Packing List & Travel Tips for a Boutique Stay in Manali (Himaja Retreat)

Planning a boutique stay near Manali? Here’s your packing checklist and guide for Himaja Retreat — hilltop orchard stay, forest views, fresh food & quiet mornings.

11/8/20251 min read

a person sitting on the floor next to a guitar
a person sitting on the floor next to a guitar

Get Ready for Your Stay at Himaja Retreat with the Right Prep

✅ Essential Items

  • Warm layers: Even in spring/summer, mornings and evenings on the hilltop are chilly.

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Many of our guests explore the orchard trails or wander towards the forest.

  • A good camera or phone with battery backup: You’ll want to capture sunrise over the Beas River, apple orchards, and the forested hills.

  • Reusable water bottle & eco-friendly bags: We live here and care for the environment — you’ll find composting, low-waste habits and we’d love your help.

  • Rain shell / light waterproof: For monsoon and early autumn stays (the forest loves to surprise).

✅ Planning Tips

  • Travel time & route: From Delhi or Chandigarh, plan the drive (or bus) to Manali and arrival at our hilltop retreat 3 km beyond Old Manali.

  • Food preferences: Let us know in advance your meal preferences — Kerala style, Himachali comfort, vegetarian, etc — we cook fresh, with care.

  • Slow-travel mindset: Bring a book, or come with no agenda other than rest and nature. At Himaja Retreat, time slows down.

  • Connectivity: While we have good WiFi, the best connection here is with nature and each other. Consider unplugging for a few hours each day.