13/05/2016
Lilly’s Cafe – Old Manali
Often during our travel we come across some place that leaves a lasting memory and holds a special place in the heart. Well, I have been blessed with many such examples however there is one which deserves a special mention. Lilly’s Cafe in Old Manali, is a guest house and cafe run by Lilly as we fondly call her. Lilly who has been an avid traveler and a fashion designer and now an entrepreneur has been running this place since 2013.
I first met Lilly when a mutual friend introduced us. It was inspiring to know that a lady who had come from a foreign land with no former knowledge of the cafe business had carved her way in through her love, warmth and service and had made a place that was so unique and vibrant. Travelers love visiting this place for the amazing home style food, cozy and warm ambience, stunning views and of course the comfort that they provide away from home. Be it the colourful interiors or the lovely and spacious rooms or the retro themed Bollywood posters on the walls to the mini library that stocks a wide range of books, everything here is hand-picked and represents her vibrant personality. A special mention goes to Bhuntar, the world’s best dog who is the second love of my life and lives here too. He is quiet an entertainer and gets all the attention and never complains :)
Within a few days I ended up working here and learning the cafe business from her and that’s when I really got to know what a lovely person she is. We became friends and I cannot thank God enough :)
I ended up staying here for the winters in 2014 and it was my first experience of living in snow. I must say, the Gods truly blessed me with an experience of a lifetime :) It snowed straight for 3-4 days resulting in a power outage which lasted for 13-14 days. Every evening after sunset me and some of the friends who also stayed there would light up the tandoor and sit and chat over endless cups of chai. A few locals would join and tell us all the stories and legends of the Kullu Valley. Within a few days all the mobile phones, laptops and speakers had been drained empty and that’s when we truly experienced the magical silence. It would be so quite that you could hear the breathing of the person sitting across you in the hall. Almost all the cafes and shops are closed during this time of the year and we would cook our own food in candle light. Bhunti used to keep me entertained with his tricks in the snow and also gave me company whenever I was low. I didn’t want to, but left for home sometime in late January with a heavy heart and the hope of returning soon.
Come June 2015 and I was back again and it was like I never left. Many special bonds had been created and I knew I couldn’t stay away. I call this place home away from home because there are so many memories attached. I have laughed, cried, enjoyed, fought, loved, ate, celebrated, talked, gossiped over cups of hot chocolate and mint tea here. The birthday celebrations, to the surprise parties, the laundry session on the terrace, the hanging out post work with the staff, their guitar and the singing.
Here, I found a friend and a guide for a lifetime. It gave me Bhuntar who is my darling, gave me so many friends and gave me the love of my life.
If you are ever in Manali do visit Lilly’s and I can assure you, you would come back with a smile on your face :)
P.S They serve some of the best salads and sandwiches, Indian dishes, beverages and the best Hummus.
Lilly's Cafe Manali
Liat Eckheizer
