Under-the-radar hotels worth your bucket-list

The warm sunshine and clear blue skies of March calls for a quick getaway. We’ve handpicked 5 spectacular boutique properties for your spring holiday. From 360 degree sweeping views of the Himalayas to a cantilevered dining area atop a hill. From farm-to-table dining to stargazing – these hotels offer so much more than your cookie-cutter standard hotels. So, escape those crowds and tourist traps with these under-the-radar hotels that are definitely worthy of a place on your travel bucket-list.

1) 360 Degree Leti, Leti, Uttarakhand

360 degree is a stunning retreat at 8000 feet in the Himalayas. This place offers authentic experiences of lands unrevealed in regular tourist trails. They have four futuristic glass, wood and stone cabins. And have larger communal dining and lounge area perch on a remote mountain top from where you can have a knockout views of the Northwestern Himalayas. It is an innovative combination of traditional techniques and contemporary design.

2) The Orchard at Peora Estates, Peora, Uttarakhand

The architectural style of this gorgeous property is that of a farmhouse in Tuscany. The verandas and balconies are perfectly positioned to maximize the wide panoramic view of valleys, hills and the majestic Himalayas. Their furniture is curated by the luxury and boutique brand Warisan known to have done up some of the finest properties in the world. The surroundings of this place is full of trekking trails with some great attractions along its way. Star- gazing from this property on a clear night is truly a delight. You might even get lucky and spot planets such as Jupiter and Saturn in all their glory.

3) The Kumaon, Almora, Uttarakhand

Nestled in a hidden ridge in the sacred Nanda Devi range this place has ten luxury suites, a sun lounge and a gourmet restaurant. Soak in the mountain sunshine at this exquisite retreat. The Kumaon is designed by an award-winning Sri Lankan architect who has perfectly extended tropical modernism into a unique mountain design. All buildings are constructed with sensitivity to their natural environment, allowing guests to feel absolutely immersed in nature.

4) The Cottage Jeolikot, Nainital, Uttarakhand

A dreamy cottage set amidst the rolling hills of Nainital. Originally established as a health resort, this charming, fairytale-like cottage was, till independence, run as a hotel by a Scottish lady and her daughter. Apart from savouring, experiencing and exploring the plentiful attractions of the immediate surroundings, you can make this a base-camp to explore the nearby Kumaon region.

5) Sylvan Villa, Dharampur, Himachal Pradesh

Sylvan Villa is situated at an altitude of 1950 feet above sea level in the captivating Dharampur hills. This property possesses a rich and colourful history – it was the first school of this city. There are three rooms, all of which are meticulously decorated with an attached dressing area and bathroom. The main lawn provides a panoramic view of the Shivalik range and is perfect to while away a afternoon.

So, ditch the ordinary this season and head to one of these truly exceptional places!