Top Himalayan retreats, resorts, lodges, and getaways

When it comes to the Himalayas, Nepal often steals the spotlight for travelers aiming to conquer its mighty peaks.

At the heart of this, of course, is a tiny mound of rock and dirt known as Everest.

However, this vast 2,400-kilometer mountain range, which borders China, Bhutan, Pakistan, and India, holds plenty of treasures for those prioritizing relaxation over climbing.

From remote lodges and luxury heritage spas to colonial bungalows with sweeping views, the Indian Himalayas are home to an array of breathtaking destinations.

Eagles Nest Hotel

Nestled amidst the snow-covered peaks of the Dhauladhar Range, Hotel Eagles Nest is perched above McLeod Ganj, in Himachal Pradesh, India.

This historic 150-year-old stone cottage was originally owned by an American Pentecostal mission before being repurposed as an Angora wool farm.

The hotel features seven rooms and suites across two levels of the main house, with a Moonlight Suite separated from the main building and encircled by pristine forest.

Bo and Sheila, former musicians from England, dedicated over a decade to restoring and refurbishing the property into the charming retreat it is today.

The Dhauladhar Suite boasts expansive bay windows and a private balcony that provide uninterrupted views of the majestic mountains. Scenic trails around the property lead you to the Great Himalayan National Park.

Ananda in the Himalayas

Ever dreamed of sharing a yoga class with Hollywood stars?

This isn’t just a fantasy—it's a reality at the former residence of the Maharaja of Tehri-Garhwal.

Set on a sprawling 100-acre estate at the base of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, Ananda is designed for those seeking rest, rejuvenation, and a detoxifying escape.

The resort features an expansive 24,000-square-foot spa, complete with a temperature-controlled lap pool surrounded by lush gardens, where yoga and meditation sessions are regularly held.

The detox program kicks off with a four-day journey of revitalization.

The program combines Ayurvedic treatments, soothing aromatherapy massages, specially crafted spa meals, and a fitness regime blending yoga, meditation, and gym sessions.

Ananda can organize a two-hour trek to the Kunjapuri Temple perched on a mountaintop, or take you to Rishikesh for a mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony.

Yangsum Heritage Farm

On clear days, Yangsum Heritage Farm boasts one of the most stunning views of Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak on the planet.

Nestled in a 44-acre estate in Sikkim, India, Yangsum Heritage Farm is the ancestral home of Pema and Thendup Tashi.

“At Yangsum, we offer a unique insight into our family’s farming life, a tradition that has been passed down for over a century,” shares Pema.

Guests have the opportunity to learn to cook authentic local dishes or participate in gardening activities.

Yangsum Farm features five large rooms, each designed with traditional Tibetan decor.

The farm offers an exceptional experience with traditional Sikkimese meals made from the farm's own organic produce.

Visitors can unwind with a good book in the tranquil fruit orchard or embark on a three-hour hike to the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary.

Thendup, who is very familiar with the region, can arrange visits to nearby monasteries or organize thrilling whitewater rafting adventures.

Pro tip: Request the room with pine wood walls for the best panoramic view of the mountains.

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Jilling Terraces

A charming yet upscale mountain lodge with sweeping views of Nanda Devi – India’s second tallest peak – Jilling Terraces offers a perfect getaway.

A decade ago, Sheela and Rajeev Lunkad discovered and fell in love with this 80-year-old colonial bungalow.

Restoring the property, which had been abandoned for years, took them over six years of hard work.

“Our aim was to create a space that would have minimal environmental impact and foster connections with the local community, from sharing traditional meals with villagers to understanding their way of life,” shares Sheela.

Guests can enjoy scenic hikes through forest trails and indulge in meals made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The property offers four charming guest rooms, each with stunning mountain views, and a separate cottage ideal for families with children.

Glenburn Tea Estate

Staying in a historic colonial planter’s bungalow provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Darjeeling’s rich tea legacy.

Founded by a Scottish company in 1859, Glenburn Tea Estate is currently owned by the Prakash family, who have been in the tea business for over a century.

The estate offers accommodation in two bungalows, set amidst 1,000 acres of private forest, providing a tranquil escape.

Two rivers flow through the estate, adding to its serene charm.

The eight rooms are adorned with colonial-style furnishings, complete with open fireplaces, luxurious bathtubs, and expansive windows offering breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga.

Owner Husna Tara Prakash explains, 'Restoring the bungalows to their former glory required stripping away layers of paint, each added by the wives of previous managers, reflecting their personal tastes.'

Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including hikes, visits to tea factories, and tea-tasting sessions.

The hotel can also arrange guided day trips to explore the town of Darjeeling.