Whenever I think of our Himachal Trip I think of Manali and whenever I think of Manali I think of Ishaan Resort. Such was the beauty of this hotel that kept reminding me the few beautiful days I spent there. Everytime I wish I should have stayed a few days longer even after staying there for five days. Leaving Manali and going back home is already a tough thing and even tougher if your accomodation is something like Ishaan Resort.
At first I was in dilemma about which hotel to choose from as Manali has ample number of cottages and hotels. My wife needed something with a great view of the valley and the surrounding mountains from the balcony along with close proximity from Manali Mall. Then I read about Ishaan Resort which is coincidentally my son’s nick name. Naturally we had an inclination towards it. While booking I got great discounts through Goibibo. The actual cost of Rs. 2500/- came down to less than Rs 1000/- per night. I even personally confirmed regarding the amneties with Mr. Varun Mehra, a nice person as well as the owner of the hotel.
The hotel is located a little uphill on Hidimba Road. We had our car with us and it took 2 minutes to reach Ishaan Resort from Manali Mall. There is also a shortcut stairs to the mall but that road will test your walking skills. Hidimba temple is also a few minutes uphill from this hotel.
When we entered the hotel we saw a large and classy lounge. The manager was a smiling young man who quickly recognised us and alloted our rooms after the basic check in formalities.
Yeh.the rooms were really spacious and there was a beautiful balcony. There were two big sized single sofas, a tea table, a double bed, a tv table and still a lot of empty space. Although cleaned there was some dust around the corners. The house keeping guys immediately took care of it with a smile. The geyser was in good working condition. Bathroom had bath tubs albeit without stoppers. But if you are creative you can use it. Room heaters were available in just Rs. 300/- extra per night. They also have boiler facility which means 24 hours hot water even electricity.
The next day is the day we were truly amazed. When I woke up in the morning I could not believe what I am seeing. It was subshine all around. All the mountain peaks were snowclad from previous night’s fresh snow and the beautiful Manali town is still sleeping amidst it. It was worth looking at forever. The view was unobstructed from our hotel rooms. It was a heavenly experience. The following few days in Manali were treasures of a lifetime to all of us.
Although I saw a space for a big restaurant but no restaurant was set up. But room service was there. They had a good kitchen from which quality food is delivered to your room although I found it a bit expensive.
This is a comparatively older peoperty and I heard that renovation is about to begin. All the better the hotel had an ownership change just few months before my booking. The new owner Mr. Mehra is determined to provide a lasting experience to his guests and told me that renovation is on the way.
For your information the flooring of this hotel is upside down i.e. 1st floor is Top Floor. Try to book rooms in top floors to get wider view. I stayed in room number 101 which is a corner room with ample sunlight coming from both sides.