Every corner of Himachal Pradesh is beautiful and scenic. Every village or road is a sightseeing option. There is no dearth of usual tourist attractions (trekking, national parks, temples, toy trains, and parties) in Himachal too. Consequently, Himachal is one of the most favored answers when someone asks – where to go for summer vacations? While we are all for fun and adventure there are some basic comforts that we look out for whiling traveling. And when in Himachal we know Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) properties are our best bet.

Here is why we love to stay at HPTDC hotels:

1. HPTDC Hotels are spacious – First things first – you won’t get bigger rooms at the same price. You can throw around stuff or walk around the room without stumbling over luggage. For example, Hotel Apple Blossom at Fagu, with a huge colonial hangover, is our absolute favourite. The washrooms are huge. Big windows and high ceilings give you a welcome break from urban housing systems. They take you to that bygone era when there was no space crunch.

2. Old world charm – HPTDC properties such as Kiarighat have still retained fireplaces and chimneys. In Khajjiar we stayed at a log cabin with a rocking chair and a footstool in front. Apple Blossom has wood coat hangers and hat stands in the room. HPTDC properties have an effortlessly comfy old world charm. Reminds us of a time when art was part of life.

3. They are always strategically located – Since these are state government owned tourism department properties, they are always at the best spot in the valley. For example Hotel Manimahesh at Khajjiar is located right in front of the most beautiful picturesque portion of the valley. You open your room window and you see sheep grazing in lush green meadows. And you end up rubbing your eyes in disbelief.

4. Affordable – After off season discounts, the rates are very cheap. We have done a few weekend trips just because of these discounts. We would have not discovered Renukaji or Kiarighat if it wasn’t for such great discounts by HPTDC.

5. Great food – We have rarely been disappointed by food at HPTDC properties. Be it sweet French Toasts at Apple Blossom or Chai-Pakoras at HPTDC hotel Dhauladhar in Kasauli, the food is simple, home like and pocket friendly. And yes, we could travel again to Apple Blossom just for their sweet French Toasts, a dish that is been right elsewhere.

6. Activities for kids – Last but not least, HPTDC properties have sprawling lawns and playgrounds often with slips and swings for kids. Older children can play games like Frisbee, badminton, volley ball or cricket or simply run around in open spaces. Their gardens are well maintained with flowers of the season blooming in manicured flowerbeds. The properties are demarcated with proper fencing and there is no safety issue. Consequently, it is an opportunity for city children to be free. They could take a break from electronic games and be at one with open spaces and nature. No wonder, we recommend these properties for summer vacation option.

Truth be told, HPTDC properties may not be suitable for folks who expect modern luxuries from a stay in mountains. There are no spas or gyms or dance bars or hotel shops. Sometimes they do not have intercoms and you may have to call out for an attendant. But if you are the kinds who value old world charm and find comfort in nostalgia, you will love HPTDC properties. Their hotels / guest houses ooze oodles of charm. Moreover, HPTDC properties are located at that corner of the hill that gets the most picturesque view of the clouds. Step out and you can almost touch them. Goosebumps guaranteed.