Himachal Pradesh is a picture-perfect state that impresses visitors with snow-covered mountains and plunging valleys that are breathtaking and mesmerizing. Treacherous trekking routes with the soothing sound of flowing rivers makes Himachal a heavenly abode. In addition to this, the best way to completely immerse yourself in soaking up what Himachal has to offer to you is to ditch the hotel and opt for a home stay instead. As, what's the best way to experience a place in its true essence.
Here are 6 secret home stays tucked away in the hills of Himachal that you must definitely visit.
Himalaya Retreat, Manali
A 50-minute walk leads to Himalaya Retreat, a secluded homestay in the midst of “The Valley of the Gods”, as the area is called. The granite and wood home has a garden, balcony and dining room. Hosts Ashima and Scott have opened up the ground floor of their home so that guests can enjoy the snow-clad Himalayan peaks, the nearby waterfalls, birdsong and the neighbourhood village Vashisht. A traditional Himachali home, the interiors are simple but comfortable and perfectly complement the beautiful outdoors.
2)Khem Bharti Homestay, Tirthan valley.
Located in Tirthan Valley, this homestay is a hidden gem that very few people know about! The place offers to you peace and quiet that the hustle bustle life take away in a jiffy. in addition to this, the charm of the place lies in the fact that your morning alarm will be the chirping birds and the constant gushing sound of the Tirthan River flowing past the homestay. Trust me, this will be like music to your ears. I suggest that you take time off and go fishing as well, cause the place has some amazing Trout fish to offer as well.
3) Sanjiv’s Aira Holme Retreat, Shimla
The capital of himachal pradesh, shimla offers a goregeous homestay. In 1870, the British built this stone-walled, wood-panelled home and called it Morefield Grange. As the family home was passed on from generation to generation, it acquired its vintage charm and the warmth of a lived-in home. Tastefully decorated with attention to authenticity and detail, the home is managed by the friendly Mr. Billy (short for Birinder Singh), his daughter Panita and their two gorgeous dogs Pemma and Lilo. Mr. Billy has a vast collection of books. If you’re not busy browsing through them, you may want to sit back with a hot cup (of tea, coffee or perhaps something stronger) and gape at the breath-taking views of the valley beneath.
4)Wilderness Home, Jibhi
Situated in the tiny hamlet of Jibhi in Kullu, Wilderness Home is the perfect homestay for those looking to experience and interact with the local culture of Himachal Pradesh. The three-acre home has a private pond and a waterfall, 500-metres away. The four hosts of the home ensure guests have a chance to participate in the village’s social events and festivals, with their family-run adventure tourism company that organises excursions to the Great Himalayan National Park and other hiking spots. Get your backpack ready and go trekking in the licious mountains ranges.
5) Homestay at Dhankar, Spiti.
Tucked away in the hills of the incredibly beautiful Spiti valley, this homestay by Dhankar is indeed a sight for sore eyes. Even the route to the homestay is the kind that will fill your senses with glee. The best thing about the place is that the owner is very chatty and will help you settle in your home away from home. It provides a great view of dhankar lake and dhankar monastery.
6) Darang Tea Estate, Kangra
Set against the backdrop of the spectacular Dhauladhar mountain range is Darang Tea Estate, the home of Neeru and Naveen Bhandari. The 150-year-old tea plantation has four cottages with private verandas, a kitchen and modern amenities. There’s a wonderful library on the estate for those who wish to catch up on some reading, and there are vast forests, mountain streams and tea gardens for those who would like to explore. Don’t forget to slot in some time to play with Casper, Diana and Brandy, the friendly resident dogs.
Don't these homestays makes you pack your bags and go for a vacation right now?? Are homestays the next big thing that travelers would look forward to??