Northeast Odyssey
Sikkim is home to almost 200 monasteries or Gompas belonging to the Nyingma and Kagyu sect. Some monasteries like the Dubdi monastery in west Sikkim is considered the oldest monastery having been built in 1705. It is also home to some exotic orchids. It is said Sikkim has more than 6000 species of orchids.
A former royal kingdom, Sikkim has had a turbulent past owing to incessant raids and annexation threats from nearby kingdoms. Sikkim’s Coronation Book describes Guru Tashi (descendants of the Mi-nyak House of Kham in Eastern Tibetas) as the first ruler of Sikkim. Yet, it was not before 1642 AD, when Sikkim got its first Chogyal (king) Phuntsog Namgyal (the fifth generation descendant of the Mi-nyak house), who consolidated the fragmented territories. This event was preordained by the Buddhist sage Rinpoche, who had come to the region to spread Buddhism.
Untouched, virgin and flawless is what would define Cherry Village Resort, a charming boutique property that is about 10-minute drive from upper Pelling, Sikkim, close to the enchanting Kacheopalri lake. As you wind up the hilly track, soaking in the fresh breeze, Cherry Village Resort, its exteriors designed as a charming wooden cottage, beckons you with its grace, warmth and charm.
Nestled in idyllic surroundings, this is the place to unwind and rediscover yourself. Far away from the maddening crowd, it’s your home away from home – the perfect stay complete with the daily comforts of life.
The resort offers visitors an array of choices ranging from bird watching, village walk, trekking, picnic, meditation, swimming and mountain biking. There are also special sessions arranged for guests who wish to learn and cook local cuisine. Conveniently located, the resort is 10-minute drive from upper Pelling towards famous tourist destinations like Yuksam, Khechuperi lake, Khanchendzonga and Rimbi water falls, Sewaro Rock Garden and Tashiding Monastery, in the western part of Sikkim.
The homestay has five rooms, all beautifully done up. The cottages are constructed in an environmentally friendly way, with locally available materials architected by elderly villagers with traditional expertise. The home-style accommodation coupled with modern facilities provides complete solace away from hub of urban polluted life.
The family-run resort places supreme importance on the comfort of guests with absolute priority to cleanliness and hygiene. Cherry Village Resort prides itself on giving its patrons a typical rustic experience.
While the resort houses a cozy and colourful garden café and bar, a separate restaurant with a fireplace serves food that is healthy and light. What’s more, food here is cooked in spring water. Freshly plucked veggies and herbs from the garden add to the organic quotient of the food served here.
Cherry Village Resort
Pelling-Rimbi Rd, Darap, Pelling, Sikkim 737113
Mobile: 9647820584 / 9593970755 / 9733235441
Email: darap.cherryvillage@gmail.com / sushil_ghising@yahoo.co.in
Website:http://www.cherryvillagehomestayresort.com/
RS 2,406 - RS 4,277
Road: The resort is well connected with roads from every part of Sikkim, Darjeeling and Kalimpong. It is a 15-minute drive from upper Pelling.
Airport: It is situated 144 km from Bagdogra airport
Railways: The resort is 135 km from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station; 93 km from Darjeeling railway station; 95 km from Kalimpong; 121 km from Gangtok.
In the midst of the picturesque Himalayas and the rolling valleys of Gangtok, on a plateau, lies Central Ninamma Boutique Resort. All the 28 spacious rooms offer panoramic views of the mighty Kanchenjunga, allowing guests to wake up to the first rays of sunlight, entering through their room windows.
The resort is picture-perfect in every way, allowing guests to experience nature in all its bounty. Ideal for families on vacations and solo travellers on business or leisure, the resort combines comfort and luxury in equal measure. Rated by travelers as one of the finest resorts in Gangtok, it is conveniently located given its proximity to sightseeing locations in the city.
Central Ninamma Boutique Resort’s in-house restaurant has healthy, nutritious and tasty meals, catering to guests. From local cuisine to international delicacies, the restaurant redefines the dining experience for its patrons.
