Want to experience the divine beauty of Ranikhet? This time look beyond Ranikhet hotels and immerse yourself in the enthralling views of this Uttarakhand hill station by staying at cozy homestays. We recommend these homestays for travellers, willing to go an extra mile for an authentic travel experience. Charming, comfortable and private – these experiential stays will woo you to skip hotels and give them a shot!

Mistletoe Estate 

Craving for a peaceful vibe away from the city? We hear you! Soak in the misty morning views of pristine hills by staying at Mistletoe Estate, a rustic farmhouse, located just 22 km away from Ranikhet. This farmhouse offers a tastefully done chalet, which is surrounded by a lush green cover of Oaks, Cedars, Rhododendrons, Cypress, and Pine trees. The serene location, refreshing views of the beautiful landscapes of Ranikhet and the whimsical décor theme, comprising of antique artifacts and paintings add character to this farmhouse. You can take a stroll to the orchards and the nearby village, enjoy stargazing at night, or just keep to yourself by reading a good book.

A stay at this place is the perfect getaway for couples and artistic souls, or anyone who’s interested in spending a private stay experience. If you book a bedroom set at this farmhouse, you can have this place all to yourself and enjoy the home-cooked meals prepared by the in-house chef.

Book Your Stay at Mistletoe Estate

Read more: Find top-rated homestays in Ranikhet with the best hill views.

Roseville Cottage

There’s nothing like experiencing the beauty of Ranikhet than by staying at a cozy cottage, tucked away from the crowded spots. And if your stay comes with a view of the mesmerizing mountains, it’s quite a bonus really! So, if you’re interested in staying at a cottage stay near Ranikhet, look no further than Roseville Cottages and consider yourself lucky if you manage to find an available room here. You’ll absolutely love the homely vibe here! Set in the beautiful village of Majkhali, which is 12 km away from Ranikhet, Roseville Cottages is surrounded by pine and deodhar trees and offers lovely rooms with attached balconies. On a clear day, you can even get a good view of the Trisul Mountain from this cottage and experience a divine sunset in the evenings.

Start off your day with a small trek around the village and get a peek into the local life. Live the good old slow life by spending leisurely mornings with a cup of chai or coffee and a book, you’ve been meaning to read for quite some time. If you’re a nature lover, delight yourself by listening to the soothing chirping of birds. There’s also a cook and a caretaker at the property to make your stay comfortable.

Roseville Cottages is a great choice for travellers who are interested in an experiential stay rather than the usual Ranikhet hotels. This cottage is well-suited for those travelling with family or small groups. But even if you’re a solo traveller who’s looking for a break from routine life, we highly recommend a stay at Roseville Cottages. You can enjoy a continental breakfast and Indian cuisine here. There are great options for vegetarian folks as well!

Book Your Stay at Roseville Cottage

Read more: Best Places to Stay During Your Manali Trip

Nayalap 

How about experiencing the natural beauty of Ranikhet with a dash of luxury? Say hello to glamping in Nayalap!

Nestled in Shitlakhet, Nayalap offers luxury tent accommodation with ample space and cozy interiors. The tents are well spaced out from each other in such a way that you can enjoy your privacy. With its fantastic location, Nayalap offers excellent views of the Trisul, Nanda Devi and Nandakot peaks. If you’re a couple or a solo traveller, who’s interested in staying in the lap of nature, Nayalap is just the place for you. The tents are surrounded by pine forests, which gives you that perfect ‘closer to nature’ experience. Although you can’t expect a TV or Wi-Fi here, you’ll be impressed with the host of facilities available in the tents. 

As far as food options go, enjoy home-cooked meals from the Indian cuisine during your stay. If you like Pahari dishes, make sure you try their Kumaoni preparations. To get a true sense of the local life, make sure you venture out to the nearby areas and check out the local farms. It’s the perfect way to acquaint yourself with the locals and interact with them.

