We all need a break from city life, especially in the heat. But for a quick getaway, a 10-day holiday in the Swiss Alps may not be the easiest to plan, budget, and pull off. Fortunately, India is home to some of the loveliest mountain destinations that offer all the luxuries you desire for a well-deserved holiday. Homestays, boutique hotels, and private estates are some of the most charming options to consider—from a royal villa in the snow-capped mountains of Srinagar, to a country home in the cloudy hills of Coorg. To satiate your wanderlust, and pique your interest, Bazaar India brings seven hidden gems for a relaxing holiday. 

1. Mary Budden Estate, Binsar

Nestled in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Mary Budden Estate is an intimate luxury homestay with two private cottages. Named after its former owner, a British woman who resided here in the 19^th century, the heritage property is one of only five private estates in the preserved forests of the Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary. Situated 8,000 ft. above sea level, the five-acre estate offers spectacular views of the middle Himalayan range. While you’re here, don’t forget to step out for nature walks and discover the 200 species of birds found in the region.

2. Elakai, Munnar

Munnar is an ideal hill getaway if you enjoy lush surroundings, mountain views, and some much-needed peace and quiet. And this boutique villa offers you exactly that. Located in the heart of a private cardamom plantation, the sustainable, two-bedroom property has been built with locally-sourced materials. The modern interiors, sweeping hall, and spacious bedrooms are designed to relax, lounge, and soak in the views. Curl up in a wingback chair with a book and watch the day go by from the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, which offer panoramic views of the rich cardamom fields. If you’re feeling outdoorsy, tighten your laces and head out for a trek through the plantation. 

3. GlampEco, Manali

Camping in the snow may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but glamping? Sign us up! This ecospace near Manali, Himachal Pradesh features Geodesic Domes, which are aerodynamic, hemispherical structures built from an elaborate network of triangles. Situated 2,600 meters above sea level, the unique glamping tents face the Manali valley and the Dhauldhar mountain range. You can spend your days playing in the layers of pure-white snow, take a walk by the river, or pay the surrounding forests a friendly visit. If you enjoy stargazing, pack a pocket telescope to experience a night sky that city folk can only dream of. 

4. Glenburn Tea Estate, Darjeeling

 

One of the best ways to experience Darjeeling is to stay at a plantation retreat. Perched atop a hillock, Glenburn was started by a Scottish tea company back in 1859. The bungalows of this property overlook the Rangeet river, which forms a boundary between the districts of Darjeeling and Sikkim. That’s not all: another treat is the mighty Kanchenjunga range that towers above the estate. Inspired by Europe’s vineyards, Glenburn offers a unique tea estate experience to educate tourists about what goes into making a simple cup of tea. All the rooms in their two, colonial-style bungalows are equipped with antique furniture and nine-feet-tall windows to give you a clear view of the magnificent scenery around you.

5. Le Farm, Kamshet

A short drive away from the hustle-bustle of Lonavala, Le Farm is a six-bedroom villa in Kamshet, Maharashtra. Built on the backwaters of Vadiwale Dam, this luxury farmstay is spread across 15 acres of privately-owned land, and overlooks a serene lake with the vista of hills in the backdrop. As the paragliding capital of India, Kamshet is the ideal spot for those looking for a dose of adventure, for you can take a day trip to the Shinde Wadi hills to soar among the clouds. The sprawling gardens and luxurious bedrooms of Le Farm will be waiting to welcome you when you return from your excursions.  

6. School Estate, Coorg

Once home to a German missionary and now run by an Indian family, this boutique homestay in the foggy hills of Coorg is a delightful blend of nature, culture, and heritage. Whether you’re staying in one of their cosy cottages or a family room, you’ll have access to breathtaking views of their carefully-tended gardens, 200 acres of flourishing coffee and pepper plantations, and the lush beauty of the Western Ghats.

7. Karan Mahal, Srinagar

As the former residence of Dr. Karan Singh, the crown prince of Jammu & Kashmir, Karan Mahal is and abode fit for royalty. Adorned with handwoven Kashmiri carpets, this European style villa has housed illustrious guests such as Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, Joseph Campbell, and Edwina Mountbatten. Dating back to the 1920s, this property has witnessed the tumultuous history of Kashmir—and was under restoration for 10 years before reopening its gates in 2021. Karan Mahal overlooks the estate’s private orchard out front, the famous Dal Lake, and the Zabarwan mountain range in the North, as well as the snow-clad mountains of the Pir Panjal range in the South. With private performances by folk artists, age-old Kashmiri recipes from the royal kitchen, and well-trained staff that has been with the royal family for generations, Karan Mahal gives you an enviable taste of royalty.

 

Lead Image: karanmahalsrinagar on Instagram