A Peaceful Escape Around McLeodganj/Dharamshala
When planning a quick break in Dharamshala, I knew I didn’t want to be stuck in the busy lanes of McLeodganj market. My checklist was simple:
- Budget under ₹10,000 per night
- A resort feel without the crowds
- Mountain views and tranquility
- Yet close enough to cafes, attractions, and markets
That’s how I found Udechee Huts in Naddi, a family-run boutique resort with a handful of cottages overlooking the mighty Dhauladhar range. Naddi itself, located about 15–20 minutes from McLeodganj, is a quieter alternative, known for its sunsets, small cafés, and its panoramic viewpoint.
First Impressions
We reached early morning, hours before check-in. Instead of making us wait, the staff welcomed us warmly, let us freshen up, and served breakfast on the terrace. Sitting there with hot chhole bhature and chai, watching the snow-capped Dhauladhars light up with the morning sun, was unforgettable.
The crisp air, the sound of birds, colourful butterflies, blooming flowers, and the stillness of the mountains made us realize instantly that we’d picked the right spot.
How We Got There
We took an overnight Volvo from Delhi to Dharamshala (around 10–11 hours). From the bus stand, it was a short 30-45 minutes cab ride to Naddi village. The final stretch winds through cedar forests, Dal lake and narrow hill roads, but the views of the white Himalayan peaks peeking through made the climb memorable.
Our Cottage Stay
We stayed in a single-room cottage—circular in shape, spacious, and with windows framing the valley.
Highlights:
- Outdoor sitting area with mountain-facing chairs
- Flower-filled garden spaces right outside the cottage
- Bathroom scored Silver Seat on our Toilet Seat Index (clean, practical, and comfortable)
- Daily thoughtful touches like complementary biscuits, chocolates, and chips in the room
- Standard amenities (sofa, hot water, Wi-Fi)
The design was traditional, yet the way the room framed the mountains felt like living inside a painting.
The Views That Steal the Show
Opening the window each morning was surreal. The Dhauladhar range felt close enough to touch.
- Mornings: Calm, crisp, perfect for tea with a view
- Sunsets: Golden and pink skies, often with views of valleys below
- Stormy nights: Hail rattling around, lightning illuminating snow-clad peaks—a reminder of nature’s raw power
We spent hours simply sitting outside, reading, and letting the mountains work their quiet magic.
One morning, we hiked to a nearby river about 30 minutes away. Dipping our feet in icy water and sipping fresh lime shikanji beside the rocks on the river was one of those simple, grounding experiences that stay with you.
Food & Dining
Udechee Huts is family-run, so meals have a homely, comforting touch rather than a commercial spread.
What to expect:
- Breakfast: Hearty portions—don’t miss their chhole bhature
- Dinner: Freshly cooked, moderately priced, and always served with care
- Ambience: Cozy indoor dining room plus an outdoor option with sweeping mountain views
Even if we returned late, staff checked if we had eaten, often going out of their way to accommodate requests.
Hospitality & Vibe
This is where Udechee Huts shines. The staff were attentive without being intrusive, often going the extra mile—whether it was leaving flowers in the room or offering local tips.
Unlike larger resorts, the limited number of cottages keeps the place intimate and peaceful. It blends the warmth of a homestay with the polish of a boutique resort.
Experiences Around Naddi
While Udechee Huts itself invites you to slow down, there’s plenty nearby if you want to explore:
- Naddi Viewpoint: Famous for its sunset views over the Kangra Valley
- Short treks & hikes: Gentle trails leading into forests and down to rivers
- Local market: Small but lively, good for woollens and local snacks
- Cafés: A handful of mountain-view cafés ideal for coffee and conversations
- McLeodganj & Dharamshala: Only 20 minutes away for Tibetan monasteries, the Dalai Lama Temple, and bustling bazaars
Who Is It For?
- Couples: Quiet mornings, starlit evenings, endless conversations with mountains as backdrop
- Families: Safe open spaces for kids, with plenty of garden areas
- Solo travelers: Perfect for reflection, writing, or meditation
The Dhauladhar peaks have a way of humbling you—reminding you of your smallness in a vast universe.
Travel Tips for Udechee Huts
- Price range: Under ₹10,000 per night for cottage
- Getting around: You can take bike / scooty on rent or simply take taxis.
- Nearby attractions: Dal Lake, St. John’s Church in the Wilderness
My Reflections
After a couple of days here, I left with a sense of calm I didn’t know I needed. The Dhauladhars mesmerized me, and the hospitality made me feel at home.
Would I return? Without hesitation. Next time, I’d spend extra days doing nothing but meditating, reading, and letting the mountains slow me down.
EatPlanStay Verdict
Stay here if you want soulful views, boutique warmth, and tranquility around McLeodganj.