It was the prompting of a friend that got us to Mashobra. He recommended Mashobra for its quietude and breathtaking beauty, and Khanabadosh for a superior home-stay experience, a home nurtured with love and enthusiasm.
Geetika, our host, tracked our progress as we wound our way up from Kalka. She recommended Durga’s for lunch, and when we did stop there, we were surprised to be greeted warmly by the proprietor as Didi’s or Madam’s guest. I was already a believer!
We arrived at Khanabadosh to a rousing welcome by the two Goldens – Sultan and Gabbar, Geetika and a more sombre Kalam Singh, the quiet efficient administrator/chef/caretaker and many more things rolled into one.
The homestead is done up tastefully and with much love. In our upstairs grand bedroom stands an even grander four poster bed. Geetika bakes her own yummy cookies and is generous with visitors. Kalam Singh is no mean chef himself, and Geetika is always happy to add her flourish to the meals, with interesting herbs and spices that result in unique creations; I must add that she readily shares her recipes.
The quiet, scenic location offers many options for an easy walk down the road past the village Purani Koti (it has a sign board that reads “Population – 190”), or scramble up some trail. Geetika knows enough about the trails to guide you to your desired degree of difficulty for a trek. The air is so pure that a feeling of wellness pervades the body and soul. As soon as you cross the few houses that make up the village you are in the lap of a forest. Points along the way offer views of forested valleys and even the heights of Kufri.
Khanabadosh was a fabulous find for us, Sultan and Gabbu are absolutely adorable, the hostess makes your holiday really special, the home envelops you in its cosy comfort and your soul, it learns to breathe again.
Thanks Geetika, Kalam Singh, Sultan and Gabs – hope to catch up soon.
Wonderful holiday, beautiful place, people and Goldens. Any day, worth a repeat. Like I said earlier, I’m a believer!