Escape to Paradise: Himgiri Resorts, Dharamshala Awaits!
Escape to Paradise: Himgiri Resorts, Dharamshala Awaits! - A Review That's Actually Real (And Maybe a Little Messy)
Okay, so you're thinking about escaping to Dharamshala, eh? Smart move. Fresh air, mountains, the… well, the whole vibe is just different. And you're looking at Himgiri Resorts? Alright, let's dive in. I just got back, and honestly, my brain's still processing all the… well, everything. This review? It's gonna be a bit like my trip: a rollercoaster, sprinkled with moments of pure bliss and a few… let's call them "learning experiences."
First, the Big Picture: Accessibility (and a Gentle Reality Check)
Right off the bat: Accessibility. This is super important, so I'm gonna be brutally honest. While Himgiri does list "Facilities for disabled guests," and has an elevator (thank the heavens!), you need to call ahead and investigate specifically what accommodations they have. Think steep hills in the area: this isn’t exactly the flattest destination. I didn’t witness any blatant non-compliance, but I didn’t see a lot of obvious accessibility features beyond those core factors. So, dial them up, ask detailed questions, and get confirmation in writing. Don’t assume; verify. This is a mountain resort, after all.
Cleanliness and Safety - They Really Are Trying!
Okay, I have very high standards for cleanliness. Like, borderline-obsessive. And… I have to give Himgiri points here. In this post-pandemic world, they're trying. They boasted about anti-viral cleaning products, daily disinfection in common areas, and rooms sanitized between stays. I saw staff, trained in safety protocol, diligently wiping down surfaces. Hand sanitizer was everywhere. The staff wore masks (most of the time). I even saw evidence of sterilizing equipment. They also had individually-wrapped food options and sanitized kitchen and tableware items.
Now, the caveat: "trying" doesn't equal perfection. There's always room for improvement (a stray dust bunny here, a slightly smudged window there). But the effort was palpable, and that counts for a lot, especially in these strange times. They also employed physical distancing of at least 1 meter and offered room sanitization opt-out available (smart!).
Internet Access: Bless the Wi-Fi Gods!
Look, I'm a travel writer. I need internet access. Seriously. "Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!" I practically did a happy dance when I saw that. And it worked! Mostly. The Wi-Fi in public areas was decent too. They also offer Internet [LAN] if you feel old-school. The Internet [services] were reliable. No major outages, no epic buffering. Praise be!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: A Culinary Adventure (With Occasional Hiccups)
Alright, food. This is where things get interesting. Himgiri is a decent spot to eat. The Asian cuisine in restaurant was actually quite good, and they offered Asian breakfast! - I’d recommend this! They have an a la carte in restaurant option, which is helpful, but the main draw is the breakfast [buffet]. And holy cow, it was massive! Seriously, a feast. I gorged myself on everything from eggs to fruit. The fresh fruits were a daily delight. They really had something for everyone with the buffet in restaurant!
They’ve got a coffee shop, and, of course, the classic bottle of water. The poolside bar looked great, although I didn't spend any time using it. The restaurants themselves feel nice, with the option of sitting inside or on the patio, and offered a vegetarian restaurant.
There are also some options that they do offer: Happy hour (always a plus!), Soup in restaurant, Desserts in restaurant, the ever-present Salad in restaurant, and a simple Snack bar. They even have Room service [24-hour].
The Room: My Mountain Sanctuary (Mostly)
My room? Ah, my little mountain sanctuary. The air conditioning was a godsend, a welcome change from my day's adventures! The additional toilet was a luxury I didn't know I needed. The alarm clock actually… did its job! Bathrobes and slippers were very comfortable. The bathtub was HUGE (a must after a long day of trekking). The coffee/tea maker was clutch for those early mornings. The complimentary tea was a lovely touch. Daily housekeeping kept everything sparkling. The desk was perfect for working (when the Wi-Fi behaved!) and the extra long bed was a dream. Also, it had a hair dryer, in-room safe box, and mini bar. The satellite/cable channels were a nice bonus. The seating area was cozy. The separate shower/bathtub was divine. The smoke detector, and the soundproofing kept me sound all night.
The small, minor things that mattered to me: a mirror in the bathroom and the wake-up service was on-point. The Wi-Fi [free] and window that opens were very functional. There was also a complimentary tea that made my experience special.
