Having traveled on work and pleasure for over three decades now, this was one of the many trips to Uttarakhand for me. The last time was two years back on a solo trip to Dehradun, the capital city. And then to Mussoorie, fondly called the Queen of the hills. But this journey was a little different. Firstly we were traveling as a couple and secondly we were planning to move away from a hotel stay in Dehradun. Our search ended the moment we chanced upon this property Himalay Homestays, a Dehradun Airbnb. And our hosts Shray N Monika were all eager to welcome us as the day arrived.
Our Hosts – Shray N Monika
At Travelwisesr we have always believed that life is a beautiful journey and we must enjoy every bit of it. Hence it was such a pleasure when we saw this framed photograph as we entered our spacious living room.
And as it turned out both Shray N Monika are equally passionate travelers like us apart from being great hosts. Although we could not meet them due to our packed schedule, we certainly will when they are in Kolkata soon. And no thanks is enough for all the valuable information that Shray shared with us about places to eat nearby. Being a foodie that’s worth more than a million dollars.
Himalay Homestay
Located right in the center of town on Tilak Road, it’s just a short walk to Paltan Bazar & Ghantaghar. Moreover though breakfast is not served here, if you wish you can prepare your own with all facilities available in the room we stayed in. Also there is a fully equipped kitchen on the ground floor for occupants of the other five rooms of the property. Come get a feel.
Our Room
The lovely terrace & views
The neighborhood
The real feel of old Dehradun is what you would experience all around in the neighborhood of Himalay Homestays. Be it the narrow streets and lanes, the temples, great snacks, street food and dining options & the fact that Dehradun railway station is very close by. The place is open till late in the night and very safe if you wish to venture out for dinner as you walk through the relatively empty streets then.
The Temples
Great food options
There are many places to eat including great street food around the property within a 5-10 mins walk as you come out of the lane where the homestay is located. By the way though you can’t take your car inside the lane there is a paid car park just outside near the main road.
So if you walk a bit or decide to take your car to Ghantaghar which is very close a little late in the night you’ll find many more options there and parking as well easily. But we took the walk towards the station and found many hotels with restaurants and other eateries. We chose one of the restaurants for our favorite combo.
But when you are in Himalay Homestay one destination you can’t miss is the famous Kachori subzi outlet of Dehradun for breakfast. Chetan Swadisht Kachori adjacent to Hanuman Mandir which is a 5 minute walk from the property. We landed up there on both mornings we were there. Just irresistible.
The Colors of Holi
It was Holi two days later and while coming back after dinner on our first night it was nice chatting up with some of the shopkeepers and wishing them Holi in advance.
And colorful savories
And some ice cream as we walk back
The takeaway
While we came back with a couple of good friends in Shray N Monika, what was so heartening was that two suggestions to Shray from my side was implemented the very next day. That’s what being a host is all about. To bring a smile on our faces.
The day we reached here in the evening we went up the stairs to our room. As we were inspecting the room we suddenly found a cutie running around us. In a matter of few seconds this two year old had climbed up alone behind us completely unnoticed. He is Vishnu the son of Padam and Bindu, the equally lovable caretakers of the homestay. And these were his parting shots. Moments of love and happiness as we travel around for fun. May God bless him!
If you too would love to meet Vishnu and enjoy the freedom of a home, call up Shray or What’s App on +91 78956 00281 to be there. You’ll also find Shray N Monica on Airbnb.
Feel wanted at Himalay Homestays Dehradun, PIN it for later and forward to friends!
