There is an extensive network of hotels/resorts set up by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). They have properties large and small- ranging from luxurious to budget- in almost every developed tourist destination. These are generally well located and offer reasonably good accommodation, service and cuisine. Himachal also offers a wide range of luxury private accommodation. Overall, this state has a well developed hotel infrastructure.
With the troubles ailing the Kashmir valley Manali became one of the alternate tourist hot spots resulting in a construction boom and a rash of hotels, mostly built cheek by jowl. However, there are still some locations which are 'far from the madding crowds.'
Category A
HPTDC Log Huts are set above the main town, next to the Hadimba Temple. This prime property still remains unspoilt.
Category B
Hadimba Cottages are also run by HPTDC and provide good accommodation in cottages that have a small kitchenette attached.
Hotel Shingar Regency, located just below the Hadimba Cottages in a stand alone location is a modern building with good views.
Johnsons Lodge. The original property of 6 apartments now has two new blocks with twenty rooms in each. Comfortable and centrally located, this hotel has great continental food to offer.
Category C
The original hoteliers of Manali, the Bannon family, have divided their empire and at least two of their establishments live up to the old standards.
The mayflower is just opposite the circuit house.
Pinewood hotel is located on the Mall but in a quiet area.
Hotel Beas is another hotel in this category and is run by HPTDC. It is located right on the river- you can't get closer than this! However, now with the construction and traffic around it, the previously premium location has come down a notch or two in rating.
There are lot more hotel with all good facilities and amenities to cater you in a positive and luxurious way. You must have one vacation in Manali to enjoy the royal touch of best hotels in Manali.
Food
Basic food is available all along these routes and is usually good and wholesome though it can be boringly repetitive. Some bigger towns like Shimla, Manali, Mcleodganj and Dalhousie have well stocked markets where you can pick up supplemental goodies. These towns also have a large variety in the cuisine offered at hotels and restaurants, and the standard is rather good too.
However, the more exotic food items you might want to indulge yourself with should be carried from your home.
Drinks
Liquor is available but is comparatively expensive due to high taxes. The usual range of Indian made liquor, and a variety of beers, is very readily available. Bottled water and cold drinks can be bought in most places.
What to Carry
Binoculars and cameras are essential- film is available in the towns. Carrying your own sleeping bag is a good back up in the smaller places where accommodation is basic. A good quality thermos, or even two, would come in really handy for that hot cup of tea/coffee you want to enjoy in scenic quietude. In fact, with one enthusiastic 'foodie on board, we even carried a small Korean stove. If you decide to follow suit, remember you can only do so if no air travel is involved. Another useful little item is the hand sanitizer that lets you clean hands without water- an anti-bacterial rub- and great when you are on the move!
A small touch and a Swiss Army knife will definitely come handy.
Martin Wynn
