The Hosteller Blogs

Travel news, tips and guides

4 mins read

Valentine’s Day isn’t about romance - it’s about YOU and a February getaway.

Ditch the clichés this Valentine’s Day 2026 and embrace the self-love trend. This blog explores the best February getaways in India, from the spiritual banks of Rishikesh to the heritage lanes of Goa. Discover why February offers the perfect weather for self-love retreats, featuring curated itineraries and the best stays at The Hosteller.

10 Feb, 2026

5 mins read

09 Feb, 2026

The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Travel Guide 2026

Plan the perfect romantic getaway with our Valentine’s Day Travel Guide 2026. Since it's a Saturday, ditch the usual dinners for misty hills, coffee estates, or sun-kissed beaches. Explore top Indian destinations, insider pro-tips, and cosy stays at The Hosteller for an authentic, spontaneous weekend of real connection.

ITINERARY

3 mins read

10 Sep, 2025

10 best places to eat in Calangute, Goa that will make you drool!

Calangute is much more than just beaches, water sports and parties! It’s also a full-blown food paradise. From iconic Goan seafood shacks to all-day breakfast cafés and candlelit beachside dinners, this buzzing North Goa hub serves up something for every kind of foodie.

FOOD & DRINK

10 fun things to do in and around Calangute, Goa

3 mins read

09 Sep, 2025

10 fun things to do in and around Calangute, Goa

If Goa had a “happening capital,” Calangute would probably take the crown. Buzzing with energy all year round, this stretch in North Goa has everything from beach shacks, crazy nightlife, water sports to flea markets, cafés and a pinch of susegad vibes when you need them.

DESTINATIONS

6 dreamy places to visit near Vagamon for your next day trip!

3 mins read

06 Jul, 2025

6 dreamy places to visit near Vagamon for your next day trip!

If Vagamon is your next vacay spot, you're already off to a great start. You’ve walked through pine forests, rowed across the lake, rolled down meadows, maybe even screamed your lungs out doing an adventure activity or two, par dil abhi bhi nahi bhara? Guess what? There’s a whole bunch of gems hiding just a few hours away, each with its own vibe.

DESTINATIONS

10 fun things to do in Vagamon, Kerala’s best-kept secret!

3 mins read

03 Jul, 2025

10 fun things to do in Vagamon, Kerala’s best-kept secret!

Pine-scented trails, thandi thandi hawa and hills that look like someone has turned the saturation way up. That’s Vagamon for you! Kerala’s chill‑pill hill station where you can roll down slopes, glide over lush landscapes, or just sip chai with fluffy cloud views.

DESTINATIONS

The village where you can't touch anything – Malana, Himachal Pradesh

3 mins read

31 May, 2025

The village where you can't touch anything – Malana, Himachal Pradesh

I’ve never talked about my trip to Kasol, mostly because (hehe) my parents still don’t know about it, and let’s keep it that way, shall we? But not because it was a bad trip or anything. It was one of the best trips of my life. I stayed at this gorgeous property, The Hosteller Kasol, Parvati Valley, and oh my my, I fell in love. Like legit dil de diya types. So much so that I ended up taking an internship there. Life really said “plot twist”, huh? But something unexpected happened on the way to Kasol... or rather, I heard something unexpected. Don’t worry, it’s not one of those bhootiya tales that’ll make you sleep with the lights on.

ADVENTURE

Bollywood’s favourite hill station: Dharamshala & why YOU should visit it

3 mins read

27 May, 2025

Bollywood’s favourite hill station: Dharamshala & why YOU should visit it

Hi! I’m Shreya Dwivedi — a certified Bollywood paglu. If you’ve read my past blogs (bless your soul if you have), you’d know that Bollywood toh mere ragon mein hai. Like, it’s not even intentional anymore. It just… happens. But this time, I didn’t choose this article just because my brain plays “inn waadiyon mein” every time I see mountains. I chose it because I realised something — Dharamshala is tiny. Like, teen-chaar galliyan, ek market, thoda sa hillside vibe. And yet, it’s so iconic. So colourful. So stunning. (Yes, I wanted to use words like tranquil, majestic, and mesmerising, but my editor calls them "ChatGPT words," so I can’t, even though they fit Dharamshala perfectly) the chhota packet, bada dhamaka kind of tiny. The point is — the second I stepped into this town, my Bollywood paglu brain went BAM! Scene ban gaya. I have seen this somewhere (cue: Highway) and like seriously — if directors are not shooting in Dharamshala, what are they even doing? And I was right, there have been some movies like Rockstar, Highway, Haider, and Manmarziyaan that have been shot here in Dharamshala & some that I think you should recreate:-

DESTINATIONS

8 unmissable things to do in and around HITEC City, Hyderabad

3 mins read

26 May, 2025

8 unmissable things to do in and around HITEC City, Hyderabad

I’m assuming this is your first time visiting Hyderabad’s HITECH City. Maybe you’re here for work. Maybe your travel partner is on a business trip and you’ve tagged along. Or maybe you’re just curious about this buzzing IT hub and decided to explore. Whatever the reason, you’re here now, and this is a quick, simple guide to everything you can do in and around the city.

