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.
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 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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Wrap Up Your Trip in Style
The best way to end a day of shopping in Himachal or Uttarakhand? Relaxing in aSaffronStays 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.
In the heart of the majestic Himalayas, cradled within the embrace of nature’s grandeur, lies the captivating town of Manali – a haven that beckons travelers with its timeless splendor. As the seasons transition and the sun’s golden touch mellows, this town transforms into a symphony of colors, embracing the gentle breath of autumn as the apple season in Manali steps its foot into it.
The air becomes crisper, the mountains stand even more resolute, and the town awakens to the enchantment of the apple season in Manali. Join me, as we embark on a journey through this tale of nature’s bounty, where every moment becomes an ode to the glorious apple season in Manali.
A Harvest of Dreams
Photo by Tom Swinnen
As the sun-kissed days of late August unfurl, the orchards of Manali metamorphose into a vibrant canvas, painted with hues that evoke both awe and reverence. The apple trees, adorned with the jewels of their own creation, seem to whisper secrets to the wind, sharing the stories of seasons gone by.
The air, now gently kissed by the fragrant promise of ripe apples, weaves an enchantment that lulls the heart into a state of sweet contemplation. The apple season in Manali paints the landscape with hues of crimson and gold, creating a symphony of colors that beckon explorers from near and far to partake in its mesmerizing dance.
Of Orchards and Rustling Leaves
Photo by Zen Chung
Venture forth into the orchards that stretch toward the horizon, a verdant sea punctuated by the blushing crimson of apples. Here, time becomes a mere whisper, as you lose yourself amidst the boughs that sag under the weight of their treasures. With fingers that dance lightly over the fruit, you pluck an apple – relishing the textures and sensations – each twist and turn a reverent communion with nature.
The tactile delight of picking apples straight from the tree during the apple season in Manali is an experience that connects us to the land’s bounty in a profound and tangible way, reminding us of the cycle of life and the gifts it bestows.
The apple season in Manali is not only a celebration of nature’s generosity but also a harmonious union between the land and its people. Engage with the locals and immerse yourself in the rhythm of their lives. Witness their hands, weathered by the toil of nurturing orchards, as they partake in the age-old art of harvest. Through their eyes, you’ll glimpse the sacred dance between humans and the land, a dance that sustains both body and soul. The apple season in Manali invites us to join in this sacred dance, to appreciate the efforts of those who tend the orchards with love and dedication, ensuring that each apple is a symbol of nature’s grace.
Gastronomic Sojourns
Photo by Olga Lioncat
As the days gently retreat into the embrace of dusk, Manali’s kitchens come alive with the alchemy of apples. In the heart of this season, indulge your senses in a feast of flavors that bear the essence of the mountains. Savor the delicate harmony of an apple crumble, or surrender to the intoxicating embrace of warm apple cider with an authentic pahadi thali or a barbeque – whatever your heart desires! Each bite, each sip, is a tribute to the land’s generosity, a testament to its ability to nurture and nourish.
The culinary wonders that emerge during the apple season in Manali are a true reflection of the region’s soul, merging tradition and innovation into every dish, inviting us to embark on a gastronomic journey that mirrors the diversity of the land itself.
SaffronStays homestays promise you nothing less. For instance, The Amlyn is an incredible choice for both an apple savoring delight and a warm homestay experience – the perfect farm to table evenings. It includes a Duplex Suite for you and your partner, Couple Suites, and Family Rooms.
Trysts with Nature
Photo by Zen Chung
While the rituals of apple-picking hold their own allure, don’t miss the chance to let the mountains themselves be your guide. Embark on a journey along trails that wind through forests and alongside rivers. The symphony of leaves beneath your feet, the whispers of the river, and the gentle caress of the breeze compose a melody that resonates with the soul. The apple season in Manali not only offers the opportunity to engage with the harvest but also invites you to wander through the land’s untouched beauty, connecting you with its spirit in ways that words can scarcely capture.
Harvesting Memories
As your sojourn during the apple season in Manali draws to a close, take a piece of its magic with you. Wander through quaint markets adorned with an array of apple-infused treasures – jars of preserves that hold the sweetness of the hills, and crafts that tell stories woven with threads of tradition. These treasures, like the memories of this enchanted season, will forever hold a place in your heart. The apple season in Manali leaves an imprint not only on our senses but also on our memories, offering us souvenirs that transcend the material and become a part of our personal narratives.