Breathe in fresh mountain air, enjoy spectacular views of the valley and walk through lush green forests while enjoying your stay at this spacious boutique resort. The good food and warm hospitality allows for an exceptional experience of a lifetime. Its other luxury property, Central Hotel Gangtok, is walking distance from Lal Bazaar, MG Road and other shopping malls of Gangtok.
All the 28 rooms are spacious, neat and clean, equipped with LCD TV and wired and wireless broadband internet access. Additionally, tea/coffee maker is also provided. Wooden flooring adds to the warmth and the outside panoramic views are a bonus.
Airport –126 kms or a five-hour drive from Bagdogra Airport
Rail – 114 kms from Siliguri Junction Railway Station
Road – Roughly 114 kms from Siliguri
5 hours from New Jalpaiguri
INR 1,871 –INR 4,745
Central Ninamma Boutique Resort
PNG Road,near PalzorNamgyal Girls High School gate, Gangtok - 737101
Tel: +91 964 111 7536
Mobile: +91 980 065 0360 | +91 977 580 1439
Email: centralninamma@gmail.com
Website: http://www.centralhotels.in/ninamma-boutique-resort-gangtok/photos.html
The former home of an aristocratic Sikkimese lady that’s converted into a 12-room boutique hotel, is a charming place to rest your tired head. The two-floor property is accessed through thick bamboo groves heightening guest’s experience. High on aesthetic and comfort, the property in designed in sync with the local environment. Situated just above the Mall Road, it is located in the heart of the capital Gangtok, making it ideal for couples and for those with small children. Owners Purna & Raju Rai provides a personalized and friendly service. And the staff is especially efficient at arranging tours, and other places to stay, for guests who are traveling through Sikkim. Thanks to its ideal location, guests will not have to rely on local taxis to get to the Mall Road. This is especially ideal for those who wish to sample the local delicacies of Sikkim. For those who wish to sample a local flavour, there are good eating options serving local flavours.
Apart from the location, the hotel’s other USP are the stunning views of the
Kanchenjunga, which is some of the best views guests, can hope to obtain from any hotel in Sikkim. Guests should also note that the hotel has a small lawn where one can sit and enjoy morning views of the Kanchenjunga.
Here’s a tip for a memorable stay: valley rooms are especially good, but if it is not raining, do ask for valley rooms on the topmost floor. Those who are traveling in large rooms and are prepared to stretch their budget, opt for the Deluxe Valley View Room. This suite with its stunning views will make the guest’s stay worthwhile. Internet facilities are on offer, while those wishing to do business can avail of conferencing facilities, available along with the hotel’s restaurant. On the whole, the experience feels more like a stay with old friends, rather than in a hotel in a strange city.
Contact: +91-9735054125
Email: thebamboogroove@gmail.com
Website: www.thebamboogrove.com/
Tea/coffee maker (deluxe & suite)
Car park for 12-15 people
Restaurant with conferencing facilities
Lawn and garden
By Air:
Go to Bagdogra Airport and from there take a taxi (4 Hours Ride) to Gangtok. Or take a helicopter service provided by Pawan Hans. The cost of the ticket is approx. Rs 2000 per person and it is a 35 minutes ride from Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok Helipad. It is a five seater single engine helicopter and allows only 10 Kilos of luggage per passenger.
By Train:
The nearest train station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri (120 Km) which has direct connections to New Delhi, Kolkata, and other major cities in India.
It’s a pretty two-storyed house standing out with its green roof. Perched right on a stunning viewpoint overlooking the town, Rhencok Villa is for those who love the warmth and intimacy of a home away from home. The owner, Ravi Pradhan has left no stone unturned to ensure guests have more than just a good time. Along with his staff they make even the impossible possible urging visitors to return again and again. From organizing passes for visitors, to see the I-league football matches, to personally providing his car and driver to drop guests to various destinations, Pradhan ensures that no stone is unturned when it comes to hospitality.
