India, Feb. 4 -- Though the first tendrils of spring seem poised to appear in the capital, it is still wintry hygge time in north India. What this calls for is a glass window overlooking the mountains in all their glory with a hot cuppa in one hand and a book from the TBR pile in the other. Here's a carefully curated list of Himachali getaways that offer not only breathtaking views and a glimpse of Pahadi living but an honest escape with no distractions but nature:

Araam HomestaysWe start our sojourn with a hidden homestay that's a short drive from McLeod Ganj. What sets Araam apart is precisely what is signified by its name, that it is a rest house or as its founder Jaipreet Chandna shares with us: "It is a gentle invitation to make a c...