Dzongu Home Stay | Kewzing Home Stay | Pastanga Home Stay | Yuksum Home Stay| Other Home Stay  

Experience and live with the people of different mountain communities of Sikkim.Travel to the pure and pristine settings of Sikkim, a distinctive rural ecotourism destination. Mesmerized yourself with the untainted lands and traditional lifestyles of the land and its people.
Experience a Home stay with a local family. Share with the people their local lifestyles close to nature and culture. Visit ancient Buddhist monasteries; participate in bird watching trails, treks, adventure activities, cultural festivals & natural wonders of Sikkim.

The Sikkim Himalayan Homestays Program is operational at Dzongu (North Sikkim), Pastanga (East Sikkim), Yuksam (West Sikkim) and Kewzing (South Sikkim). Dzongu is a purely Lepcha settlement and Kewzing a typical Bhutia village. Other sites are a mosaic of different communities of Sikkim.

Sikkim Himalayan Home stay program promotes ecotourism in rural areas of Sikkim, India. This is an Endeavour to help the mountain communities of Sikkim to benefit from low-impact rural tourism. In this way, the cultural heritage of the communities and the beautiful environment around them can be protected for future generations.

The Sikkim Himalayan Home stay program is supported by UNESCO Paris, Norwegian Government & the Principality of Andorra & implemented by Ecotourism & Conservation Society of Sikkim (ECOSS).

You can be part of this unique responsible tourism program and contribute to the process of preserving the natural and cultural heritage of this beautiful Himalayan Tourist destination.

Access: The homestay destinations are easily accessible by roadways. There are scheduled taxis available that operate at fix timings. There are also private taxis or reserve taxis available for the various homestay destinations.

Accommodation: As tourists, you are accommodated in local homes as a guest. You stay with local families in their homes within the particular destinations. All Homestay hosts have been trained to provide clean furnishings and bed linens for guest rooms. If you require extra blankets or other items, your host will be happy to provide them. The restrooms are also clean and maintained so that they are acceptable to guests. The norms of privacy and safety are also taken care of. Your home stay hosts are local villagers who are extremely hospitable and will strive to make your visit comfortable in every way.

Meals: The home stay hosts are trained to provide food and drinking water in a hygienic and palatable manner. Rice is the local food that is widely served. Traditional meals are also served to the guests. However, should you have special dietary requirements; your homestay family can prepare them for you. It is also important to inform the village tourism management committee about youe meal preference and tour special requirements.

Communication: All the destinations have 99% of cell mobile connectivity. The network services usually accessible are BSNL, Vodafone, Airtel and Reliance. GPRS connectivity is also available on BSNL and Reliance Hutch network and is helpful to access internet.

Money Exchange: Gangtok and major towns of Sikkim are serviced by ATM machines of various Banks. Major traveler’s cheque and credit cards are accepted in major hotels only. There is recognized money changer available in Gangtok.

Homestay Destinations The Sikkim Himalayan Home stay destinations are spread in four different districts of Sikkim. Every place has its own distinctive flavors that makes the travel experience unique. There some suggested packages for home stay destinations. The local tourism management committee or ECOSS can make arrangements of your trip. The packages can be customized as well as per visitor preferences. For more information click on a destination on the top left menu.

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DZONGU - Homestay Packages
Dzongu lies in the North of Sikkim. It is a homeland of the Lepcha community, the original inhabitants of Sikkim. The territory was reserved especially for the Lepcha community. It borders the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, where pristine glacial streams thread their way through thick virgin forests; countless waterfalls cascade down the steep cliff-sides and hot-springs bubble inside the Hidden caves.
The area is very remote and is surrounded by sharply tilted verdant mountains that are stacked on top of each others at a forbidden angle. The elevation ranges from 500m to 6000m, and these extremes have nurtured an amazing diversity of plants and wildlife.

Gangtok - Mangan: Drive from Gangtok to Mangan takes approximately 3 hrs. The drive to Mangan is very picturesque as you pass through different villages, streams and waterfalls. Upon arrival at Mangan you will be met by the guide-representative, who will brief you about the trip to Dzongu and help you make arrangements for a special permit to Dzongu.
Overnight in Homestay in Mangan.

