3 missed calls from ‘Mom’. Yes, that’s your lock screen notification as soon as you reach your room at 12 or 1 AM from your friend’s room doing exactly nothing, just sitting and laughing at some pathetic jokes. 

If you have ever lived in a hostel, we’re sure you’ve experienced this and know what it is like. Hostel life is all about friends and sharing lovely experiences with them. You sit in your friends’ room for so long with your cell phones left on charging in your room. 

This certainly was your hostel life back then when you’re out for studies. But do you know you can relive those auspicious memories simply by staying in a hostel while travelling? See, if you’re travelling alone booking a hotel, mmm …. Hotels are friendly but they can be quite lonely, and the prices can be high.

There has been a dramatic increase in people travelling alone in recent decades. Therefore, the rise in demand has created a greater need for cost-effective individual reservation options. 

Thus, hostels were created as a way to accommodate the growing demand for cost-efficient individual reservations.

The first thing that comes to mind when we think about hostels in India is Zostel, which is a chain of hostels in India and Nepal. And Himachal is no short of Zostels. Zostels are scattered throughout Himachal, making it possible to visit every place worth visiting. So let’s get started with:

Zostels in Himachal Pradesh

1. Zostel Manali (Burwa)
2. Zostel Dalhousie
3. Zostel Shangarh
4. Zostel Barot (Rajgundha)
5. Zostel Dharamkot
6. Zostel Dobhi
7. Zostel (Old Manali)
8. Zostel Chitkul
9. Zostel Mcleodganj
10. Zostel Sangla
11. Zostel Sissu
12. Zostel Vashisht 
13. Zostel Spiti

1. Zostel Manali (Burwa)

If you are a nature lover and want to look at snowy mountains and green hills bursting with delicate vegetation, then Manali is the place for you. Zostel Manali (Burwa) is an exciting backpackers hostel in Solang Valley that offers brilliant food, luxurious rooms, and a vibrant common area.

As you enter the hostel, you are greeted by a neat front yard, offering a stunning view of the distant mountains. There are lively crooks where you can party to your heart’s content, delectable meals served in the cafe, a common room where you can work and let everything go, and a cafe that serves mouthwatering meals. Get a different perspective on Manali by staying in this hostel with friends or a partner the next time you’re in the mountains. 

Address: Khata/Khatoni No. 289/386, Khasra No. 1221, Muhal Buruwa, Manali, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh – 175103

2. Zostel Dalhousie

Dalhousie is a gorgeous hill station in Himachal Pradesh that has risen to become one of India’s most popular hill stations. The region is eminent for its magnificent beauty and wholesome climate. At an elevation of 6,460ft above sea level, this sparkling place in the lap of the Himalayas offers a break from busy life.

Amidst the verdant peaks of Chamba, Zostel Dalhousie is huddled in a peaceful area of Dalhousie. There is something blowy and relaxing about the rooftop and common areas of this hotel with incredible views. A dedicated workstation and an in-house cafe are also available at Zostel Dalhousie. A picturesque hiking trail, picture-perfect paddocks, and waterfront adventures await you at Dalhousie. So what are you waiting for? Go, discover it all.

Address: Dalhousie Parel Road, Kholpukhar, Near Gandhi Chowk, Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh 176304

3. Zostel Shangarh

They call it the ‘Valley of Gods‘, Shangarh. It is a little-known village in Himachal Pradesh that will enchant you with its magical beauty. A visit to this pretty hamlet will leave you with a lasting imprint of the main meadow, the temples, waterfalls, lakes, separated trails, and sunset and sunrise stances. 

In the forested mountains of the Great Himalayan National Park sits the Zostel Shangarh. Himachal’s ramblers’ hostel is soaked in scenic beauty and offers a quiet, thoughtful atmosphere. The hostel’s rooftop common area features board games, reading spots, swings, and internet-connected workstations. Private balconies, pleasant dining options and outdoor spaces provide travellers with an ideal environment for working, exploring, and socializing. Look no further than staying in Zostel if you’re in Shangarh.

Address: Village-Dharali, PO-Madana, Tehsil-Sainj, District-Kullu, Himachal Pradesh (175134)

4. Zostel Barot (Rajgundha)

Despite being so secluded, the village of Barot offers so much to its residents: star-watching, playing with sheep and calves, listening to the cold wind, and cosy bonfires! You wouldn’t want to miss out on all of these, especially when you have a spectacular mountain view to supplement them. It takes at least an hour to hike to Zostel Rajgundha! There are no roads in the remote Himalayan villages of Himachal Pradesh since they’re secreted deep in the mountains.

