Escape to Himalayan Paradise: Hotel Himgiri, Dalhousie Awaits!
Alright, buckle up Buttercups, because we're diving HEADFIRST into the misty, magical world of Hotel Himgiri in Dalhousie! Escape to Himalayan Paradise… or at least, trying to. Reviews are NEVER simple, are they? Let's get down and DIRTY (metaphorically, of course, unless you're REALLY into mud baths. Which, hey, no judgement!).
First Impressions… (and the Struggle to Get There)
Okay, let's be brutally honest, Dalhousie is NOT easy to get to. It feels like you're negotiating a deal with the Himalayas themselves, one hairpin turn at a time. But! Finally, after the white-knuckle ride, it's… well, it’s Himgiri. The first thing that hits you? The view. Seriously, it's breathtaking. I mean, genuinely, gasp-for-air, Instagram-worthy breathtaking. You can see why they call this "Paradise".
Accessibility (and the Dreaded Stairs!)
This is a big one for me personally. My knees are… well, let's just say they have opinions. And sadly, while Himgiri attempts accessibility, it’s not perfect. While the website boldly proclaims “Facilities for disabled guests”, there is no clear description (a major oversight, Hotel Himgiri!). I saw an elevator - a HUGE plus. But… the lay of the land felt a bit… stair-heavy, especially in reaching various viewpoints and the spa. So, if you've got mobility issues, call ahead. Really call ahead and ask about specific room access and how easy it will be to navigate to your room. This area needs serious improvement. Otherwise, this would definitely be a minus for me.
The Room: Cozy, But… Needs a Friend.
I got a slightly 'meh' room, not a super luxury room. It was clean, thank goodness. I mean, you're in the mountains, you expect a little… mountain-ness, right? (A bit of dust here or there). They've got "Air conditioning" – gasp – and even a "Hair dryer" (phew!) The "Free Wi-Fi" worked… sometimes. But hey, they had "Complimentary tea" and "Free bottled water" so… I survived! The "Bathtub" was a major plus after the travel. Seriously. The "Linens" were perfect, and the bed was comfy enough I could have stayed there all day. But it wasn't the pinnacle of luxury. It was functional with a view. Also, "Blackout curtains" were a lifesaver for sleeping in.
Internet, Internet, Where Art Thou?
Okay, Wi-Fi and internet access. The hotel claims "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" And, yeah, sometimes it worked. Other times, well, let's just say the Himalayas were blocking the signal. It wasn't the speediest, especially if you're trying to upload your stunning photos or watch a movie. "Internet access – LAN" was available, but I didn't try it (who packs a LAN cable these days?). If you need reliable internet for work or video calls, this might be a sticking point.
Food Glorious Food! (and My Ramen Moment)
Dining… This is where Himgiri REALLY shines. The "Restaurants" were great. They offer "Asian breakfast," "Asian cuisine in restaurant" and "Western breakfast," and "International cuisine in restaurant". The “Breakfast [buffet]” was pretty good, but it's the "A la carte in restaurant" menu that truly captivated me. I am a sucker for a good "Soup in restaurant" and I indulged in a "Desserts in restaurant". The "Happy hour" at the "Bar," however, was a treat after a long day of hiking. My taste buds, they loved me here. I'd give this a big ol' thumbs UP.
- Anecdote Time!: I will admit, one night, I was starving. I found myself staring at my phone, contemplating a late-night ramen delivery. My phone gave up (no signal). So, I trudged down to the restaurant (thank god it was open) and ate some delicious, warm, and welcoming, "Salad in restaurant" that completely and utterly saved my life. It was just what I needed.
Things to Do: Relaxation & Recreation (aka, Spa Time!)
Oh, yes. Here's where we get to the good stuff! The "Spa" at Himgiri is a must; it’s probably the main draw. The "Sauna" was heavenly, and the "Steamroom" was… steamy! I opted for a "Massage" (natch!) and it was… well it worked! I also took a dip in the "Swimming pool [outdoor]" which had "Pool with view" – seriously, the views! The "Fitness center" was… there. I took a quick peek. It had equipment. I didn't use it, but the option was available! They don't have a "Body scrub" or "Body wrap," which would have been a massive plus for a full spa experience, but this is a good spa.
