We’ve been travelling since 2007, and we’ve stayed at our fair share of horrible, weird or just plain boring places. But we’ve also had some really nice stays, and even found some lovely spots that we wish we’d stayed in. And since we’ve often been asked about this, here’s a list of some interesting, off-beat and unique hotels in India and other parts of the world that we’ve discovered on our travels.
(It’s been a while since we were at some of these places, so things might’ve changed since then.)
In this post
SOUTH INDIA
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Barefoot at Havelock, Havelock Island
A year or two after we started travelling, we booked ourselves a quick getaway to the Andaman and Nicobar islands. We spent a few days on Havelock Island (now Swaraj Dweep), and though we didn’t stay at Barefoot, we wish we had.

What it is: Resort
Where it’s located: Radhanagar beach
When we visited: 2009
What other people think, and how to book: Barefoot at Havelock on TripAdvisor
Pros
- One of the few resorts near the beautiful Radhanagar beach, believed to be one of the best beaches in Asia
- Traditional feel, with lots of wood and palm-leaf thatch
- Very atmospheric open-sided bar, with a game room on the mezzanine floor
- Tasty food, with very large portions
- Interesting restaurant with both table and floor seating
Cons
- Quite pricey
- Somewhat far removed from the rest of the action on the island
More about our trip: How we lived the island life for a few days in the Andamans


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Goa
Cancio’s House, Aldona
Our road trip to Goa was one of the best holidays we’ve had so far. And not least because of the experiences we had while staying at the quaint Cancio’s House in Aldona. This is definitely one of the more unique places to stay in Goa.

What it is: Heritage homestay
Where it’s located: Naicavaddo
When we visited: 2014
What other people think: Cancio’s House on TripAdvisor
How to book: Cancio’s House website
Pros
- Sprawling centuries-old heritage homestay run by the descendants of the original owners
- Lovely old-world feel, with lots of antique furniture and fixtures
- Very friendly, welcoming and accommodating hosts
- Very tasty, home-cooked meals served around a large dining table in the kitchen
Cons
- The hosts are very chatty, which might get a bit much for some guests
- Located in the interiors, very far from the beach
More about our trip: An off-the-beaten-path Goan holiday


IQ’s road trip videos
Karnataka
Hotel Gowri, Hampi
On a new year’s trip to Hampi, we decided to stay across the river for a change, and booked ourselves into Hotel Gowri. The facilities were quite basic, but the location made up for everything else.

What it is: Basic resort
Where it’s located: Sanapur lake
When we visited: 2015
What other people think, and how to book: Hotel Gowri on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Very peaceful
- Lovely views of the surrounding rice fields and granite hills
- Very close to the beautiful Sanapur lake
Cons
- Across the river from the main Hampi heritage area
- Maintenance and cleanliness could be better
More about our trip: Magical sights of Hampi that you may not know exist


Hampi Heritage and Wilderness Resort, Hampi
We stayed here the last time we drove to Hampi. This sprawling resort is located in Kamalapura on the southern side of the river, about 20 minutes’ drive south of Hampi, and has a real ‘wilderness’ feel to it.

What it is: Resort
Where it’s located: Kamalapur
When we visited: 2020
What other people think: Hampi Heritage and Wilderness Resort on TripAdvisor
How to book: Jungle Lodges and Resorts website
Pros
- Room cost includes all meals (plus evening tea and snacks), a bear safari and a day of sightseeing.
- Cottages are all very private.
- Has an authentic wilderness feel.
- Food is homely and tasty.
- Staff is very friendly and helpful.
Cons
- Room costs might seem a little high at first glance.
- Because it’s so spread out, it’s quite a walk from any given cottage to the dining hall or reception.
- Junior staff don’t speak English or Hindi very well, and are more comfortable with Kannada or Telugu.
- Facilities are a little rough around the edges, and slightly more basic than one might expect.
- Meal menus are fixed, and they don’t serve alcohol, though you can bring your own.
More about our trip: Tips for planning a road trip from Hyderabad to Hampi



Hampi’s Boulders Resort, Hampi
We stayed here during our road trip from Hyderabad to to Gokarna, when we stopped in Hampi on the way back. This sprawling eco-resort is on the riverbank on the northern side, near Basapur, and has great views of the river and the granite hills that Hampi is famous for. It’s about an hour’s drive from the main temple complex.

