As 2022 draws to a close, we couldn’t be more excited for the new year to begin. Traditionally known for winter chills, these destinations are recovering from the lull of the past two years during the Covid-19 pandemic. We’ve put together a list of destinations as well as smaller towns offering intimate experiences, nature and wellness. Please check opening dates before planning your trip as they are always subject to change.
Here are the top 12 recommendations for getaways in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand by SaffronStays.
Ekam
A pet-friendly, 4-bedroom palatial retreat tucked away in the middle of a forest with a verdant lawn, gazebo, gorgeous sitouts, indoor fireplace and enviable library. Made of wood and stone, equipped with modern furniture, each part of the house has its own rhythm. From the charming attic room (nicknamed ‘the man-made cave’) with a star-gazing roof to floor-to-ceiling windows, numerous verandas and sit-outs on every floor with sweeping views of the snow-capped Himalayas and surrounding flora create an almost poetic, indoor-outdoor living experience. Enjoy mouth-watering authentic spreads straight from the organic farms with an al-fresco setup in the gazebo, or a warm setup indoors.
Hakushu
Himachal Pradesh, a very luxurious property in Sainj, near Shimla, draws a lot of influence from Japanese architecture and interiors, seen through its clean, minimalist look and soothing earthy tones. The home employs all-female staff, many of whom struggle to support themselves or their families safely. By hiring women from the local village to work as caretakers on the property, the homeowner helps them to stand on their own two feet and leave their dependency behind. Women receive classes to brush up on their skills and are prepared to be the wonderful, welcoming caregivers they are today. Despite countless setbacks, they always welcome everyone with a smile on their face, are caring and work with love and dedication; something that the real estate partner likes to see.
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Monarch Manor, Manali
SaffronStays Monarch Manor, Manali was an estate that was built as a beautiful home that would suit the royal family of Manali. The villa is located on old Manali Road, 20 minutes (6 km) from Manali Mall Road, 12 minutes (5 km) from Sajla Waterfall and 60 minutes (47 km) from Kullu’s Bhuntar Airport. It is a restored architectural masterpiece located between Family Rooms, Artha Suite and Glass Suite. The Glass Suite is the most romantic couples holiday destination near Delhi. You can catch your first snowfall of the season from the clear ceiling above the bed, or spend hours in the jetted Jacuzzi under the stars. The home cooks also provide you with authentic, pahadi meals that you will not find anywhere in Himachal Pradesh. Gather around a lovely outdoor bonfire in the evening. If you’re up for some adventure, head to the breathtaking Sajla Waterfall (5 km) on the River Beas, or Hadimba Temple (7 km) for a more spiritual experience
Hill station above the Tirthan valley, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Surrounded by dense forests, SaffronStays Hillstation Over Tirthan Valley offers stunning views of the Tirthan Valley. This homestay in Tirthan Valley is 55 km from Bhuntar Airport and 6 km from the Great Himalayan National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). Gushaini is becoming increasingly popular for its unusual, adventurous trails and rustic beauty; a haven for mountain kissing clouds, hidden waterfalls and beautiful riverside rides! The USP of this homestay is in its pristine location: away from the crowded tours of Kullu-Manali valleys, enjoy Gushaini’s best experiences of bird watching, skiing, fishing and trekking to famous spots like Jibhi, Serloskar lake and the Jalori Pass (offered at an additional cost) with your stay!
Hardy’s hideout, Shimla
Beautifully located on the hills of Shimla, Hardy’s Hideaway is your quintessential pahadi home nestled amidst beautiful orchards and a valley. Just a 3-hour drive from Shimla Airport, this 4-bedroom ancestral home is a beacon that attracts anyone seeking an escape from the urban sprawl to themselves. With 4 bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms that can be booked independently, this homestay in Shimla is the perfect getaway for couples, 2-3 families or a large group of friends. The USP of this cottage in Himachal Pradesh is that it is equipped with everything you need: free wifi, smart TV, music system, karaoke system, playstation, gym, books, billiards or table tennis. If you’re in the mood for some food, the chefs will whip up some delicious mud oven pizzas for your evening feast.
Casa Bellissimo, Dehradun
Adorned with the colorful hues and charm of Dehradun, Casa Bellissimo is everything your dream vacation looks like. This 3 bedroom villa in the hills, literally ‘the beautiful house’, exudes relaxation and comfort. Located 45 minutes from Jolly Grant International Airport, you’ll be instantly swept away by the villa’s incredible European architecture and rustic interior. Wake up to the green valleys and beautiful garden view from the cozy villa bedrooms. On the second floor there is a large terrace surrounded by a beautiful mountain view where you can enjoy a cup of tea in the morning. There is ample space for children to play on the lawn. When you want to get outside, there is a beautiful gushing waterfall just a 2-minute walk from the property, where you can find tranquility surrounded by nature.