Located a kilometer from the Mall road in Gangtok, guests have easy access to the main town of Gangtok. The USP of this place is the intimate setting that feels like a home. A parlour replete with photographs, books, antique furniture and home cooked meal are part of the deal here. One of the best things to do while here is to sit your tea or coffee with breakfast on the verandah, and enjoy a delicious peaceful meal. Room service is prompt and friendly, with an assortment of Indian, Chinese, Tibetan and local delicacies. Guests should also bear in mind to inform the staff of their meal preference and timings to be served well in advance. A bar within the restaurant offers soft drinks, straight drinks, and cocktails, which is ideal post-lunch, or in the evenings.
The beauty of this luxury villa is the view of the snow-capped mountains of Sikkim and for that, guests should get the best rooms. There is a ground floor option but ideally one should opt for room 301 on the topmost floor as it offers great décor and a perfect view of the valley. Alternatively, opt for the corner rooms on the first floor which is one of the largest and provide a great view – ideal for couples. Old world charm greets guests everywhere with traditional furnishings, wooden staircases and old photographs providing a small glimpse of the history of Sikkim.
In case, guests plan to go out, there are local cabs available for hire at reasonable rates. The staff also organizes trekking and rafting tours, though one has to consult with them beforehand. All in all, a quiet, elegant place which serves a good base from which to explore Sikkim.
Rhenock House
Development Area, Gangtok – 737101, Sikkim
Tel: +91-3592-201146;201481
Fax: +91-3592-201481
Mobile: +91-98320-96281;89673-04528
Email: renakvilla@yahoo.co.in
Himalayan Zoological Park
Phensang Monastry
Yumthang
Guests can ask staff to organize trekking and rafting tours.
By Air - Bagdogra - 124 km.
By Rail - New Jalpaiguri - 148 km
By Road - Access by road from Siliguri (114 km), Darjeeling (94 km), Pelling (117 km),
Kalimpong (75 km), New Jalpaiguri (148 km) and Bagdogra (124 km).
Rooms WiFi enabled
PC at lobby for internet and library for in-house guests
Multi channel cable television in all rooms
Ceiling fans in rooms for summer
Slide show on local flora & fauna on request.
Room heater and hot water bottles for winter guests.
Acceptance all major credit/debit cards
Tea/coffee maker in rooms.
Car rental facilities
Nestled within the heart of Gangtok, right in the middle of the popular MG road market, The Oriental, along with its ever smiling manager, provides service and great value for money. Being in the heart of the bustling main road is an advantage for this charming boutique hotel, which manages to provide serenity along with great views of the Kanchenjunga. A tip here: Visitors staying in Gangtok are well advised to book a hotel on the main market road itself, as a hotel even a short distance away will require one to climb hills. As for rooms, each rooms is neat and comfortable, but staying on the top floor is highly recommended, especially in the penthouse suite - which is spacious enough with a comfortable and elegant sofas to lounge around and enjoy the view, along with a separate dressing area, and open terraces with which to better enjoy the beauty of Sikkim. Do note however, that the hotel has five floors, with no lift. So for those who do not relish the exercise or have ailments, it is advisable to take a room on the first or second floor, as one can still enjoy views of the Kanchenjunga from here. There are also no fans or air-conditioners in any of the rooms (barring the penthouse suite) so do bear this mind, especially when booking during the summer. To compensate however, there are large windows in each room, to let in the beautiful mountain air of Sikkim. The boutique hotel offers a complimentary buffet breakfast.
For those looking to explore Sikkim and go trekking, there are helpful staff who can organize as per your requirement. Also, the hotel can arrange a pick-up from Bagdogra at reasonable rate.
By Air - Bagdogra - 124 kilometers.
By Rail - New Jalpaiguri - 148 kilometers (4 hours)
By Road - Access by road from Siliguri (114 km), Darjeeling (94 km), Pelling (117 km),
Kalimpong (75 km).