What it is: Resort
Where it’s located: Near Narayanpet
When we visited: 2021
Reviews: Hampi’s Boulders Resort on TripAdvisor
How to book: Hampi’s Boulders website
Pros
- Spectacular views of the river and the surrounding granite hills.
- Most cottages have great views of the sunrise.
- Lots of opportunities to explore the natural surroundings and nearby rice fields.
- A unique swimming pool in the hollow of a rock.
- Well-appointed cottages.
- A small recreation center and gym.
Cons
- Somewhat pricey.
- Quite far away from the main ruins of Hampi.
- Spread over a large area, so getting to the cottages and back takes some walking.
- No intercom and spotty mobile data connectivity, though WiFi is available at the dining hall.
- Room rates only include breakfast; other meals can be had (or ordered from) the restaurant.
- They don’t serve alcohol, but you can bring your own.
More about our trip: Tips for a road trip from Hyderabad to Gokarna via Chorla and Hampi



Red Earth, Gokarna
We stayed here during our road trip from Hyderabad to Gokarna. If you’re looking for a quiet place for where you can just take it easy on the beach without anything else to do, then this is for you.

What it is: Beach resort
Where it’s located: Near Honnebail village
When we visited: 2021
Reviews and booking: Red Earth Gokarna on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Right next to a beach that’s so quiet that it’s almost like a private beach.
- Overall a cosy and quiet place, removed from the hustle and bustle.
- Located in a very rural setting, surrounded by nature.
- Beautiful sunset views.
- The hills behind the resort have some nice hiking trails.
Cons
- Relatively basic setup and amenities.
- About an hour’s drive from Gokarna proper.
- The food is average, at best.
More about our trip: Tips for a Hyderabad to Gokarna road trip



Depot Estate, Coorg
We stayed in this lovely plantation during our trip to Coorg, and it actually felt like staying in someone’s home. The most ‘homely’ homestay experience we’ve had so far, and definitely one of our favourite unique places to stay in India.

What it is: Plantation homestay
Where it’s located: Chain Gate junction, Madikeri
When we visited: 2017
What other people think, and how to book: Depot Estate on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Located in a plantation in a little valley, so feels completely removed from everything else despite being on the edge of town
- Feels like staying in an actual home, as a guest of the family
- Friendly and helpful housekeeper
- Tasty traditional food served in a common dining room
- Lovely views of the plantation from a large common balcony
- Comes with a resident roly-poly doggie
- You can take long walks in the plantation and feel like you’re in the Jungle Book
Cons
- The housekeeper’s English isn’t the best
- There aren’t many places to eat close by
More about our trip: Nine things you should know if you want to have a good time in Coorg



Blackbuck Resort, Bidar
While planning our motorcycle trip to Bidar, we could’ve either chosen to stay in some slightly seedy lodge near the main bus stand, or at the Blackbuck Resort in the forest, 20 minutes’ ride out of town. We chose the latter.

What it is: Jungle resort
Where it’s located: Near Vilaspur
When we visited: 2019
What other people think: Blackbuck Resort on TripAdvisor
How to book: Jungle Lodges and Resorts website
Pros
- Nice location in the middle of a patch of reserve forest
- Cottage rooms, basic but comfortable
- Nice views of the nearby lake and forest from the rooms
- Peaceful and quite private
- Activities like sightseeing and a blackbuck safari are included in the room rate
- Homely and tasty food, served in an open-sided dining hall
- Friendly and enthusiastic staff
Cons
- Slightly pricey for the facilities offered
- The approach is via a bumpy forest trail
- The location is quite far outside Bidar
- Overall maintenance could be better
- The lake might be dry, depending on the rains that year
More about our trip: A weekend motorbike trip to Bidar, city of sultans


Lakshadweep Islands
Thinnakara Island resort, Thinnakara
When we landed on Thinnakara island on our Lakshadweep trip, we didn’t realize it would feel like being marooned on an uninhabited island (in a good way).

