Location and friendly staff

This lodge is in Heritage zone identified by Govt of Himachal Pradesh. Very safe and secure area with offices and guest house of Central Govt dept, state Govt depts, Indian army. Mall road is within 200m range, so completely walkable distance. It's very near to local bus terminal and Shimla railway station. Climb down 100 stairs and you are on the main road. The inside of the property is very nice - enjoy the sun and cool breeze while sitting in the rooms. Kitchen is equipped with microwave, electric kettle, cutlery, RO. Room heater placed is a blessing. Bathrooms are good with geysers and decent fittings. Good size rooms for 4 adults to stay.

Thistle lodge is actually a homestay single handedly managed by a landlady. I think they need to hire at least 1 or 2 staff to better cater to the needs of guests. For eg. Booking is inclusive of breakfast, but the breakfast is a very inclusive affair, with very limited options as the lady cooks herself and options are as per her convenience not guests preferences. Also, rates offered by Thistle Lodge for taxi etc are very high as compared to what one can get over Google. Lodge is not accessible by car, either you climb up almost 100 stairs from the main road or you walk downhill from AG Chowk....it may be a concern for senior citizens. Be cautious of monkeys - one monkey actually pounced over my wife while she was enjoying the sun from the terrace and she somehow managed to run and enter the house.

Namita, is a very gracious and helpful hostess. She was very responsive and always available for help. The place was clean and all basic amenities available. A short walk to the mall road it was easy to go for walks and meals .

Parking for the car was some distance away with a extra daily charge of Rs.200 and no in and out facilities. Unfortunately the view from the bedroom was obstructed by unsightly communications antenna.