Book Your Stay at Nayalap

Camp Bliss 

Fancy a colonial touch in your stay? Check out Camp Bliss, your not-so-usual kind of accommodation in the hills of Ranikhet! Nestled at a height of 1830 meters in the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, Camp Bliss features luxury Swiss tents and Colonial rooms. Spread across a sprawling seven acres of land, this place is surrounded by riveting landscapes and nature trails waiting to be explored. Camp Bliss is located near the cantonment area so the surrounds are well-maintained with good roads. While the camps offer that earthy experience of soaking in the wilderness of the hills, a stay at the Colonial Cottages will remind you of the old world charm of Colonial times. This stay is ideal for group travellers and couples.

Book Your Stay at Camp Bliss

Vue Sur La Montagne Chalet 

Want a mountain home all to yourself? Look forward to a delightful stay at this French architecture inspired mountain-view chalet in Majkhali. The property is structured on two levels with spacious bedrooms, a living room, and a kitchenette. You’ll fall in love with the beautiful interiors, featuring a decorative fireplace. While there are 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on the lower level, there is 1 bedroom with a balcony on the upper level of the chalet. There’s a huge bay window in every room that makes for a great view of the mountains and valley.

Soak in the scenic views the Someshwar valley, well-maintained lawns, and the Himalayan peaks from the charming patio of this mountain home. If you’re travelling to Ranikhet, somewhere around September to February, you can enjoy the best views from the upper deck. In the evenings, you can request for a barbeque outside and enjoy the lovely weather. 

Book Your Stay at Vue Sur Montagne

 A fast-growing tourist destination, the country of Wales is rooted in medieval history complete with castles and monuments that tell of a glorious past. Aside from its heritage, Wales is noted for its picture perfect views comprising mountains, bays and a vast countryside with villages and towns that take you back in time. Here are things to do in Wales during your holiday. 

Cardiff

The capital of Wales, the port city of Cardiff lies in the southern part of the country. The hub of activity in Cardiff is the bustling Cardiff Bay. Here, along with restaurants, cafes and bars, you can find prominent buildings including the open amphitheatre style plaza called Roald Dahl Plass, an educational science and discovery centre and planetarium called Techniquest and the home of the Welsh National Opera, the Wales Millennium Centre.  The St. Fagans National History Museum depicting the social history of Wales, the Gothic style Cardiff Castle built on the remains of Norman and Roman ruins and the Anglican Llandaff Cathedral built in the 12th century are also notable sites worth visiting in Cardiff.  For some fun and relaxation, head to Mermaid Bay, a boardwalk on the waterfront with shopping, dining and recreational activities.

Read more: 4 New Zealand Road Trips That Will Make You Want to Hit the Road Right Now

Swansea

Wales’ second largest city, the coastal city of Swansea has much to see and do including the Swansea Castle located in the center of the city and the Swansea Guildhall with its art-deco clock tower. Other must-visits in Swansea are the Clyne Gardens with its National Collection of plants set in picturesque parkland and the Dylan Thomas Centre housing works and exhibits dedicated to the famous Welsh poet. Enjoy your time at Swansea Bay with its many beaches and at the National Waterfront Museum with its collection of maritime, transport, technology and retail artefacts. Movie buffs would be interested to know that Hollywood actress Catherine Zeta Jones was born in Swansea!

Snowdonia

Snowdonia, located in the northern region is home to the Snowdonia National Park, one the three designated national parks in Wales spanning over 2100 square kilometres. The topography comprises deciduous forests where the Snowdon lily, an artic-alpine plant can be found. Among the species of wildlife that inhabit the national park are feral goats, polecats, otters and a variety of birds like ospreys and red kites. The Snowdonia Mountain Railway that takes visitors to the top of Mount Snowdonia is a great way to see the picturesque terrain. 

Conwy

Set against a picturesque quay set against a mountainous backdrop, the walled town of Conwy is synonymous with the quaint countryside that Wales is known for. Conwy is where you can find Conwy Castle dating back to 1283. Making Conwy even more charming are Plas Mawr Elizabethan Town House with its elaborately decorated interiors reflecting stately Tudor influence, Britain's Smallest House and Aberconwy House, which is the only medieval merchant's house in Conwy. 