What it is: Basic resort
Where it’s located: Thinnakara island
When we visited: 2017
What other people think: Thinnakara Island Resort on TripAdvisor
How to book: Lakshadweep tourism department website
Pros
- The only resort on the entire tiny island
- Very private
- Tents are comfortable and under thatched roofs
- Hardly any visitors
- Mysterious leeward beach with leaning palms
- Two more tiny islands you can wade out to
- Somewhat eco-friendly, with no ACs in the tents, and purified rainwater available for drinking on request
Cons
- Attached ‘green’ toilets are cramped
- Tap water smells of sulphur
- Windward beach has lots of washed up rubbish
More about our trip: Our magical holiday in the mysterious Lakshadweep islands




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Bangaram Island resort, Bangaram
This is probably the most luxurious accommodation available in Lakshadweep, with prices to match. But we loved the ‘island paradise’ feel to it, especially the magical dinner buffet on the beach. If you’re looking for unusual honeymoon destinations in India, you might want to think about this one.

What it is: Resort
Where it’s located: Bangaram island
When we visited: 2017
What other people think: Bangaram Island Resort on TripAdvisor
How to book: Lakshadweep tourism department website
Pros
- The only resort on the entire island
- Quite private
- Has a very ‘island paradise’ feel
- Nice beaches and a large sandbar you can wade out to
- Magical beach-side dinner service
- Quite eco-friendly, with some of its electricity supplied by solar panels, no ACs in the rooms (only air coolers) and purified rainwater available for drinking on request
Cons
- Somewhat pricey
- Tap water smells of sulphur
- The parts of the island not immediately near the resort tend to have litter
More about our trip: Our magical holiday in the mysterious Lakshadweep islands


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Puducherry
Gratitude Heritage, Pondicherry
We love a good heritage hotel, so we were quite thrilled when we checked in at Gratitude Heritage. Despite its quirks, we think might just be one of the the best heritage stays you can find in Pondicherry, and one of the more special places to stay you’ll find in India.

What it is Heritage guesthouse
Where it’s located: Romain Rolland street
When we visited: 2020
What other people think: Gratitude Heritage on TripAdvisor
How to book: Gratitude Heritage website
Pros
- Beautifully restored traditional home with a very authentic feel
- Nice location on a peaceful street a few minutes’ walk from the beach
- Very quiet and peaceful
- Each room is unique, with antique furniture
- A lovely combination of tradition and comfort
- The ground floor rooms are quite cool, even without the AC
- Breakfast is served in an open-sided dining room and includes warm, flaky croissants
Cons
- Slightly pricey
- Some unusual house rules
- Ventilation on the ground floor rooms could be better
- Some bathrooms don’t have separate ventilation
- Only online bookings are accepted; no walk-ins
- Breakfast is served late, at an un-hurried pace
- Extra meals are pricey
- Bed sizes vary from room to room
More about our trip: Coming soon!


Tamil Nadu
O’Land Plantation Stays, Coonoor
We were looking for someplace to spend a few days surrounded by nature and away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and O’Land Plantations in the Nilgiri hills was a perfect fit.

What it is: Plantation resort
Where it’s located: An hour out of Coonoor
When we visited: 2015
What other people think, and how to book: O’Land Plantation Stays on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Set in a fully functional organic plantation
- Rooms are elegant, unique, and have their own character.
- Accommodation is in the estate house and other two separate ‘houses’.
- The food is homely and tasty, and all meals are included.
- Spectacular views of the hills across the valley
- Lots of wildlife to be seen
- A stream with a beautiful waterfall runs through the plantation
- Very quiet and peaceful
Cons
- Quite isolated, with nothing much else close by
More about our trip: A getaway in the clouds: O’Land Plantation in the Nilgiri hills


The Great Escape, Coonoor
During one of our many visits to the Western Ghats, we spent a long weekend exploring Coonoor and its surroundings. And The Great Escape made for a great base from which to do that.

What it is: Homestay
Where it’s located: Near St. Theodore’s Sanatorium
When we visited: 2017
What other people think, and how to book: The Great Escape on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Very friendly and knowledgeable hosts
- Located on a hillside just outside Coonoor, with easy access to town but still peaceful
- Easy access to the scenic Kotagiri road
- Homely, fresh tasty food
- The cottage is very private, at some distance from the main house
- Pet friendly
Cons
- Room interiors are a bit bland
- The curtains of the cottage are somewhat transparent
More about our trip: A perfect long weekend among the hills and tea plantations of Coonoor


Sinna Dorai’s Bungalow, Valparai
On yet another trip into the Western Ghats, we discovered the little tea plantation town of Valparai. And even though we didn’t stay at the lovely colonial-style Sinna Dorai’s Bungalow, we would definitely have liked to! In fact, if we could take our pick of unique resorts in India to stay in, we’d probably choose this one.