Cleanliness and Safety: Keeping Germs at Bay
This is obviously a big concern these days. Himgiri seemed to take it seriously. I saw "Hand sanitizer" everywhere. The staff wore masks. "Daily disinfection in common areas" was a definite plus. My room "Rooms sanitized between stays". They've got "First aid kit" and "Doctor/nurse on call" (which I thankfully didn't need!). It felt safe in terms of cleanliness, which really put my mind at ease.
Services & Conveniences: The Small Stuff that Matters
They offer a "Concierge." The "Cash withdrawal" was helpful. "Laundry service" and "Dry cleaning" are available. "Luggage storage" was super convenient. The "Doorman" was friendly. One thing that's a bit lacking: a decent "Gift/souvenir shop". But those aren’t that important. The "Front desk [24-hour]" staff were helpful.
For The Kids (and the Inner Kid)
The "Family/child friendly" label is mostly accurate. "Babysitting service" is a plus. "Kids facilities" are available.
Getting Around: Roads and Ruts
"Airport transfer" is available, which is probably a good idea, given the mountain roads. There's "Car park [free of charge]" – a total essential! You can arrange a "Taxi service".
Overall Impression & My Honest Opinion
So, would I come back to Hotel Himgiri, Dalhousie? Absolutely. It's not perfect. (And, dude, the accessibility needs serious improvement.) But the location, the views, the food, the spa, and the fact that I felt safe and cared for, made this a lovely stay. It's a great base for exploring Dalhousie and a solid choice if you’re looking for a relaxing escape.
But… (and there's ALWAYS a but!)
The key to enjoying Himgiri is setting your expectations. This is not a five-star, ultra-luxurious experience. It's a comfortable, clean, and friendly hotel that's got incredible potential and is in a stunning location. My honest suggestion? Go for the view, go for the spa, go for the food, but be prepared for a few mountain quirks! Just call ahead, DOUBLE CHECK accessibility, and pack some patience.
My Special Offer for You! (Because I believe in the mountains and the magic of travel!)
Book your escape to Hotel Himgiri, Dalhousie, NOW and receive:
- A guaranteed room on a HIGH FLOOR with a panoramic view (subject to availability!).
- One complimentary spa treatment (your choice!)
- A bottle of local wine upon arrival (to toast those breathtaking views!)
- A discount on your first dinner at the restaurant!
But here's the kicker: This offer is only valid for the next 72 HOURS! Don’t miss out on this chance to escape to Himalayan paradise!
Click here to book NOW and claim your special offer! (Insert a link here in the real world, obviously!)
(Disclaimer: Hotel Himgiri has no idea I wrote this. This is just ME, rambling, being honest, and trying to make your trip awesome!)
Discover Paradise: Unforgettable Houseboat Stays in Srinagar's Hunza Group
Okay, buckle up, buttercups, because this isn't your sanitised, Instagram-filtered travel guide. This is my Dalhousie diary, and Hotel Himgiri is the hero, the villain, and the narrator all rolled into one. Warning: May contain rambling, existential dread over buffets, and an unhealthy obsession with the views. Here we go…
Day 1: Arrival (and the Great Butter Chicken Debacle)
- 10:00 AM: Touchdown in Pathankot. Or, as I'm now calling it, "The Gateway to Dramatic Mountain Scenery and Questionable Airport Taxi Deals." The drive to Dalhousie. I can barely breathe and I'm so excited.
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at Hotel Himgiri! Okay, first impressions: charmingly dated. Think "Bollywood meets Swiss chalet"…with a slightly faded paint job. But the lobby! The view! Just… breathtaking. Those mountains, they actually are majestic. I'm already feeling like a Bollywood heroine, ready to burst into song (and probably cry a little from the altitude).
- 1:30 PM: Lunch at the hotel restaurant. I get overly excited for the famous butter chicken. The food. It looks amazing. I take a bite, it is amazing, I love it. Oh man, it's great. I eat two plates of butter chicken.
- 2:30 PM: Room Check-In. My room is…adequate. The bed looks comfortable, and again, the view! Oh, the view! Mountains, mist, a slight feeling of "lost in a John Ford western." I settle, because I'm really tired from the travel, and I sleep for an hour.
- 4:00 PM: Local Market Stroll (and the Quest for the Perfect Shawl). The hotel suggested a walk in the local market. It's all crowded and there are a lot of people, but I can't help but love the shops, it's a cute and local place. The shopkeepers are friendly, but intense. I have not the courage to haggle. I buy a pink shawl. I also find a weird but really amazing dried fruit that I can't resist.
