The Himalayas, with their tall peaks and peaceful valleys, have always drawn travellers like me. My recent trip, through this majestic region, was a quest for adventure and a deeper understanding of its rich culture. I chose to stay in local homestays instead of hotels to get a unique and intimate glimpse into the life of the Himalayas. Here’s a simple and heartfelt recount of my journey, subtly weaving in the delightful homestays that made my trip unforgettable.
My adventure began in Himachal Pradesh, known for its green valleys and tall pine trees. My first stop was Saroga Woods, a lovely homestay perched at the edge of the mountain in a village called Saroga in Thanedar. This place has a breathtaking 180-degree view of the mountains that I could just stare at for hours.
The hosts, Anu & Karthik, were very welcoming, offering hot cups of chai and warm smiles. Saroga wasn’t just a place to sleep; it was a gateway to the Himachali way of life. I joined the much-talked-about jam-making sessions and enjoyed taking walks in the pine forests and possible India’s first red apple orchards
Chatting with the locals for hours on end, I just felt a deep sense of peace and connection to the place. The warmth of the hospitality, the simplicity of life, and the connection to the land were all humbling and inspiring. I spent 3 days at Saroga, enveloped by the majestic presence of the mountains, their peaks piercing the sky – a sight that took my breath away.
After an epic start and a full heart, I continued on my journey to the charming colonial town – Shimla. It has a rich colonial history and beautiful Victorian architecture to go with it. My shelter for the night, of course, had to be a homestay that spoke of the charm of Shimla – The Sunnymead Estate. One of the oldest residential buildings in Shimla, it is a heritage cottage built at the turn of the last century that looks like it’s straight out of an English fairy tale. It has been restored multiple times and is currently looked after by our lovely host, Madhavi Bhatia, who moved from Delhi to take her family legacy forward.
There is so much to do around here, you could take walks to the Deodar forest or Potter’s Hill and just enjoy the serene views of the Himalayas. I ventured out to the central promenade “The Ridge” and experienced Shimla in all its colonial architecture and charm along with all the hustle and bustle of the tourists at the Mall Road. The famous Jakhu Temple and the gothic-styled Christ Church took me back in time.
The crisp mountain air, the picturesque landscapes, and the peaceful moments of reflection have rejuvenated my soul. This journey has been a gentle reminder of the beauty that lies in nature’s simplicity and the joy of discovering new corners of our world.
As I bid farewell to the enchanting hills of Thanedar and Shimla, I carry with me not just memories of breathtaking landscapes and serene orchards, but also the warmth of the people and the tranquility that these places emit. Until the mountains call me back (which I know will be sooner than I think), I will cherish these experiences and the sense of calm they have bestowed upon me.