What it is: Plantation resort
Where it’s located: Near Iyerpadi
When we visited: 2017
What other people think: Sinna Dorai’s Bungalow on TripAdvisor
How to book: Sinna Dorai’s Bungalow website
Pros
- Great location on a hill in the middle of a vast tea plantation
- Great views into the valley from the cottages
- Lovely colonial-style furnishings give the place an old-world feel
- Homely but tasty traditional food
- Warm and friendly staff
- Many opportunities to see wildlife within the plantation itself
Cons
- Somewhat pricey
- The presence of wild elephants and gaur (Indian bison) makes going out at night dangerous
- It’s a long drive to the entrance of the plantation
More about our trip: In the shadow of elephants in Valparai


NORTH INDIA
Himachal Pradesh
Udechee Huts, McLeodganj
We booked ourselves into Udechee Huts for three days during our visit to Dharamshala, and were absolutely blown away by the views and the location!

What it is: Small resort
Where it’s located: Naddi
When we visited: 2019
What other people think, and how to book: Udechee Huts on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Great location, with spectacular views of the Dhauladhar mountains
- Lovely open-air dining deck with mountain views
- Very friendly and helpful owner and staff
- Basic but comfortable rooms
- Overall, quite peaceful
- The staff can get you entry into the private grounds at the top of the hill for nice sunset views away from the crowds
Cons
- Slightly pricey
- Aside from the views, the rooms are a little boring
- Naddi village has lots of raucous tourists during on season
More about our trip: Photo diary: Snow-capped mountains and Tibetan art in Dharamshala


Naggar Castle, Kullu-Manali
This charming little wood-and-stone castle was built by a local ruler around 500-odd years ago, and is now run by the Himachal Pradesh tourism department. We paid it a visit for breakfast on a our second day in Kully Valley, and discovered that they have rooms to stay in, too! Maybe we’ll book ourselves a few days here the next time around.

What it is: Small heritage hotel
Where it’s located: Naggar
Pros
- Great location overlooking the valley, with lovely views of the mountains
- Some very resonably priced room options, considering the location
- Charming old architecture, with a very authentic feel
- Away from the hustle and bustle of the main Kullu-Manali highway
- Very nice local food, with balcony dining
Cons
- Because it’s run by the government, it’s a bit rough around the edges
- As a popular tourist sight, there might be lots of day visitors between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm
- Because it’s a bit off the highway, it takes a bit of time to get anywhere from there
- The immediate surroundings are a bit touristy, but a short walk will take you away from all that
- The website doesn’t have a photo gallery for each room, so it’s difficult to tell what you’re going to get
More about our trip: Coming soon!


Roots Cafe and Stay, Kullu-Manali
We dropped in on this lovely brand-new little hill-top cafe for breakfast on one of our days in Kullu Valley. Though we didn’t see the rooms, we saw enough to be pretty sure that this would make a great base during a visit to the area.

What it is: Cafe and boutique guest house
Where it’s located: Bandrol (not Kullu!)
When we visited: 2022
Reviews: None yet, but check out this write-up on CNTraveller.in
How to book: Drop them a DM on their Instagram profile
Pros
- Located on a hillside with great views of the valley.
- Just off the main highway, therefore well connected but still quiet.
- Great food, with many regional specialities from across India.
- Focused on sustainability, with glass water bottles on the restaurant tables and stacks of washable little hand towels in the washrooms.
- Warm, knowledgeable and helpful staff and hosts.
Cons
- Slightly pricey, but room rates include breakfast and dinner.
- Located at the end of a little lane that might be difficult to access by car.
- Very new, so no online reviews to inform your decision.
- Easily confused with the unrelated Roots restaurant in nearby Kullu; make sure you search for Roots Cafe, Bandrol.
More about our trip: Coming soon!



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Rajasthan
Haveli Inn Pal, Jodhpur
On our first visit to Rajasthan, we were looking for a nice place to stay in Jodhpur. Haveli Inn Pal was recommended by a relative, and it definitely didn’t disappoint.

