Hello fellow travellers! I’m Shubham Butola, a local traveller and tour guide based in Gauchar, Chamoli, Uttarakhand. As the founder of Garhwali Traveller, I’ve had the pleasure of helping numerous visitors find the best accommodations in this beautiful region. Here are my top tips for booking hotels in Uttarakhand, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
1. Research the Location
- Understand Your Destination: Different areas in Uttarakhand offer varying experiences. Research the specific location you plan to visit, such as popular spots like Mussoorie, Nainital, or more secluded areas like Gauchar.
- Proximity to Attractions: Ensure your hotel is conveniently located near the attractions you want to visit to save on travel time and costs.
2. Check Reviews and Ratings
- Reliable Sources: Use trusted websites like GarhwaliTraveller.com, TripAdvisor, Google Reviews, and Booking.com to read reviews from other travellers.
- Local Insights: Look for reviews from fellow travellers who have similar preferences and priorities as you.
3. Amenities and Facilities
- Essential Amenities: Ensure the hotel provides basic amenities such as clean bathrooms, hot water, heating (in winter), and reliable Wi-Fi.
- Additional Facilities: Depending on your needs, check for facilities like parking, in-house restaurants, and travel desks.
4. Book in Advance
- Peak Seasons: During peak tourist seasons like summer and festivals, hotels can get fully booked quickly. Booking in advance ensures you get the best options.
- Monsoon Considerations: In the monsoon season, some remote hotels may be difficult to access. Confirm accessibility before booking.
5. Local Recommendations
- Personal Connections: Utilize recommendations from locals or trusted guides. As a local guide, I often provide my clients with a curated list of reliable accommodations.
- Garhwali Hospitality: Staying at family-run guest houses or homestays can offer a more authentic experience of Garhwali hospitality.
6. Budget and Value for Money
- Compare Prices: Use comparison websites to find the best deals. Sometimes direct booking with the hotel can also fetch better rates.
- Look for Deals: Keep an eye out for discounts, especially during the off-season. Loyalty programs or memberships can also offer savings.
7. Safety and Hygiene
- Cleanliness Standards: Post-pandemic, it’s crucial to ensure the hotel follows proper hygiene and sanitation protocols.
- Safety Measures: Check if the hotel has safety measures in place, especially if you are travelling solo or with family.
8. Accessibility
- Physical Accessibility: Ensure the hotel is accessible for people with disabilities if required.
- Transport Links: Check the availability of public transport or hotel shuttle services for easy commutes.
9. Communication
- Language: Ensure the hotel staff can communicate in a language you are comfortable with, which is often English or Hindi in Uttarakhand.
- Contact Details: Keep the hotel’s contact information handy for any queries or emergencies.
10. Experience and Expertise
- Guided Services: Some hotels offer guided tours or have tie-ups with local guides (like myself). This can enrich your travel experience.
- Local Activities: Inquire if the hotel can arrange local activities like trekking, bird watching, or cultural tours.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a pleasant and hassle-free stay in Uttarakhand. For personalized recommendations or tour services, feel free to reach out to Garhwali Traveller. Safe travels and enjoy the serene beauty of Uttarakhand!
Best regards,
Shubham Butola
Founder, Garhwali Traveller