Mangan - Kusong: Drive from Mangan to Tingvong Village which takes approximately 2 hrs. The insight of rivers and rich biodiversity is simply spectacular. After lunch at your homestay, with the local guide, hike to Kusong Village, which takes approximately 2 hrs walk. As you traverse through, you come across an old monastery, where the villagers meet at different festive occasions. The walk is not very strenuous but can be conquered by any age group. Kusong village is settled on the lap of a mountain where almost 20 -30 households reside. Some interesting features of the village are old traditional houses, magnificent mountain views of the Mt. Khangchendzonga, Corn fields, Caves and People. Afternoon return to Tingvong village.

Tingvong - Lingza Next day early morning you get to see the views of Mt. Khangchendzonga from your room. After breakfast we hike to Lingza village which takes approximately 3 hrs. One will be able to witness the rural life, village activities, sights and sweet sounds of diverse avi-fauna as you walk along. Lingza village is nestled in a plateau with rice plantations carpeting almost the whole village. Afternoon will be spent in exploring the village and we return to Tingvong Village.

Tingvong - Lingthem
It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive to Passingdang from Tingvong and the hike to Lingthem takes 3 hrs. The walk to Lingthem village is very strenuous and is especially for the brave hearted. The views from Lingthem are considered to be the best as you can see kaleidoscopic views of Mt. Khanchendzonga. The village is located almost atop a mountain and vast terrain of Dzongu can be seen. This will be followed by an overnight in Homestay in Lighthem.

Lingthem - Hee Gyathang
Hee Gyathang is bank opposite to Mangan. From here you will be able to see the river valley of the Teesta River. On the way you come across a small sacred pond, the Lepchas believe that one of the tribes of Lepcha originated from this lake. Also while driving one will come across different species of vibrant butterflies fluttering almost everywhere. The local handicraft centre has some of the most unique crafts like the Lepcha Hat, intricately woven.
Overnight in Homestay at Hee Gyathang.

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KEWZING - Homestay Packages
Kewzing, meaning the land of wheat is located 76 kms from Gangtok, in the southern district of Sikkim. At an altitude of 4600 ft, the village is located against a backdrop of magnificent view of mountains that include Mt Narsing and Mt Kabru.Kewzing is a typical Bhutia village rich in cardamom forest cover. The atmosphere in the village is very serene and peaceful. Far away from the modern way of life, it offers visitors a chance to relax and rejuvenate themselves.

The local people are very friendly and hospitable. The visitors get a chance to participate and witness rural life in Sikkim. They can also pursue their special interests in bird watching, study plants and flowers etc. Kewzing village offers magnificent mountain views and is an ideal place to experience the traditional Bhutia (Buddhist) way of life.

Gangtok Arrival : Arrival Gangtok and check into hotel. Prepare for the Kewzing trip. Briefing about the trip and other preparations.

Gangtok - Kewzing
The drive to Kewzing takes approximately 3-4 hrs. One can bypass the national highway and drive via Rumtek and Martam Village to Kewzing. Martam village is a beautiful valley with terraced fields and traditional houses. The drive continues down to the valley of river Teesta and then to the gradually ascend to Ravangla. After crossing the peak of Ravangla, the drive continues for another 10 kms to reach the Kewzing Village. Upon arrival in Kewzing we drive to the Monastery where we meet the Homestay family and the head monk who welcomes all visitors and after a quick tea and snacks the clients are escorted by the Homestay family they are residing with.

Kewzing
A short hike in the morning to Mangbrue and the Lepcha Monastery. The Mendangs (long chortens) lies at the ridge of the mountain overlooking the valley of west Sikkim. Further, uphill lies the Lepcha Monastery, one of its only kind in Sikkim and a very old structure. The monastery is rich in history, relics and culture. On a clear day one can see the mountain ranges of Khangchendzonga very clearly. Between the Monastery and the Mangbrue Mendangs, lies some historical monuments of the Bhutanese invasion in Sikkim. For those interested in bird-watching, Kewzing is a paradise for bird watchers with almost 150 varieties of bird found in this region.