Things To Do/Ways To Relax: Where the Magic Happens
This is where Himgiri truly shines. They have a swimming pool [outdoor] with beautiful views. I spent hours there, just staring at the mountains. The Pool with view is exactly what it sounds like: a perfect spot to soak up the scenery. They also have a fitness center (which I bravely contemplated, then skipped in favor of more chai). They have a Spa, and I highly recommend it. Their Massage was pure bliss. There's a Spa/sauna that I had to go into. They even offer a Body scrub, and Body wrap.
My Deep Dive into the Massage (aka My Personal Paradise)
Okay, let's talk about the spa. Because, honestly, it made the trip. I opted for a full-body massage. The therapist… ah, she was a miracle worker. An absolute genius of muscle manipulation. The room was dimly lit, the scent of essential oils filled the air, and for a glorious hour, all my worldly worries simply… vanished. I'm talking about a truly transcendental experience. Afterwards, I floated back to my room, completely relaxed and renewed. It was, hands down, the best massage I've ever had, and it's a major reason I'd return to Himgiri.
Services and Conveniences: The Nitty-Gritty Stuff
The air conditioning in public area was great! They had business facilities (for you corporate types), and offered a cash withdrawal, concierge, daily housekeeping, dry cleaning, elevator, and a laundry service. There's a gift/souvenir shop for those last-minute presents. They have the standard luggage storage, and safety deposit boxes. A Terrace for relaxing, and a smoking area.
For The Kids (And Those Still Young at Heart)
They’ve got Family/child friendly options, even with Kids facilities! There's also a Babysitting service if you need it.
Important Notes:
- Check-in/out [express] and Check-in/out [private].
- Non-smoking rooms.
- Pets allowed unavailable.
- Front desk [24-hour]
The Verdict: Should You Escape to Himgiri?
Overall? Yes. Absolutely. Himgiri Resorts isn't perfect, but it's a solid choice for a Dharamshala escape. The location is stunning, the staff is friendly, the spa is divine, and the Wi-Fi (mostly) works. The food is good, the rooms are comfortable, and they are trying to keep things safe and clean.
Now, For the Compelling Offer!
Tired of the Ordinary? Unleash Your Inner Explorer at Himgiri Resorts!
Escape the daily grind and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Dharamshala! Himgiri Resorts offers more than just a place to stay; it's a gateway to serenity and adventure.
Here's Why You NEED to Book NOW:
- Unforgettable Mountain Vistas: Wake up to panoramic views that will take your breath away. Imagine sipping your morning coffee overlooking the majestic Himalayas… pure bliss.
- Spa Paradise: Indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience that will melt away your stress. Our signature massages are legendary – trust me, you'll thank me later.
- Culinary Delights: Savor a diverse menu of delicious cuisine, from hearty breakfasts to flavorful dinners. Fuel your adventures with energizing meals.
- Comfort and Convenience: Relax in well-appointed rooms with modern amenities
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your grandma's itinerary. This is my Dharamshala adventure, and trust me, it’s going to be a wild ride. Himgiri Resorts? Yeah, we’re going there, and honestly, I have NO idea what to expect. Let's just say I'm packing my questionable fashion choices and a whole lotta hope.
Himgiri Hoo-Ha: My Dharamshala Diary of Delights (and Disasters)
Day 1: Arrival & Altitude Adjustments (or, the Day My Lungs Betrayed Me)
- Morning (Like, 5 AM Morning): Ugh, the flight. Don't even get me started. I swear I saw a baby projectile vomit on the plane. Karma, probably, for all the times I judged someone on a flight. Landed in Delhi, then the scenic (cough, cough) drive to Dharamshala. The air…thinner than a politician's promise.
- Afternoon: Arrived at Himgiri Resorts! Okay, first impressions: it's… rustic. Let's call it that. The view, though? BANGING. Mountains for days, green everywhere. I felt a pang of pure joy, which, let’s be honest, doesn't happen often. Checked in and promptly unpacked my entire suitcase, which, in retrospect, was a mistake. Because…
- Evening: This is where things got real. Trying to walk to the restaurant (which was, like, two minutes away) felt like climbing Everest. My lungs were SCREAMING. Altitude sickness? Possibly. Pure laziness? Also possibly. Ate dinner, which was actually pretty decent – a mountain of momos, thank you very much. But the real star? The fire crackling in the fireplace. Cozy vibes. I think I saw a squirrel peeking through the trees…it was delightful.
- Late Night: Passed out cold in bed. No, literally, I'm pretty sure I actually passed out. Still, the best sleep of my life, right after the flight.