An idyllic mountain retreat, Zostel Rajgundha sits amid the wistful landscape of Barot Valley. You can start your day with a vigorous breakfast at the in-house café, then play board games, work on dynamic projects, read, and explore the outdoors. Dusk paints the skies cherry and gold. Dance the night away with your friends while listening to soft music and lighting up a bonfire. Let yourself be swept away by seclusion, nature, and tons of snow as you uncouple from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life.

Address: Rajgundha, PO Baragran, Barot, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

5. Zostel Dharamkot

Dharamkot is a hippie village located just 2 km from McLeodganj. This is the apt place to take a few days or months off from the real world if you can.

A stay at Zostel Dharamkot is like a trip back in time. It offers guitar jams, cosy bonfires, delicious cafe food, and tenderly welcoming people. With stunning views of the Dhauladhar mountains, the hostel is located in a scenic, passive corner of Dharamkot. It offers a hurried common area, a lively bonfire area, and colorful corners. What else do you need? If you enjoy nature, hiking, and making reminiscences with your kind of people, Dharamkot is the place for you.

Address: Upper Dharamkot, Opposite Heena Cafe, Mcleodganj, Dharamshala Himachal Pradesh – 176219 , India
Read More: Cafes in Dharamkot and Naddi

6. Zostel Dobhi

Dobhi is a great place if you want to spend time with your family or friends while you’re near Manali. Apart from being aesthetically pleasing, this place is quite unknown as of now.

The Zostel Dobhi welcomes you to walk around Fojal valley in Himachal Pradesh, 20 km before Manali. Kullu’s towering mountains are framed by the calm Fojal stream and lush fruit orchards. There are loads of common areas where you can party with your friends in addition to workstations where you can chill out. You can enjoy delicious Indian food at the in-house cafe, while your loving host spoils you with genuine Himachali dishes upon request.

Address: C/o Dr Paljor Bodh, VPO Dobhi, Teh. Kullu, HP – 175129

7. Zostel (Old Manali)

What more could you possibly want from a mountain retreat than fabulous mountain views, snowfall during the winter, coffee shops that enrich your leisure time, and a wide variety of activities? 

Snow-capped foothills and apple orchards surround Zostel Old Manali in a pensive landscape. As one of Old Manali’s most happening hostels, Zostel Old Manali is ideally located in the backpacker district. Additionally, The Garden Café, offering authentic Himachali food with other treats, is accommodated on the premises and serves as a pleasant place to meet and greet people. The mountains of Manali are a harbour for adventure seekers and mountain lovers alike, offering activities like snowboarding, trekking, and paragliding.

Address: Manu Temple Road, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh – 175131
Read More – Best Places to Visit in Manali

8. Zostel Chitkul

Chitkul is a breathtaking sight perched high in the Himalayan range on the Tibetan border, above most of India. It seems that the mountains here are taller than in most other places, the air is quieter, and time moves more slowly. Happiness to the eye with pink colourations of Buckwheat in the springtime, white with thick bedspreads of snow in the winter, and green & brown in the straw hat, Chitkul is a gladness like few others. 

As one of the last villages on the Indo-Tibetan border, Zostel Chitkul offers a cherished experience. The hostel offers a splendid view of the Himalayas, dense forests, and the surrounding area. Relax in the warm common room or enjoy hearty dishes in an iconic outdoor cafe. Whether it’s snowing or sunny, go for a hike, take a walk through the village, or kick back under the stars.

Address: VPO Chitkul Near Thakur Guest House Chitkul, Sangla Dist. Kinnaur Himachal Pradesh – 172106

9. Zostel Mcleodganj

A prominent Tibetan settlement, McLeodganj is affectionately referred to as Little Lhasa because of its location on the lower slopes of the Dhauladhar range. You can visit many monasteries, the Dalai Lama Temple, the museum, as well as famous cafes in every alley. Life is unassuming, quiet, and gratifying in Bhagsu and Dharamkot, located along the same lanes. 