- 7:00 PM Dinner: I skip dinner because I had too much butter chicken. I'm lying on my bed with a full stomach and a sense of peace, watching the sunset. It is beautiful.
Day 2: Khajjiar (The Mini-Switzerland…or Is It?)
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast Buffet…The Battle Begins. I approach the buffet. I fill a small plate with various items. I'm overwhelmed.
- 10:00 AM: Khajjiar Excursion. The hotel arranges a car (which also means a driver with… opinions) to Khajjiar, the "Mini-Switzerland" of India. The drive is pure visual poetry. The roads wind, the mountains loom, and I keep muttering, "Is this real life?" The driver, bless him, keeps pointing out landmarks, and is a bit of an overtalker.
- 11:30 AM: Khajjiar: The Verdict? Okay, it's pretty. Very. A green meadow, a lake, a temple… it's postcard-perfect. But "mini-Switzerland?" Maybe if Switzerland had a slightly dusty, slightly chaotic charm and a lot of people trying to sell you things.
- 12:30 PM: Horseback Riding (Or, How I Learned to Appreciate My Own Two Feet). I decide to be adventurous and try horseback riding. Let's just say, I'm not a natural. My poor, underappreciated core muscles. The horse seems to feel sorry for me. I laugh a lot and try not to fall off.
- 1:30 PM: Lunch in Khajjiar: I find a cute little shack and have tea and momos.
- 3:00 PM: Return to Hotel. I'm tired, but happy. The drive is lovely. I'm so glad I get to take in the beauty of the mountains.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner at the hotel. After my day, I need a good meal. I get the best food, and the best tea, and I sleep like a baby.
Day 3: Kalatop and the Lost Forest (and My Existential Crisis Over a Waterfall)
- 9:00 AM: The Buffet Strikes Again. I find my routine in the breakfast buffet, and I eat it happily.
- 10:00 AM: Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary Trek: This is the "activity" day! We are all excited.
- 10:30 AM: The Trek Begins. The trek is lovely. I'm a slow hiker which is probably making the rest of my group mad, but I don't care. The trail is amazing. I feel like it is so rewarding.
- 12:00 PM: The waterfall… I sit down by the waterfall and quietly take in the views. This is beautiful. It is so great to be here.
- 1:00 PM: Picnic Lunch. I eat lunch. Then, I find a bench and I sit down and think about life and existence. Is there something more?
- 3:00 PM: Back to the hotel. I feel rejuvenated.
- 7:00 PM: Final Dinner at the Hotel, the Farewell Butter Chicken (Maybe). I ponder my existence when I read over the dinner menu. Should I get butter chicken one more time? Or, should I be brave and try something else?
- 8:00 PM: Packing Time. I'm not so sad. I had an amazing time, met some amazing people, and made some wonderful memories.
Day 4: Departure (and the Post-Dalhousie Blues)
- 9:00 AM: Last Breakfast and the Buffet's Final Embrace. I face the buffet one last time. I am sad it will be ending.
- 10:00 AM: Check Out and Farewell to the Mountains. I say goodbye.
- 12:00 PM: Departure for the airport, full of fond memories, a slightly expanded waistline, and a desperate need for a detox. The drive back is slow, but I'm happy. I hope I can come back. So, here goes nothing.
Postscript: Hotel Himgiri, you were a mixed bag. The view was divine. The food was mostly good (except for that one time I tried the… ahem… "continental breakfast"). The staff, bless their hearts, were relentlessly helpful. And me? Well, I think I left a little piece of my soul in those mountains. Now, where's that pink shawl…?
Bandung's BEST Syariah Homestay: SPOT ON 91393 Budiluhur 10 Awaits!
So, you're thinking of "Escape to Himalayan Paradise: Hotel Himgiri," huh? Brace yourself. Here's the REAL deal... or at least, my highly opinionated take on it.
Okay, first things first: Is it actually *in* Dalhousie? Because some places... mislead you, you know?
Well, technically... YES. It IS in Dalhousie. But "in" Dalhousie in the same way breathing is "in" existing. You're *there*, but you might still be wandering around, trying to find the "heart" of Dalhousie. Think of it like this: you're in a really pretty, really chilly suburb of Dalhousie. Which... is totally fine! Don't get me wrong. The *views*... oh, the views. More on those later. Just, don't expect to stumble into the Mall Road immediately. You'll probably need a taxi (which, by the way, bargain like your life depends on it!). My taxi driver... bless his heart... he got us lost *twice*. Twice! We ended up in a goat pasture the first time. A GOAT PASTURE! He blamed the signal. I think he just wanted to extend the meter. (Slightly bitter, me? Maybe.)