Accommodation in 20 rooms
Suites with mini bar refrigerators
Travel desk
Restaurant
All rooms with television, telephone and attached bath
The Oriental
Mahatma Gandhi Marg
Gangtok - 737 101
Tel: +91 3592 201180 / 221181
Fax: +91 3592 221182
E-mail : info@orientalsikkim.com
Website: www.orientalsikkim.com
This is one of the oldest hotels in Sikkim that first opened way back in 1997. Today, it continues to draw the same attention and traffic for its unwavering warm hospitality. Located above the market area of Gangtok, Chumbi Residency is well known for offering breath-taking views of the beautiful peaks of the Kanchenjunga. A thing to note: do opt for the rooms on the higher floors to get the best views but do bear in mind that the hotel does not have elevators, which can be a problem as there are three floors to negotiate till the exit. Do note there is a place that this a small hotel with a homely atmosphere, so do not come here expecting the facilities of a luxury hotel. A complimentary breakfast buffet is on offer and Tangerine, the local long bar and grill, is where guests can get a choice of North-Indian as well as Sikkimese local favourites, which are a must try for those willing to experiment.
The overall service is friendly and relaxed which is ideal for a hotel of this size. A tip for campers and hikers: the shops for trekking gear are located on the same road so for those looking to trek onwards, this is the best place to stay overnight and go on your way. The staff can even arrange trips to Nathula at concessional rates if asked. Do however, note that during peak seasons, service can be a bit rushed so it is best to come at a time when the tourists have all gone home.
By Air Bagdogra: 124 kilometers from Gangtok.
By Rail New Jalpaiguri: 148 kilometers (approx 4 hours) from Gangtok
By Road - From Siliguri (114 kms) Darjeeling (94 kms.), Pelling (117 kms.), Kalimpong (75kms)
Website: thechumbiresidency.com
Tel No: +91-3592-206618/206619
Facilities: Banquet and conferencing areas for 30 people
Room with views of the Kanchejunga
Staff can organize hiking tours
Hiking gear shops on the same road as the hotel
Built by the then King of Sikkim in 1932, Hotel Nor-Khill, which literally means ‘jewels’ is one of the best known luxury and boutique hotels in Sikkim. The hotel now run by the Elgin group, which own hotels properties all over the state and in West Bengal, has played host to a number of famous personalities from all over the world such as actors Michael Douglas and Shirley Maclaine, the Dalai Lama and famous author and India expert: Mark Tully. The high point of the hotel is the traditional Sikkimese architecture featuring stunning frescos of local folk art that greet visitors in the lobby and above all the picturesque Kanchen Gardens, where the King of Sikkim once busied himself painting for hours.
Located just 10 minutes walking distance from the main road of Gangtok, the hotel was designed for royalty. Most of the 32 rooms overlook Mount Kanchengunga and the Himalayas. The rooms were designed for royal guests of the king, and the royal touch is still evident both in the service and the attention to detail. The staff is exceptionally courteous and the dining hall which provides a buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, is lavish, considering this is a hotel in the hills.
North Indian food is the staple diet though the chef will readily switch to Chinese and local cuisine upon prior request. The hotel also has a bar called the Dragon Bar where a highlight is the local brew Dansberg.
For those wishing to work, there is free wi-fi in the hotel lounge. The hotel can arrange airport transfers and also provides excursions to Changu La and the Nathula on request. On returning from your travels, be sure to be pampered at the spa that offers many treatments depending on your requirement. For those looking to celebrate big occasions like birthdays or weddings, expect anything from chauffeured cars to customized cakes to ensure the occasion remains etched in your memory.
How to get there: Take a train to New Jalpaiguri and drive to Gangtok approximately 27 hours. Drive is three to four hours to Gangtok. This is ideal for families with small children. By air the nearest airport is in Bagdogra, West Bengal. The distance from there to Gangtok is 124 km, which can be covered by chartered choppers in just 20 minutes.
Contact: www.elginhotels.com
3592-205637 3592-200170
033-40646300 for reservation in the Darjeeling, Peling, Kalimpong
properties
Email: reservations@elginhotels.com
Facilities: Room service
Currency exchange
Attached private bath
Telephone with STD, ISD
Car parking,
Conferencing & Banqueting
Situated at 5,500 feet above sea level and located 2.5 kilometres from Gangtok, Hotel Ricasa is an ideal place where guests can enjoy the natural beauty of Sikkim. The hotel lies between Tashi viewpoint which is a gorgeous sunrise point that provides a hypnotic view of Mount Khang-Chen-D-Zongha and the spectacular Bakthang water falls, a haven for nature lovers. Guests should bear in mind though that the hotel is little far from the main market hence should either make plans to enjoy the natural scenery here or pre-arrange for local transport (the hotel provides car parking space) while staying here.
