Himalayan Hideaways

We've scoured the Himalaya to find you some of the most amazing gems! Quaint, often unknown, home-stays and forest lodges that you've probably never heard of. Why? Because most of them are owner managed and run. They don't have the time or the marketing muscle to focus on publicity and marketing. And very often - you'd be surprised to hear this - they don't wish to! They're selective about the guests they'd like visiting them and because they're tucked away into little hamlets in the mountains, it's hard to get in touch with them. 

Each of these places has been vetted by an employee of MHE Adventtures. We've stayed here with our families, experienced the host's hospitality, loved what we lived and have come back with our recommendations!

The Lama House, Manali​

This wonderful newly renovated boutique homestay, high above Manali, where the orchards and mountains meet, offers peace and tranquility to discerning guests. 

There's plenty to do here; walks to the river, through the forest, or just relax, read a good book in the garden, and enjoy fantastic home cooked food.  There's home made cream, butter, and ghee, free range eggs and fresh veggies. If you are interested in one or two nights camping that can also be arranged (weather permitting) at an extra cost. 

The Sonaugi Homestead - Kullu

Tucked in the hills above Kullu town, it's not the easiest place to get to, but thankfully this has saved it from the crowds and din below. As soon as you reach, you feel the peace descend upon you like butterfly wings. 

There's plenty to do here; short walks down to the river, through the forest, head up to the village of Janna (one of the oldest in the valley), or just relax, read a good book and let the kids play in the orchards and fields. Our travelling companion was a 2 year old who had the best time just running around in the fresh air.

Banjara Camp and Retreat, Sangla

At a height of 2,700 mts, the Banjara Camp & Retreat is surrounded by towering mountains on all sides and is set on the banks of the Baspa River that surges through the valley.

Long walks to discover the amazing fauna and flora of the valley, treks to view snow covered Himalayan peaks, angling for trout, experiencing some of the local culture and traditions, rock climbing, rappelling and river crossing are only some of the delights that are on offer. 

Van Serai - Jageshwar, Uttarakhand

Deodars, burbling streams and a little sanctuary in the mountains.  Half hidden by the great trees, a mixture of rustic local construction and spring mattress comfort.

​This is a little haven of thought - from old doors, locally carved windows, ceramic and brass switches to home cooked, healthy food. Top it all with a cook who sings and plays the dhol, a gathering of musicians who jammed.

Raju Bharti's Cottage, Tirthan, Near Manali

What can you say about a place that makes you think of Alice in Wonderland the moment you enter? Nestled in the midst of the Tirthan Valley, just three hours drive from Kullu, you have to cross the Tirthan river in a makeshift cable car to reach Raju's homestay. 

As soon as you enter the cottage grounds, you're surrounded by apple, chikoo, apricot trees and cherry bushes and 4 bhutias (mountain dogs) come bounding up wagging a warm welcome...it's almost magical!

Casa Bella Vista -
​Manali

The aroma of oven baked pizzas wafts its way the moment you step into their wooden gates. Combine that with a beautiful green lawn blooming with spring flowers, lovely wooden cottages and the warmth of your Spanish hostess Martha, and you know this is where you want to stay!

Poised on the top of a small hill, beyond the crowds and bustle of Manali town, yet just a short distance away from both the main bazaar and old Manali, Casa Bella Vista is a lovely resort with three big cottages and rooms as well. 

Violet Hill - Mashobra,
Himachal Pradesh​

Surrounded by deodar and oak forests, far away from the bustling Shimla crowds, this is a perfect private getaway for families or small groups. 

Healthy meals are prepared using local vegetables, and you can enjoy tea on the verandah or in the gardens.

Take walks through the local forests, visit Shimla (40 minutes drive) to tour the Raj Heritage, or relax, enjoy the mountain views, read, meditate, and listen to the birds in the multi level gardens.

Bull's River Camp,
Tons Valley

A magical camp that only makes an appearance 3 months in a year. Set up at the edge of the Tons river at an altitude of 3550 feet, this is the perfect escape from the heat of the plains!

Beautiful day hikes, visits to a secret waterfall, white-water rafting (only for 14 year olds and above), volleyball and swimming, there's a lot to do here and that makes for the perfect long weekend getaway.

Disclaimer: Named after Col. Narinder 'Bull' Kumar, this camp is owned and managed by MHE Adventures

The Last Frontier - Munsyari

The Last Frontier, is a beautifully located and meticulously maintained lodge.

​Don't expect a "resort" here, or you will be sorely disappointed. What you get is a homestay with six, very comfortable rooms with deep verandahs that overlook that inimitable view of the Panchachuli range. One could easily do nothing but sit there and gaze. Eat simple home fare, be taken care of by a charming and helpful crew. Read, write, paint and enjoy the changing light on the mountains and the vistas around you.

​Birds abound, and if you sit by the little stream that gurgles past the property you will be visited by many varieties.

Fisherman's Lodge - Bhimtal, Kumaon​

A property perched on the quiet side of the Bhimtal lake with beautiful views. But it is what is inside that makes this little hill hotel utterly charming. Beautifully put together, homely and classy. Little details and thought at every angle, a bookshelf and comfortable sofa - a beautifully appointed pantry kitchen for guests, with a microwave, coffee percolator and little goodies for if you want  a midnight snack or your fussy child who didn't eat her dinner is whiny for a warm milk.  The staff go out of their way to please. It is a little bit of well thought out home away from home.

Banjara Retreat and Cottage - Sojha, Kullu​

Located in Seraj valley, still undiscovered by many, Sojha is a breathtakingly beautiful place. The mornings are particularly invigorating. Stroll around, walk up to the meadows or perhaps take the pathway into the jungle. 

The whole region is a part of the Great Himalayan National Park. The Retreat and Cottage here are two wooden houses surrounded by wooded forests from which you get a panoramic view of the snow covered Himalayan ranges in the distance. The numerous walks and treks in the surrounding forests and meadows are a special feature of the area and the drive to the retreat is a pleasure in itself.

Bull's Retreat,
​Shivpuri

Rated No. 1 on TripAdvisor for hotels in the Shivpuri area, this is the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a family adventure experience.

​Built at the edge of a forest reserve, Bull's Retreat has a fantastic rock climbing wall that challenges both kids and adults, a mini zip-line and other ropes courses. White-water rafting tops the popularity charts here and the food served at the Bull's Bistro is probably the best there is in this part of the neighbourhood.

Disclaimer: Yes, Bull's Retreat is owned and managed by MHE Adventures