- Apr 19, 2022
- 5 min read

•THE HIMALAYAN EXPLORER•

Updated: Apr 23, 2022

What to consider when selecting your stay?

Compared to the more larger destinations dotted around the Himalayan towns of North India, Dalhousie is on the bijou side yet there is a deeply reassuring sense of boundaryless space that still exists in and around the town. In today's demanding lifestyles, a sense of openness and unapologetic space is a much needed requirement for rebalancing and reawakening dormant energy. We could suggest that this is one of the core principles of travel and the reasons why travel is so uplifting to the human spirit.

Embracing the hospitality of open air rooftops and terraces that face luxuriously panoramic views surrounding Dalhousie is a great way to experience a natural upliftment. There's so much more to Dalhousie than just a quick getaway. The beauty of Dalhousie is that it is personal to everyone which is in contrast to the more manufactured surroundings.

National and international travelers are 'spoilt for choice' with the long established and new variety of hotels and stays that are available in Dalhousie. Eventually the choice comes down to a few key points that may be considered before the traveler decides to take that break. We've made a list of our top 5 questions that may help in supporting your choice, find out more below.

"Travel is Romantic," says Guncha, "it can change everything in a matter of seconds, romantic because you are being romanced by life."

Dalhousie although small is rich in spiritual romance and a sense of "higher vibe frequency" flows through its landscape (no pun intended). This is apparent in its foundational fabric from Pahari, Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian and other communities coinciding in the spirit of natural friendship. Perhaps nature's response to the dramatic contrast of the divisive times of Imperial India. It is like a real time celebration of the diverse beauty of India set in the most stunning backdrop.

"They still keep it real here and that is glamorous within itself especially in our current times where trust in life can be easily swayed."

"It makes perfect for re-establishing a sense of yes in oneself. There's plenty to experience and enjoy."

Speaking of the Himalaya, the powerful heartbeat of the Himalaya's plays a major role in keeping its locals and visitors uplifted naturally. It is effortless. Without trying too hard, the traveler can experience a shift in energy and mountain air likely has a large hand to play in the nothing less than miraculous.

Can we place a figure of value on the life giving benefits of nature? To which we answer, "touch the sky."

"It's sort of like an 'Oxygen cocktail' perfect for those that are seeking a spirit boost of a different kind. "

Whilst on a refreshing stroll, there are a number of cultures and communities that can be seen going about their daily affairs, from saffron robes to cloud white gowns and beautiful turbans that resemble individual crowns carried with grace. It really is quite beautiful. Walking down Gandhi Chowk towards the walk, grab a refreshing tea or coffee from one of the kiosks, stop and take a look around.

Across the board whether directly or indirectly, travel, all comes down to a compelling urge to indulge in playtime and that is personal to each individual. "Travel is not just 'a change' it is a form of self care and has been since time existed."

In modern day context, the following may sound familiar when we experience the need for a change of environment:

For adventure and play.
Something tells me I need a break.
Change of environment.
Planned holidays with family.
Personal celebrations.
To explore and discover.
Love to learn.
Love life.

Despite the occasion for travel, the umbrella that holds our reasons for travel together ultimately points to an inner urge for a sense of well-being ie; self care and this directs us towards the type of travel that we may prefer to experience at any given point in time. We can soundly say, "travel is deeply connected to the spirit of freedom in its physical manifesto."

We've put together a checklist that is a part of our complimentary HIMALAYAN ExPLORER E-MAG.

For more on travel centered around well being, readers can subscribe and stay connected for complimentary updates.

THE TOP 5

What is the reason for your stay?
How much time do you plan to stay at the location?
Are you traveling alone or with company?
What is more important to you indoors or outdoors or both?
Post travel what do you expect to achieve from your stay?

"It's probably time that we thought of travel in a different way, it makes more sense that the benefits of your experience carry through when you return back to daily life. 'Making an experience not nostalgic but everlasting.' "

At Guncha, we like to think of it as lifetime return on an investment, one in which it is a pleasure to come back to daily life with a new sense of perspective, empowered. "It's like you've been taken into the arms of the Himalaya and invigorated. 'Repurpose,' onwards and forwards."

Over the years Dalhousie has developed into a busy summer retreat as the word has spread far and wide. Although it has always been a hotspot for spending cool summers under the beautiful patronage of the Himalaya even before Indian Independence from British occupancy. One of the reasons why is due to its location and multi cultural heritage considering its size, it is a jewel in a crown.

Previously, Dalhousie was most within reach for travelers where cost was accessible, transport available and general know-how about the location. Today, this is not the case, as more and more of new India expands its reach towards destinations that were once only available to bureaucrats and wealthy travelers.

Guncha, the estate holds Indian and French heritage. The view is crisp and dreamy. With each season it brings its own character.

Could Guncha be a choice for your stay?

For location we are known as ICONIC, since the mid 90's Guncha has welcomed many admirers from bureaucrats, nationals, international travelers and of course the Indian Film industry.

Amidst the vast number of new hotels, Guncha offers an understated villa style premises with exceptionally large walk out terraces that guide towards the magical Himalaya Valley ahead. Centrally located to Motia Tiba the main bazaar and 15 minutes from Dalhousie bus stand. Guncha has been one of the first hotels to offer only pure vegetarian cuisine to its guests. To experience the richness of the Himalaya everyday from your personal space then Guncha is a place to be.