Zostel McLeodganj, located in the backpacker’s hub of McLeodganj, is the perfect mountain retreat. This hostel brings the town’s most memorable experiences closer than ever thanks to its ample space, quirky chill spots, and lively rooms. An in-house cafe, equipped workstations, and a rambling garden are among the hostel’s features for backpackers and digital nomads. A panoramic view of the Triund top can be seen from the rooftop. Occasionally engagements are held, movies or sports are screened, and you can enjoy concerts and movies. Embark on a journey of culture, cafés, and a blustery backpacker lifestyle at Zostel McLeodganj.

Address: Pink House, Jogiwara Rd, opp. Yongling School, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh – 176219
Read More – 10 Must Visit Cafes in McleodGanj

10. Zostel Sangla

With evergreen forests, mountain slopes, and snow-capped peaks surrounding it, Sangla Valley is an idyllic getaway from city life. Its cherry trees and red apple orchards make it stand out from the other valleys. Sangla Bering Nag Temple, Kamru village fort and Sangla Buddhist monastery are among the popular sights in the valley. 

An ideal place for a soothing nature getaway, Zostel Sangla invites you on a social holiday amidst the Himalayas. Located in a row of apple orchards, it offers spectacular views of Kinnaur’s snow-capped Himalayas. Walking through villages, hiking, and mountain climbing are all activities you can enjoy around the hostel. The garden cafe is a pleasant place to socialize, the rooftop offers a magnificent view, and our common room can be enjoyed over games. End the day with a beacon and stargazing as the twilight arrives.

Address: Zostel Sangla, Tapa Saring, VPO Sangla

11. Zostel Sissu

Located on the right bank of the Chandra River in Lahaul, Sissu is also known as Khwaling. Sissu lies at the end of the Rohtang/Atal Tunnel, amidst mountain ranges like Gyephang Goh. Palden Lhamo Dhar, locally called Palden Lhamo, is an awe-inspiring waterfall that draws many visitors.

A stay at Zostel Sissu is the key to discovering the enchanting Lahaul region of Himachal Pradesh. A striking difference in lifestyle and setting can be found in the Indian highlands, where breezy summers, vivacious autumns, and brutal winters reign. In Lahaul’s vibrant Zostel Sissu, travellers can work remotely, lessen and discover the natural beauty of the region. An amazing experience awaits you in a town located 40 kilometres west of Manali, accessible through the Atal Tunnel.

Address: VPO Sissu, Teh.Keylong, Distt.Lahaul And Spiti

12.  Zostel Vashisht

3 kilometres away from Manali, Vashisht is situated in a dreamlike mountain landscape across the Beas river. Vashisht is perpetually busy with travellers, hikers, and pilgrims because of its Jogini Waterfall and sacred hot springs. 

A brand-new pocket of probe opens in a good-old destination with Zostel Vashisht, the hip and trendy backpacker hostel near Manali. A spectacular mountain view, chic common spaces, and an exceptional choice make this hostel the most ideal place to stay if you are backpacking. For a more ritzy experience, they have special attic dorms and augment private rooms. You can also enjoy the sun-sloping front yard, the cafe with its workstations, and the balconies that oversee the valley. Is Manali calling your name? Discern it from a totally different perspective.

Address: Near Vashisht Temple, VPO Vashisht, Manali, Kullu, 175103

13.  Zostel Spiti

A truly unique adventure anticipates you in Spiti Valley, with its rugged mountains & starry skies. Visit the world’s highest post office in Hikkim and travel around the world’s highest populous village, Komic, while riding on the world’s most treacherous road – the Shimla to Kaza highway. Enjoy Himachal’s outlandish valley of Spiti, and discover the hidden wonders of Himalayan Tibetan culture and fabulous landscapes!

Zostel Spiti is situated in a stunning location overlooking Kaza’s rugged mountain escape and offers an unforgettable experience in the Spiti Valley. Get to know other travellers by hanging out in the common area or in the outdoor cafe. Next, hike down to the river with your newfound friends, check out the market, and make day trips around the valley. After an emphatic cafe dinner, enjoy playing some games under the glowing sky in the evening.

Address: Leo Village Rd, Kaza, Himachal Pradesh 172114

There’s no uncertainty that visiting these Himachal places will make you feel like you’re travelling in a dreamland. However, at the same time, you’ll apprehend that there is so much more to discover about the state. In summary, if you’re a traveller, you should start by exploring Himachal Pradesh while staying in Zostels of Himachal Pradesh.
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