In the hustle of Bangalore, I found myself craving a peaceful retreat. Scrolling through Airbnb, I discovered the Dalton Village Mud Cottage in Tirthan Valley. After chatting with the host, Ryan, I booked it on a whim. Little did I know, I was in for an unforgettable adventure.
The Long Journey
Traveling from Bangalore to Delhi, then catching a Volvo bus to Aut, the journey was exhausting but exciting. After a 10-minute walk through a jungle trail, I reached Dalton’s Village. The cottage, a 60-year-old mud structure beside a stream, was even more beautiful than in the pictures. Lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and serene rocks invited me to sit and soak in nature.
Embracing Rural Life
My room had an earthy vibe with some soothing color bedsheets, curtains, and mud walls. Bhavna, the caretaker, welcomed me warmly and showed me around. The women running the place were the heart and soul of the village. We crossed a quaint bridge and sat by the water, simply enjoying the peace.
A Taste of Local Flavors
Lunch was a delightful local spread: Rajma, lingadi ki sabzi (a fern dish from the stream), and rotis made from Chakki ka Aata. The flavors were authentic and delicious, prepared with love by Bhavna.
Living Simply
Dalton’s Village offered a true rural experience. Without electricity at night, we embraced candlelight dinners and the simple joy of conversation. Bathing was an experience in itself, using water heated in a traditional hamam with wood chopped by the village women. It was a humbling, sustainable way of life.
Evenings by the Bonfire
Evenings were magical with bonfires, music, and deep conversations. We drank pure spring water, chashme ka paani, straight from the earth. Bhavna’s stories of village life added a special touch, and her cooking was consistently delicious.
Exploring Nature
The next day, we trekked to the Great Himalayan National Park. The two-hour hike was filled with stunning flora, grazing sheep, and a fun trout fishing session. Reaching Hippo Falls was the highlight of the trek. We returned to the cottage for hot pakodas and chai by the bonfire, ending the day perfectly.
Immersed in Village Culture
We visited a nearby village, met Bhavna's family, and experienced their way of life. Their hospitality was heartwarming. After lunch, I spent the afternoon lazing around the property and took a refreshing swim in a nearby waterfall.
Saying Goodbye
As my stay came to an end, I felt deeply content. The journey back to Bangalore gave me time to reflect on the wonderful memories. Dalton Village Mud Cottage isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a gateway to a simpler, richer life. If you need a break from the chaos, this is the place to be.
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