Day 2: The Dalai Lama and My Existential Crisis (or, How I Questioned Everything)
- Morning: Attempted a yoga session. Emphasis on attempted. Let's just say my downward dog resembled a collapsed pretzel. The instructor was incredibly zen, which made my flailing even more embarrassing. The upside: the sunrise over the mountains during the stretches. Incredible.
- Mid-Morning: Visited the Tsuglagkhang Complex (the Dalai Lama's temple). Okay, this was… intense. People everywhere, chanting, spinning prayer wheels. I got a serious case of the chills (and not just from the mountain air). I even caught a glimpse of the Dalai Lama! It was a spiritual slap in the face - like, seriously, an honest look into the soul. I walked away feeling, well, inadequate in the best way possible – which resulted in a massive internal struggle. A sudden realization: I need more momos.
- Afternoon (Rambling Time): Found a tiny little cafe tucked away in a side street. Ordered a thukpa (noodle soup). Sat there, just… watching. Watching the monks walk by, the vendors selling their wares, the stray dogs, I suddenly realized that all of us are just out here, just existing. It was a moment, you know? A real, "Man, maybe I should change my life" moment. Then the soup arrived, and I forgot all about it. It was divine. Okay, back to reality.
- Evening: Went for a walk and bumped into a sweet doggo. He ended up following me back to the resort, and I had to leave him, which was devastating. Had dinner at the resort again… momos, naturally. I'm becoming a momo-holic. I got to know some families at the resort, and we talked about life, love, and the need of escaping to the mountains.
Day 3: Trekking Tribulations & Tea Terror (or, When I Almost Died From a Leaf)
- Morning: Trekking. Sounds fun, right? Wrong. Okay, it wasn't awful, but I chose the more challenging route because I'm obviously an idiot. Steep inclines, slippery rocks, and the air… still thinner than a supermodel's waistline. I swear a monkey laughed at me.
- Mid-Morning: Managed to make it to the top of a viewpoint. The vista was EPIC. Worth the near-death experience? Maybe. But the relief? Immense. I even saw a few eagles soaring above the clouds.
- Afternoon: Attempted to embrace the local culture. Decided to participate in a tea-tasting session. This is where things went downhill. I took a sip of the green tea, and choked. Coughing and sputtering, turning red. The instructor was unfazed (probably seen it all). I survived, but now I'm terrified of tea.
- Evening: Went to the local market. Bought way too many souvenirs (mostly things I'll never use). Found a tiny bookstore and bought a book just to avoid social interaction. Ate more momos. More mountain views. More existential dread. But also, more joy.
Day 4: The Search for Serenity & Farewell (or, Saying Goodbye to My Momo Supplier)
- Morning: Attempted to find the perfect place to just be. Walked through the dense forest, found a secluded spot near a bubbling stream. Sat there for hours, just… quiet. Listened to the birds, the wind rustling through the trees. Was amazing… until a mosquito bit me. Ruined the zen vibes.
- Mid-Morning: Went back to the market. Bought some prayer flags and tried to put them up by the lake.
- Afternoon: The day I finally realized how little I planned for this trip. I spent a great deal of time in the resort's library. The resort was really, really quiet, but it was also really, really beautiful.
- Evening: Final momo feast. Said farewell to the incredible staff at Himgiri. The last mountain sunset was a tear jerker. I actually felt a twinge of sadness leaving this place.
Day 5: Back to Reality (and the Quest for More Momos)
- Morning: Woke up with a massive headache (altitude? Dehydration? The lingering ghost of that awful tea?). Trudging back to the airport – which was, thankfully, uneventful.
- Afternoon: Landed back home. The contrast was jarring. The noise, the chaos, the lack of mountains… it was all too much, too soon. Immediately craved momos.
- Evening: Reflecting. Dharamshala wasn't perfect. There were moments of pure frustration, sheer exhaustion, and the occasional existential crisis. But it was also a place of incredible beauty, profound experiences, the most delicious momos, and a reminder that sometimes, the best adventures are the ones where you don't quite know what you're doing. Going back? Absolutely. But next time, I'm packing more snacks and less "aspirational" exercise gear. And yeah, maybe finding a good momo recipe.
So, Himgiri Resorts, Dharamshala... Is it *actually* paradise? You know, the whole "Escape to Paradise" thing?
Paradise? Oh, come on now. Let's be realistic. More like "Escape *Towards* Paradise, With a Few Scenic Detours." Look, the views are undeniably stunning. Picture this: I'm on my balcony, clutching a lukewarm cup of instant coffee (more on *that* later), and BAM! Snow-capped Dhauladhars right in my face. Jaw-dropping. Unforgettable. Makes you feel all zen... for about five minutes. Then reality hits. Like, "Hey, where's the hot water?"