The ‘see you again’ to Manali’s Apple Orchards
The air, crisp with the promise of autumn on an evening of the apple season in Manali, carries whispers of adventure and time with loved ones. As the hills don their autumn attire, you too find yourself shedding the weight of the mundane, stepping into a world where every moment is poetry, and every experience is an echo of the land’s eternal rhythm.
Come, let us weave our own tale in this realm where apples hang like dreams, waiting to be plucked and savored in the tapestry of life’s most wondrous moments. The apple season in Manali beckons, promising an unforgettable journey where the senses and the soul converge, where traditions are honored, and the land’s gifts are celebrated.
One such galore of memories is SaffronStays. We have a stunning portfolio of exquisite homes in India that will leave you in awe. To view our collection of some of the best apple-picking homes in Himachal and Uttarakhand, please visit us here.
Summer in India has kicked off and if you’re looking for the best places in North India to take a break from the heat and hustle-bustle of Mumbai, then the cool, serene hills of Himachal Pradesh are calling your name! Explore the beautiful landscapes, culture, food, and tourist attractions while also staying at some of the most unique stays to discover the best of Himachal Pradesh with your family or friends.
Picture Source: Pexels
Fly down to Chandigarh to start your northern adventure in Kasauli, Chail, and Shimla which are waiting to be explored.
Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Kasauli, a 2-hour drive from the Chandigarh airport, is a quaint little town known for its stunning views, serene atmosphere, and refreshing climate.
One of the must-visit attractions is the Kasauli Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to a variety of animals and birds, including leopards, barking deer, and Himalayan black bears. You can also go trekking in the nearby hills, explore the local markets, or simply relax and soak in the beauty of the place at authentic Himachal homestays like SaffronStays’ homes like SaffronStays Chalet Vie.
Picture Source: Pexels
Located just a short distance from Kasauli is Chail, nestled amidst the serene pine and deodar forests,a charming town known for its scenic beauty, colonial architecture, and adventure activities. The best time to visit Chail is April to June. Among the things to do in Chail, you can discover the rich history of Chail with a visit to the Chail Palace, a must-visit attraction in the town. Built-in the 19th century, this palace was once the summer retreat of the Maharaja of Patiala. The Maharaja of Patiala, Bhupinder Singh also established the Chail Cricket Ground in 1893, which is the world’s highest cricket ground located 2,444 meters above sea level. Additionally, with adventure activities like trekking, hiking, rope walking, and rock climbing, Chail is the perfect destination for thrill-seekers. Looking to spoil your loved ones, then head over to SaffronStays Ekam.
Picture Source: Pexels
No trip to Himachal Pradesh is complete without a visit to Shimla, which is a 2-hour drive from Chail. Known as the “Queen of Hill Stations,” Shimla is known for its colonial architecture, picturesque views and pleasant climate. One of the most popular places to visit in Shimla is Mall Road which is a bustling street with shops, restaurants, and cafes and hence the perfect place to soak in the local culture. You can also visit the Christ Church, the Chadwick Falls, the Jakhu Temple, and the Shimla State Museum. After spending the day taking in the vibrant culture in Shimla, you can wind down and relax at SaffronStays’villas with home-cooked meals and plentiful board games at Jujurana House.
Picture Source: Pexels
So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the beauty of Himachal Pradesh with SaffronStays!
Located in Himachal Pradesh, not too far from Delhi and other Punjabi towns by car, Shimla is a charming small hill station. Regarded as the queen of the hills, it is one of India’s most visited hill stations, and for a good reason: the city and its surrounding area provide a wide variety of attractions and recreational opportunities. The best season to visit Shimla is during the summer season to escape the scorching heat. But winter can be a good time if you want to experience snow. The top 10 places to visit in Shimla are listed below, which draw tourists to this portion of India.
1. Summer Hills
Picture Source: Google
Summer Hill is one of Shimla’s suburbs and is situated 5 km outside the city center. The area is one of the popular Shimla tourist places because of the stunning scenery and the abundance of flora. From its vantage points, visitors may take in sweeping vistas of the surrounding hills and woods, which include pine and deodar trees, as well as the ever-changing hues of the sky. Summer Hill is also known as Potter’s Hill since it was traditionally the location where potters went to get clay.
2. Shimla State Museum
Shimla State Museum, also called the Himachal State Museum, is nestled among the beautifully groomed gardens of Mount Pleasant. The museum, housed in a colonial-style home, was established to preserve the state’s extensive cultural history. Handicrafts, miniature paintings, swords, coins, and more are some of the artifacts found in and around Shimla, and these are all exhibited in the Shimla State Museum. The metal statues from temples all across the Himalayas make up the most interesting collection.
