The Mansion By StayVista

You don’t spot the house from the approach road, instead, you enter through the gate, and there’s this long driveway that slowly opens up to the main villa. Then suddenly, it’s there: a pastel-toned mansion that looks straight out of a fairy tale. Pointed towers, soft hues, and this feeling that you’ve just stepped into a world completely removed from anything outside.

One of those towers even has a spiral staircase you can climb all the way to the top, and from there, you get a glass-framed view of all of Kasauli. It’s probably the best vantage point on the property. Inside, every room is different, each one has its own pastel shade, theme, and a set of curated photographs that tie the space together. The detailing is thoughtful: unique tiles, soft lighting, ultra-comfy beds, and an overall palette that feels both calming and intentional. It’s luxurious but in a very quiet, aesthetic way.

Every room opens out to a balcony and that’s a major plus. When you’re in the hills, you want a spot to sit with a view, and these don’t disappoint. The villa is set on a height, so most balconies have uninterrupted views of the valley or forested hills.

There’s also a lovely outdoor section that you only discover if you walk down below the main property. It’s a small woodland path that leads to a lower clearing. There’s a swing, a few chickens, and a little open-air spot where you can set up a picnic or outdoor dining. It feels hidden, and that’s what makes it memorable.

The food here was actually incredible. They have a full commercial kitchen and an in-house chef, which makes a huge difference. The rice tikkis are still unforgettable, and even the classics like butter chicken and other North Indian dishes were standouts. It’s one of the few villas where the food is a genuine highlight.

What also made the stay feel personal was the owner himself. He walked us through the history of the place, shared stories, and just added that extra layer of warmth to the experience. There’s also a sunroom that acts as a quiet waiting area, and at night, you can set up a bonfire in the lawn and just settle in under the stars.

It’s easily accessible too, very close to Chandigarh which makes it feel like a quick getaway, but once you’re inside, it couldn’t be further from the everyday. What stayed with us most was that whimsical, almost unreal feeling the property creates. Like stepping into a different world for a while.