DESTINATIONS

Did you know the Taj Mahal was meant to be in Burhanpur, not Agra?

3 mins read

18 May, 2025

Did you know the Taj Mahal was meant to be in Burhanpur, not Agra?

No, the title is not clickbait. The Taj Mahal was never meant to be in Agra. You heard that right! The grand white marble mausoleum that has become the face of eternal love was originally supposed to rise somewhere else. Not beside the Yamuna, not near the Red Fort but on the quiet banks of the Tapti River, in a small town called Burhanpur, in Madhya Pradesh. Sounds unreal? Let me take you back to where this forgotten story began.

PEOPLE & CULTURE

The eternal flames of Manikarnika Ghat: Where everything ends and everything begins

4 mins read

15 May, 2025

The eternal flames of Manikarnika Ghat: Where everything ends and everything begins

Note: As a writer, this is the first time I’ve felt that words are not enough to describe a place. Manikarnika Ghat, its history, its energy, and the things I personally felt there are impossible to express fully. You need to go there, stand there, and feel it yourself. Still, I’ve tried my best to do justice to this blog and this sacred place. "मणिकर्णिका मोक्षदायिनी।" Manikarnika is the giver of liberation. This one line says everything and yet, somehow, nothing about Manikarnika Ghat. Why do I say that? Let me decode. It is said that if one dies here, their body is freed from the cycle of birth and death. A few years ago, when I first heard about Manikarnika Ghat, I had manyyyy questions. And this blog is about the answers I’ve understood (so far).

PEOPLE & CULTURE

The secret behind how Uttarakhand's Roopkund became ‘Skeleton Lake’

3 mins read

11 May, 2025

The secret behind how Uttarakhand's Roopkund became ‘Skeleton Lake’

Have you ever heard about the Skeleton Lake of India? The lake with history, but it also hides mysteries, frozen in time, waiting to be discovered. At first glance, it might look like any other mountain lake with scenic views, a peaceful vibe, and surrounded by snow-covered peaks. But wait until the snow melts. This is the story of Roopkund Lake, also known as Skeleton Lake. Curious why it's called that?

ADVENTURE

A day-long food walk in Hyderabad – Where & what to eat

4 mins read

01 May, 2025

A day-long food walk in Hyderabad – Where & what to eat

Dil ne dastarkhaan bichaaya, Daawat-e-Ishq haiiiiiiiiiiiii, Ayeee! Let’s go, you all know I am smiling ear to ear while writing this blog (HEHEHE). Blog topic hi itna achha hai. Kisi ne sahi hi kaha tha, “Pehle pet puja, baaki kaam duja” and that’s the motto of my life—and should be yours too. To know a city, you have to first know its food. After all, food is that one thing that can make or break a trip. But what happens when you visit a city that’s known for its food? What do you do? How do you decide where to go and what dishes to try? I know, I know, kaafi confusing hota hai. Mere saath bhi hota hai, chillax.

FOOD & DRINK

The ultimate Hyderabad moodboard: People, culture & full vibe!

4 mins read

01 May, 2025

The ultimate Hyderabad moodboard: People, culture & full vibe!

Imagine you’re in Hyderabad. It’s just before sunset. Charminar stands in front of you, bathed in golden hues, looking absolutely dreamy! The faint azaan is playing in the background. There’s the spicy whiff of biryani from some local dabba. And yes, the unmistakable scent of ittar hanging in the air, of course!

PEOPLE & CULTURE

6 adventure activities in Dharamshala that’ll make you feel alive

3 mins read

01 May, 2025

6 adventure activities in Dharamshala that’ll make you feel alive

If you thought Dharamshala was only about chill cafes, monks, and scrolling through life at 0.5x speed, brooo, you’re seriously sleeping on it! This pahadi paradise isn’t just about relaxing, it’s literally a full-on adventure playground. From flying like a bird to trekking into the clouds, Dharamshala is that wild adrenaline fix you didn’t know you needed. So if you’re someone who loves a little thrill, here are all the crazy adventure activities you can try in Dharamshala.