3. Jakhoo Hills
Picture Source: Google
One of the best places to visit in Shimla is Jakhoo Hills. The hill, which stands at a lofty 8,000 feet, is a famous tourist destination in Shimla. It’s not possible to drive all the way to its peak. However, hiking to the top is challenging yet rewarding. The path through the woodland is lined with a dense forest filled with towering pine trees.
The ancient Hanuman temple atop Jakhoo Hill features the world’s largest statue of Lord Hanuman. During his journey to retrieve Sanjeevani Booti, which would ensure Lakshman’s survival, Lord Hanuman is said to have taken a short break here.
4. Kufri
Picture Source: Google
Kufri, a popular hill station, lies around 15 kilometers from the city center. Due to its consistent snowfall during the winter, this hill town is known as the “Winter sports capital of India”. Kufri is a popular Shimla tourist destination because it is a great place to enjoy winter sports like skiing and ice skating. Visitors come to this mountain resort during snowfall time to enjoy two adrenaline-inducing pastimes with a long history: skiing and ice skating. Large groups of families and friends can make their getaway truly unforgettable with a stay at SaffronStays Ekam: a regal 4-bedroom Signature homestay in Chail amidst a pine & deodar forest, with stunning hill views, farm-to-table gourmet meals, airy outdoor spaces to unwind, stargazing room & more!
5. The Ridge
Picture Source: Google
The Ridge, in the heart of Shimla, is a lovely pedestrian promenade for beautiful Shimla sightseeing. Shimla’s top hangout spot is located on the famous Mall Road. The Ridge is a gathering place for tourists because of the many eateries, hip coffee shops, and lively pubs that line its streets.
It links several of the city’s best-known landmarks, including Annandale, the Kali Bari Temple, the Jakhoo Temple, the Tudor Library, and the Mall Road.
6. Annandale
Picture Source: Google
A visit to Annandale is a must if you’re looking for top things to do in Shimla. Just another Colonial structure, this one has seen its fair share of British adventure sports fans. These days, sightseers may come here to play mini golf, view the Army Museum, and marvel at the area’s natural beauty. Even though there is no cost to enter, mini golf may cost extra.
7. Indian Institute of Advanced Studies
Picture Source: Google
Historically, the Institute was the official summer residence of the Indian President. The institution was transformed into a research center for the improvement of arts and humanities in India during the presidency of Dr. Radhakrishnan.
The institution and its gardens are a great way for visitors to experience India’s colonial past as one of Shimla’s most popular tourist destinations.
8. Naldehra and Shaily Peak
Picture Source: Google
Naldehra should be at the top of your list of best places to see in Shimla if you’re interested in nature and photography. Naldehra is easily accessible from Shimla and is well-known for its breathtaking vistas of the valley. From a number of vantage points dispersed over the landscape, you may take in the unforgettable Himalayan sunsets. Beautiful Deodar Trees may be seen all around the area. The whole gang can have a wonderful day here. Eat a delicious meal and ride horses afterward.
9. Chadwick Falls
Picture Source: Google
The breathtaking Chadwick Falls is an absolute must on any Shimla itinerary. The falls, at an elevation of 1586 meters, is a popular destination for visitors to Shimla. Incredible scenery, including stunning Pine and Deodar Trees, can be seen all around the falls. Monsoons are the greatest time to see the falls since the water flow is greater and the surrounding greenery is at its peak.
10. Christ Church
Picture Source: Google
Among the churches in Northern India, Christ Church is the second oldest. The neo-Gothic style of the building is indicative of its colonial origins. One of the best Shimla sightseeing places is this local Christ Church.
The stained-glass windows, stunning frescos, and clock tower of this architectural masterpiece are among its most recognizable features. Christ Church is perfect if you’re searching for a quiet sanctuary to refocus your attention inside.
If you are going to Shimla by train, you just can’t miss the opportunity to ride the Toy Train between Kalka and Shimla. Stop by the famed bakeries on Mall road for some sweet treats, and start your day off right with a hearty meal at the Indian Coffee House. With affordable and hospitable accommodations such as SaffronStays Hardy’s Hideaway, Shimla and SaffronStays Grandview Haven, Barog you can enjoy a journey filled with breathtaking sunsets, the reassurance of towering mountains, and the rushing sound of a river. If you seek for more, SaffronStays Hakushu, a Signature homestay near shimla offers handcrafted experiences with gourmet-fresh meals, organic farming, infinity views of the Himalayas and more, for couples & small families.
