Zero Points TheLaure cottage Shreeantu

The owner's cooking was the highlight for us. He made delicious afternoon snacks, spicy peanuts with lime and home grown spinach, and one of the best veg Dahl bhat I’ve had in Nepal. He even lit a fire for us in the evening, and was welcoming and full of ideas about what to do and see nearby. Zero Points the Laure Cottage exceeded my expectations. Both the bedroom and dining room were nicely designed, clean, and had everything we needed for a cozy stay in Shree Antu. It’s away from the crowds and noise near the lake, yet only a 15 minutes walk to the lake and 15 minutes to the sunrise view point. Definitely worth staying if you’re in the area.

We ended up staying at a good hotel near the lake, after getting 6400 (Nepal Currency) back. I’d asked for a refund once it became clear that the replacement rooms wouldn’t work for us. Two of them were fine, but the other was below standard for the cold weather, and the rooms didn’t have geysers. The owner suggested carrying hot water from the two rooms about 50 steps below. We argued, then decided to stay elsewhere. I’d booked three rooms at The Laure Cottage, Antu, Illam, for eight people, one four-bed and two double-bed rooms, on 26th November 2024. I paid 4000/- (INR) in advance for 24th & 25th December 2024, with geyser facilities, and owner L Kharka confirmed it that day. We arrived around 6:30 in the evening on the 24th and found him enjoying a bonfire with friends in front of the property. When I asked about our reservation, he asked why I hadn’t called before arriving. After we spoke politely, he said his phone had changed and he’d misplaced the booking. He offered to move us to another homestay with four rooms. We had little choice at that point: we were late, and my family, including my 3 Years old child, 4 Years old nephew, 70 years old father, and 65 years old mother in law, were already cold. I found the cottage on google through its good reviews. I can’t say what the actual rooms there are like, but the first impression was pathetic. The property is far from the main attraction of Antu Lake, though closer to Sunrise Parking area, and the rate was high. I spent less at the place we stayed. I suspect they overbook the property and push late arrivals into lower-grade places. Phone network may not work in the area. Please think twice before booking, especially with family.

Breakfast was a real highlight, with tasty local dishes that showed off the regional food. The homestay was clean and comfortable, with decor that reflected the local culture, and the owner made me feel at home with his warm welcome. The peaceful setting and lovely views gave me a relaxing break from everyday life. Lahure Homestay exceeded my expectations, and I’d recommend it for a friendly, authentic stay.

The owner, Mr. L. Kharka, claimed to be Ex Army, but he didn’t keep his commitment or look after the service. The Zero Points The Laure cottage ShreeAntu (ILAM) homestay felt overpriced, unprofessional, and a waste of money. I wouldn’t book it.