What it is: Heritage hotel
Where it’s located: Gulab Sagar
When we visited: 2012
What other people think, and how to book: Haveli Inn Pal on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Beautiful old heritage mansion, part of a larger heritage compound
- Located in the heart of the old city, next to the Sardar Market
- Great views of Mehrangarh Fort from the rooftop restaurant
- Indique, one of Jodhpur’s more well-known restaurants, is in the same compound
Cons
- Slightly pricey
- Some rooms don’t have such nice views
More about our trip: Eight great reasons why you should visit Rajasthan


All Seasons Homestay, Jaipur
Though more a guesthouse than a homestay, this nice little place still had a personal touch. An enjoyable part of our visit to Jaipur.

What it is: Guesthouse
Where it’s located: Hathroi
When we visited: 2018
What other people think, and how to book: All Seasons Homestay on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Centrally located, but not too far from the old city either
- Right behind the small Hathroi Fort that can be explored
- More of a guesthouse than a homestay, but still retains the personal touch
- Friendly hosts, who live on the ground floor
- Tasty, homely meals prepared and served by friendly staff
- Well-appointed, modern rooms
Cons
- Doesn’t have a very traditional feel
- The road off which this place is located is one-way in an inconvenient direction
- No real views to speak of
More about our trip: Jaipur: Our motorcycle tour kicks off

Bundi Inn, Bundi
We had a bit of trouble finding this place when we first arrived in Bundi. But the cool interiors and the views from the rooftop restaurant made up for it.

What it is: Heritage homestay
Where it’s located: Nahar Ka Chohatta
When we visited: 2018
What other people think, and how to book: Bundi Inn on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Great location in the old city, close to the Garh Palace and across the road from the Moti Mahal palace
- Cosy old nicely-renovated heritage home
- Friendly and knowledgeable hosts
- Cool, clean and well-maintained
- Rooftop restaurant with a great view of the palace and the city”
Cons
- Some rooms don’t have much ventilation
- The food at the restaurant isn’t great
- Service is quite slow
- The house has various levels with narrow stairs, so accessibility could be a problem
More about our trip: Bundi, a town lost in time



Haveli Katkoun, Bundi
We happened to have a traditional dinner in this lovely old renovated home during our stay in Bundi, and had a long conversation with the lady of the house, too. Next time, we’re definitely staying at Haveli Katkoun!

What it is: Heritage homestay
Where it’s located: Nawal Sagar
When we visited: 2018
What other people think, and how to book: Haveli Katkoun on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Great location, right under the Garh Palace and across the road from the Nawal Sagar lake
- Traditional family mansion, with a very authentic, homely feel
- Friendly and chatty hosts
- Large, airy and well-appointed rooms
- Open-sided rooftop restaurant with spectacular views of the Garh Palace and the lake
- The traditional meal we ordered was simple but very tasty
Cons
- Can get somewhat pricey during on season
- Maintenance could be slightly better
More about our trip: Bundi, a town lost in time
The Padmini Haveli Guesthome, Chittorgarh
We were lucky enough to stay in the only accommodation inside the fort when we visited Chittorgarh. The Padmini Haveli isn’t easy to book, and it’s even harder to find, but it was all worth it.

What it is: Heritage guesthouse
Where it’s located: Chittorgarh Fort village
When we visited: 2018
What other people think: The Padmini Haveli on TripAdvisor
How to book: The Padmini Haveli website
Pros
- Great location, right inside Chittorgarh Fort in the tiny fort village
- The only accommodation available inside the fort
- Great sunset views from the rooftop terrace
- Gives you the unique opportunity to see the fort at night
- Renovated using traditional materials for a very authentic feel
- Friendly hosts and staff
- Not too many guests, so quite private
- Very tasty traditional vegetarian food
Cons
- Slightly pricey
- Located in a very narrow lane, so cars need to park some distance away
- For religious reasons, no alcohol or non-vegetarian food (including eggs) is allowed
- Room payment must be made by bank transfer in advance
More about our trip: Chittorgarh Fort: ancient, massive and imposing



WESTERN INDIA
Gujarat
Devpur Homestay, Devpur, Kutch
We stayed in lots of different places during our visit to Kutch, but Devpur Homestay was our favourite, despite being quite far away from everything else. If you’re looking for unusual hotels in India, chances are you’ll like this one.