Read more: 7 Reasons Why You Should Be Planning an Adventure Holiday to Auckland, New Zealand

Pembroke

The historical town of Pembroke is home to the stone ruins of the medieval Pembroke Castle on the River Cleddau. Other attractions in this town where walking is the best way to explore include the pristine Barfundle Bay and beach, the village of Lamphey with a picturesque church, the 23 acre Mill Pond in Carew and Pembroke Dock dating back to the Victorian age.

Book Your Holiday to New Zealand Now!

Discover Northern Ireland on your travels and you will be awed by what the region has to offer. From stunning landscapes to cultural experiences, here are some things to do in Northern Ireland…

Belfast

Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland is warm and welcoming. Having abandoned its troubled past, it has fast grown in to a city that offers visitors plenty to see and do. The centre of Belfast is Donegall Square where you can find Belfast City Hall, which houses government chambers and administrative offices.  For some great views of the city, the Belfast Castle dating back to 1870 sits atop Cave Hill. Get an insight in to the region’s history and culture at Ulster Museum, watch a performance at the Grand Opera House, which stands as a fine example of Victorian architecture and take a stroll through the grounds of public Botanic Gardens with the prominent Palm House conservatory and Tropical Ravine House. 

Derry

Officially named Londonderry, this walled city is cultural and contemporary. Relive Derry’s history with a visit to the Walls spanning 1.5 kilometres with the four original gates, Shipquay, Ferryquay, Bishop and Butcher having been rebuilt in the late 18th and early 19th centuries and three new gates were also added. St Columb's Cathedral is another city landmark dating back to the 1600s, the Tower Museum is where you can learn more about Derry and the Armada Shipwreck and the Guildhall is worth admiring with its replica of London’s Big Ben clock tower. 

Read more: Ireland’s Pride: The Cliffs of Moher

Newcastle

The popular seaside resort town of Newcastle lies on the Irish Sea coast at the base of Slieve Donard, the highest peak in the Mourne Mountains. Those who love the outdoors will be in for a real treat with attractions like the Tollymore Forest Park spanning over 600 hectares comprising 16 bridges and four walking trails and Murlough Nature Reserve with its 6,000-year-old sand dune system and spectacular views of Slieve Donard and Dundrum Bay. Other points of interest in Newcastle include the Neolithic portal tomb Slidderyford Dolmen and the iconic Newcastle Harbour. 

Omagh

Where the rivers Drumragh and Camowen meet to form the Strule is the town of Omagh. With several sights to explore, among them are the newly built Strule Arts Centre, which hosts national and international performance groups, the open-air museum Ulster American Folk Park with the cottage where Irish-American entrepreneur Thomas Mellon was born  and the Gortin Glens Forest Park spanning 16 kilometres of forests waterfalls, lakes and walking trails.

Portrush

The seaside resort town of Portrush is a popular holiday destination. If relaxation is on your agenda, Portrush is the place to be. With scenic sandy shores, sights worth seeing are the Skerries, a small group of rocky islands and Coastal Zone at Portrush with its visitor centre with exhibits of the town’s natural and local history. 

Book your Flight to Belfast, Ireland

Book your Flight to Belfast, Ireland

From the idyllic beaches that dot the Adriatic coastline – often called the Albanian Riviera – to the cosmopolitan (with Communist reminders!) flair of the capital city Tirana, further upwards to the stony hiking trails that wind across rustic villages in the heartland, Albania has a lot to offer the traveller. 
Not quite known for its travel lure, Albania has been unfairly portrayed as a Communist hotbed and a country you can usually ignore during your Eurotrip (those Taken movies and Liam Neeson didn’t help). But most travellers who have been there would say you were really missing out. Because Albania promises something beyond well-paved avenues and an orderly vacation. It promises adventure. 
So, let’s travel across this oft-unnoticed country and find out the 5 things to do while you’re in Albania.

Walk the Ramparts of the Berat Fortress

Smack dab in the middle of Albania lie the stone works of Berat – an ancient fortress perched up a hill. Inside the fortress complex, you’ll come across a number of mosques and church squares. Beyond the castle walls, several quaint villages dot the hilly terrain. All this makes Berat well worth a full day’s tour. 

