Paddy's Cottage is a delightful experience, filled with an old-world charm and serenity amidst the hills of Bhimtal. With its quaint setting and charming interiors, the homestay makes for a quick, pocket-friendly weekend getaway from Delhi. 

Ideally located away from the hustle and bustle of Bhimtal, the homestay is the perfect space for nature lovers and calm seekers. 


the retreat homestay bhimtal

ABOUT THE STAY

The heritage property is home to Padmini Smetacek, her 6 children and her dogs who are the most wonderful hosts. While Paddy engages the hosts in beautiful conversation and stories, her children help around the house by cooking for the guests, making fires in the evening and escorting wanderers on unknown trails through the forests. 

The hosts have the three pahari dogs who head out on these adventures with the travellers making the experience an absolute delight. The large sit-out's are ideal to enjoy the lovely views & lush greenery and share some chai and stories with the hosts. 

charming homestay bhimtal kumaon
homestay in bhimtal
the retreat homestay bhimtal

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THE ROOMS

The homestay has a total of three rooms, each with its own attached bathrooms. The rooms are decorated in an old-style colonial fashion, exuding a comforting old world charm. All the rooms are designed in a rustic manner with artefacts and paintings collected from the time that Mr.Frederick Smetacek first acquired the estate in the 1940's.

The house has one central dining and lounge area, from where there is an entrance to all the rooms. This space is where travellers can hang out and read, dine and observe all the heritage artefacts that tell you a lot about the hosts family heritage.  

bhimtal kumaon
the retreat homestay bhimtal

Paddy, her two daughters, one doggie and me :)

Paddy, her two daughters, one doggie and me :)

THE HOSTS

The cottage is owned and managed by Padmini, a.k.a Paddy Smetacek, a warm and friendly hostess who ensures your stay is warm and comfortable. Along with her six children, four of whom who live on the estate with her and her two dogs, she beautifully runs this charming homestay with her passion and heart. 

The meals are all home-cooked by either Paddy or her sons who cook up some delicious dishes for their travellers, from chilly chicken and stir-fry noodles, to yummy cinnamon puddings. The entire families efforts combine to make your stay homely, warm and full of yummy food!


MORE PHOTOS


THINGS TO KNOW

 

LOCATION
Paddy's Cottage is located in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand.

GET THERE
By Road: 

6 hours from Delhi.
By Train: 
Nearest station is in Kathgodam, 1 hr away.
By Air:
Nearest airport is in Pantnagar, 1.5 hrs away

 

BEST TIME TO VISIT
Summer, spring and monsoon are the best months to experience Bhimtal. 

BEST SUITED FOR
Solo female travellers, couples and small families. 

PRICE
Rs. 4,000 - Rs. 5,000 per night depending on the season on double occupancy inclusive of breakfast, morning and evening tea with yummy cake or cookies!

ACTIVITIES

Paddy's cottage is an ideal place for slow travellers as well as adventure junkies and activity seekers.

For the ones who like to stay in and relax, this is a great place to read and write. The various, cozy indoor nooks and the charming outdoor spaces act as lovely reading corners.

There are various nature trails that one can embark on to explore the surroundings. A twenty minute walk from the cottage, and you reach a beautiful, ancient church set amidst the forests. 

For travellers seeking more activity, you could go to the main town for some boating and kayaking, or make your way to Naukuchiatal located 15 minutes away for a para-gliding adventure. 


INSPIRED TO WANDER?

As a result of my travels to Paddy's Cottage, I have been able to build a great relationship with the owner and work out a fantastic deal for you! The property offers an exclusive 10% discount to all Wanderbugs who wish to experience its beauty. 

You can avail of this offer by mentioning 'Wanderbug' to your hosts at the time of booking. 


If this charming getaway has inspired the wanderer in you, you may also like to explore
other stunning places in the Uttarakhand...