ADVENTURE

A blockbuster 2 day itinerary for Dharamshala

3 mins read

28 Apr, 2025

A blockbuster 2 day itinerary for Dharamshala

You know a place is khaas when a filmmaker like Imtiaz Ali picks it for a movie like Rockstar. Dharamshala, nestled in the arms of the Dhauladhar mountains in Himachal Pradesh, isn’t just scenic – it’s absolutely soul-touching. With Tibetan flags fluttering in the breeze and chai ki khushboo wafting from every corner, this one-day itinerary will take you through the best of this pahadi paradise. And yes, cinematic nerds and chai addicts, you’re gonna love every second. Toh chalo shuru kare?

ITINERARY

16 Things to do in and around Dharamshala you won’t believe exist!

4 mins read

27 Apr, 2025

16 Things to do in and around Dharamshala you won’t believe exist!

Discover 16 incredible and unique experiences in and around Dharamshala that will leave you amazed and craving for more!

DESTINATIONS

Visited Hyderabad and didn’t see these 6 historic places? Babe, wyd?

4 mins read

27 Apr, 2025

Visited Hyderabad and didn’t see these 6 historic places? Babe, wyd?

Hyderabad - I am sure yeh naam sunkar aapke dimaag mein kahaniyaan, kisse, monuments aur legacy yaad aata hoga. Right? Mere bhi. While writing this blog, I got to know that Hyderabad is named after Hyder Mahal (also known as Bhagmati), the love of Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, and this story was enough to pull me into writing this blog.

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Beyond Dharamshala: 10 villages to visit for a peaceful retreat

4 mins read

27 Apr, 2025

Beyond Dharamshala: 10 villages to visit for a peaceful retreat

Escape the chaos and find peace in the serene, lesser-known villages near Dharamshala, perfect for a soulful retreat amidst nature’s beauty.

OFFBEAT

5 insane treks in Dharamshala that are totally worth the sweat

3 mins read

24 Apr, 2025

5 insane treks in Dharamshala that are totally worth the sweat

In this world, some crazy people wake up at 4 AM, climb rocks, get sunburnt, and still come back saying, “Bhai, kya maza aaya yaar.” If you clicked on this blog, we assume you’re one of them. (Or at least... a wanna be one of them.) Well, lucky you, Dharamshala isn’t just about cafes, monasteries, and those romanticized mountain views you see on Pinterest. It’s also home to some of the MUST-DO treks in Himachal. Whether you’re a beginner or a mountain pro, you’re going to love it here. So while you start thinking about what to pack and how to pose for that Insta-perfect photo, let us tell you where you can go.

ADVENTURE

Wanna eat like a local & shop like a pro in Dharamshala? Then this blog is for you

3 mins read

20 Apr, 2025

Wanna eat like a local & shop like a pro in Dharamshala? Then this blog is for you

Okay, let’s be honest. When you’re planning a trip, what’s the first thing you Google? “Best food in XYZ.” Don’t lie, I do it too. Because good food can literally make or break a trip. And Dharamshala is going to make your trip, because there are sooo many food options. Also, shopping scenes here are bang on too. From colourful markets to cute little local finds, you’re going to need an extra bag (or two). So, here’s everything you will get to eat and shop in Dharamshala. Also note: We’re skipping the basic stuff like momos and pizzas (because duh, woh toh har jagah milte hai).

FOOD & DRINK

Hyderabad on a plate: Best biryani, kebabs, and sweet spots in the city

4 mins read

18 Apr, 2025

Hyderabad on a plate: Best biryani, kebabs, and sweet spots in the city

Explore Hyderabad's rich culinary scene with the best biryani, juicy kebabs, and iconic sweets that capture the true flavor of the city on every plate.

FOOD & DRINK

7 mysterious temples of India

4 mins read

15 Apr, 2025

7 mysterious temples of India

For ages, India has been a land of faith, devotion, and miracles. Although there are millions of temples in our country where worshipers can find solace, some are regarded as distinct from the others due to their mysterious happenings and special miracles. These temples are thought to be haunted by supernatural forces that science has not been able to establish or rationally explain fully. Idols can change their significance in some temples, while pillars in other temples hang in midair, and some temples are protected from natural disasters.

PEOPLE & CULTURE

What to buy in Hyderabad (and exactly where to find it!)

