamba Rumals –These aren’t your typical embroidered cloths. Chamba rumals are hand-embroidered square fabrics once used in royal dowries. The double-sided stitch means the front and back look identical, a skill passed down for generations. You can find authentic pieces at Himachal Emporium in Chamba or Shimla.

Himachali Caps (Kullu & Kinnauri) = The Himachali cap is as much a part of the culture as the mountains themselves. In Kullu, you’ll see them in deep greens and maroons, while in Kinnaur, the caps have distinctive patterned bands. They make for easy-to-pack gifts, available widely in Mall Road, Manali and Kullu town markets.
Stay nearby: SaffronStays The Elements, Kullu, serene forest views after a day of exploring.

Scenic view of a house with a red triangular roof surrounded by greenery and mountains in the background.

What to Buy in Uttarakhand

From Pahadi woolens and warm blankets to intricate Ringaal bamboo crafts, explore markets in Dehradun, Almora, and Nainital that keep the region’s heritage alive through every weave and carve.

Pashulok & Ramnagar Woollens
Uttarakhand’s winters inspire some of the coziest hand-knitted sweaters, stoles, and socks. In Ramnagar and Pashulok (near Rishikesh), women’s self-help groups sell handwoven shawls and scarves made of sheep and angora wool. The designs are simple, but the quality is exceptional.
Stay nearby: SaffronStays Timber Quest, Dehradun, a boutique wood cabin set in nature.

Cozy wooden interior of a circular bedroom with large windows and a view of greenery, featuring a bed with a light-colored quilt, a small table with drinks, and decorative curtains.

Kumaoni & Garhwali Weaves
Look for Pithoragarh and Bageshwar-made woollens, light but incredibly warm. Pashmina might not be native here, but you’ll find soft, pure wool wraps woven in traditional stripes and checks. The Pahadi Topi (local wool cap) is also a great buy from these regions.

Stay nearby: SaffronStays Timber Quest, Dehradun — greenery and artisan markets within minutes.

View of a charming villa with flower beds and potted plants in a well-maintained garden, set against a backdrop of lush greenery and a colorful sunset.

SaffronStays The Woods, Dehradun— close to both lakes and local markets.

Aipan Work
Aipan is not a textile but a folk art form often seen on fabrics like stoles, cushion covers, and table runners. Originating from the Kumaon region, it uses red fabric and white patterns drawn with rice paste. You’ll find these in Almora markets and Dehradun’s Paltan Bazaar.

Bhotia Carpets & Rugs
In Munsiyari and Dharchula, the Bhotia tribe weaves thick wool carpets called dan in bold geometric patterns. These are made from pure sheep wool and dyed with natural colors. They’re warm, durable, and completely handwoven, a perfect keepsake for your home.

A modern villa with a swimming pool, surrounded by lush greenery and trees, illuminated at twilight.

Stay nearby: SaffronStays Varenya villa, Dehradun, perfect for relaxing after market days.

Insider Tips for Buying Authentic Handlooms

Always check for a GI tag or artisan co-operative label.
Choose local co-operatives over tourist souvenir shops — they pay artisans fairly.
Bargain gently, but respect the craftsmanship and time involved.
Visit weaving centers where you can watch artisans at work — it makes the souvenir even more meaningful.

A close-up of a person's hand applying red dye to a decorative fabric featuring intricate patterns and designs.

Wrap Up Your Trip in Style

The best way to end a day of shopping in Himachal or Uttarakhand? Relaxing in a SaffronStays villa nearby. With handcrafted interiors, mountain views, and local flavours on your plate, it’s the perfect complement to the treasures in your shopping bag.

From a Kullu shawl that keeps you warm on snowy evenings to a Bhotia rug that brightens your home, each purchase carries the soul of the Himalayas. And when paired with a stay that’s just as rooted in the region, you’re not just travelling — you’re living the hills.

A Taste of the Hills: Must-Try Pahadi Dishes for Your Uttarakhand Vacation

5th July 20255th July 2025Posted in UncategorisedTagged family get together, family holidays, food, Himachal Homestays, holiday in the Himalayas, long weekend getaways, north india elderly-friendly getaways, saffronstays, Traditional Food, travelogues, Weekend getawaysLeave a comment

You don’t just visit Uttarakhand. You feel it. In the crisp mountain air scented with pine, in the stillness broken only by distant temple bells, and most vividly, in the food. The cuisine here is more than sustenance. It is a whisper of the hills, a collection of recipes passed down through generations, simmered slow, served warm, and always accompanied by a story.

If you are planning a journey through Dehradun, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Nainital, Mukteshwar or Bhimtal, this is your invitation to explore the region one dish at a time. Let each meal be a memory, and every bite, a postcard from the mountains.

Kafuli: The Soul of Garhwal in a Bowl

A bowl of Kafuli, a green spinach stew, garnished with cream, accompanied by a piece of roti, set on a rustic cloth background.

