Crescent Moon Homestay

Some words about Crescent Moon Homestay: Hotel staff: Pooja with her cute tiny baby were the only sunshine in this overcrowded chaotic Rishikesh, which I didn’t like at all. Just not my vibe, not my city. I prefer more wild nature with no people around. Pooja helped me to deal with taxi, bus and tuk-tuk drivers, who were trying to rip me off all the time. She also ordered dinner from local café and food was delivered to my room. Location: Hotel is hidden up in the hill, among other hotels and houses. So, it is a difficult to find without Pooja’s help first time, then you will get used to find it by yourself after a day or two. Gang river, Laxman Jhoula bridge (closed for reconstruction), temples, ghats, shops and cafes are within 5-10 minutes of walking distance. Tapovan district of Rishikesh is available by one-minute crossing the river by boat from the boat station near the Laxman Jhoula bridge. Room: I was glad to see clean, big and nice room with comfy bed and towel. Ceiling fan helped with air circulation as room was hot during daytime. Quality of the furniture in my room was very good. Bathroom was clean with liquid soap at the sink. Keep in mind that there is no toilet paper or shampoo in the bathroom. Note: Everyone who was wondering where was the canalization drain hole for shower water to leak in the bathroom – I found it behind sink in my room #4 ;o))) on day #3 of my stay. I was also wondering where was the drain after taking shower and turning bathroom into “swimming pool”. There is a shared kitchen with fridge, propane gas stove, toaster, filtered water and tap with sink. There is a rooftop with city and mountain view. Wi-Fi internet worked very well in my room. Overall, Crescent Moon Homestay is a nice place if you don’t like crowd and noise like me.

What made me sad: I am terrible tea monster, so I felt myself sad that there was no electric kettle. You have to pay to use kitchen, but Pooja offered me to use it for free to boil water for tea. I didn’t use kitchen as I am scared to use propane gas stove in India. I couldn’t find cheese in Rishikesh shops. I checked several food stores on my way and none of them had cheese.

Everything was up to the mark.Mrs. Pooja was such a nice host. It was a very comfortable homestay.

The only disadvantage was the altitude at which the homestay is located. A bit difficult to reach but if you love adventure then you would love it.

Lovely homestay within easy walking distance of shops, cafes and the river. The mountain road just behind was nice for exercising. The room was clean and the bed very comfy. The host was so kind and friendly. Great stay!

- Calm and quiet - Clean - Kitchen and room heaters available (had to pay for them separately, though) - Bonfire

- Bit difficult to find the property

Property is at a decent location, gives you vibes of village life, exciting narrow streets. I particularly enjoyed riding Scooty to reach the place. If you like adventure, walking/riding uphill then it will be a memorable Homestay. There is an alternate route to reach by car as well. Location is very close to Laxman jhula, markets nearby. There is a kitchen as well, so you can cook food yourself. Attached balcony for Ganges and hill view.

Nothing for me.

The room was as shown in the photos, and the owner was very helpful (e.g. she helped us find a laundry place and booked the service for us). She also helped us find the right location when we arrived in Rishikesh (it was late and she sent someone to 'rescue' us).

The exact location is a bit tricky to find at first (especially at night), as the homestay is located in a part where Google Maps doesn't show clear passages. The problem is solved after the first try, though.

The Homestay is very clean and Pooja is so incredibly friendly and welcoming and helps you with everything you need. The hot water works well and you can also use a kitchen. It is just 5 minutes to Lakshman Jula. Great value for the price you pay and I would definitely recommend it.

You need to walk a steep road to get to the Homestay, so it’s not a good option for people with mobility issues. But for me, this was not a problem at all. I was there in December and it was very cold. Puja gave me extra blankets, but keep in mind there is no heating indoors in India.

Super friendly host. Takes care of You and helps with many tourist activities.

Wasn't such things.

First of all, Pooja , the owner, is absolutely adorable. She treats hosts like her own siblings, very polite and nice. She is always available both on WhatsApp and physically, once anyone needs her. The place feels like home . For its value it’s absolutely great place. Additionally it’s clean and has a very good location ( but it’s for people who are physically healthy , because there is some part you have to climb to reach the guest house).

The heater works with some tricks , but it works. Overall I liked my stay there and Pooja (the owner) promised make it even better. It’s a really good place .

Roms were clean, hot water, drinking water was availablle

Location is bad for a one day stay, it is a steep hike and very difficult to locate. Moreover, some construction was going on on the approach road (stairs, rather), making it risky. Book only if you are a trekker and back packer intending to stay for 3-4 days. I was back from a trek and was looking for relaxation before my remaining journey to some other places.But this place turned out to be a strenuous task carrying luggage to and fro