The suffocating story of stress, rat race, extreme summer and uncontrolled pollution have become a mirror reflection for majority of us. Hence, quiet escapade to hidden trails, unexplored alleys and off the beaten pockets of nature has turned into a detox ritual for mental and spiritual well being.
This June I decided to discover the roads less travelled from Tirthan valley in Himachal Pradesh. This small Himalayan valley is alluringly adorned with gushing river, dazzling waterfall, green deciduous forest, tiny hamlets and some breathtaking trekking routes amidst Himalayas. But this time, local sightseeing was not on priority. Rather, I was looking for a home in mountains. A home that can accomodate my dog along with me. A home where I can breath, rest, eat good food and enjoy a slow down journey soaking into the bliss of mother nature.
Peace out by Moonstone Hammock offered everything I was looking for. This beautiful property seems like simply came out from fairytale book. This is placed on the rolling hills of Jibhi, Tirthan Valley. It can bring the best of everything for a detox session in the lap of Himalaya. Additionally, this place is super pet friendly and can make pet parents and the fur buddies feel like at home. Akansha from Mumbai opened up this property four years back and is skillfully running it. You can book your accommodation directly from their website.
Once you enter this place, you will be pawfully greeted by Laaila and Casper. Both these babies are so playful, warm and adorable towards their guests. However, Princey couldn't be so comfortable with them and both Akansha and I made sure that both parties maintained safe distance from each other.
There are three different categories of rooms in this place:
1. The hunter nest costs INR 4480/- per night. These tents are not so spacious and is perfect for two adults. But with small kids and pets it might feel a bit too congested. But as I wanted to enjoy all types of room, I booked it for one night. For extra bed they charge Rs. 1000/-
2. Opek Sky Dome costs INR 8950/- per night. This unique accomodation with Geodesic structure and panoramic roof can definitely give an exotic and extraordinary touch to your stay in this property.
The rooms are equipped with cozy interiors, wooden furniture and attached bathroom. In front of every dome there is a small outdoor sitting space. These domes can satiate your thrust for sleeping under the stars and spotting milky way and shooting stars for the whole night. Extra bed costs Rs. 1000/-
3. Cedar Chalet costs INR 6720/- per night and these luxurious rustic wooden cottages with attached bathrooms would allow you to embrace the unhurried pace of Himalayan life.
These cottages also have small attic to accommodate extra bed for free, where you can sit cozily and the view will open into endless stretch of Himalayan slopes.
They have a cute wooden cafe decorated with fairy lights and dream catchers to make your tastebuds happy in the middle of apple trees.
The menu includes few but scrumptious food items. You can get authentic Indian, Italian, chinese foods and different types of juice and shakes at reasonable price.
The cafe also have a library with small collection of books. They offer complimentary breakfast. You can have your meal either inside the cafe or there are many outdoor sitting areas scattered all over the place. You can take your food outside and enjoy it in the middle of the nature.
Over three days I frequently changed my workstation in the woods. Writing, reading, listening to music and staring at vast mountains was powerful enough to drain out my anxiety and stress from restless city life.
The staffs are extremely kind and helpful. I faced issues during my stay with electricity supply. Even though there was limited resources, but they tried their best to resolve my problems. As I went there with my pet, they allowed me to use their kitchen to prepare food for my dog. Whenever, I needed any help, they always helped me with a friendly smile on face.
Those three days in this mountain home reminded me not to escape from my life but the life not to escape from me. So, if you are looking for such a quiet and peaceful retreat amidst mountain, this place can offer you a perfect blend of luxury and serenity