4 mins read

13 Apr, 2025

What to buy in Hyderabad (and exactly where to find it!)

Discover Hyderabad’s best shopping spots from bangles to perfumes, budget buys to luxe finds. This guide tells you what to buy and where to go!

DESTINATIONS

7 epic things to do in Hyderabad that go beyond biryani

3 mins read

13 Apr, 2025

7 epic things to do in Hyderabad that go beyond biryani

“Hyderabad? Isn’t that like... tech parks and biryani?” Well, yes and no! The vibe in Hyderabad is a mix of old-school nawabi, a little chaos, and desi hustle. So if you're heading to this city, buckle up. There's a LOT to do and trust us, your Instagram feed will thank you. Let’s break it down. What are the coolest, most fun, most “I-need-to-post-this” kinda things you can do in the City of Nizams?

DESTINATIONS

8 must explore places near Hyderabad to run, rest, and romanticise life

3 mins read

10 Apr, 2025

8 must explore places near Hyderabad to run, rest, and romanticise life

I couldn’t help but wonder… is it possible to love a city and still want to escape it sometimes? Hyderabad — the city of pearls, biryani, and tech hub, with the traffic that turns your 20-minute commute into a philosophical journey. Between chai breaks and Charminar selfies, there comes a moment when even the most hardcore Hyderabadi wants to pack a bag, roll down the windows, and drive off into the distance. Maybe it’s the heat. Maybe it’s the hustle. Or maybe, it’s just that beautiful, reckless urge to feel something new. Gotcha — Let’s do this. Here's your upgraded list of 8 getaways from Hyderabad, written in that Carrie Bradshaw-style storytelling tone.

OFFBEAT

In search of that PERFECT biryani in Hyderabad? This is the only guide you need

4 mins read

08 Apr, 2025

In search of that PERFECT biryani in Hyderabad? This is the only guide you need

You know, I had four different ways to start this blog. But then I thought, ‘why not begin with a real story?’ I was 9 years old when I visited Hyderabad for a wedding with my family. On our way back, we were standing near the Hyderabad Railway Station, hungry and looking for a place to eat. We walked into a random restaurant nearby and ordered Hyderabadi chicken biryani. And there I found THE biryani of my life. Spicy and packed with masala, where the masala has coated the rice like it’s a love story. Slightly sweet when the birista (fried onions) comes in your bite, and that tenderness of the chicken… JUST PERFECT. It’s been over a decade now, I’m 21 as I write this. And I still remember the taste. I love biryani so much now that my portfolio is named ‘Biryani Writer.’ Okay, I don’t remember the name of that restaurant. No one in my family does. And honestly, I doubt it even exists anymore. But I want you to fall in love with biryani, too. (Because how can you not? I am judging you already.) So this is your guide. If you’re in Hyderabad and confused about where to eat, these are my recommendations. But first…

FOOD & DRINK

Hyderabad in 3 days: Biryani, bazaars & beyond

4 mins read

08 Apr, 2025

Hyderabad in 3 days: Biryani, bazaars & beyond

Discover Hyderabad in just 3 days! Savor iconic biryani, explore bustling bazaars, and uncover heritage gems beyond the usual tourist trail.

DESTINATIONS

Leh Palace: A timeless marvel in the heart of the mountains

3 mins read

06 Apr, 2025

Leh Palace: A timeless marvel in the heart of the mountains

India’s forts have always been extra — royal drama, ancient intrigue, and that unmistakable flair for the fabulous. Most of them are all bling, beauty, and baraat vibes. So naturally, when I picked Leh Palace for a blog, I thought — “Okay, yeh bhi ek fancy fort hi hoga, carved pillars, chandelier vibes, thoda Mughal-e-Azam drama.” But then I saw it. Plain. Rugged. Raw. Real. And I’ll admit it — for one second, I almost dropped the idea. Almost. But then I looked again… and that’s when the story hit me & realized this is going to be fun, Yeh palace kuch toh hatke hai boss!

PEOPLE & CULTURE

Trekking through clouds: Kodaikanal’s 8 scenic (and secret) trails

3 mins read

06 Apr, 2025

Trekking through clouds: Kodaikanal’s 8 scenic (and secret) trails

Kodaikanal ka naam toh suna hoga and maybe you would have seen its pictures too? Lagta hai na full Mani Ratnam’s movie backdrop. It’s also a solid playground for all you nature junkies and mountain chasers. If you’ve been craving some green therapy, a little sweat on your brow, and views that slap harder than your morning filter coffee—this one’s for you.

ADVENTURE

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