Echor Hill Farm Cottages Palampur

We stayed two days in one of the cottage style houses, which are arranged two storeys, one above the other, and can fit four adults. The place sits between routes to Dharamshala and Mcleodgunj, and Bir and Billing, so we visited the first area on day one and Bir and Billing the next. Ms Krittika, the manager, was very helpful. It’s peaceful and pet friendly, a nice family getaway. The food is amazing. Try the in-house kombucha and the chef’s special pancakes. We can't wait to come back.

The food was delicious and homely, and the local staff were very polite. The cafe-restaurant had a welcoming feel where my family watched a live cricket match and played cards. Namita, the humble host-manager, looked after us well and took us on a morning nature walk through the jungle with the cute dogs mau & pisty. The farm stay had amazing views and was a really nice experience. There was one other family of four whose behavior disrupted the peace. The woman, mamta jain from jalandhar, was impatient about breakfast, asked for high tea and snacks for free, and was loud enough to spoil the cafe atmosphere. They called housekeeping during lunch just for soap and demanded moisturizer, and seemed to expect round-the-clock servants without much consideration for others at a farm stay. The manager handled the situation patiently and even arranged a birthday cake for their daughter. Some people keep complaining and disturbing the environment no matter what's offered.

The cottage has two parts, but there was no heater for the attic. My son was cold and had to sleep on the sofa, since there was no way to heat that area. The food was very oily and not that great, although the chef was very sweet. The staff were also sweet, polite, and helpful, but the manager seemed to ignore the guests. The property itself is beautiful, secluded, and peaceful. We’re staying here now, and despite being the only guests, the feeling of being cared for was missing. We paid a lot, and it wasn't worth even half the price.

The road in is narrow and can be tricky, and there isn't much sightseeing nearby. Two nights and three days felt enough for exploring locally. We went to Takri for Himachali cuisine, Verma Mutton Dhaba, and the Wah tea estate. The cottages are comfortable for a November visit, even though it gets cold. Each room has a small heater, an AC unit that can heat, and plenty of blankets. Staff were consistently polite and helpful, and offered to pick up things like snacks or medication for a small service charge, which was handy in such a remote spot. The two dogs who live there were a lovely bonus. Food was a steady 10/10. The breakfast pancakes were the best we've ever had, and the masala chai was excellent too. This is a relaxing place rather than somewhere packed with activities. You can pay extra for a bonfire on chilly evenings. With just five cottages, it feels quiet and spacious. We had a great, peaceful November getaway with views of the Himalayas. It suits couples or larger groups who want to slow down and relax.