Quiet Staycations: 7 Hillside Hotels Perfect for the Summer

Baby steps.

That’s what most of us are taking when searching for a summer staycation in 2022. And for good reason—every careful traveller has a hefty checklist to fulfill right now:

• Is the hotel in a beautiful place away from crowds?
• Can I avoid time-consuming tourist rules?
• Will I get to do more than just sit in my room?

Explore and book your favourite hotels here:

Book Now

If you don’t want to spend hours finding the Goldilocks of getaways that ticks these boxes, then no worries. We’ve gone ahead and done the job for you!

Below are seven amazing properties that are highly rated for their beauty, safety and stunning scenery:

Adivaha by Leisure Hotels

Where: Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

Adivaha is a boutique resort built into a 300-year-old heritage building. Spread across 10 acres, it’s close to most places of interest near Dharamshala, and the property arranges tea trails, archaeological visits, pilgrimage trips and drives along the Dhauladhar range.

The Tamara Coorg

Where: Kakkabe, Coorg, Karnataka

A remarkable eco-resort, The Tamara is nestled amid the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats. Serenity is second nature at this 180-acre property, where guests can dive into impeccably curated experiences like trekking, bird watching, forest therapy and outdoor yoga. A wide variety of fitness and recreation spaces up the ante, including an award-winning spa. 

The Whispering Woods, Tirthan

Where: Gushaini, Himachal Pradesh

Pick between garden, river and mountain views at this quaint abode in the Tirthan Valley. Opened last year, the property features 4 handcrafted wooden cottages and delivers a rustic feel with refined service. Ideal for remote work with a view, it also has barbecue facilities to spice up your evenings. Top activities in and around Gushaini include trout fishing, trekking, and exploring hidden Himachali architecture.

Rah Villas 

Where: Sonamarg, Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir

Snowy mountains, an azure sky, and elegant rooms—the Rah Villas is the perfect base to slowly explore Sonamarg’s natural beauty. Set in a quiet valley, travellers can enjoy hiking trails, guided cycling, outdoor dining and drives to the Zoji La Pass from here. Something unique? The hotel has its own handicrafts showroom featuring the best of Kashmir.

Woodays Resort

Where: Kufri, Himachal Pradesh

Plush Nordic style huts and breathtaking views, plus comfy access to major tourist attractions around Shimla. That’s the Woodays Resort for you! Enjoy horse riding, cycling, board games and long strolls in the lawn for a simple but refreshing stay.

The Vintage

Where: Mugathihalli, Chikmagalur, Karnataka

Unique artefacts and colonial charm come together at The Vintage, which offers private and dorm-style rooms of different sizes. Built on a 9-acre plantation that’s home to exotic blooms and a fruit orchard, every corner of this property oozes old world thoughtfulness. Try bonfires, indoor and outdoor games and long, long walks. You won’t notice how time slips by.

The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa

Where: Forest Block, Gulmarg, Jammu and Kashmir

Peer out into mystical conifer forests, or inward after some ritual spoiling at the Khyber Spa—this resort offers an unmatched luxury experience in Gulmarg teeming with recreational opportunities. Travellers can go trekking, hop onto the Gulmarg Gondola ski lift, or tee off at the world’s highest golf course. Indoor spaces include a movie theatre, a children’s room, and a snooker hall.

Pick your favourite stay option and make the best of this summer!  

Credits for all images: Booking.com