But... the air! The crispness! And the sheer *silence* (minus the occasional herd of goats). It's a definite plus. So, paradise-adjacent? Yeah, I'm going with that.
What's the vibe like? Is it all couples canoodling or families screaming at each other?
Mixed bag, my friend. Very mixed. I saw a lot of both. There were definitely couples, holding hands and gazing into each other's eyes, probably plotting world domination in a ridiculously cute way. Then there were the families, the classic Indian family vacation, children running wild, parents trying to maintain some semblance of order. Bless their hearts. I actually witnessed one kid fling an entire plate of perfectly good butter chicken across the dining room. (I'm pretty sure I laughed.) It's real life, baby!
Honestly, it depends on your tolerance for… well, *people*. But the resort itself is large enough, it keeps the worst of the noisy types away from the quiet nooks.
Okay, the rooms. Are they actually nice? Because sometimes pictures lie, you know?
Alright, let's talk *rooms*. The photos? Inflated. Slightly, okay? They're not *hideous*, far from it. They're generally comfortable, mostly clean (except for that one mysterious stain on the carpet… I didn't investigate), and have those incredible views I mentioned.
But here's the thing: the hot water situation? A gamble. Sometimes it's a raging inferno, other times…a glacial drizzle. Be prepared for the shower roulette. And the Wi-Fi? Let's just say it's got a personality of its own, and it takes a real talent to find.
I'll tell you what, one morning, I *finally* coaxed the Wi-Fi into submission, got a few emails read and then – POOF! Gone! And that’s the story of my digital life there…
Give me the lowdown on the food. Because all the views in the world won't save a terrible meal.
The food... ah, the food. Okay, so, it's a mixed bag. The breakfast buffet? Solid. Lots of options, and the parathas are pretty darn good. But don't go expecting Michelin-star cuisine. It's hearty, filling fare. I learned to manage the buffet like a seasoned hunter: aim for the fresh stuff early.
The restaurant? Again, hit or miss. Some dishes were great: the butter chicken was a highlight. Others? Let's just say they were memorable for *different* reasons. One dinner, I ordered a dish that was supposed to be… well, I'm still not entirely sure what it *was*. Let's just say I ended up sticking to the safe choices after that. It wasn't terrible, but it wasn't exactly an experience I'd recommend either.
And for the love of all that is holy, bring your own coffee. That instant stuff? Ugh...
What about the Activities? Anything beyond staring at the mountains?
Activities! Yes, there are a few. Hiking is a must, of course, and the trails are easily accessible. They have a little activity room, mostly for kids, so if you're traveling as a couple, or an adult, you'll have to keep yourself busy. The little playground will keep the kids busy.
I, personally, spent a lot of time just *being*. That's the real activity, isn't it? Just breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the scenery. It's a real escape from the constant "go-go-go" of life.
Any hidden gems or things to watch out for? Spill the tea!
Okay, here's the insider info. Firstly, the staff is lovely. Generally helpful and friendly, though sometimes they can be a little… "relaxed" on the service front. Patience is a virtue, and it’s definitely required. Secondly, bring bug spray. Mosquitoes can be relentless, especially in the evenings. Thirdly, explore the surrounding areas. Dharamshala itself is amazing.
And finally? Don't expect perfection. Embrace the imperfections. Because that's where the real memories are made, right? Like that time I accidentally locked myself out on the balcony in the middle of the freezing night. Good times! (And a very grateful call to reception, in the end.)
The Pool! Is it a pool, or a glorified puddle?
The pool, ah yes, the pool! Okay, I'm going to be blunt. It's… fine. It's there. It's a pool. It's not Olympic-sized. It's not the most pristine pool I've ever seen. But, look, after a long day of hiking or exploring, a dip in the pool is pretty satisfying. The water was clear, the sun was shining... the only negative? I swear, they turn the jets off at about 4:30 PM. Which... WHY?! I wanted a post-dinner swim, but they just weren't having it. A missed opportunity in my book, but otherwise, a decent pool.
Let's talk about the location. Convenient? Secluded? A nightmare to get to?
The location is both a blessing and a curse. It's secluded – which is exactly what you want, right? You're escaping, leaving the hustle behind, it's great. Peace and quiet. But that also means… well, getting there can be an adventure. The roads are… let's just say they're a *character*. Expect winding routes, potential traffic, and the occasional landslide (it *is* the Himalayas, afterCheap Hotel Search
