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Cool mountain breezes, air so pure you want to bottle it, and views so divine the Pope should bless them. The entire world basks in awe of the Himalayas, and under the shade of these magnificent mountains lie the perfect places to take in their beauty, a sprawl of guesthouses and homestays happily beckoning you to enjoy what the world revers.
That’s why we’ve searched far and wide for the best Himalayan homstay retreats for our readers, hoping that if they happen to be in the region they can lay down their heads at any one of these magnificent abodes promising postcard vistas, beautiful interiors and the oppurtunity to truly enjoy the company around you. Whether it’s a family trip or a bunch of longtime buds looking for a getaway to swap old stories and a bottle of scotch these high altitude homestays are what you’re looking for.
Just keep in mind this compilation focuses on luxury-oriented homestays, and although these Himalayan vacation havens become more reasonable when you consider they cater more towards larger crowds, like families and groups of friends, the ultimate cost is still a bit hefty. That’s why you should keep on dropping those rupees in your piggy bank so you can do the Himalayas in complete comfort.
Where: Manali, Himachal Pradesh.
Cost: ₹14,469 for the entire home.
Accommodates: 5.
Perched on a 6600 ft. hilltop Taara Cottages is located 3 kms from Manali city and looks out on an ambling pine forest. This two bedroom cottage is complete heaven for those who love tasteful woodwork, as the home is built out of an assortment of reclaimed Burma Teak, English Oak, and Teak. The only issue guests have to face is whether to stare slack jawed at the view or the beauty of the home.
The viewing deck makes for the best morning cup of tea as guests can warm up next to an antique heater and take in the panoramic vista given that the entire room is made up of glass windows. Moreover, if residents like taking a stroll they can walk through the cottage’s apple orchard. This might be the perfect spot for a Himalayan honeymoon.
II. Sylvan Villa
Where: Dharampur, Kasauli Tehsil, Solan District, Himachal Pradesh.
Cost:₹ 17,057.
Accommodates: 8.
Sylvan Villa was originally the first school in the city of Dharampur and is thought to be an over 100 year-old structure. This three bedroom villa provides its guests much more than the already stunning atmosphere of young Himalayan folding hills. Guests can opt for yoga classes and play a game of Badminton outside in the fresh mountain air. In addition, the Villa’s Chef provides lovely meals which means you can hunker down in this Himalayan retreat your entire stay.
III. For a While
Where: Banjar, Himachal Pradesh.
Cost: ₹7,983, entire home.
Accommodates: 6.
Located next to the Tirthan valley and in the eco zone of the Great Himalayan National Park For A While was made for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. The proximity to the valley means this homestay is perfect for both trout fishing as well as fly fishing for the more experienced fisher. There are also 200 species of birds in the area, so bring your binoculars! And if you just like a good ol’ walk in nature there are a bevy of trails of varying difficulty.
For A While also boasts a ceramic art centre for those who want to learn a bit of pottery. Otherwise guests can relax on the balcony and enjoy wonderful meals in this sanctuary of nature.
Where: Village Darmani, PO Dhaniyakot, District Nainital, Uttarakhand.
Cost: A double room varies from 7700 - 9700.
Accommodates: 2 per room and there are 5 rooms in total.
A remote village in the Kumaon Hills houses this property built for those looking for some serious pampering. With a gym, pool table and an outdoors seating area with a gorgeous view, it seems unlikely you’re going to want to get out of this tastefully done up homestay once you’ve stepped in. There are several Kumaod destinations including Naukuchiyatal, Mukteshwar and Sitla in the vicinity though, and local taxis can be arranged for comfortable day trips at very reasonable rates - ask, and you shall receive.
Where: Stok Village, Leh.
Cost: ₹9,984 per night.
Accommodates: 2 per room.
Pristine forests and snow capped peaks, Leh is a truly remarkable place to visit and if you want to get the most out of your trip the place to stay is without a doubt Woodyvu Stok House. The five-bedroom villa is located in Stok village, about 12 kilometres away from the main town, and this luxurious abode is perfect for a tranquil getaway.
Each of the five rooms is unique but the Khardungla suite deserves a special mention for its breathtaking views of the mighty Khardungla Pass. The Stok suite overlooks the summit of Mt. Stok on one side and the monastery on the other. The Willow suite is on the ground floor and opens up into a serene Willow Grove. The Apricot suite is more commonly known as the glass room because this East facing suite has one and a half walls of glass from which to admire the stunning views.
All the rooms are decorated in bright colours inspired by the vivacity of the mountains. Being in a village, you also get the opportunities to sample authentic cuisine and learn about the ways of the village. The whole air of Stok House is one of luxury and peace, which makes it a wonderful way to explore the intricacies of daily Ladakhi life. In short, stop wasting your time daydreaming and get serious about your summer vacation plans.
VI. Meena Bagh
Where: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh .
Cost: ₹18,520 per night.
Accomodates: 15.
The interior of Meena Bagh is based off the concept of a traditional Himachali home, making the inside of the home as authentic as the breaktaking views from the balcony. Moreover, this lovely three bedroom home is the perfect place to enjoy Winter in Shimla as you can watch snowflakes slowly fall on the lovely backdrop that is Shimla from the comfort of an abode that is fully insulated.
The eco-friendly home is outfitted with waste recycled wood and a water harvesting system. Also, this homestay has a great attitude. It’s pet friendly, so you can snuggle up with your pup. And Meena Bagh doesn’t stop there! They are LGBT friendly and offer 50% discount on the room rates to whomever works as a writer, artist, or is in someway involved with conservation efforts. So if you’re a creative you might as well book already because we think you’ll be hardpressed to find a better option than Meena Bagh.
VII. La Belle Vie
Where: Naintal, Uttrakhand.
Cost: ₹12,025 per night.
Accommodates: 8.
It truly is ‘The Beautiful Life’ at La Belle Vie, a large guest house located in the ‘Lake District’ of Uttrakhand. Under the shade of a sprawling forest La Belle Vie is merely a 100 meters to the Naukuchiatal Lake, making this location prime real estate for early evening walks along the bank of the lake as the reflection of the Himalayan sunset glistens in the reflection of the azure water.
In the surrounding area guests can opt for outdoor activities like boating, paragliding, trekking and nature walks. In addition, the inside of the home has lovely high wooden ceilings and many windows allowing the sunrise light to softly flow into spacious rooms. With a kitchen and chef on hand what more could anyone ask for?
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