Reached from a lakeshore path by a plank-and-stilt walkway, John Friends' signature attraction is its apple-tree garden and direct access to backwater canals (albeit somewhat stagnant). The 12 bargain-value rooms come with bathrooms and there's a six-mattress dorm and communal sitting areas; upstairs rooms are brighter and fresher. Self-paddled boat hire (₹40 per hour) is a great way to explore the lake.
The owners can arrange treks for around US$30 per day per person. It's two doors down from the Crescent Lake View Restaurant.
