The days here at Vaatalya are usually sunny and nights are chilly, you should be aware of the climatic behaviors that dwell in the mountains and alters within a fraction of seconds. As per the location, there is nothing to stop the wind flow which leads to usually cold weather in the evenings.

Below is the approximate temperature as per the seasons

Autumn: September to November: 10 degrees to 20 degree

Winter: December to February: MInus 02 degrees to 08 degree

Spring & Summers: March to June: 15 degrees to 25 degree

Monsoon: July & August: 10 degrees to 17 degree

Even if you are coming during summers, do ensure you carry a jacket and maybe a cap if you are planning to step out at night for stargazing, it can turn chilly.

As you are traveling offbeat in the lap of nature and staying disconnected off the grid, travel backpacks are the best. Carrying them becomes much easy. It’s good to stick with a backpack that’s carry-on size, but don’t go overboard if you choose a backpack over the carry-on limit. For reference, a carry-on size roughly translates to roughly 50-60 L (give or take). If you are carrying a stroller it’s fine too however there are no potters available and you would have to walk around 80 meters to reach the top. Carry what you can, we will help you with the rest. Give us a heads up in advance.

These are literally the most convenient thing to carry around the entire day especially if you are going on a trek or simply chilling in any part of the mountain top.

When it turns windy or cold it's best to dress in layers since the majority of coldness is due to wind chill and temperatures can change rapidly depending on the time and weather. Hence dressing in layers will allow you to add/subtract layers as and when needed. So make sure apart from your regular clothes, you are also carrying pullover/s, warmers, woolen caps, and gloves depending on which month are you traveling. Summer months at night can turn chilly too.

As you are on the mountain top, you receive sun to its full capacity. Do carry these 02 items to protect yourself from the sun. They come in handy.

If your body is not much use to the mountains it's good to keep a lip balm. Cold weather tends to make your lips very dry.

Bring your toothbrush, face wash, and comb – your personal must-haves. Soap, handwash, and toilet paper are in your room. Each occupant gets one towel.

This is mandatory. For Domestic/ Indian travelers it is essential to carry at least one government-issued identity card to register yourself at check-in. For foreign nationals passports are required. Documents may also be checked during the border crossing in Himachal.

For all the gadgets, cameras and mobile, power banks: Need we explain this?

It’s recommended for you carry a small extension board. There are limited plugs, so if you are a person who carries more than 01 gadget, do get this.

Even if you have a mobile torch, still do carry a small LED one at least. The electricity here is non-functional for not more than a total of 3 days in a month. But still, keep something for an emergency.

Our recommendation would be to carry enough cash you need. Cash may be required for experiences that you may avail on spot/ taxi for local use or/and extra things you’ll order from the menu for munchies that we have at Vaatalya. There are no card machines or ATMs around. GPAY doesn’t work with everyone local.

The signal is just available in some pockets. Airtel works best here. Signal strength is mostly weather-dependent. We have installed signal boosters in common areas necessary where you can work. The electricity is not an issue but during the rainy season, it may become one. In case you wish to use the internet we suggest you get your own personal Airtel Dongle ! We DO NOT have common use wifi or INTERNET services at Vaatalya !

We strongly recommend you carry a pair of high ankle trekking shoes with a good grip. In case you don’t have high ankle shoes ensure that they at least have a good grip. The high ankle shoes protect you from sprains while running or walking on uneven terrains. Good grip shoes will ensure you don’t slip.

Crocs can be of advantage compared to slippers if you are walking from one place to the other within the retreat. They keep your feet protected.

There is no internal heating system or heaters in the room. We are old school as we provide travellers with rubber hot water bags to keep themselves warm in bed. Heavy quilts are available in case you feel too cold.

Extras: Room heaters are available for an additional charge of Rs. 600 per day

We please request you NOT to follow google maps and follow the directions below: 

1. From Dharampur turn left from the railway line | 15 kms to Subathu cantonment area

2. Reach Kunihar | 15kms

3. From Kunihar 14 kms head to Batal Ghati

4. From Batal Ghati turn left (Full U-Turn)

5. Stay on the main road and reach Piplughat | 12 kms

6. Turn left from Piplughat to Saryanj school | 05 km (Don't enter Saryanj Village)

7. From Saryanj uphill to Vaatalya

We are sending you a video with landmarks. Have a look. Also, a good idea is to call us when in Piplughat or Saryanj. From Saryanj will start a yellow trail. Big Dots of yellow 🟡 after every few 100-800 mts till you reach the top. 

Video Link: https://youtu.be/GtFbo_7ZF6A

In case you get your own vehicle, please ensure that you are good with your driving skills. The last 01 km of the road is hard mud uphill road. We have a safe parking facility.

Contact us know more.

We do not charge any additional cost in putting across our travellers to reliable drivers. Vehicles are clean & safe. All drivers are personally known to Vaatalya Community Members. You may pay the driver directly in cash. This includes all taxes, tolls, etc. In case you are seeking an upgraded vehicle like an Innova or an SUV you may let us know.

Charges for a local taxi can be checked with us in real-time as they keep changing as per seasonal months or hike in fuel prices.

Option from New Delhi of Innova or Swift Dzire available on request. Contact us for details.

Any questions in relation to your physical or mental suitability for the trip must be reviewed by your personal medical practitioner for approval. We cannot offer advice of a medical nature. Travellers with pre-existing medical conditions are strictly advised to not make reservations in Vaatalya, and if all they do, is at your own risk. Vaatalya reserves the right to deny any client on reasonable medical grounds.

Vaatalya is situated on top of a mountain and the market is an hour away. So get everything you need. Trust us when we say that buying, once you reach here, is not an option. Please do let us know in advance if you need something specific, last-minute arrangements will not be possible. We will try our best to arrange for it if we can.

It’s important to read the following:

RETREAT RULES: www.vaatalya.com/retreat-rules

FAQ’s:
www.vaatalya.com/faq

Do have a look and ask us questions.

Enjoy homestyle vegetarian meals with occasional breakfast eggs. All dining is communal at set times (9:30 AM, 2 PM, 8 PM). No in-room dining; snacks in dining area. Non-veg option: White meat at INR 850, red meat at INR 1050 (serves 2).

Note: Kitchen closes at 9 PM; meal timings are fixed. Thank you for understanding.

Always a good practice to carry your own medical kit with basics when travelling. Something like THIS.