Samthar

Samthar village near Kalimpong, opens up a new way of life. Samthar is very beautiful soaking in the nature you get to know the different Bhutia and Lepcha communities staying with them. Project Awake & Shine’s samthar village tour is the creation of retired General Jimmy Singh, who heads Gurudongma Tours & Treks. Samthar is 80km from Kalimpong and overlooks the Kanchendzonga Peak. During Generals tenure of soldiering in the remotest parts of the Himalayas and with his 15 years experience in remote area tourism, he was convinced about the gainful employment in rural India. He also noticed the potential in integrated village tourism. In the Samthar plateau the Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali villagers offer homestays, or you can stay at Singh’s Samthar Farm House. It provides an exotic locale for visitors. Visitors get to explore the untouched areas and the stay can remind you how sweet and simple life could be. Samthar is ideal for a walking holiday with several nature and cultural trails. As part of the village tour, you can even visit the local fortune teller or perhaps, help in the fields.

HOW to GET There: Gurudongma Tours does pick-ups from Kalimpong. The Samthar tour costs Rs 3,120 per person per night, including jeep, guide, accommodation and all meals. September to December and February to March are ideal months. Mail to gurudongma@gmail.com