2014 has been a remarkable journey for us. We launched our website and travelled to different parts of the country to bring some beautiful properties to you. As the year draws to an end, we want to leave you with plenty more reasons to travel in 2015 through our curated platform – great adventures, friendly locals, delicious food, beautiful landscapes, and warm experiences irrespective of where you decide to go. Out of the 800, we’ve painstakingly chosen these 12 beautiful stay options across India that we think you should add to your bucket list – one destination for every month of 2015!
1. Surround yourself by luxury, nature and tens of spotted deer – Udaipur, Rajasthan
You’ll always be surrounded by nature in this luxury homestay.
Amidst verdant and scenic hills of the Aravali mountain range in Udaipur is Shikarbadi. Once the chosen big game hunting area of the royalty of Mewar, Shikarbadi today is home to this beautiful, luxury property that allows you to experience an untouched side of the White City. The six themed suites of the homestay have been set around a manicured garden on a floor above the host’s rooms. Here, you can listen to the songs of the birds and often spot deer, porcupines and foxes trotting outside the fences of the house. Rest assured you can experience true Rajasthani hospitality here through the friendly service and delicious local food, recipes of some of which have come straight from the royal kitchen.
2. Getaway from Mumbai to a hilltop farm overlooking the valley – Chiplun, Coastal Maharashtra
Plunge into this inviting pool and enjoy the view of the mountains and the valley.
If you’re looking for an offbeat getaway from Mumbai, this farm house in Chiplun, built on an 18 acre land, on a hilltop overlooking the valley, is just the place for you. The rooms are very simple, but you’ll have peacocks and friendly dogs here for company, an inviting open pool that you can plunge into, and home-cooked Maharashtrian fares, prepared on the traditional wood-fired stoves under a mango tree, to relish. During your stay, you can spend your day floating on a boat in the Vashisth estuary and your nights either watching a star studded sky from the terrace or driving through the jungle in a jeep. Not a dull moment here! (Also read: A Surprise Anniversary Getaway )
3. Escape to a royal Villa overlooking the Dal Lake – Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir
This beautiful Villa in Srinagar is owned by the descendants of Maharaja Hari Singh.
Overlooking the Dal Lake and facing the Zabarwan range, this beautiful Villa is home to the descendants of the last ruling Maharaja of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled amongst apple, cherry and plum orchards, it is a part of their larger private estate, one where they organise fortnightly farmers market and the annual Darah Shikoh Festival. With a 36 feet high central atrium, tastefully done rooms and a lounge that comes with a view, it makes for a perfect retreat when in Srinagar. During their stay, guests can enjoy strolls in the walking trail around the estate and the nearby pond that attracts a large number of migratory birds. If you are lucky you may even come across a Himalayan Black Bear!
4. Stay with one of India’s best birding guides – Kewzing, Sikkim
Enjoy the unspoilt beauty of Sikkim while you stay in this Log House.
If you’re a birding enthusiast, this is just the place for you. Mr. Bon, your host, and one of India’s most renowned Ornithologists, has been leading birding tours around Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Bhutan and Nagaland since 2001. During your stay, you can take guided birding tours to Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Borong and on trails that lie close to Doling Monastery in Ravangla and Mambru Monastery that is perched on top of a hill. The homestay itself is located next to a monastery. You can choose to stay in the log houses, suites or the family rooms, and eat delicious organic meals with a view of the Kanchenjunga during your stay.
5. Stay in a charming cottage surrounded by apple orchards – Manali, Himachal
The homestay lies surrounded by apple orchards and green mountains
Located in Bipasha Valley near Manali, this charming cottage lies nestled by apple trees and offers a scenic escape from the chaos of city life. The bedroom comes with a number of windows and a small personal balcony overlooking the hill station of Manali. There is a small garden outside where you can spend time enjoying the view, writing or sipping a cup of hot tea. The friendly hosts also whip up a delicious meal using fresh organic produce from their garden. During your stay, you can go for short treks around the cottage, on a trail leading to the Some River and another to a beautiful waterfall.
6. Explore an exotic village while staying in the midst of a community forest – Mawlongbna, Meghalaya
Your cottage lies a walk away from this breathtakingly beautiful spot.