Somewhere in the terraced villages near Mussoorie, a pot of Kafuli simmers on a wood-fired stove. It is made from fresh spinach or fenugreek leaves, slow-cooked and thickened with rice flour until it turns into a comforting, green stew. The aroma is earthy, the flavor deeply herbal and nourishing. Served with rice, Kafuli is Uttarakhand on a plate – wholesome, humble, and grounding.

Where to try it: Kalsang Ama Café, Dehradun

Aloo Ke Gutke with Bhang Ki Chutney: A Spicy, Nutty Affair

A bowl of golden, crispy Aloo Ke Gutke potatoes seasoned with cumin seeds, served alongside a bowl of lentil curry on a floral-patterned napkin, with lime wedges for garnish.

Golden chunks of potatoes, crisped in mustard oil and tossed with jakhiya seeds, make Aloo ke Gutke a staple across roadside stalls and family kitchens alike. But its perfect companion is the lesser-known star — Bhang ki Chutney. Made with roasted hemp seeds, green chillies and tamarind, this chutney is sharp, nutty and unforgettable.

Where to try it: Ellora’s Melting Moments, Dehradun

Chainsoo: Roasted, Rustic, Real

A copper bowl filled with green stew, Kafuli, accompanied by a mound of steamed white rice, garnished with green chilies and red spices, set against a textured background.

Chainsoo starts with black gram, roasted until nutty and aromatic, then ground and simmered with garlic and mustard oil into a thick, protein-rich curry. The dish is dark, smoky and robust. The kind you eat in the still chill of a Mukteshwar evening, sitting beside a pinewood fire with the scent of oak leaves drifting through the window.

Where to try it: Café Chandi Mati, Mukteshwar

Garhwal Ka Fannah and Phaanu: The Lentils of Legacy

A bowl of rich, dark curry, garnished with a swirl of cream and fresh coriander, served alongside rice, flatbreads, and fresh vegetables on a yellow napkin.

Lentils take on a ceremonial tone in the mountains. Fannah, made with whole black lentils, is slow-cooked to achieve a deep, velvety texture. Phaanu, often made from Gahat (horse gram), is lighter, soupier and perfect on cold days. Both are rich in protein and deeply satisfying.

Where to try it: Café Local, Mukteshwar

Kandalee Ka Saag: Wild and Wholesome

A bowl of Kafuli, a green stew made from fresh spinach, topped with a dollop of cream, served in a black cast iron dish, accompanied by green chilies and a small bowl of spices.

Made from stinging nettle or Bichhu ghaas, this dish speaks of foraging traditions and local wisdom. Boiled and tempered with garlic and cumin, Kandalee Ka Saag is slightly gritty, beautifully bitter and full of nutrition. A taste of the forest, quite literally.

Where to try it: Nirvana Organic Kitchen, Mukteshwar

Kumaoni Raita and Jhangora Ki Kheer: Cool Comfort and Sweet Farewells

A bowl of Kumaoni Raita topped with fresh coriander leaves, served in a decorative dish.

To offset the spice and heat, there’s the refreshing Kumaoni Raita — yogurt mixed with grated cucumber or pumpkin, tempered with mustard seeds and green chilies. And no meal ends without Jhangora Ki Kheer, a delicate pudding made from barnyard millet, milk, cardamom and sugar. These are the quiet finishers. The ones that leave you smiling long after the plates are cleared.

Where to try them: Himalayan Roots Café, Almora and Café Buransh, Kausani

Pahadi Food Isn’t Just What You Eat. It’s Where You Eat It.

Food in Uttarakhand is as much about place as it is about palate. A plate of Kafuli tastes richer when eaten in a quiet café with views of pine slopes. A bowl of Phaanu feels warmer when it comes after a misty trek. These dishes do not rush. They ask you to sit, breathe, and belong.

Planning a Mountain Trip? Let Your Tastebuds Guide You.

From spice-laced potatoes to wild greens and ancient grains, Pahadi food is not just regional — it is seasonal, mindful, and deeply personal. Choose the thali over the burger. Pick Gutke over fries. Let your journey through Uttarakhand be marked not just by where you went, but by what you tasted.

6 Anniversary Getaway ideas to fall in love all over again

28th November 2014Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Anniversary getaway ideas India, Coorg Homestays, Darjeeling homestays, Himachal Homestays, Homestays in India, Houseboats, Kerala homestays, Meghalaya Homestays, Romantic getaway ideas India, Sikkim homestays, Srinagar homestays, Tree houses KeralaLeave a comment

By Sarita Santoshini

Winters, coincidentally, also happen to be the months of weddings and subsequent wedding anniversaries. If you’ve already ticked a great honeymoon off your list and are looking for new ideas and ways to spend a romantic holiday with your spouse, we’ve got it all covered for you.

