When We Went To Where No Tourists Go

Ping! Rahul: “Priyanka coming down from Mumbai! Tirthan Valley?”

Ping! Namita: “Rahul texted. Priyanka is coming from Mumbai. I say Sainj!.”

Ping! Rahul: “So, I am forming a group! Let me add Priyanka & Yugank.”

- Shibani Varma

Hence a WhatsApp group was formed, called December Holiday. Destinations were searched, properties were looked up, and blogs were referred to. All because Priyanka from Mumbai was flying down to Delhi and wanted to go to the hills!

The mandate was simple – no touristy places. Just off beat destinations. I nurture a habit of saving in my phone, places that I like while scrolling through social media pages. One such 'saved image' was that of a property by 'Not On Map'. Approximately four hours ahead of Shimla and nestled in the serene peaks of the sleepy town of Kotkhai, and aptly named the 'Apple Farm Stay'- the home stay was exactly what was needed by us tired souls from Delhi, Mumbai, Noida & Chandigarh.

The hundred year old, recently refurbished property was a picture of perfection. A heritage stone and wood home complete with the bar on the mezzanine floor, a stone walled bon fire arrangement in the backyard, and apple orchards beyond. Not to mention the clear, virgin sky that showcases millions of stars at night. Or the fact that the hosts are the most gracious people and that Suresh Bhaiya, the in house care taker prepares the most delicious home cooked food we had ever had.

Reaching Kotkhai late evening, all we wanted to settle in for was piping hot, wholesome food. A few drinks in the wooden bar – complete with the superhot chicken nuggets & French fries and a few rounds of the game Taboo – the five of us were all set for our home stay experience.