Zostel Plus Poombarai (Kodaikanal)

Great place with great views. A little bit of offroading around 4 kms but it is worth the experience that you get at the stay. This place has good vibes and is lively throughout the day.

We booked the premium room, and while the room itself was exactly as advertised with stunning views, the service was completely unacceptable. The hammock in our room was torn when we checked in. I reported it immediately, only to be told by the reception staff that they already knew about it. If they were already aware, why was a damaged hammock left in a premium room for a new guest? They promised to replace it, but nothing was done until after 10:00 PM—and only because I reminded them again. What was even more frustrating was the complimentary campfire included with our booking. The receptionist told us to inform them before 9:00 PM if we wanted it. I clearly informed her at check-in itself that we wanted the campfire. Yet, when I messaged at 9:05 PM to ask, I was told it was “too late,” they were short-staffed, and they wouldn’t arrange it. Their poor planning and lack of staff should not become the guest’s problem, especially when the request had already been made hours earlier. Charging premium prices while delivering such careless and unprofessional service is disappointing. The property has great potential, but the staff’s attitude and failure to honor what was promised completely spoiled the experience.

The road to Zostel Poombarai needs improvement, but the stay is worth it for the amazing views and peaceful atmosphere. Food options are limited, so having more variety would make the experience even better.

Pros: Overall stay was good. Morning views were absolutely amazing. Check-in process was smooth. Food quality was good, though slightly expensive. Cons: Unfortunately, the checkout experience was terrible and completely ruined an otherwise decent stay. This was, without exaggeration, the worst front-desk experience I have ever had, entirely due to the receptionist Dhruv. His behavior was rude, arrogant, and showed complete disregard for a guest’s time. Our checkout time was 10:00 AM. At 9:58 AM, I called the reception, informed them about checkout, and requested assistance with luggage till the vehicle. Dhruv confirmed that help would be sent. Even after waiting 15 minutes, no one arrived. I called again and was told help was “on the way.” However, even after another 20 minutes, there was still no assistance. I then went to the reception and asked how many staff members were available. I was told five. Despite this, I was informed that no one could help me. When I questioned why I had been made to wait for over 20 minutes, his response was shockingly dismissive: “It’s only 20 minutes, you can wait.” When I stated that my time is valuable to me, and don't waste it, then he falsely accused me of checking out late. I asked him to check his phone, as I had clearly informed him before 10:00 AM. Instead of apologizing or resolving the issue, he started arguing with me. Finally I got assistance for luggage after 30 minutes of wait. After paying ₹5,500+ for a single night, this kind of treatment is completely unacceptable. If he thinks his attitude is considered cool, then it is simply cheaper of the cheapest and highly unprofessional. Someone who does not respect guests or their time has no place in the hospitality industry. This was an extremely disappointing experience, and I strongly advise the Zostel management to take this feedback seriously and train their staff on basic professionalism, accountability, and respect for guests’ time. Additional Notes: The last 3.5 km of the approach road is difficult and not suitable for inexperienced drivers—please be cautious.