The Himalayan Stories

We booked a Delhi-to-Delhi car package for our Manali trip with The Himalayan Stories. The owner was polite and respectful, but during the four days he never called to see how things were going. We only spoke on the first day, after we complained about the hotel, which was disappointing. The first hotel was below average, with old sheets and blankets, food that wasn't up to the mark, and a difficult approach road, despite the initial promise of a 3-star hotel. After we raised the issue, the owner changed it. The second hotel was better for the stay, though its food was still average. Breakfast varied from day to day: the first day's parathas were good, but after the move we got only maida roti with tasteless potato curry one morning, and plain paratha without sabzi another day. People from Mumbai or those accustomed to better food may find that disappointing. Our driver was experienced and we felt safe in the car, but some of his conduct bothered us. From the first day, commission seemed to be his priority. He stopped only at certain refreshment places where food and tea were free for him, while prices for tourists were very high. At the snow point, he pushed us to rent clothes at a particular shop and buy activity packages from the same vendors. When we declined the activities, his attitude changed noticeably. When we asked about sightseeing the next day, he kept saying, “Madam, there isn't much to see here, we'll go comfortably,” which came across as dismissive and unprofessional. He also advised us not to shop in Manali and to buy things at a factory outlet in Kullu instead, but the choices there were limited, mostly blankets, shawls, and sweaters. In our view, two days are enough for Manali. A three-night, four-day package felt unnecessary and seemed more for commercial benefit than the traveler's experience.