On the way back you can pop into the Handicraft centre and see some exquisite handicrafts they make in Sikkim. After breakfast you take a village walk to witness the daily activities of the village or even get involved. One can even spend time in understanding the culture and interacting with the village community members or listen to folktales of the village. In the late afternoon a hot stone bath can be prepared for those willing to experience or relax after the village walk.

Kewzing
Drive to the Bon Monastery, one of the oldest sects of Buddhism. The monk will take you on a tour of the monastery and explain to you the history of Bon while showing you the relics and paintings of different deities. After completion we drive to the Maenam wildlife sanctuary via Ravangla.

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary , covers an area of around 35 square kms, it is located in the South Sikkim district, Sikkim, India. The literal meaning of Maenam-la is "treasure-house of medicines", and the flora of the sanctuary is rich in a number of plants of medicinal value, flora and fauna. The sanctuary has an altitudinal gradient ranging from 2300 m - 3263 m.
A drive further will take you to two other monasteries which are newly constructed and beautifully adorned with paintings and Buddhist architecture. One would marvel at the relics that are inside the monastery. PM drive to Ravangla where we stop for Lunch and drive back to the village.

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PASTANGA - Homestay Packages
The idyllic village of Pastanga is located less than 60 minutes from Gangtok, yet it seems a world away. The village is very rich in culture and folklore; and is surrounded by hills covered with dense forest and cascading streams with rivulets cutting through the landscape and appealing orchids blooming on tree tops.
The hospitality of the local communities & their authentic rural lifestyle along with the serene natural setting forms the major attraction for visitors coming to Pastanga. Visitors to Pastanga will be able to see traditional Bhutia and Rai houses that have remained virtually unchanged for the last 150 years, walk through cardamom plantations to visit a sacred waterfall and observe daily village life. The village forest has many medicinal plants used by the villagers.

PH 01: Glimpse of Pastanga - 2 Nights / 3 Days
Gangtok - Pastanga – Gangtok

Gangtok Arrival
Arrival Gangtok and check into hotel. Prepare for the Pastanga trip. Briefing about the trip and other preparations and same day leave for Pastanga. (Optional)

Gangtok - Pastanga
Drive to Pastanga via Ranipool and Bhusuk, is just an hour scenic drive from the capital city, Gangtok. Pastanga is exotic village encompassing natural attraction and there is abundance of various flora and fauna. Traditional welcome by local community and your host will escort you to your home stay. Later, enjoy a village walk through the herbal gardens and cardamom plantation, also local attractions like Sumni-Hwari waterfall, traditional Bhutia and Rai houses that have remained virtually unchanged for the last 150 years and the herbal garden. Over night at Home stay in Pastanga.

Pastanga
A short hike to Nopkom, located at the junction of beautiful dense virgin forest and Gaucharan village is the beautiful hilltop, from where one can have a magnificent view of Mt. Kanchanjunga, world famous Rumtek monastery and the panoramic view of the village. It is an hour walk from Pastanga. Chirping sound of the birds welcomes the visitors and meeting ethnic people and observing authentic village life is another unique experience. Cultural show organized by the local tourism organization. Overnight at Home stay in Pastanga

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YUKSAM - Homestay Packages
Yuksam, the gateway to Khangchendzonga National Park, lies in the far western corner of Sikkim, nestled at the base of high forest-covered snowcapped mountains. It was the first capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Sikkim, where its modern history started with the consecration of the first king of Sikkim in 1642. Yuksam literally means "the meeting place of the three monks."

Yuksam has now become a popular base for trekkers and nature lovers, as it is the entry point into the Khangchendzonga National Park.Its rich natural diversity & cultural ethnicity has attracted visitors from everywhere. The village lies clustered at the lap of the Himalayas shielded by its guardian deity, Mt. Khangchendzonga, which stands majestically at an altitude of 8586 meters.

Gangtok - Yuksam
Drive to Yuksam takes 5-6 hrs. (One can also go to Yuksam directly from Siliguri, which is about 150 km.) You can bypass the National highway and drive via Rumtek which takes a little longer but the views are simply spectacular. The drive through Martam village, especially during the Harvest season is beautiful, as the whole valley is painted with gold. There are a numerous waterfalls some mighty and spectacular on your drive to Yuksam.

