Built in the mid 60’s the cottage is truly a work of outstanding Himalayan artistry. Built purely out of stone and wood with an old world charm. It has previously been occupied by the Forest department up till the 80’s. Post which the cottage regained it’s intended role as a base for an apple plantation. It has now been restored and is run as a home-stay by the family. The list of fruiting plants and vegetables grown here is endless.
While the Lodge is set in an orchard, in terms of acreage it is huge, the number of actual guests rarely exceed 8, making for a very personalized and intimate experience.
The lodge is equipped with four well appointed rooms with all basic conveniences. Two spacious Living rooms and a functional kitchen, plenty of outdoor recreational areas. The lodge offers something that is all too quickly disappearing on the planet peace, stillness, and an opportunity to disconnect while simultaneously reconnecting with nature, another culture and themselves. We try to serve only what we can source locally. This not only keeps the food fresh, but it means that we support local families. Around 80% of what you find here is sourced from a local radius..
Things to know
• Our Homestay is a 5 minute walk (350 meters) from the main road. The property is built on a slope and we do not operate a lift due to the construction style. You would need to climb stairs to reach your rooms and dining space. There will be harmless insects and flies in and around the property especially during the monsoon season due to the flora. Being in a natural environment all these insects etc. are a part of the eco system here.
• We’d love to have you stay with us, but we don’t recommend it for children or older individuals. Considering the property’s nature and considering the needs of many of our guests . If you’re travelling with children or older individuals and think you’d be a good match at the lodge, please contact us.
One question on the mind of the visitors is that what is the best time to visit the region.
March to June – Summer begin by the mid of April with just the right amount of nip in the air, for travelers keen on seeing snow, snow is accessible on various hikes and drives right up to the end of June. As the snow melts on the higher reaches it gives way to lush green meadows and a riot of colorful wild flowers.
July to september– The beginning of the south west monsoon opens the way to the Pangi valley, which is accessible only during these three months. This is also the season when the apple plucking is in full swing, traveler’s can get a glimpse of the apple plucking, packaging process.
October to December- The post monsoon is another beautiful time of the year to visit the area as the weather is stable and promises bright sunny days. The inhabitants begin preparing for the onset of winter, most of the trails and drives are accessible.
Tariff
Single occupancy per night: 2,400/-
Double Occupancy per night: 4,700/-
Includes:
All veg Meals (Breakfast)
Stay
Power backup.
Facilities
• Running Hot Water
• Power Back up
• Seating Areas
• Bonfire (Paid)
• Laundry • (Paid)
• Pick and Drop Service (Paid)
• Guides and taxis for Day excursions (Paid)
Bookings can be made on the phone and are confirmed only after receiving the full advance by draft/deposit in our HDFC bank within two days of request. To make a booking 30% of the total booking amount is to be paid in advance.
Cancellation policy:-
1) If canceled 28 days in advance, full refund.
2) If canceled between 28 and 14 days in advance, 50% refund.
3) If canceled less than 14 days in advance, no refund.
4) Long-duration stays have no refund policy in case of change (reduction) in the number of days of stay once the guest has checked in.
5) Instead of cancelation, the option of postponing or change of dates is possible depending on the availability of future dates.
6) In exceptional circumstances where the Host is not able to honor the confirmed booking owing to ‘Force Majeure’. A refund from the host will be initiated.
7) In case of COVID-19-related administrative restrictions – lockdown state or national, a refund will be initiated.
In and around the lodge – there is a plethora of walking trails in and around the lodge, one can spend the way walking through the apple orchard or simply walk down to the river for some quiet time. The lodge is an ideal setting for conducting workshops and short courses on subjects such as yoga , wellness, art and writing. Evenings can be spent around a cozy fire, firing up the barbecue or in one of the living rooms playing board games.
All distances mentioned starting from New Delhi –
By Car – (600 km) 12- 14 hours
The best way to reach here is by driving yourself – route description
Delhi – Chandigarh – Pathankot – Banikeht – Bathri – salooni – Bhandal
By Bus – You may take the overnight Volvo bus to Dhalousie, Pick up / drop can be arranged .(added cost)
By Rail – You have the option to take an over night train journey to Pathankot, Pick up / drop can be arranged (added cost).
By Air – There is an option of direct flights from Delhi to Pathankot three times a week. Pick up / drop can be arranged( added cost).
Distances from the lodge –
Delhi -625
Chandigarh – 376 km
Pathankot – 146 km
Dharamshala – 172 km
Chamba town – 60 km
Dhalousie – 82 km
