The Verandah, Jangalia
Uttarakhand2 units | a total of 5 bedrooms | up to 12 guests | pet friendly
The Verandah at Jangalia is much like a bottle of wine that a globe-trotting friend with great taste and a store of fascinating stories gifts you. A bottle you tuck away safely for just the right moment.
A decade after it first started hosting guests, the time has come to pop open the vintage Verandah – balanced, full-bodied, and harmonious – and savour every little, beautifully aged sip. Nurtured with love and some good ol’ big-heartedness, The Verandah is a living, breathing journal of New Delhi-based journalist Amrit Dhillon’s life, travels, and the occasional adventure.
We were fortunate enough to first experience this charming home back in 2016 when it opened its doors to guests from all over the world. This space inspired us to do what we do and changed the landscape of the Kumaoni homestay scene.
Hidden away in a forested corner of Jangalia, a quaint and sweet hamlet near Bhimtal, this property is blessed with lush mountain views and surreal sunrises. Close enough to the buzz of Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal lakes, with their many cafes, bars, and adventure activities, yet cut off and devoid of clutter or noise.
The space
Split into 2 units; Juniper (3 bedrooms) & The Cypress (2 bedrooms and a conservatory)
Juniper
The star of the show at Juniper is its mighty and generous verandah. Greeted by the soft rays of the early morning sun, and alive through the daylight hours with birdsong and Himalayan cicadas, this gorgeous spot is a favourite among our guests for sunny breakfasts, languid al fresco lunches, endless reading sessions, and also offers a front row seat for the spectacular show laid on by the Kumaoni skies.
Inside, Juniper offers 3 spacious bedrooms (with ensuite bathrooms) across two floors. Each room is full of natural light, writing desks, memorabilia and an eclectic collection of Amrit’s favourite books. An intimate and cosy ante room with a toilet on the ground floor is also available for additional guests, female staff, or nannies.
The large living and dining room setup will remind you of a time gone by. The fireplace, bookshelf, and many cosy corners create the perfect setting for hearty dinners and very serious sessions of Monopoly Deal and Uno with your family, partners, friends or other guests. Much like the bedrooms, this space has tall arched windows that frame the best views for meditative hill-gazing.
The Cypress (pet-friendly)
A short 30-meter walk from Juniper, The Cypress is a standalone 2 bedroom unit (with ensuite bathrooms) nestled amid a thick mixed forest of Oak and Cypress trees. Built over two floors, The Cypress comfortably accommodates four guests, with space for one additional guest on a day bed. The master bedroom is nothing short of a luxury suite, featuring a large bedroom, a day bed, a dining/kitchenette setup, and a perch for long dates with the region’s wealthy birdlife. The pièce de résistance at The Cypress is its snug conservatory, a space where time melts away without warning if you sit down with a book and/or your favourite playlist.
The second bedroom, with its warm interiors and perpetually green views, will remind you of a quintessential writer’s home in the hills. The perch here is the best seat in the house if you’re a fan of the magical forest orchestra.
The Team
Beyond the charming spaces, we’d be remiss if we didn’t talk about the exceptionally special team behind the show. Both cottages are managed by Krishna, a true blue Kumaoni who exemplifies selfless pahadi hospitality and has been with the property since before it opened to guests. Over the last ten years of hosting, Krishna, Himanshu and Chandan have received special mentions in every guest review.
Amenities
Fireplace, ensuite bathrooms, hot water, toiletries, TVs in all rooms, housekeeping and cooking staff, private parking for 2 cars, board games, BBQ and bonfire, space heaters, french press and Moka pots, shared refrigerator and a portable bluetooth speaker.
Food & beverage
The cook, Chandan, is an expert at gauging unique needs and special requirements. Our in-house food & beverage team has worked with him to curate a menu of sumptuous homestyle meals. Our simple, fuss-free, multi-cuisine set menu is suited for all palettes and age groups. We are also equipped to handle special dietary needs and provide meals for your furry co-travellers. Our menu covers classic continental, Asian, and Indian preparations. The Kumaoni meal is a must try.
Guests can also choose from a small menu of snack options, mixers and soft beverages. We do not serve or sell alcohol at this location but guests are welcome to bring their own.
Experiences
Guided walks around Jangalia
The residents of Jangalia are quick to make friends and proud to show you the neighbourhood. Our team can arrange short walks or longer hikes for you.
The pine forest trail is particularly popular among locals and our guests.
Birding walks
Sattal (45 minutes drive) is a hotbed for birding activity. Known to attract a wide and rich variety of migratory birds, Sattal is a favourite among amateur and professional birders. Guides are available on request.
Visit the Butterfly Research Centre at Bhimtal
Peter Smetacek’s labour of love, the butterfly museum, is India’s largest private collection of butterflies. As one of the leading butterfly experts in India, Peter is an authority on the species and a great storyteller. A visit to this unassuming centre is an educational and enjoyable experience.
Dine with a local
Savour an authentic regional meal hosted in a nearby village home, where local flavours and family recipes take center stage. Enjoy a warm welcome and a unique glimpse into the community’s culinary traditions—a true taste of the region. The host, Tara Devi, is known for cooking Kumaoni food with her soul.
Board games
Unwind with a cosy game night (or nights!), where our extensive board game collection offers fun for all ages. Choose from classics like Snakes and Ladders, Jenga, Pictionary, Ludo, and more—including a variety of card games. Whether you’re with family, friends, or fellow guests, there’s a game for every mood and every player.
Boat rides
Experience the serenity of Bhimtal and Naukuchiatal Lake with scenic boat rides that immerse you in the region’s stunning natural beauty. Glide across the tranquil waters while taking in picturesque views of the surrounding hills and lush landscapes.
How to reach
Jangalia is located 14 km from Bhimtal. The cottage is easily accessible by road from New Delhi and other north Indian cities.
Details on nearest connections below.
Nearest train station: Kathgodam (33 km/1.5 hrs)
Nearest airports: Pantnagar (66 km/2 hrs), Bareilly (139 km/ 4 hrs)
By road: 320 kms/6 hrs from New Delhi
Tariff:
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