Bask in the Beaches at the Albanian Riviera 

The difference between the Albanian Riviera and the Italian or French Riviera – among other things – is the fact that here you’ll actually get a chance for peace and quiet. That Albania is not half as popular a tourist destination as France or Italy means that apart from the locals, you won’t see a lot of people around – and this is also one of its major USPs. Steep hills converge upon the coastal plains along the Adriatic Sea, lined with beach houses and resorts that ensure you have quite a lovely time sunbathing there. 

Travel Back in Time at Apollonia

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Once the most important and culturally significant city of the Hellenic era, Apollonia still harkens back to the days of Greek glory with its ruined remnants. Gilded pillars, theatres, libraries and imposing archways leading towards the great temples make for quite an awe-inspiring experience. Do take your camera along for this one – the sights here promise to be picture-perfect.

Ogle at Unique Architecture at Gjirokastra

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While pronouncing the name ‘Gjirokastra’ make take you a few turns to get right, the visit to this UNESCO-hailed town is definitely worth the effort. The distinctive aspect of the town is its Balkan architectural style, indigenous to the region. Comprising museums, places of worship, theatres and little houses built like castles, the ancient builders of this town found a way to maintain ideal temperatures inside buildings by using a particular kind of stone. This cultural heritage site is a must-visit if you plan on travelling to Albania.

Ride the Cable Car in Tirana

The haphazard capital city of Albania is strewn with Ottoman, Balkan and Communist architecture – which makes it an interesting city to visit for sure. The wonderful mosques, museums, historical landmarks and cultural hotspots are an added attraction. But do not return from Tirana without taking a ride on the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car that gives you with an excellent bird’s eye view of the city and the surrounding environs, blooming with lush pastures and rollicking hills. 
Well, there you have it. As is evident, there’s more to Albania than meets the eye, much more. Find out for yourself, by booking a passage to this unpredictable, uncharted country. 

Ladies and gentlemen, introducing our two contenders. On the one hand, we have modern, efficient, history-laden Germany – the king of beer-guzzling, Bavarian outfits and neat cities stuffed with historical relics. On the other, we have the lovers of good food and great art, with architecture which tells stories of legends and great empires, and scenic beauty of the Mediterranean one on side, and alps on another – Italy. 

Germany

Berlin

The capital city of Germany owes much of its tourist influx to its World War II and Cold War history. Divided after WWII into zones of the East (Soviet Union) and the West (USA), the city became the centrepiece of the Cold War struggle and has the marks to show for it. Visit the Reichstag, which was the spot for perhaps one of the most iconic photographs in history of Soviet soldiers planting the Communist flag atop its crumbling structure. Or visit the Brandenburg Gate – noted for its similarity to the Arc de Triumphe in France. Most of the notorious Berlin Wall has now been demolished, but you can still see sections of it near the Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie.

Munich

Easily one of the most popular cities in Germany (although Berlin, Hamburg and Frankfurt give it a worthy competition), Munich is known for its culture and of course, the Oktoberfest. Beyond the beer-guzzling, Munich’s acclaimed arts and culture scene comes alive in its many opera houses and theatres such as the National Theatre. Medieval walls, ancient churches and majestic palaces sit along with teeming marketplaces and entertainment districts for the tourist to enjoy a curious sensation of being in two different eras at the same time.

How to Get There

A flight to Berlin or Munich is always available, courtesy the large fleet of Lufthansa and, of course, the country’s notoriety with both tourists and students. Apart from Lufthansa, carriers such as Turkish Airlines, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Jet Airways and Air India operate a busy schedule to airports in Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt. . If you wish to book your ticket, please search here.

Italy

Rome: Rome was once caput mundi or the capital of the world for a reason. Discover why as you explore the charming streets and majestic sights in this Eternal City. Centuries old basilicas and historic monuments are found in abundance here. The historical Colosseum and the Arch of Constantine are Rome’s most prominent structures. The Pantheon is an architectural marvel that was built to honour the Gods. It’s the largest unsupported and reinforced dome in the world. Locally known as Scalina Spagna, the Spanish Steps are always bustling with locals and tourists. The Trevi Fountain is undoubtedly one of the most iconic fountains in the world. Representative of Baroque style architecture, toss a coin in to the fountain and make a wish.