The beautiful village of Mawlongbna in Meghalaya, tucked away from local tourists, houses two cottages for the adventurous travellers. Reaching the village involves a walk through the community forest, with little streams, brooks and a waterfall en route. During your stay, you can set off with the locals to discover fossils of sea-creatures (remnants of an era when the entire area was covered by the expanse of the seas), go fishing or kayaking in a water reserve nearby, and visit the local markets. The best part? Dining on local Khasi cuisine with a view of the plains of Bangladesh! (Also read: The Bridges that Grow )
7. Experience a lesser-known Ladakh by the cliff bank of River Indus – Uleytokpo, Ladakh
Set on the banks of the Indus river, these cottages let in a stunning view of Ladakh’s landscape.
Set at the cliff bank of river Indus, 70 Kilometers into Sham valley is the village of Uleytokpo. Here, set amidst apple and apricot orchards is a beautiful eco property that allows you to experience luxury, serenity as well as a lesser-known side of Ladakh. The rooms are large and spacious with a large number of windows where you can wake up to a view of the vast mountains. During your stay, you can pick from one of the many books in the cosy library, indulge yourself with a refloxolgy session in the in-house spa, or venture out for river rafting and hiking.
8. Spend the night star gazing from an attic room – Chimney, Darjeeling
The stunning bird’s eye view from the village of Chimney
Located in a charming little village called Chimney that lies at an altitude of 6800 feet, this homestay is your window into a side of Darjeeling that not many know or talk about. The best part about the location is the bird’s eye view of Teesta River, Siliguri and neighbouring regions from its roads. On the other side is a beautiful misty juniper forest, and there are a few waterfalls and viewpoints that lie a short hike away. Stay in this cosy attic room, taste some delicious Nepalese food, and spend your night star gazing or watching lights flicker in the valley below. (Also read: Memories of a Dreamy Village )
9. Experience the lavish plantation life in a Colonial Bungalow – Coorg, Karnataka
Experience the lavish plantation life in this Heritage Bungalow in Coorg
Surrounded by sweeping vistas of the ever picturesque Kodagu Hills, this Heritage Bungalow is fit for royalty. With large, spacious rooms, fireplaces, Victorian furniture and manicured lawn, the Bungalow takes you back to a bygone era with its old world charm. During your stay, you can eat scrumptious meals of Coorg delicacies like Pandhi (pork) or Koli (Chicken) Curry, Akki Roti (Rice Roti), Kadumbuttu (Rice Dumplings), Wild Mushroom and Mango Curry. While there, other than strolling through the coffee plantations, you can take a trip to Abbey Falls, Nagarhole National Park and the Namdroling Tibetan Monastery.
10. Stay in a rustic cottage in the heart of a forest – Corbett, Uttarakhand
These rustic cottages allow you to be one with the forest.
These cottages make for a very special wilderness destination where you can be in, and one with the forest. Situated on the banks of the Ramganga River in Corbett National Park, and accessible on foot, it’s for true forest lovers and those that seek the wild in its original, pristine form, away from the crowds, the vehicles and heightened human activity. The cottages here are beautiful and have been constructed with locally sourced clay, savannah thatch and wood inspired by traditional Vangujjar tribal style. While here, soak up the wilderness from your verandas, enjoy some delicious meals, explore the forest on foot, enjoy birdwatching, butterfly spotting, or look for signs of the big ones.
11. Watch the sun set over lush fields from a hill top Bungalow – Kottayam, Kerala
Enjoy a gorgeous sunset from your balcony in the hill top Bungalow.
Set in the hills of the beautiful town of Kottayam, this bungalow lets you soak up the rich natural surroundings of Kerala away from the tourists trails. The charming rooms open up to a view of lush green fields and backwaters, which can be enjoyed with multiple cups of tea from the veranda. Other than enjoying delicious Malayali meals, you can enjoy cycling by the hilly countryside, take long leisurely walks through the fields and go for backwater rides through sleepy villages.
12. Stay in a Wooden Chalet on the banks of a river – Ribandar, Goa
The beautiful wooden chalet by the Mandovi river in Goa.
Situated on the banks of Goa’s largest River, Mandovi, is this beautiful wooden chalet that looks straight out of a Hollywood movie. Built in 1730, the property comes with three bedrooms, one of which opens up to a paved patio by the edge of the river, living rooms, dining hall, kitchen, sun decks and even a convenience store. The house is designed perfectly to allow the view of the river, the Salem Ali Bird Sanctuary and adjacent islands from every location in the house. During your stay, you can enjoy fishing or rent a bike to explore the town of Ribandar.
