Parachutes, pups and ponies — those are the three top reasons to pop into the Colonel’s. The paragliding landing site is nearby. Homely hospitality awaits, serving you snack or meal promptly on arrival from trek or flight, heralded by bush telegram. The food is gardenfresh quite literally. The views over the Kangra Valley and the tea gardens, the Dhauladhars standing sentinel on the horizon, constitute beatitude itself. There are stone cottages and there are tents. There is a little dining room. The staff is as hospitable as the hosts. But it is Mamta the mare and the spaniel not called Snubby who make the stay. Tariff: From Rs 2,500 for doubles, including breakfast and dinner. Contact: +91-9882377469, colonelsresort.com