What it is: Heritage homestay
Where it’s located: Devpar Yaksh
When we visited: 2014
What other people think: Devpur Homestay on TripAdvisor
How to book: Devpur Homestay website
Pros
- Beautiful heritage homestay set in a small 100-year-old fort
- Different kinds of rooms in various locations throughout the compound
- Very friendly and welcoming hosts
- Old-world feel, with lots of vintage fixtures and decorations
- Opportunities to volunteer at the community school inside the compound
Cons
- Sightly pricey
- Maintenance could be a bit better
- Located in a small village quite far from anywhere else
More about our trip: The colours of Kutch


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Maharashtra
Rusticville Farmstay, Pawna Lake
We spent a night at Rusticville Farmstay with a bunch of friends, and despite the facilities being basic, we had a good time. Not least because Tikona Fort was so close by.

What it is: Campground and mud-built rooms
Where it’s located: Tikona Peth
When we visited: 2020
What other people think: Rusticville Farmstay on TripAdvisor
How to book: Rusticville website
Pros
- Very nice location, overlooking a lake and with a view of the hill-top Tikona Fort
- Bathrooms are provided for guests staying in tents
- Eco-friendly and comfortable (but basic) rooms made from mud and empty bottles
- Rooms have attached bathrooms with modern fixtures
- The room rate includes a barbecue and small bonfire on the edge of the valley
- Food is homely and tasty
Cons
- Located quite far away from anywhere
- The access track is bumpy and dusty
- If you haven’t barbecued before, you might have some difficulty
- Mud rooms take some getting used to
- Because of the natural surroundings, expect to encounter a few insects
- You’ll need to bring your own alcohol


More about our trip: Coming soon!
Wildernest, Chorla
Technically in Maharashtra, this place is actually right on the corner with Karnataka and Goa, on the road from Belgaum to Panjim that goes over the Western Ghats. We stayed here for a few days during our road trip from Hyderabad to Gokarna.

What it is: Eco resort
Where it’s located: Near Chorla village
When we visited: 2021
Reviews and booking: Wildernest on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Great location on the hillside overlooking the valley, with lovely sunset views.
- Surrounded by natural beauty and the forests of the Western Ghats.
- Lots of privacy, with charming eco-chic ambience.
- Excellent food and a well-stocked bar.
- Room rate includes all meals and a number of activities.
- Plenty of trekking opportunities in the surrounding hills.
- Nice infinity pool on the edge of the valley.
Cons
- Overall maintenance could be better.
- Accessibility isn’t great; if you have difficulties with mobility, I wouldn’t recommend this place.
- The stone path leading through the resort is uneven; you need to be careful and watch your step.
- No air-conditioning, so afternoons can get uncomfortably warm.
More about our trip: Tips for a Hyderabad to Gokarna road trip via Chorla and Hampi


BEYOND INDIA
Bali, Indonesia
Secret Point Huts, Nusa Ceningan
Of our eight days in Bali, the four days we spent at Secret Point Huts on the tiny island of Nusa Ceningan were by far the most enjoyable.

What it is: Resort
Where it’s located: Secret Point Beach
When we visited: 2019
What other people think, and how to book: Secret Point Huts on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Lovely location at the end of Ceningan’s main road
- Has access to a small private beach, and is across the road from the blue lagoon
- Very peaceful, especially in the evenings
- Friendly and helpful manager
- Cliff jumping at the nearby Mahana Point café is free for guests of Secret Point Huts
Cons
- Maintenance could be a bit better
- Staff sometimes come across as a little disinterested
- We didn’t have a fan in our room, only an AC
More about our trip: Bali diaries: Peace and crashing waves on Nusa Ceningan


Kenya
Osero Lodge, Masai Mara
We spent two nights at the Osero Lodge, on the edge of the Masai Mara National Reserve, during our week-long safari in Kenya. And though it was the simplest of all the places we stayed at, we enjoyed our stay here the most.