Yuksam
Next day, hike to Dubdi monastery, which is located in a hillock and takes approximately 1 hr. The monastery is the oldest in Sikkim and is an archaeological site. After that, at Kathok Sacred Lake, one can spend some time meditating around the serene surrounding. Another attraction is, Norbugang, a Heritage site where the coronation throne of the first Sikkimese King is seated. Hike to KNP which is approximately 30 min.

Gangtok - Yuksam
Drive to Yuksam takes 5-6 hrs. (One can also go to Yuksam directly from Siliguri, which is about 150 km.) You can bypass the National highway and drive via Rumtek which takes a little longer but the views are simply spectacular. The drive through Martam village, especially during the Harvest season is beautiful, as the whole valley is painted with gold. There are a numerous waterfalls some mighty and spectacular on your drive to Yuksam.

Yuksam
Next day, hike to Dubdi monastery, which is located in a hillock and takes approximately 1 hr. The monastery is the oldest in Sikkim and is an archaeological site. After that, at Kathok Sacred Lake, one can spend some time meditating around the serene surrounding. Another attraction is, Norbugang, a Heritage site where the coronation throne of the first Sikkimese King is seated. Hike to KNP which is approximately 30 min.

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NAITAM
Naitam, in East Sikkim is nearest to Gangtok, a 45 minute drive. It is a heterogeneous village consisting of the Nepali, Bhutia as well as the Lepcha. Naitam is ideal place for visitors who are in short of time. It mesmerizes one with its peace. Naitam has a lot to display in its kitty. The traditional Bhutia and Lepcha houses are the highlight. Other important historical attractions are the 200 year old Pachew Monastery, Mendong Stupa, other historical sites. There are beautiful trails in and around the village that offers soft treks. Bird watching, interacting with the local people and ejjoying the cultural programs of the village are the highlight.

RAY MINDU
Ray is located 21 Km away from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. It is nestled between the world renowned monasteries, namely, Rumtek Monastery and Lingdum Monastery and amidst a diverse flora and fauna. The village is nestled below the Fhambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary. The dominant community living in the area is Lepcha and only handful of Nepalese live in harmony. Most of the people are Buddhist by religion and they observe various Buddhist and Lepcha festivals. It also has a handicraft centre which displays various Sikkimesse traditional items. Ray Mindu village is famous for its traditional food.

Activities
Himalayan Home stay is an unforgettable experience and a great way to explore local culture and make new friends. The local villagers serve as guides for your excursions in and around the village. Some of the activities during your stay are the monastery visits, some of which are the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. You can participate in activities like village walks, day hikes to pilgrimage sites and nature trails through various waterfalls & cane bridges, learning meditation, visits to 150 year old traditional houses, Cultural shows, shows, shows, organized for the Tourist on request.

There are a number day-to-day activities like basket weaving, plaguing the field, planting rice, milking cows, cardamom weeding & harvesting, traditional games & sports, folktales & story telling sessions, volunteer to teach in a school, interactions with the home stay family. You can also join the family during their meals and their day-to-day activities.

Other Designed Activities:
Tourism Exchange tours:Respective institutions and organizations can also plan exchange study tours to learn the processes of community based tourism. This study tours can be facilitated to know more about the intricacies of rural ecotourism operations and how the communities can effectively be involved to benefit in the long term.

Educational and Cultural Studies: Organizations, Universities or institutions can also conduct or undertake various studies at the home stay destinations. The studies can be in tuned with community development or on basis of information compilation that includes anthropological or scientific studies, biodiversity assessment, socio-economic evaluation etc.

Spiritual Rejuvenation: The home stay destinations are exclusive in terms of peacefulness and serenity. Away from the crowd and with beautiful Himalayan backdrops, these destinations are ideal for meditation practitioners. Meditation camps can also be conducted as these destinations. There aren't any instructors for meditation or yoga in the village, there are to be endured by the traveling group or individuals, however locations can be suggested and logistics can be arranged.

Buddhist Cultural visits: Sikkim hosts some of the best Buddhist monasteries. These monasteries are spread far and wide in Sikkim and truly display the cultural heritage that has been practiced in Sikkim since centuries. All the home stay destinations are near some of the oldest Buddhist monasteries and visits to these monasteries can be an enduring and an enriching experience.

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