We are always on the lookout for weekend trips from Delhi. In view of time constraints, we prefer places that are within 6 hours from Delhi or Gurgaon. Moreover, given that summer vacations are around the corner, we have been getting queries about kid-friendly holiday places. So here is one such gem that we just visited – Kiarighat. And given the soaring temperatures, it had to be in Himachal Pradesh – our go-to holiday state.
HPTDC has a quaint property here – The Apple Cart Inn. We have been drawn to this place enroute to Shimla or beyond. But we always wanted to make this a standalone destination hence we didn’t stop. The problem is that this is a British-era property with only 6 rooms. Hence they are almost always full and finding accommodation is tough. But this time we attempted an off-season weekend and hit the bull’s eye. Consequently, we started off on a Friday morning from Delhi at about 7 on National Highway 1. Kiarighat is approximately 22 km before Shimla and we reached around 2 pm. The extra one and half hours is for single roads given the extensive road expansion that is happening on the Shimla Highway.
Like all HPTDC properties, eg. Ross Common (Kasauli), Apple Blossom (Fagu) or Dhauladhar (Dharamshala), Hotel Manimahesh (Dalhousie), and Hotel Devdar(Khajjiar) The Apple Cart Inn is strategically located. When we parked inside their gate, we got a panoramic view of the valley on the left. The lawn in the front is dotted with tables, slides, and swings for children and swing benches with canopies where many were sitting presumably enjoying the surroundings.
The Inn is a yesteryear bungalow – spacious rooms with huge attached bathrooms – loads of old-world charm. The rooms are equipped with huge fireplaces and the chimneys on the thatched roof took us to years gone by. They had a dining room overlooking the mountains. What was unique was the standalone bar in the dining hall/ restaurant. We had not seen this in any other HPTDC property.
They do not have intercoms but the attendants are pottering around all the time and we placed our orders directly to them. Simple home-style food – that is so typical to HPTDC is served here. The excellent tea customized to our requirements was the cherry on the icing. On our request, they served our meals on the tables in the lawns outside and we ate in virtual silence punctuated by twittering of birds. An occasional truck traveling on the road outside reminded that we were still not far from civilization. To this end, Kiarighat is a great destination for a staycation. We were not too far from Delhi / Chandigarh and yet there was no maddening crowd. We saw many tourists were breaking their journey here and moving after refreshments.
We drove up to Shimla on day 2 and that took us barely half an hour. We were lucky to find parking at Shimla and spent the whole evening eating at Mithai shops, sipping coffee at the Indian Coffee House, Mall Road, and pottering in front of the churches. We also bought some amazing Kinnaur shawls from the Himachal State handicrafts store. We came back to The Apple Cart Inn at about 9:30 pm and had dinner. Given that it was a little late, the roads were empty. Yet markings on the dividers and occasional street lights ensured we had a smooth drive back too. If you wish to stay away from the hustle and bustle and yet not be too far from urban life – Kiarighat is just perfect. It is definitely one of the most convenient places to stay near Shimla.
The next day was Ashtami and we wanted to visit a temple. We walked for about 3 km from The Apple Cart Inn and found a quaint hill temple. We did some simple prayers and walked back after a cup of tea from a nearby shack. It was already time to leave by then. The hotel guys served lunch on the lawns and we fueled ourselves up for our way back. Many people with kids had checked in that day and we could see this was a sought-after destination for family trips. It could make for a great summer vacation holiday we thought.
The cherry on the icing is the price. This place can be booked online at very affordable rates. Given that we enjoyed off-season discounts too, it was the neatest pocket-friendly holiday option.
Staycation, kid-friendly places, short trips during summer vacation, budget holidays, weekend getaways, hill station under 6 hours drive from Delhi NCR, old world charm – The Apple Cart Inn can be classified under various categories. The best part is that it called for minimal planning. The Apple Cart Inn at Kiarighat is our answer to all looking for a nearby hill station for a short summer vacation trip near Shimla.
Thanks for sharing these places and tips. May visit and stay in these place next time in Delhi esp. Shimla.
I always love reading your posts..its like conversation with you guys as you guys travel across spaces. The location and the period value had me at the word go and weekend journeys are so crucial. Must tell my freinds in delhi
Thanks, let us know is any among your friends liked the place.
Shimla is overflowing with tourist. One need to know the other options close by. Love the way you describe the property and the hill station with your words. The pictures add to the interest.
The pictures look so fascinating and pretty. You are definitely a traveller. The description of property is also amazing.
Thanks, truth be told, it was a beautiful place.
I too prefer staycation as it rejuvenates.
I have been to Shimla, so next time I can visit Kiarighat and stay.
But again it’s far na.
Something neat I want for staycation.
Your travel stories are always so inspiring and motivating. I have to remind myself to travel more post Covid19. This weekend getaway will be on my bucket list 😊
You must, it is very convenient from Gurgaon.
I always look out for some good properties to stay at while I am traveling. I have a list that has all the hotels/stays that I want to visit someday. The Apple Cart Inn does look like a great place to stay. I will read more and have a look at this. And also Shimla has been on my list anyway.
You can stay here and visit Shimla that is very close.
Your blog is such a wonderful getaway from covid lockdown. Such great ideas and location you have brought out. Better than regular shimla. It’s great to see this property. Wonderful.
The blog is our escape too during these difficult times.
The Apple cart inn looks like a must see place. Will check it out on my next Delhi visit. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
The place looks really amazing to be honest! I would love to visit and stay there for holidays… Thank you for sharing!
The pics look very nice and this years we had actually planned trip to shimla frm Delhi with our friends. Sadly this virus held up our plans. I am gonna keep this place in mind.
Keeping our fingers crossed.
I need to visit this place it looks so beautiful and peaceful.
I’m also fond of British architecture and love staying there.
This is definitely going to be your poison.