We traveled to Kalpa after 4 days in Taj Theog, Simla, and since this is a tiny village we hadn't expected much, but oh we were in for such a surprise! The views of Jorkanden and Ralden from each room are to die for, and you can even spot the Kinnaur Kailash trident using the binoculars present in the upper deck/ library in the hotel. The sit-out here on the library deck was perfect for watching the sun rise (I even shot a time-lapse video).
The hotel is owned by Mr Prithviraj Negi, who was traveling, but we were well taken care of by Mr Yashpal (the manager), Mr Devender and Mr Shubham, who were all courteous, ever-smiling and very friendly. They accommodated our request for food items which weren't even on the menu, and we relished the tastiest bowls of Thukpa here. The rooms aren't very spacious, but they are well-equipped with electric kettle, a 3KW heater, and running hot water. The french windows and balcony offer some astonishing views, and you could head to the library deck or the meditation hall adjoining the property for happily whiling your time away when here.
We managed to visit Sangla Valley and Chitkul on the first day we were here - it was a truly magical experience to watch green meadows and snow-capped mountains and the zig-zag roads. It began to snow the 2nd night we were there, and by morning...We traveled to Kalpa after 4 days in Taj Theog, Simla, and since this is a tiny village we hadn't expected much, but oh we were in for such a surprise! The views of Jorkanden and Ralden from each room are to die for, and you can even spot the Kinnaur Kailash trident using the binoculars present in the upper deck/ library in the hotel. The sit-out here on the library deck was perfect for watching the sun rise (I even shot a time-lapse video).
The hotel is owned by Mr Prithviraj Negi, who was traveling, but we were well taken care of by Mr Yashpal (the manager), Mr Devender and Mr Shubham, who were all courteous, ever-smiling and very friendly. They accommodated our request for food items which weren't even on the menu, and we relished the tastiest bowls of Thukpa here. The rooms aren't very spacious, but they are well-equipped with electric kettle, a 3KW heater, and running hot water. The french windows and balcony offer some astonishing views, and you could head to the library deck or the meditation hall adjoining the property for happily whiling your time away when here.
We managed to visit Sangla Valley and Chitkul on the first day we were here - it was a truly magical experience to watch green meadows and snow-capped mountains and the zig-zag roads. It began to snow the 2nd night we were there, and by morning the entire place was like a winter wonderland - tree branches enveloped in snow, roads and cars covered in snow too. Our rented car (a Toyota Etios) would not be able to navigate safely in snow-covered roads, so the driver suggested that we sent unimportant luggage with him, down to Powari where the chances of snowfall were relatively scanty. We spent the day strolling, enjoying the snow fall and relishing warm bowls of thukpa. Since we had to leave the next morning to catch a flight thereafter from Delhi, Yashpalji informed us that the snow would reach 2-3 ft height by morning, and if PWD delayed the clearance, we may miss our flights. The staff helped us shift to a hotel in Reckong Peo overnight - Yashpalji even arranged the transportation via an uncle of his who owned a Gypsy, and they transported us and a co-passenger group of 10 members to the hotel in Reckong Peo. He then personally saw to it that we were comfortable, and stayed the night in a nearby place to help us with transportation in the morning for Powari, where our driver and luggage were waiting. All these efforts, and he smiled throughout, and refused to accept any tip at all - it's true that when you visit the mountains, you meet the kindest, happiest and most helpful people.
The hospitality and care impressed us the most here, and we definitely would visit and highly recommend this place and Grand Shamba-la Hotel to all. Visit it to believe the beauty and peace!More
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