What it is: Tented camp
Where it’s located: Near Ololaimutiek village
When we visited: 2018
What other people think: Osero Lodge on TripAdvisor
How to book: Osero Lodge website
Pros
- Small, simple, cosy camp
- Simple but tastefully decorated tents, dining room and lounge
- By far the best food we had during our week in Kenya!
- Very friendly manager and restaurant staff
- Can be contacted directly to arrange for direct flights to Masai Mara airstrip, safaris etc.
- Local Masai tribesmen are employed as staff and guides
Cons
- Quite pricey
- The track leading to the camp from the main road is VERY bumpy
More about our trip: Our Kenya safari: Up close with Africa’s incredible wildlife




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Kibo Safari Camp, Amboseli National Park
We stayed at the sprawling Kibo Safari Camp, on the edge of Amboseli National Park, on the first night into our safari. The camp was large and luxurious, but the breathtaking sunrise view of Mt. Kilimanjaro was what impressed us the most.

What it is: Tented camp
Where it’s located: Near the Kimana gate entrance
When we visited: 2018
What other people think, and how to book: Kibo Safari Camp on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Luxurious camp, located on the border of Amboseli National Park
- Incredible morning views of Mt. Kilimanjaro lit up by the rising sun
- Good food and service
- Friendly staff
- Elegantly furnished for a very ‘safari’ feel without compromise on comfort
Cons
- Quite pricey
- The camp is large, so you might need to walk quite a bit to reach the furthest cottages
More about our trip: Our Kenya safari: Up close with Africa’s incredible wildlife


Lovely Cottage, Malindi
We spent a few days in Malindi for some much-needed rest after our safari. And our comfortable little room at Lovely Cottage was perfectly located for just that purpose.

What it is: Homestay
Where it’s located: In the Marine Estate gated community on Silversands beach
When we visited: 2018
What other people think, and how to book: Lovely Cottage on Trivago
Pros
- Private room on first floor of a tiny thatched-roof cottage in a gated layout
- The owner isn’t around six months of the year, so even more private
- A minute’s walk from the beach
- Access to the owner’s fully-functional external kitchen
- A common swimming pool for use by owners and guests
- Tastefully and comfortably furnished
Cons
- In off season, you may need to walk a bit to find places to eat
- The room has an AC but no fan (though you can ask for one)
More about our trip: A rejuvenating break in Malindi, on the coast of Kenya


Nepal
Indsu Home, Kathmandu
We only stayed at Indisu Home for a night while passing through Kathmandu. But that one night left a serious impression on us.

What it is: Guesthouse
Where it’s located: Kupondole
When we visited: 2020
What other people think, and how to book: Indsu Home on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Decently located, about halfway between the historic Patan and Kathmandu durbar squares
- Off the main road, and removed from Kathamandu’s crazy traffic
- Elegantly furnished, clean, modern rooms
- Very friendly and helpful hosts
- Good food (and a great hot rum punch) served in the restaurant
- A sweet old doggie roaming the ground floor
Cons
- It takes some time to get used to the heater setting on the AC
- The doors don’t have bolts on the inside
- There’s no lift, and there are no rooms on the ground floor, so accessibility could be a problem
More about our visit: Coming soon!


Dwarika’s Chhen, Kathmandu
We spent the second half of our Nepal trip in Kathmandu. And we and couldn’t have asked for a better-located place to stay than Dwarika’s Chhen (also called World Heritage Hotel).

What it is: Heritage guesthouse
Where it’s located: Kathmandu durbar square
When we visited: 2020
What other people think: Dwarika’s Chhen on TripAdvisor
How to book: Dwarika’s Chhen website
Pros
- Unbeatable location, right on Kathmandu durbar square
- Charming old mansion, with traditional furnishings for a very homely feel
- Great views of the mountains (on clear days) and the durbar square from the roof
- Good food, served in various dining areas
- Friendly and enthusiastic service staff
- Within walking distance of the hip Thamel area
Cons
- Rough around the edges, with slightly cluttered interiors
- Cleanliness and maintenance could be better
- Rooms don’t have much of a view
- You might need to call down to the reception from your own phone
- Can get cold and draughty in winter
- They seemed a little reluctant to accept our booking, for some reason
More about our trip: Coming soon!


Club ES Deurali Resort, Kaskikot
We stopped for lunch at Club ES Resort completely by chance, after our trek along the trail between Sarangkot and Kaskikot near Pokhara. If we’d known about this place earlier, we’d have spent at least one night here.