With this in mind, visitors should sit back and relax in the personal comfort that the hotel provides. Modest and comfortable accommodation offers a prompt and friendly room service offering a variety of delicacies that includes Indian, Chinese and even local favourites that guests should ask for in advance.
Alternatively, they can head to the comfortable and spacious dining hall when they can enjoy the spectacular views in abundance. For the rooms, visitors should make it a point to ask for cliff-facing rooms, and especially for Room 202, as they will provide the best views from the hotel. There are also rooms with a balcony but do note guests will be required to pay an extra charge for them. Visitors must be clear about the room they would like beforehand, as the hotel imposes extra charge for those who want to change rooms. The hotel can help organize hiking and trekking tours into the northern part of Sikkim, but visitors should make all the arrangements beforehand to ensure that everything is in order before they set out. For the evenings, the hotel provides a bar, which includes local brews as well, where guests can enjoy themselves after a long day’s trek.
Car parking space
Bar
Multi-cuisine restaurant
Room service
Travel desk
Safe deposit cloak room
Ricasa, Bojoghari,
3rd mile, near Tashi Viewpoint,
Gangtok, East Sikkim
Email: hotelricasa@gmail.com
Website: www.hotelricasa.com
Reservation: 03592 237 079 098 302 039 73
Access: Gangtok Helipad 2 km,
Bagdogra airport 126 km, NJP railhead 127 km, Siliguri
Town 116 km
Literally perched 4,500 ft. above sea level, the Hidden Forest Retreat is a paradise for honeymooners and those who want to escape the stress and strain of life. Conveniently, it is just two kilometers away from the main shopping area which offers many local produce. Guests who opt to stay here should ask for rooms that face the dining area, as they provide breathtaking views of the valley. One of highlights of the retreat is its pretty garden that’s teeming with blooming orchids, lilies, azaleas and other flora and fauna, specially found in Sikkim. Guests, who wish to, can opt to include the organically grown vegetables in the nursery, in their meals. Meals are served in the dining hall, the timings of which can be decided by the guest after consultation with the staff. Finally to get outside and roam around Gangtok, the retreat organizes shared taxis – the cost of which can range from Rs 60 to Rs 100 depending on where the visitor would like to go. The local market is a 10 minute drive away, while other attractions such Tashi viewpoint and Hanuman Tok are just five to six minutes away by car.
The retreat imbibes the philosophy of “home away from home” and thus, takes it upon itself to provide personal attention and service – bringing visitors endless cups of tea and coffee, as they browse through books in the library, or in the balcony of their rooms. All of the rooms come with balconies so it is a wonderful place to enjoy nature at its quiet best. Food is another aspect that is popular among guests as they are fed typical North Indian dish along with a choice of local dishes. Look forward to pancakes for breakfast, and at any time of the day. For the more adventurous, the other thing to have is the local millet liquor 'chhang' - a delicious brew with which to enjoy the evening, while dried yak meat is another option for non-vegetarians. Visitors must note however, that they must inform the staff in advance if they would like to try this Sikkimese delicacy.
The Hidden Forest
Middle Sichey
Gangtok, Sikkim 737101
Tel: 91-3592-205197, 91-3592-203196
Mobile: (0) 9474981367, 9434137409 , 9233503790
Email: kesangforest@yahoo.in
By Air - Bagdogra - 124 kilometers
By Rail - New Jalpaiguri - 148 kilometers (4 hours)
By Road - Access by road from Siliguri (114 kms.), Darjeeling (94 kms.), Pelling (11kms), Kalimpong (75 kms.).