Venice: Venice is built on an archipelago of 118 islands formed by about 150 canals in a shallow lagoon. These islands are connected by about 400 bridges and the resulting waterways and walkways define beautiful Venice. The most notable sites include St. Mark's Square with St. Mark's Basilica reflects Venetian wealth and power from the 11th century, the Rialto Bridge spanning the Grand Canal and the grand Gothic palace, Palazzo Ducale, the  residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the former Republic of Venice.

Milan: Milan is where history and art come together. While here, visit the Duomo, the world's largest Gothic cathedral and the third largest church in Europe and the Piazza del Duomo, a colossal spire cathedral built in the shape of a cross. Art lovers will enjoy the Ambrosiana Library and Picture Gallery with its collection of art from masters such as Botticelli, Raphael and Da Vinci and Santa Maria delle Grazie where Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Last Supper painting is housed.  Don’t leave Milan without taking an excursion to the Italian Renaissance church in the Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, which is the centre of Christianity and home to the Pope. This is also where you can view the grand Sistine Chapel, the ornate frescoed ceiling by Michelangelo.

How To Get There
Major international airlines including Alitalia, Air France, Air India, Jet Airways and Etihad Airways operate flights from India to Rome. Check for available flights from your city here.

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

Both Germany and Italy are classic European holiday destinations. This makes them all the more worth exploring for the unique experiences that can be head unlike anywhere else in the world.

Two European gems with their own treasures to discover – Wales and Belgium.

A fast-growing tourist destination, the country of Wales is rooted in medieval history complete with castles and monuments that tell of a glorious past. Aside from its heritage, Wales is noted for its picture perfect views comprising mountains, bays and a vast countryside with villages and towns that take you back in time.

Belgium has the reputation of being culturally rich historically. Once decadent, it’s a country that boasts of cosmopolitan cities with cutting-edge modern infrastructure along with grand palaces and centuries old monuments. Delicious chocolates, mouth-watering waffles and fine Belgian beer are all trademarks of Belgium.

Wales

Cardiff

The capital city of Wales in the United Kingdom, Cardiff is a port city with a bustling bay. Cardiff Bay is a regenerated project created by the Cardiff Barrage in South Cardiff. It is the hub of activity with restaurants, bars, the Roald Dahl Plass, which is open amphitheatre style plaza and Techniquest, an educational science and discovery centre and planetarium. While in Cardiff, also visit St. Fagans National History Museum depicting the social history of Wales, the Gothic style Cardiff Castle built on the remains of Norman and Roman ruins and the Anglican Llandaff Cathedral built in the 12th century. For some fun, head to Wales Millennium Centre, an arts centre located in the Cardiff Bay area and Mermaid Bay, a boardwalk on the waterfront with shopping, dining and recreational activities.

How To Get There

Major international airlines including Air France, Jet Airways, KML and British Airways operate via flights from India to Cardiff. Check for available flights from your city here.

Belgium

Brussels

Charming and elegant, the vibrant city of Brussels is a tourist delight. Most landmarks in a city are either cathedrals or historical monuments. Only in Brussels will you find a famous statue of a little boy relieving himself in a fountain known as the Mannekin Pis as a main attraction. One of Europe’s’ most beautiful squares and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Grand Place is the city’s centre where you will find ornate baroque and gothic buildings. Concerts, events and a daily flower market in the summertime is a big attraction here. Other significant monuments worthy of a visit in Brussels include the 13th century Town Hall, the Royal Palace, which is home to the Belgian king and Atomium, shaped on the model of an elementary iron crystal enlarged 165 billion times and undoubtedly the country’s most iconic symbol. 

Antwerp

The bustling city of Antwerp is home to iconic museums and cathedrals. Irrespective if you have somewhere to go or not, visit the Central Station, a multi-level terminus built using iron and glass and deemed as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Another public masterpiece is De Stadsfeestzaal, which houses retail outlets in a converted dance hall complete with a sweeping marble staircase, golden glass dome and a mosaic floor. For some bling, head to the Diamond District where you can see diamond dealers and stone cutters at work while art lovers will enjoy a day at the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of Peter Paul Rubens.   

