Six beautifully designed hidden gems to book in the mountains

The Hideaway Cottage, Kasauli

A perfect refuge from the din and chaos of cities, The Hideaway Cottage is a chalet in the cantonment town of Kasauli. One of the most popular hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, it is often described as a hiker’s paradise, surrounded by lush greenery and majestic mountains. The four-bedroom property is a structure made out of stones and wood, staying true to its surroundings. The rustic charm is elevated with the addition of modern amenities like a Jacuzzi, spa, home-theatre system in-house, bonfire and barbecue provision in the lush lawn. 

La Belle Vie, Nainital

Made using natural stone and reclaimed wood—as a home should be in the hills—this three-bedroom house is located in the quaint hill station of Naukuchiatal in Nainital, barely 100 metres away from the lake. Tucked between a forest and an eco-resort, La Belle Vie offers picturesque views in a lovely cottage-like setting. The house comes alive with its old-world charm, but isn’t too far away from amenities like the local market, restaurants, and recreational activities like nature walks, treks, boating and more. 

Araiya, Palampur

A boutique resort in the hills of Palampur, which is famous for its tea estates, Araiya opened just before the pandemic in 2020. Often frequented by celebrities who are seeking a moment of calm and seclusion, the resort has only 25 rooms but with luxury amenities including a rooftop restaurant opening to mountain views, a rejuvenating spa, a bar, swimming pool, and a fine-dining restaurant serving different cuisines including local delicacies from Kangra. Built using construction techniques local to the region, the property offers well-appointed rooms that blend Pahadi and colonial style of design with majestic views. 

El Sueno, Mukteshwar

If you are looking for something rustic, secluded, and surrounded only by natural beauty, this property checks all boxes. El Sueno is far away from the hustle and bustle, giving you complete privacy in the midst of nature. With only two bedrooms to offer, this house, made in the typical style of Koti Banal architecture with thick wooden logs and stone, is ideal for small groups. The log cabin-like house also has a lawn, a walking track, farm, and offers cycles, board games, bonfire sessions and more to keep visitors busy. 

Taara House Luxury Cottage, Manali

Opening to views of the Himalayan range and a pine forest in the backdrop, this cottage with two bedrooms is a labour of love by the host and their family. Done up in classic and mid-modern style, the house is made using reclaimed or recycled wood like Burma teak, English oak, and pine. It also features a glass house perfect for dining under the stars or indulging in some sunbathing. During winters, one can make use of the Indian fireplace or Bukhari, giving it a traditional Himachal touch.

Taara House Luxury Cottage is perched on a 6,600-feet hilltop, but is just 3 km away from the city centre giving you access to local tourist attractions.

Anand Kashi By The Ganges, Rishikesh

Opened in April 2022, this new boutique hotel in Rishikesh offers just 24 themed-rooms, and is nestled on the banks of holy Ganges. What was once the erstwhile residence of the Maharaja of Tehri Garhwal, is now a stay conceptualised on the Vedic ‘Panchamahabhuta’ philosophy of touch (Sparsh), taste (Kesari), sight (Dhrishti), sound (Ujala) and scent (Mehek), with breathtaking views of thick forests, lofty mountain ranges, lush fruit orchards and the Ganges. The hotel showcases Garhwali architecture with a contemporary touch.