An 8-key ultra-luxurious heritage property built in 1860 amid lush tea gardens at the foothills of the Dhauladhar range — with in-room Jacuzzi, mountain views, and a warmth that only a Dak Bungalow carries.
Perched amidst the Dhauladhar foothills, overlooking the storied Bundla Tea Estate — a structure that bears witness to the region's colonial and post-colonial history.
Originally constructed in the late 19th century during British rule, the Dak Bungalow served as the residence for the Tea Estate Manager. Dak Bungalows of that era were built along travel routes to shelter British officials on their journeys — and this one, registered as a company in 1860 by the Butail family, has been in the same family for six generations.
This Dakbungalow has seen many wars, many festivals, and many laughs — sheltering numerous British Officers on their long journeys through the Kangra Valley. Following India's independence, it housed German nationals working on the Indo-German agricultural project. Today, restored by Gokul Butail, it invites you to experience the nostalgic feel of the British era while enjoying modern luxuries.
The Butail family has stewarded this estate since 1860 — a living inheritance.
Every corner holds photographs and records of the British era — history you can touch.
You sleep inside a tea garden that still produces Kangra tea. Walk it every morning.
The Himalayan range frames every window, terrace, and meal on the property.
From a colonial manager's residence to one of Himachal's most celebrated heritage stays — the bungalow has lived many lives.
Bundla Tea Estate formally registered as a company. The Dak Bungalow rises as the Tea Manager's residence, one of the earliest such structures in the Kangra Valley.
Shelters British officers across decades of travel and administration. Every room accumulates layers of history — photographs, journals, and the weight of an era.
Repurposed to house German nationals as part of the Indo-German agricultural development project — a new chapter bridging nations through the Himalayan foothills.
Lovingly restored by the sixth-generation Butail family as an 8-key ultra-luxury heritage guesthouse. Voted among the best stays in Himachal Pradesh.
Every suite at the Dakbungalow is 650 sq. ft., sleeps up to four, and comes with a private in-room Jacuzzi as standard — not an upgrade. Choose your view: the working tea garden, the outdoor pool, or the Dhauladhar range.
All suites include: Air Conditioning · Private Balcony or Terrace · Flat-screen TV · Minibar · Tea & Coffee Maker · Safe · Bathrobes & Toiletries · 24-hr Room Service · Free WiFi
Wake up to a private garden panorama framed in Victorian wooden décor. Quiet, lush, and unhurried.
Your balcony overlooks the outdoor pool and the tea estate beyond. Step out, dive in, come back refreshed.
The Dhauladhar range, unobstructed, from your private terrace. The finest alarm clock on the property.
Heritage charm doesn't mean roughing it. The Dakbungalow pairs its 1860 bones with amenities that a modern stay calls for — from a sun-soaked pool to a kitchen that takes its food seriously.
Open year-round, the pool sits at the edge of the tea garden with views of both the estate and the mountains. Breakfast by the pool is a guest favourite.
A private Jacuzzi is standard in every single suite — not an add-on, not an upgrade. Soak while the mountains watch over you.
Indian, Italian, European and Asian cuisines, with a curated British-era menu. Our chefs bring a personalised touch — meals are freshly prepared around your preferences.
A complimentary guided walk through the working Bundla Tea Estate, with a cup of freshly brewed Kangra tea mid-garden.
Complimentary access to an associated sports club: heated indoor pool, sauna, gym, and badminton court. Pickleball court access also available (chargeable). The full-facility retreat.
Every evening, guests gather for high tea — and on cooler nights, a bonfire under the open Himalayan sky. A Dakbungalow signature. High Tea and Bonfire may be chargeable.
Plan daytrips to Andretta pottery, Sobha Singh Art Gallery, Baijnath Temple, or Tashi Jong Monastery. Free parking on site; airport shuttle available.
High-speed complimentary WiFi throughout the property, plus a dedicated BBQ area and darts for lighter evenings on the estate.
Local singers, traditional dance groups, and live music bands can be arranged on request to add a festive touch to your stay.
Morning tea in the garden. A dip in the pool while the mist clears the Dhauladhar. Lunch prepared to your liking by the chef. High tea by the bonfire at dusk.
The Suite
The Pool
Garden Seating
The Grounds
The Bathroom
In-Room Jacuzzi
The Corridor
Suite — Tea Garden View
The Vanity
The Welcome
Nutmegg Restaurant
"Open the curtains and soft morning sun rays welcome you. Look out the windows and the pleasant view of the sprawling tea gardens fills your heart with an amazing sense of having arrived at a dream destination."
"The property is very beautiful, right in the middle of the tea gardens and gives a very vintage and luxurious feel. Main highlight would be the private Jacuzzi in each room. Hands down the best stay for leisure and nature retreat."
"The attention to detail is amazing. We were warmly greeted on check-in; Sandeep in the restaurant took care of our meals with love and care. They have a great spread of breakfast and daily complimentary high tea with bonfires."
"I had the pleasure of a tea garden walk guided by Piyush and Rishav. Walking six of us through the tea garden — the scenery was beautiful and it was a relief to walk in such a quiet, peaceful environment. Cup of tea mid-garden was icing on the cake."
"Without doubt one of my favourite hotels in Himachal! The staff are incredible — attentive and warm. The food in the restaurant was great and the location is superb. A really relaxed feel and vibe you can't find elsewhere."
"This is the most luxurious hotel in Palampur. The ambiance is pure heaven — cozy, warm and the perfect retreat. Whether you're by the fireplace or enjoying the stunning winter views, everything about this place makes you feel you're in a winter wonderland."
Our travel desk can arrange day trips and guides to each of these — or simply point you in the right direction.
Enquire directly — our team will confirm availability, rates, and any special arrangements within 24 hours.
Early check-ins and late check-outs subject to availability. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Photo ID required at check-in.