Elysian, Dehradun
Elysian is a beautiful 2 bedroom luxury villa in Dehradun. Located 20 minutes from Jolly Grant Airport, this pet-friendly villa offers the best views of the valley from the French doors in the bedrooms and living room. This homestay in Dehradun has a mix of earthy and modern vibes. The brick and stone structure of this boutique home houses modern amenities and furnishings – ideal for the best getaway for couples, small families and close friends. Foodies can delve into Indian and Chinese cuisine prepared by the in-house chef. Nearby tourist attractions include the ancient Buddha temples (18 km), Robber’s Cave (24 km) or multiple paragliding trips in Dehradun (20 km).
Cottage Glade, Dehradun
Cottage Glade is a 2 bedroom homestay located 60 minutes (34.5 km) from Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is near Sahastradhara Natural Spring (6 km), Robbers Cave (13 km) and Malsi Deer Park (9 km). Inspired by European wooden chalets, this cottage homestay near The Doon School was built as a home for families and friends looking to escape to the mountains for a detox getaway. While here, you can enjoy wholesome home-cooked meals and barbeque snacks prepared by the in-house chefs who will spoil you with local delicacies and cuisines.
Willow Castle, Bhimtal
Willow Castle is a 4-bedroom pet-friendly homestay in Bhimtal, surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Uttarakhand. It is an ideal holiday destination for a friend’s stay or a family getaway near Delhi and Chandigarh. The proximity to Bhimtal Lake (4 km) and other famous tourist spots (within 15 km) is a huge plus for those who want to enjoy the essence of Uttarakhand tourism. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the Himalayas from the homestay near Sattal as you sip your daily brew. This scenic house near Bhimtal Lake is dotted on all sides with trees such as the golden juniper and the pencil pine cypress.
Gardens On The Lake, Bhimtal
What could be better than waking up in the mountains, with a beautiful lake view for company? When you stay at Gardens On The Lake, a pet friendly 2 bedroom private homestay in Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, you wake up to breathtaking views of Bhimtal Lake in front of you and the mighty Himalayas around you. The tourist favorite Bhimtal Lake is just steps away. Take in views of the tranquil waters from the verdant green lawn of this unassuming abode as you sip a cup of chai. Your pet friends are welcome here with open arms! This pet-friendly retreat is ideal for small families and couples looking to relax in the hills.
El Sueno, Mukteshwar
El Sueno is a pet friendly 2 bedroom boutique villa in Mukteshwar, ideal for pet parents, couples, small families and close groups of friends. This eco-friendly villa is 3 hours from Pantnagar Airport (88 km) and 2 hours from Katgodham Railway Station (54 km). The routes are scenic and one of the best road trips in the Himalayas. It has an incredible structure of wood and stone, built according to the Koti Banal architectural style with an indoor fireplace, powder room and ensuite bathrooms. Take bike rides around the property or feel the warmth of a bonfire under the stars. For thrill seekers, there are several paragliding centers just a few hours away from this homestay in Mukteshwar.
Fourth, Bhimtal
Tucked away in a dense forest with infinite greenery all around, SaffronStays Fourest is an estate in Bhimtal, Uttarakhand that consists of 4 sets of 2 cottages each – 2 pine cottages, 2 bamboo cottages, 2 bamboo cottages and 2 pinewood cottages – a total of 8 chic and exclusive private cottages. Located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, these pet-friendly homestays are just 4 km away from Sattal Lake. There are heaters in the bedrooms of all cottages so that you can stay nice and warm in the winter. Devour authentic delicacies to suit your taste by the chef, freshly prepared on mud stoves (subject to availability). In these cottages, breakfast is included in the price.
The Amlyn, Manali
The Amlyn is a 6-bedroom homestay located on a hilltop in Vashisht, Manali. It is 15 minutes (3 km) from Manali Mall Road and 10 minutes (2 km) from Vashisht Temple and Geothermal Hot Springs. This homestay houses Duplex Suite and Couple Suites (2 individual suites) and Family rooms. The USP of this homestay in Manali is the 180° unobstructed view with the River Beas flowing below and the majestic Himalayas at your doorstep. Guests can enjoy delicious oriental and mughlai dishes prepared by the in-house chef. For evening tea time, head to the gazebo in the lush green lawn. Thrill seekers can hike to Jogni Falls, book a helicopter ride for a once-in-a-lifetime experience or enjoy skiing, paragliding and cable car rides at Solang Valley, just 30 minutes away.
Pine Cone Houses, Shimla
An hour’s drive from Shimla, these pet-friendly cottages are surrounded by a pine and oak forest with stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Just 20 km away from Jubbarhatti Airport, every nook and cranny of the private cottages has been lovingly designed by the homeowner: the seamless fusion of the wooden architecture, soft pastel colors and contemporary designs welcome you with a sense of warmth and tranquility. There is an onsite concierge who will treat you to delicious multi-cuisine meals. Not limited to this, let the staff arrange a hearty barbecue for you with a cozy campfire outside.
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