10/10 Excellent
Steve
14 September 2016
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Top notch hotel just up the hill from Old Manali
There was some initial confusing after booking this hotel. The Expedia entry says "OYO Premium Apple Garden" with the "Whispering Inn" as a landmark. However an email was received after booking which stated the name as the "Highland Hotel" and after walking back and forth past the Whispering Inn several times it wasn't clear where to go.
A phone call to OYO and then the hotel manager later and a car was on its way to pick me up at no charge, which was much appreciated. The actual location is a ways up the hill on the opposite side of the river from Old Manali, but there are steps across the road from the bridge that offer a nice shortcut and the walk up isn't bad at all. I did end up submitting the location to Google Maps so with any luck the next traveler will know exactly where to go.
As for the hotel itself, the building is gorgeous and the room was comfortable, spacious, and clean. Hot water was plentiful. Being far enough away from the constant activity in Old Manali offered a silent retreat at night and a solid night's sleep. I happily extended my stay here.
The staff service continued to be excellent for the rest of the stay and while the WiFi didn't quite stretch to inside the room there were plenty of lounge chairs on the balcony outside to set up shop. The restaurant food was decent, though there are plenty of options worth exploring in the area. The front desk can book excursions for you.
Recommended and would stay here again.