Which one of these homestays would you add to your 2015 Bucket list? Tell us in the comments section.
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.
What if, after a ten hour intense journey through the ‘world’s worst road’, your driver turns around and tells you, “We may be a little lost as it is my first time here. I suggest we halt. We’re very close to running out of fuel too. So we may as well try to call someone and arrange for both fuel and accurate directions”
That’s exactly what thirteen of us co-travellers heard on Day 1 whilst en route to Spiti.
The back story:
We’d departed from Manali earlier that morning in a Tempo Traveller with destination Kaza (in Spiti) on our mind. For anyone who’s familiar with the route, the road from Manali via the Rohtang and Kunzum Pass is not called the ‘worst road’ without reason; especially if you have the privilege of being seated right above the rear two wheels of the vehicle; and definitely more so if you have a driver who’s driving skills demand more than a fleeting mention.
Rock, Stone, Gravel – all along the world’s worst road. Photo by Elita
Now what?
Visualize the look on our faces moments after he (our driver i.e.) revealed to us the situation we were in.
It was close to 5 PM with no human life (or any life for that matter) in sight. The sky was blue with tufts of white clouds adorning it. The road was nothing but a dusty pathway. On the one side of the road there was a river. And on the other side of the river seemed a relatively populous village (read: human settlement that seemed to be comprised of about 50 houses from afar).
Stepping out of the vehicle tired, weary and hungry from the arduous journey we found that our driver seemed to have disappeared momentarily after his solemn announcement. Probably to locate some help is this barren deserted place, we reasoned amongst ourselves. With no mobile connectivity on our phones some of us decided to be brave and venture around in the hope of finding someone who could be of some help.
After a couple of minutes the driver did return letting us know that he had managed to establish contact with someone he knew and that fuel had been arranged for. We used his phone, as it was the only one that had connectivity, to reach out to our contact in Kaza (who also then assured us that she was on her way).
Lost – Kaza’s on the other side. Photo by Elita
Light ‘before’ the end of the tunnel…
While we were assured of both, fuel and directions, we were still a bunch of hungry travellers. Amongst the brave who’d ventured out knocking every padlocked door, someone struck gold. In a seemingly deserted village there happened to be a home that welcomed a bunch of thirteen strangers. It seemed unlike anything I’d personally experienced before but there we were being warmly ushered in by this man who could only be heard saying, “Aap toh humare mehmaan ho. Aur mehmaan to devta sammaan hote hain.
“Guests are godlike and so I have the honour of welcoming god into my abode…”
Little did he realize that he was our godsend.
The house was quaint and warm; a sharp contrast to the crisp wind that blew outside. Besides our host who had busied himself into preparing some chai (also known as ‘tea’) for us was a little kid – probably his grandson who kept stealing glances at us from the hinges along the door.
Before we knew it there was hot piping tea for all of us along with a lot of ‘sattu’ for us to eat (that we would soon learn was more than just an acquired taste). We’d spent a good half an hour to forty-five minutes inside sipping our chai and uncramping our bones from the journey before we received a call that both fuel and our directions to Kaza had arrived and we could finally begin to make our way for the destination we’d set out for earlier that day.
To open your home to a group of completely unknown people so wholeheartedly and unassumingly, to provide them with whatever you have no matter how little and to wish them well as they departed without the slightest hint of any expectation but goodwill is reminiscent of a part of India I miss experiencing in the cities.
Spiti is home to some of the kindest, most hospitable locals. Photo by Kartik Mahajan
About the author: Elita is Nondescript. Nonchalant. Observer. Witty. Sarcastic. Skinny. Nomadic Thunker. Square Peg. Sporadic Blogger. Solo Traveller. Blogs at nomadicthunker.blogspot.in; skinnygenus.blogspot.com. Tweets @ellelogical.
Beautiful homestay away from Manali city on the way to Rohtang Pass, located in the midst of an apple orchard. The cottage has very spacious rooms & lovely amenities. All rooms have breathtaking view of the snow-capped peaks of Manali. Organic homemade delicious food is served. The host, Mr. Ved is a very jolly person & helps his guests in all the possible ways. Perfect place to stay in Manali but to stay away from city hustle bustle.
This homestay is located on the main highway in Tabo. Tabo monastery is 10 mins walk away from the place. Newly started, its one of the best homestays in Tabo. The homestay has a spacious parking which is otherwise a problem in Tabo. Rooms are spacious & provided with all the facilities. The restaurant serves good, local food.