#1- Go Wild

This is of the Kanha property listed with us — After wildlife safaris in the day, spend the evening by the pool with a glass of wine. Photo by our host, Neelesh

Kerala homestays — Luxury tree houses in Periyar National Park at a height of 30 feet. Photo by our host, Saji

There’s something very wildly romantic about being with your partner, surrounded by acres of forest and knowing very well that the only thing separating you from the wild is a concrete wall. You could be in Kanha, waking up to the sight of the dense forests from the large windows in your luxurious room or in a tree house in Periyar where at a height of 30 feet, your private balconies will give you the best sight of bisons, elephants and barking deer. If you’re looking for something more adventurous and rustic, head to a homestay flanked by the forest in Dandeli or the earthen cottages in Jim Corbett National Park, accessible after a 2 km trek, where you can explore the magical forest on foot.

#2 – Whisk her off to an exotic land

Darjeeling Homestays — The breathtaking view from Kurseong. Photo by Sarita

Meghalaya Homestays — The scenic village of Kongthong in Meghalaya. Photo by our host, Aniduhan.

sikkim homestays — A luxury cottage in Sikkim with a dense beautiful forest at the backdrop. Photo by Sarita

When you live in a country like India, you need not look elsewhere for an exotic idea. The states in East and North-east India, untouched, scenic and extremely beautiful, make for some of the most romantic getaways. If you think Darjeeling is touristy, choose its lesser-known neighbour, Kurseong. Here, you can stay in a charming heritage property with some of the most characteristically-designed rooms or retire to Chimney, a scenic village with a dense juniper forest on one side and a bird’s-eye view of Teesta River and Siliguri on the other side, and enjoy long walks together. In Sikkim, you can stay in beautiful cottages that lie tucked in the midst of misty forests, with only the songs of birds and the whistling wind for company. You can also escape further to Meghalaya, to a resort by the lake in Shillong, to a farm house near the Sacred Grove Forest in Mawphlang or to remote villages like Kongthong and Mawphanlur where, after long scenic treks, you can sit together on a hill top and watch a gorgeous sunset together.

#3 – Treat her like a Queen! Live like Royalty

Rajasthan Homestays — A beautiful room, once occupied by the Maharani, in a Heritage Haveli in Jaipur. Photo by Sarita

Raasthan homestays — Step out of your luxury rooms and right into a pool like this in a Heritage Haveli in Jodhpur. Photo by Sarita

It’s your anniversary and we think that’s a great reason to be treated royally. Yes, we are referring to some beautiful heritage havelis in Rajasthan where you can soak up the winter sun in the traditional courtyards or on a sundeck by the swimming pools or simply never step out of your lavish rooms that come with antique four poster beds and jharokas. In the romantic city of Udaipur, you can stay in rooms by the Lake Pichola and sip wine in your very own private terrace. Then there are Colonial Bungalows surrounded by coffee plantations in Coorg, complete with Victorian furniture, large verandas and manicured lawns, where you’ll have plenty of scenic private space for yourselves.

#4 – Get snowed in!

Himachal homestays — The beautiful hill town of Kotgarh turns white and magical in December. Photo by our host, Shezad

Who wouldn’t want to be tucked under a blanket in a heated room and watch the streets outside get covered with snow or perhaps go out there and get into a snow fight? You can take your pick from beautiful cottages surrounded by apple orchards in Manali or in Kotgarh, a quieter alternative to Shimla, where the temperatures will be low and snowfall plenty. There’s the haven of romantics, Srinagar, where charming bungalows and villas offer plenty of luxury, privacy and comfort on snowy days. The beautiful hill town of Nainital makes for a great option too.

#5 – Escape to a virgin beach/river island

Coastal Maharashtra Homestays — Spend an evening in a beach in Ratnagiri with a hundred odd migratory sea gulls. Photo by Sarita

wooden chalet by the river in Goa — Watch the world go by with your soulmate, as you dip your feet in the river from the pier of this wooden house. Photo by our host, Capt Leo

We’re sure you’ve spent many holidays in Goa and seen all the beaches, but it is in the beautiful, lesser-known Divar Island, accessible by ferry from Old Goa, and in a wooden chalet on the banks of the Mandovi river that you can truly experience the Goan Susegad life. If you aren’t fussed about the luxuries of a high end resort, Coastal Maharashtra offers some pristine and unexplored beaches. Perfect for those endless sunset walks on soft sand and long conversations with your feet dipped in the cold water. All this with the promise of not a soul around.

#6 – Sail on tranquil waters for days

Srinagar Homestays — Heritage houseboats in Dal Lake make for one of the most romantic stays. Photo source: asiaexplorers.com

There’s no denying that the backwaters of Kerala make for some of the most scenic destinations in India. Imagine having a lovely room to yourself, complete with dining and seating arrangements at the deck of your luxury houseboat, and floating in the backwaters for days. If this idea interests you, you can also opt to stay in a heritage houseboat in the beautiful Dal Lake of Srinagar. No meal or conversation can ever be devoid of romance when you’re floating in these tranquil waters. Enjoy the star-lit skies, count the shooting stars from the deck, and you can almost hear the notes of the santoor playing.

Ready to make your anniversary special? Visit our website to book a stay in a beautiful location now!

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About the Author: Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. She currently works as the Content Editor for SaffronStays. You can read more of her travelogues on her blog-http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com.