Ghent

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Located in the Flemish region of Belgium, the city of Ghent is known for its medieval architecture that can be seen in its monuments like Saint Bavo Cathedral, which houses the Ghent Altarpiece comprising 12 panels designed and constructed by the Van Eyck brothers. Visit the Belfry and Cloth Hall where you can take an elevator up to the Belfry's upper gallery and see the giant bells toll as you feat your eyes on a panoramic view of the city. Ghent also has several museums, namely MSK with its collection of Flemish paintings and sculptures, SMAK, which displays contemporary art and MIAT, the Museum about Industry, Labour and Textile that is situated in an old cotton mill. 

How To Get There

Major international airlines including KLM, Air France, Air India and Jet Airways operate flights from India to Brussels. Check for available flights from your city here. 

*All prices are approximate and subject to change. 

If you’re looking for unique holiday experiences, both Wales and Belgium promise you something distinct. It’s nearly impossible to recommend one over the other. Be a global explorer and save up to visit both!

Poland

Warsaw

A city that lights up so magically in the night was once close to being obliterated. Warsaw’s unfortunate devastation during WWII was tragic enough, but its phoenix-like recovery into one of the most fascinating tourism cities in Poland has been a feat nothing short of miraculous. The Old Town quarter has been wonderfully restored to its former glory, and a number of memorials and museums tell the heart-rending tale of its occupation during World War II. Visitors would be interested to know that Warsaw – once noted as the ‘Paris of the North’ – was home to the noted Polish composer Fryderyk Chopin.

Krakow

The former capital of Poland has a rags-to-riches story not unlike the current capital, Warsaw. Krakow’s evolution from a seventh-century village to the cultural, academic and artistic centre point of the country is the stuff of legend. Its occupation and the opening of a concentration camp for the Jewish holocaust is quite well-documented, inspiring the classic Schindler’s List. Located beside the Vistula River, Krakow is also noted for its Old Town neighborhood, reputed to be the best Old Town in Poland.

How to Get There

Warsaw and Krakow may not be too popular with Indian tourists yet, but that is all the more reason for you to go there – because you’re guaranteed a ticket no matter how late you book your passage. Aeroflot, Qatar Airways, Air India, Emirates, Air France, Lufthansa and Turkish Airlines fly here. Choose your departing city and book your ticket here.    

Portugal

Lisbon

The capital of Portugal, Lisbon is a hill city that winds its way upwards in a coterie of tram tracks through a series of hills overlooking the Tagus River. Expect to see a number of rustic shopping streets, elegant bridgeways, Gothic cathedrals and vibrant neighborhoods – all abound in the traditional fado music of Portugal. If you want a history 101 on the city, hop into the Tram No. 28 which will take you through Lisbon’s important historical attractions, gardens and alleys. Also ensure that you visit the Alfama district, the oldest quarter in the city distinctive for its Moorish leanings and home to the grand St. George’s Castle. Portugal’s rich maritime history is also reflected in the museums paying homage to its heydays as the strongest naval power in Europe (once upon a time…)

 Porto

The namesake behind the famous port wine, Porto is nestled along the hills that stand watch over the Douro River in northern Portugal. The laidback air of Porto is best envisioned in its charming Ribiera pedestrian district – bustling with riverside cafes, live music bars, street vendors and restaurants. Do visit the Ponte Dom Luis, an imposing double-deck arch bridge that connects Vila Nova de Gaia with Porto. A visit to the bridge is important to get to Vila Nova de Gaia, since it is home to some rich port wine cellars. That’s always a visit worth making.

How to Get There

There are several airlines that operate between India and Portugal – dependent, of course, upon the departure and arrival cities in both countries. Carriers like Lufthansa, Air India, Aeroflot, Emirates, British Airways and Swiss Airlines will get you there. If you wish to book your ticket, please search here.     

  *All prices are approximate and subject to change.                                                                                                           

Both countries pack a mean punch when it comes to sightseeing, recreational and cultural experiences. It all comes down to this – which country tugs at your heart (not to mention your purse strings!) more? Depending on that, you can decide which useful phrases you want to start practicing: Poland or Portugal.

Godspeed making that decision!