Himalaica: A homestay in the Uttarakhand region

As you are approaching Rampur, you will cross first a railway over-bridge and thereafter a long flyover that goes over a river. As you get off the flyover / bridge, and come closer to Rampur, you will see two overhead billboards welcoming you to Rampur. Immediately after this, about 1.5 km down, keep your eyes open for a left turn, that is identified by a triangular island and a black and yellow rural tempo taxis standing at the corner. Take this left. This road goes to Suar (Soar). Keep on this road till you reach a round traffic island, take the first left here (Do not take the straight route that has a banner saying ‘Nainital’). Keep driving till you reach Bazpur. On reaching Bazpur, follow the signs for Haldwani, reaching Choti Haldwani / Kaladungi (passing through a jungle). On reaching Choti Haldwani (after crossing a small bridge and going 200 meters ahead) you will see a board pointing left for Nainital. There is a petrol pump at this junction – fill up here if necessary. After taking this left turn you will start climbing (after 5 kms) and now you are on the Nainital Road. Nainital is 30 kms from here on a beautiful drive. On reaching Nainital, you will go through a check-post, pay Rs. 50 here, and then drive through Nainital along the lake and on the Mall, and at the end of the market / road (you will see an intersection ahead, just after passing the Army Holiday Home on your left); make a sharp left turn to head down towards Bhowali. After about 9 kms you will meet another road coming from your right (this is another road coming up to Nainital) but continue straight till you reach Bhowali town. On reaching the main intersection at Bhowali town, you need to turn right towards Bhimtal (left goes to Ranikhet). About 1 km down you will see a left turn marked towards Ramgarh, just over a small bridge. Take this and drive exactly 2.6 km. At this point, on your left, you will see a large white government water tank, next to it a watercourse, and next to it a drive going up to “Himalaica’, with a name board for the property and the name ‘Dave’. Drive up and blow your horn gently for the gate to be opened. 

Himalaica is nestled in a crook between the tall hills at Village Shyamkhet, on the Bhowali-Ramgarh road. A short drive up from the road leads to the Estate that is surrounded by protected forests with oak and pine trees to the East, North and West. Locals and tourists have occasionally spotted leopard, Ghoral mountain goat, wild boar, fox, jackal and porcupine, barking deer, amongst other small wildlife such as pine marten, civet cat, weasels and non-poisonous snakes. The driveway up to Himalaica appears on the left of the Bhowali-Ramgarh road, alongside a small stream precisely 2.6 km from the turn-off over a small bridge as you enter Bhowali town from Bhimtal. The landmark for the drive up is a large white arched water tank to the left. Shyamkhet village is located in the Ramgarh Block of Nainital District in the Kumaon Hills of Uttarakhand State. It is the last hamlet on the drive up to Ramgarh after which the drive is through thick Reserve Forests. Himalaica’s setting is ideal; it is located close to all the essential support of a major town and yet a guest can be on their own if they wish to.

As we stepped into the property, we were greeted by the three dogs Cyber, Raja and Lama who seemed thrilled to see us. All throughout the stay the three dogs accompanied us everywhere we went and it was heartwarming to see the unconditional love and warmth that these animals shower on guests. The couple has created this homestay with meticulous care over the past thirteen years and it shows in every nook and corner of the property. The architecture, the interiors and the gardens are built by local craftsmen; and the end result is a country style home equipped with modern comforts.

Surrounded by lush greenery and a well maintained garden that abounds with beautiful flowers, Himalaica boasts of a well thought of conservatory where guests can sip their early morning tea and enjoy the radiance of the sun’s rays. “While building the house, we made sure that sunlight would flow into all the rooms. Himalaica sleeps 10 comfortably, inclusive of children. STD, Wi-Fi Internet access, a washing machine to wash and dry your clothes is available too.” says Shalini. Bed warmers have been installed in all beds and there are heaters in all rooms to ensure that guests don’t feel uncomfortable due to the cold conditions especially during the winter months. For those who aren’t used to such weather conditions especially during winters, things can get really chilly! Dining at Himalaica is home-cooked meals by Basant, their super efficient caretaker. We were mostly served Indian cuisine and the caretakers used to make it a point to ask us our preferences for all meals. Those who prefer European food can request the caretakers to dish up a few dishes. The caretakers also arrange for a food basket for picnics on request. The larder, fridge and deep-freeze are well-equipped with a large variety of ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook items, with options for both savoury and sweet. Those who enjoy cooking will be delighted to see a well set up kitchen equipped with most raw materials and ingredients, both fresh and packaged, including seasonings and condiments. During suitable weather conditions it is a good idea to go out and explore the local area. There is lots to do while in Himalaica apart from admiring the natural scenic beauty of the surroundings, for example reading a book or watching a movie (they have a decent collection of movies) or just sitting near the fireplace and playing with the friendly dogs ! A stay in Himalaica is definitely a unique experience, well worth a visit!