In a solitary village about five kilometres from Palampur, Earth House sits amid terraced fields and rolling foothills, with the Dhauladhar range rising in the distance. The landscape changes with the seasons: green fields and crimson rhododendron trees in warmer months, while snow settles along the mountain ridges in winter. A glacial river runs alongside the property, its rocky bed winding through the valley below.
The original house stands on ancestral land and follows traditional Himachali building methods, using mud, bamboo and slate. Its earthy materials and modest form belong to the rural landscape around it. A newer brick cottage sits closer to the river.
The open farmland draws a variety of Himalayan birdlife. Pied bushchats, Himalayan bulbuls and whistling thrushes are among the species found around the property. Though removed from the busier tourist centres, Earth House is within easy reach of Palampur, with the fields, foothills and mountain views of this part of Himachal right outside.
comforts
Earth House has two accommodation options: the original traditional house and a newer cottage beside the river.
The main house has three rooms, each accommodating up to three people. The rooms have a simple, earthy character, with natural materials and windows looking out towards the surrounding mountains. The riverside cottage has four rooms, each suited to two guests.
Meals are served in a shared dining area, where guests come together over home-cooked Himachali food. Outdoors, hammocks and lounging chairs offer places to spend a slow afternoon. As evening settles in, a bonfire pit makes a natural gathering point on colder nights.
food
The kitchen serves local Himachali cuisine, drawing on the region’s culinary traditions. Meals may include dishes such as Madra, Kangri Dham and Sepu Vadi, alongside mutton preparations, fresh river fish and other local fare.
ideal for
Earth House suits those who want to spend an isolated escape, with nothing but fields and forests surrounding you for miles. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to look out for in the surrounding landscape, from familiar Himalayan bird species to a diverse array of flora and small mammals. It is also a good fit for walkers and hikers, with several village paths, forest trails and mountain temples to explore at different levels of difficulty.
Those interested in local architecture and rural life will appreciate the traditional house and the chance to learn about the region’s agricultural and craft practices. And for anyone who simply wants a few days with open views, Earth House offers room to put your worries aside.
getting there
Earth House is around five kilometres from Palampur village and approximately 40 kilometres from Gaggal Airport near Dharamshala. The road reaches the property’s approach, but the final stretch involves a short walk of around 300 metres through fields, with about 20 stairs down along the way. Assistance with luggage is available.
things to do
Start with a walk around the property and along the river. Its cold, clear water offers the possibility of a refreshing dip. The surrounding landscape is particularly rewarding for birdwatching. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you enjoy spending time identifying birds.
Naturally occurring boulders are scattered around the grassy backyard, providing great spots for rock climbers.
For a closer look at local life, take a guided village walk through fields and bamboo groves. Along the way, you may see handloom weaving, visit a traditional flour mill powered by glacial water, and learn how the kuhls channel water to the surrounding villages.
If you’re up for a longer outing, hike to Birni Devi Temple. The trail is steep and rocky in places, with mountain views along the ascent. Wildlife inhabits the surrounding forests, including Himalayan foxes, leopards and brown bears.
For an easier walk, the trail to Jakhni Mata Mandir follows village paths and forested stretches over an approximately eight-kilometre round trip.
Visit one of north India’s oldest tea estates for a tour and tasting, or head to Andretta to explore its pottery traditions. Bir-Billing, around 30 kilometres away, is known for paragliding with certified pilots.
Back at Earth House, you can spend the evening by a bonfire, settle into a hammock or simply listen to the stream as the light fades over the hills.
price
Cost for one night:
6825/- for double as well as single occupancy
Extra person: 1943/-
Children (5-10 yrs.): 1707 /-
Inclusions: All meals – veg only (from lunch on the day of check-in till breakfast on the day of check-out), tea coffee snacks, guided farm walk, bonfire, applicable service charges and taxes.