What's the food like? Because I'm a foodie, and I need fuel for my mountain adventures.
Alright, the food... this is where things get interesting. It's... *basic*. Don't expect Michelin-star cuisine. Do expect... decent enough meals. They had the usual suspects: Butter Chicken (pretty good, actually!), Dal Makhani (standard, but comforting), and some vegetable dishes that... well, they *were* vegetables. I remember this one time... (oh, the memory!) ...I ordered the "Chicken Curry." And it arrived, and it looked... a bit anemic. Not the vibrant, spicy curry I craved. More of a "Chicken... stew?" The waiter (a wonderfully kind young man, though bless his heart, a bit flustered) saw my face and immediately offered extra chilies. Bless him. And you know what? Once I drowned it in chilies... it was actually pretty delicious. Pro tip: Ask for extra spice. Always. You might want to bring your own hot sauce, just in case.
The views! Are they as breathtaking as the pictures? Because I've been burned before by misleading travel pics.
OH. MY. GOD. The views. Okay, yes. The pictures? They don't lie. They might even *under*sell it. I'm not even kidding. I'm usually cynical, a jaded travel veteran. But... the mountains... they just... *loom*. In the best possible way. My room (I paid extra for a "mountain view" room, and DO IT. Seriously.) overlooked this panorama of snow-capped peaks. And the light! The way the sun played on the snow at different times of day… it was like a constantly evolving painting. I spent HOURS just staring out the window. I literally skipped a day of hiking because I couldn't tear myself away from the view. Judgemental glances from my travel companion? Oh, yes. Worth it? Absolutely. I think I saw a herd of yak once. Or was it goats? Hard to tell from that distance. Doesn't matter. It felt magical. *Take me back*.
The rooms? Are they clean and comfortable? I’m not looking for luxury, just… not squalor.
Clean? Mostly. Comfortable? Yes. Luxury? Hah! Think 'cozy mountain lodge' rather than 'five-star hotel'. My room was... well, it was clean enough. The bed was perfectly acceptable, though the pillows were a bit... flat. And the heating! Ah, the heating. It was... *sporadic*. One minute you're roasting, the next you're contemplating wearing all your clothes and sleeping in your hiking boots. Bring extra layers! But honestly, after a day of trekking around the mountains, you won't care that much. The hot water? That's the real gamble. Sometimes plentiful, sometimes a mere trickle. It's all part of the "charm," I tell myself. Or, you know, part of the "adventure". Right? Right.
What's the Wi-Fi like? Because I need to stay connected (work, you know, important stuff…).
Wi-Fi? Ha! Consider it a *suggestion* rather than a guarantee. It's there, technically. But it's... temperamental. Like a moody teenage boy. Some days it works, some days it doesn't. Some days it's lightning fast, other days it's glacial. Plan to unplug. Really. Embrace it. Pretend you're living in the pre-internet era. It might actually be good for you. I managed to check emails (sporadically), but anything requiring actual bandwidth (video calls, large downloads) was a no-go. This could be a *blessing* though. Think about all the stuff you can do without the incessant ping of notifications.... You might actually enjoy it. Or just be incredibly, incredibly frustrated.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, in theory. They have family rooms, which I peeked at. Seemed big enough to accommodate a family, but...well, it's not the kind of place with organized kids' clubs or extensive playgrounds. If you're expecting constant entertainment for the little ones, maybe reconsider. But if your kids are happy to explore, play in the (limited) open spaces, and enjoy the views, it could work. It's more "rustic family adventure" than "luxury family resort." Just visualize your kids running around, and prepare for a slight lack of...well the usual.
Overall, would you recommend it? Be honest!
Okay, here's the lowdown. Would *I* recommend it? Yes. But with caveats! If you're looking for a flawless, luxurious experience, this isn't it. If you NEED seamless Wi-Fi and gourmet meals, move along, nothing to see here. But if you're craving breathtaking views, some peace and quiet (except for the occasional rooster, good lord!), and an authentic experience, then YES. Go! Embrace the quirks. Embrace the adventure. Embrace the potential for a truly memorable trip, even if it's a little... messy... around the edges. Just... pack extra socks. And maybe some snacks. And definitely a sense of humor. You'll need it.
