The expansive and alluring Himalayas are the sentinels of time that have been standing tall unencumbered by human life’s woes and hustles. And no matter how many times you look at it, the beauty only goes deeper than what meets the eye each time. Just imagine waking up in a cottage that offers 360-degree, unobstructed views of the Himalayas for you to admire. To live through that imagination, head to The Gemstone Retreat in Himachal Pradesh. The secluded retreat offers cottages that you can reach by either walking or taking 4×4 vehicles or bikes.
The Gemstone Retreat: Highest-Rated Airbnb In Manali
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Located in the Baragran village of Himachal Pradesh, this retreat is about 30 minutes from Manali. It is 800 metres from Patlikuhal on the NH3 (National Highway 3). The last 800 metres approach to the retreat has a narrow, winding road that can only be reached by a 4×4 vehicle, a bike or on foot.
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Offering panoramic views of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, The Gemstone Retreat has three cottages — The Sapphire, The Emerald and The Diamond — that happen to be the highest-rated Airbnbs of Manali. The cottages sit pretty on an apple orchard and each has a unique design element and theme it follows. The Sapphire is a traditional Himachali home and The Diamond is inspired by American fire towers.
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Also Read: Neeraj Chopra and Himani Mor Tie the Knot in a Lavish Ceremony at This Resort in Himachal Pradesh
Dramatic Sunrises And Sunsets, Home-Cooked Meals And Off-The-Grid
Each cottage offers 360-degree views of the Himalayan ranges and are flanked by so much greenery, Everything around will captivate your senses and you will run out of synonyms to describe how you feel about this setting. It certainly has the most dramatic sunrises and sunsets. Plus, spring is extra magical to be around. Come winter, the expanse all around is covered with snow making it an actual winter wonderland.
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The Retreat with its three cottages has a 1-bedroom concept. The smallest of the three is The Emerald which is perfect for two guests with its one-bedroom and kitchen layout. The Sapphire and The Diamond come with a downstairs living room and bedroom on the first floor. Each sleeps three guests. At a given point in time, you can book the whole cottage. It comes with a working kitchen and you can opt for home-cooked meals at an additional cost.
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While it is a perfect place to go off-the-grid and enjoy some downtime, those looking for a hilly workation spot can do so, too, as it comes with WiFi.
In the evenings, sit out in the garden area or verandahs of your individual cottages and watch time slowly pass you. The sunset will be a memorable one, for sure.
How To Reach This Secluded Retreat In Himachal?
There is no railway connectivity. The Bhuntar Airport is an hour’s drive away. When you reach Patlikuhal on the NH3, you have to either park your car there or ask the folks at the retreat to park it for you. They can help you with all that.
CT Tip: When at Patlikuhal market, pick up basic essentials on the way to the retreat. It is a kilometre away from the property.
So, why wait? Head to the booking link and go breathe in the crisp mountain air and enjoy the Himachali hospitality.
Where: The Gemstone Retreat, Garh Road Baragran, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175129
Cost: The Emerald – ₹1500 onwards per night; The Sapphire – ₹3500 onwards per night (2 nights minimum); The Diamond – ₹3200 per night (2 nights minimum)
Check-In: Post 12 pm
Book here. The Sapphire, The Emerald and The Diamond
Cover Image Courtesy: Airbnb
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