Nestled amidst the serene grandeur of the hills, where the whispers of ancient forests mingle with the melody of mountain streams, lie sanctuaries for the soul—the homestays and resorts with libraries tucked into the heart of the wilderness. For those who seek not only respite from the bustling world but also an oasis for literary exploration, these havens offer an unparalleled blend of natural beauty and intellectual nourishment. Explore these retreats, inviting you to lose yourself in the timeless embrace of a good book.
Best Homestays With Libraries
1. The Golden Tusk, Jim Corbett
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Tucked away amidst the lush greenery of Jim Corbett, the Golden Tusk Resort offers more than just a luxurious stay. While the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside mesmerises the senses, it’s the well-stocked library that truly captivates book lovers. After a thrilling safari or a tranquil walk through the forest, guests can pick a book from the extensive collection and unwind in harmony with nature. Whether it’s immersing oneself in the wild adventures of a novel or delving into the secrets of nature with informative reads, The Golden Tusk provides the ideal sanctuary for literary escapades.
Where: Village Dhela, Ramnagar, Uttarakhand
When: 2 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹8,500/night
2. The Kumaon, Gadholi
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Perched on a ridge overlooking the majestic Nanda Devi Range, The Kumaon offers a haven for those seeking solitude amidst the Himalayas. The property’s library, nestled within the main building alongside a lounge and spa, invites guests to embark on a literary journey while surrounded by unparalleled vistas. With a collection ranging from timeless classics to thought-provoking contemporary works, guests can delve into the depths of literature while being embraced by the tranquillity of the Kumaon region.
Where: Binsar, Road, gadholi, Uttarakhand
When: 2 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹30,000/night
3. Vatsalyam Homestay, Shimla
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Vatsalyam Homestay, nestled amidst cedar forests on the outskirts of Shimla, offers a serene retreat for both the soul and the mind. Beyond its natural bucolic charm lies a treasure trove for book enthusiasts—a collection amassed over sixty years, featuring rare volumes on British India, the partition, religion, and philosophy. Curated by the passionate bibliophile Surinder, this collection invites guests to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of history and knowledge while basking in the serenity of Shimla’s hills.
Where: Vatsalyam, Lower Dudhli, PO, near Bharari, Bharari, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
When: 1 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹5,500/night
4. Sanjiv’s Aira Home Retreat, Shimla
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Nestled amidst the verdant beauty of Shimla, Sanjiv’s Aira Home Retreat beckons travellers seeking solace and inspiration. Beyond its enchanting surroundings lies a curated collection of books spanning art, architecture, culture, poetry, philosophy, and religion, reflecting the diverse interests of its owner, Billy. Whether it’s finding solace in the pages of poetry or delving into the depths of philosophical discourse, guests can embark on a literary odyssey while enveloped in the tranquillity of Sanjiv’s ancestral home.
Where: 35JJ+6WC Sanjiv’s Aira Holme Retreat, Strawberry Hill, Chotta Shimla, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh
When: 2 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹6,000/night
5. The Lodge At Wah, Palampur
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Set amidst the verdant expanse of the Wah Tea Estate, The Lodge at Wah offers a unique blend of luxury and sustainability. While the mud cottages and slate roofs exude rustic charm, it’s the absence of paint on the walls that truly sets this retreat apart. Amidst this eco-friendly oasis lies a sanctuary for book lovers—a library thoughtfully curated to cater to varied interests. Whether it’s delving into the history of tea cultivation or exploring the nuances of sustainable living, guests can embark on a literary journey while being immersed in the tranquillity of Palampur’s tea estates.
Where: Panchrukhi – Paprola Road Patti, Deogran, Himachal Pradesh
When: Available 24 hours
Cost: starting at ₹11,000/night
6. Darang Tea Estate, Kangra Valley
Nestled amidst the serene beauty of the Kangra Valley, Darang Tea Estate offers a retreat steeped in history and natural splendour. Beyond its cosy cottages and snow-capped vistas lies a haven for bibliophiles—a library boasting over 500 books and magazines. Whether it’s immersing oneself in the tales of the Himalayas or delving into the region’s rich cultural heritage, guests can embark on a literary voyage while being embraced by the tranquillity of Darang Tea Estate.
Where: 3CXP+RQ9, Kangra, Darang, Himachal Pradesh
7. Sitla Estate, Mukteshwar
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One of the best homestays with libraries, Sitla Estate is nestled in the pristine Kumaon Himalayas. It certainly offers a tranquil escape for those seeking respite from the chaos of urban life. Amidst its apple orchards and welcoming gardens lies a sanctuary for book lovers—a library brimming with literary treasures. Whether it’s losing oneself in the pages of a novel or exploring the wonders of nature through informative reads, guests can indulge their literary passions while being enveloped in the serenity of Sitla Estate.
Where: Mukteshwar, Seetla, Uttarakhand
When: 12 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹5,800/night
8. Mistletoe, Munnar
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Perched amidst the picturesque landscapes of Munnar, Mistletoe offers a boutique retreat infused with warmth and hospitality. Beyond its well-furnished rooms and traditional wood-fired clay oven bakery lies a cosy library. It is certainly a haven for bookworms seeking solace amidst the hills. Whether it’s savouring the tranquillity of a family-owned estate or exploring the mystical allure of Munnar’s peaks, guests can immerse themselves in the world of literature while being embraced by the comforts of Mistletoe.
Where: 2X75+MP7, NH 49, Kochi, Munnar, Kerala
When: 12 pm onwards
Cost: starting at ₹6,000/night
Embrace the serenity of the hills and the enchantment of literature at these picturesque homestays with libraries.
Cover Image Courtesy: Sitla Estate/Instagram and The Kumaon/Instagram