Family run place
Take care of special dietary restrictions
Organically-grown vegetable on offer with milch cows
Local brew “Chaang” offered here
Just a two minute walk away from Gangtok’s MG road, the Royal Plaza hotel is located in close proximity to most of Sikkim’s major attractions. The hotel which is a Sarovar property, provides all the benefits of a five-star hotel, and has the added attraction of having the first casino in a hotel. A word of advice, do try and avoid taking rooms on the second floor as it is located there, and can get a bit noisy during the night. The hotel also provides breathtaking views of the Changdu mountains, but do make sure to ask specifically for these rooms, as the other rooms provide views of the local neighbourhood.
The high point of this hotel is its culinary offerings. The breakfast buffet is especially large and varied and the chef personally takes care to provide for the needs of small children. Then Orchids, the multi-cuisine restaurant which is located on the lobby level provides a variety of exotic snacks, Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes to ensure one of the most varied and lavish offerings for guests in a Gangtok hotel. Alcohol is available here, or guests can hop over to Aura - the hotel bar, also located on the lobby, which offers a unique selection of mocktails and cocktails, and spectacular views of the valley.
The other USP of the hotel are the staff, who are especially cooperative, and can help organize permits for day trips up to Nathula and Tsongo lake, and can even provide customized travel itineraries which can include monastery tours and white water rafting – common pastimes in Sikkim. The drivers of the hotel are very well trained, and that is a big bonus for a hotel that is located on the sloping mountain at the edge of a turn. Wi-fi is available in the lobby, and facilities for banquets, conferences, weddings and private parties can be arranged, provided one gives notice well in advance.
Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra. From Bagdogra take a rented helicopter or drive 124 km to Gangtok. Guests can share a taxi, or drive to Siliguri, 30 to 45 minutes away, and hire a rented car.
Rail: The nearest Railway Station is New Jalpaiguri. The drive from New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok is thrre hours
Contact: Email : trp@sarovarhotels.com
Website: www.theroyalplazahotel.com
Online reservation: www.sarovarhotels.com s
Call Toll Free in India: 1800 111 222
Located in the heart of West Sikkim, in Darap, Daragaon Retreat is a home away from home. Allowing visitors to appreciate the local culture, this charming home retreat is just a 10 minute drive away from Pelling on the Yuksam-Khechepari road, and is run by Shiva and his wife Radha. The retreat is ideally suited for couples and families who want to enjoy a cozy environment along with some mouth-watering local delicacies. Visitors here can choose from two deluxe rooms, two cozy cottage rooms and tented facilities that ensure that ensure that one is taken away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Early risers can enjoy a brisk walk up to the limbo village (about 800 metres uphill) to see the Kanchendzonga – the world’s third highest peak – at sunrise.
For sightseeing, Pelling is only 5 kilometres away from Darap, from where most visitors start their tour of Sikkim. It is easy to get shared jeeps from Darap to Pelling (Rs 20) though the walk is beautiful. Most places of interest are within walking distance from Pelling, and it will takes about 6-7 hours to cover all of them. Furthermore for those interested, the hosts organize a trip to the local village to give visitors an insight into the local culture and a chance to interact with the locals. For further trips and treks and throughout the state through the Northeast, Shiv is a mine of information. Often sitting with guests at dinner, his stories about Sikkim are an ideal way to pass the evenings.
The place is comfortable but do bear in mind that it is a home retreat and those expecting hotel style amenities such as room service, mini-bar should look elsewhere. Indeed for dinner, it is Radha who does the cooking herself and hence it is courtesy to tell her the hours at which you will dine beforehand, and also to eat dinner as early as possible. Also, bear in mind that this retreat, considered one of the best in Sikkim is in a mountainous region and located atop a steep path, for which elderly guests in particular may take getting used to. However, bearing in mind that this is the Himalayas, it is unlikely that you will receive this authentic experience of the mountains anywhere else.
Darap is easily accessible by road by any part of Sikkim. It is a four to five hour drive from the nearest stations like Siliguri, Gangtok, Bagdogra, Kalimpong. You can take a jeep or reserve a taxi from Siliguri. If asked, the hosts can provide a pick up and drop to the airport or to the nearest railway station.