What it is: Small resort
Where it’s located: Kaskikot-Suikhet Road
When we visited: 2020
What other people think, and how to book: Club ES Deurali Resort on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Great location, with spectacular views of the Annapurna mountain range
- Tasty traditional food
- The traditionally-decorated dining room also has a large sit-out with great views
- Friendly and enthusiastic staff
- Not many visitors, so very peaceful
- Comfortable-looking rooms, with a view of the mountains
- Very close to the Deurali-Sarangkot hiking trail
Cons
- Access to the resort is on foot, and parking is a few hundred metres away
- Kaskikot is about an hour’s drive from Pokhara
- The dining sit-out is quite windy, and can get cold
More about our trip: 7 fun things to do in Pokhara while social-distancing




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The Seychelles
Choice Villa, Mahe
During our time on Mahe island, the basic but comfortable Choice Villa made a great base from which to explore the rest of the island.

What it is: Guesthouse
Where it’s located: Bel Ombre
When we visited: 2012
What other people think: Choice Villa on TripAdvisor
How to book: Choice Villa website
Pros
- Large studio apartments with functional kitchen
- Quite private
- Very friendly and helpful owners and staff
- Close to the popular Beau Vallon beach
- Ocean view from the front lawn
- Nearby provision store for groceries
Cons
- Though the beach is across the road, access is 10 minutes’ walk further down
More about our trip: Six amazing discoveries we made in the Seychelles


Bird Island Lodge, Bird Island
Bird Island Lodge has probably been the most expensive place we’ve ever stayed in. But the incredible memories we took away from tiny Bird Island were worth every penny!

What it is: Resort
Where it’s located: Bird Island
When we visited: 2012
What other people think, and how to book: Bird Island Lodge on TripAdvisor
Pros
- The only resort on the entire tiny island
- Very private
- Large, airy cottages along the beach
- The island is in a conservation zone, so many species of birds and turtles can be seen from very close
- Highlight: Watching sea turtle hatchlings make their way down the beach and into the water
- Brilliant blue water and pristine white beaches
- Nice snorkelling just off the beach
- Rates include all meals
Cons
- Very pricey
- Charges for the flight to and from Mahe island are extra, and steep (they used to be included in the room rate)
- Rafts of seaweed floating around the island can sometimes make snorkelling difficult
More about our trip: Six amazing discoveries we made in the Seychelles


Uganda
The Haven, Jinja
We had a cup of tea at The Haven during our first visit to Jinja, and resolved we would come back and spend a night in that lovely place. And we did.

What it is: Resort
Where it’s located: Overlooking Busowoko Falls
When we visited: 2018
What other people think, and how to book: The Haven on TripAdvisor
Pros
- Tents, rooms and family cottages of various sizes
- Even mid-range rooms are large and tastefully decorated
- Spectacular view of the rapids on the White Nile river from the cottages and open dining area
- Very good food, with generous portions
- Reasonably eco-friendly, with electricity generated from solar panels
Cons
- A little pricey
- The pre-plated meals are so large that you’ll inevitably waste some food
- Somewhat far out of Jinja, and very far from Kampala
More about our trip: An adrenaline rush on the White Nile in Jinja


And there you have it. We’ve discovered a whole bunch of unique hotels in India and beyond in all the years we’ve been travelling (even though there are a few that we only wish we could’ve stayed in). I’m sure we’ll keep discovering new awesome places to stay in the coming years. And when we do, I’ll try and update this list as we go along.

This is a great post and could be extremely useful in the future thanks very much
Glad you liked it! Hope you’ll act on it and take a trip to India soon 😊
Its always in mind was thinking this year until the covud struck so fingers crossed soon
The sooner you get started, the better 😀 One lifetime isn’t enough!
You’ve stayed in some beauties Irfan. I think the huts with the views out over the mountains would win it for me. Perfect
Thanks, John! Yup, we loved those. Can’t wait to go back 😊
Depot Estate, Coorg, would be my favourite, I think, Irfan. The photo just makes it look like straight out of one of those adventure novels placed in exotic locations that I devoured as a kiddo.
Oh absolutely. They put the ‘home’ in homestay 😀 And it’s in the middle of the jungle, but right next to town. What more could one want?
This is an awesome resource! Nothing is better than a recommendation from a fellow traveller.have severe wanderlust to get ourselves back to India and stay in these cool places! Bookmarked this one for the future!Thanks so much!
Thanks so much, Oli and Geoffo! So glad you think it’ll be useful to you on your travels 😊 If you do get to stay in one of these places, let me know how it goes.