Amazing Himalayan Homestay Experience Near Naggar (Manali, Himachal) Disclaimer:- I am in no way associated with this place. Its just that I feel that more people on forums like this should be aware of the hidden gems like this homestay.
I had driven down to Manali from Delhi for a few peaceful days in the solitude of the Himalayas. The intent was to stay as far away from Manali town as possible, and yet enjoy the beautiful vistas of the valley. Thats when I chanced upon one Mr Vijay, the owner of the homestay that I am going to write about. One look and me and my wife fell in love with the place. The sheer beauty and serenity of the place are difficult for me to put down in words. I have travelled a lot in Himachal and Uttarakhand, and I always make it a point to stay in homestays that give a true local flavour of the place. But this place was by far the most beautiful that I have come across. Its the kind of place I feel would be perfect for writers to just gather their thoughts and pen them down. The Homestay
For beginners, this homestay would be fancied by those who love the Himalayas and ever so often keep on getting the urge to head back to the high hills, but find popular tourist places too crowded and commercialized.
Its located about 6-7 kms from Naggar on the road towards Jana Waterfalls (you would find Jana Waterfalls on google). From the Naggar –Jana road, there’s a detour of about a km or so to this place.
It’s an isolated property away from hum and drum of even the Himalayan villages. The location is picturesque and almost straight out of some story book.
The property itself is large with an area of more than an acre or so. There are apple trees, a few fields and a beautiful sitting area within the premises. Beyond these are the beautiful deodar forests. Sitting in the balcony, you would get a beautiful view of the Himalayan ranges in front, which are covered in snow from Dec to Apr / May.
The building itself is done completely in the traditional local style, with interiors finished in wood. There are two rooms, both having comfortable mattresses for sleeping on. Wood is in abundant supply and a Sigri would keep you comfortable in those cold winter nights.
Toilet is nice and clean with running hot / cold water. There’s a kitchen where you could cook yourself, or the cook arranged by the owner would do the needful for you. Caveats
The last km detour to this homestay from the Naggar – Jana road is a kutcha stretch. Most vehicles would not be able to ply on this stretch. Best option is to park your car near this detour (which is safe, as I had also parked my car for 3 nights), and finish the last km stretch on the owners humble but very capable Maruti 800. Tariff
I was charged 1000 Rs per person per night, inclusive of breakfast and dinner. I personally felt it was absolutely worth the amazing experience that I had. Contact Details
The owner is Mr Vijay, available on 9882268167. PS
If you do intend staying here, don’t forget to travel 5 kms further to Jana Waterfalls for the lip smacking Pahari food served by a Dhabha run by local village women there. Trust me, I have never had better Pahari food like Siddu, Lingar vegetables, Rajma rice and makki ki roti anywhere else.
Cheers. |