HOTEL: Sarahan, Anshuman Resorts

Finding this B & B was a true dumb luck story. As usual, Rakesh and I were traveling with no reservations since we often don’t know where we will end after a day of sightseeing. On this day we decided to stop in Sarahan so we could wake up early and see the Bhimakali Temple before leaving town. Unfortunately the other tourists beat us to the local hotels.

The Himachal government hotel was our last try for a room but nothing was open. After getting to know us for 10 minutes (we apparently passed the test for being welcome tourists) the manager made a phone call to a small B & B friends of his owned. A room was available for us and directions were given on how to find the location.

About 6 kms down the road from the temple and town we found 2 guys waving us to the side of the road. With a small sign on the hilltop facing the opposite direction we would surely have driven past this without their help. We were warmly greeted by Dr Kavi Raj, the owner and his brother-in-law. With their assistance, we loaded our bags and began the trek up the long and narrow pathway. I knew immediately we were in for a treat.

At the top of the path we found a charming guest house surrounded by flower and vegetable gardens. Also waiting for us was Dr. Raj’s wife of 5 months. With a big smile and open arms she greeted us and quickly told us to make their home our home. Dinner was agreed upon for 2 hours later, in the meantime we were given a tour.

While waiting for dinner, we were served tea and light snacks at the outdoor seating area. Dr Raj explained that he and his wife were picky about who they take as guests. The B & B was a side project they catered to on weekends away from their weekday jobs.

Dinner was served in the Kitchen/Dining room, our hosts sat with us offering great conversation along with a tasty meal. The dishes were prepared with several organically grown vegetables from their garden. I ate as much as I could but my hosts still said they were afraid their meal was not to my taste buds’ liking. Trust me the food was delicious.

Morning tea was brought to the enclosed porch as was more discussion from Dr. Raj. Breakfast was served once again in the Kitchen area. Seconds and thirds were doled out with smiles and suggestions to eat more.

After some picture taking and final conversation, we bid the happy couple farewell. Total cost: Rs 1400. That included two meals each for the two of us.

I can’t recommend this stop enough. Book ahead to ensure open rooms and to get more choices for meals. Because we arrived so late, our meal options were what our hosts chose to prepare.

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