Mahindra Homestays » Sikkim

Meet the Hosts – Kewzing Village Community

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 04 May 2011 05:09:47 +0000

The communal homestay of Kewzing village near Gangtok, Sikkim is not just unique it’s extraordinary. People here live as a unit and care for each other in a way, fellow urban-dwellers have simply forgotten. Here is what makes Kewzing so very special and unforgettable.

The People
There are about 12 homes in this self-sufficient village, all filled with the most big-hearted people you might ever meet. Their needs and life are simple. Profit margins, commissions and such repulsive corporate buzzwords do not exit for them. They live in a land free from commercialization and are wonderfully free from the stress it brings. A simple example of this is that you will never see an orphan in and around Kewzing. Whenever, tragedy falls on a family or child, he or she is adopted by one of the more well to do families.

The Homes
“Village” is a bit of a misnomer when describing Kewzing because the homes are large with many rooms and facilities. Each home has its own cattle, poultry and a field, the size of which varies from home to home. One doesn’t know food is meant to taste like till one has tasted the organically produced vegetables of Kewzing. The taste of every bite will stay with visitors long after they leave.

The community
The village operates the communal homestay to bring prosperity to every family. No one is favoured above another. Tourism is used to supplement the income of the families, provide employment to the youth, and even support the village monastery. A big portion of the income generated is used to preserve the nature of the region. Eco-friendly practices are employed heavily in everyday life.

All this speaks volumes about the people who make Kewzing a gem that cannot be missed and will never be forgotten. Find out more about things to do in Kewzing.

If you are interested in staying here then get in touch with our reservations team who can help you plan a fantastic itinerary.

Sikkim travels: Discover the highlights of this beautiful state

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:24:16 +0000

View from Hanuman Tok, Gangtok

Sikkim is one of the “Seven Sisters” in India. This term is used to describe the seven tiny states that together form India’s North-East. The small and truly untouched state of Sikkim has majestic landscapes and lush green hills. It is indeed blessed with nature’s bounty. Even after a considerable rise in tourism over the recent years, its sanctity and beauty have been preserved by its proud people and conscientious authorities. Sikkim is divided into four districts – North, South, East and West. We explore some of the highlights to help you with your Sikkim travels.

Buddhist temple in Sikkim

North Sikkim: Here you will find the revered Guru-Dongmar Lake, which is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. Its mystical powers are heightened by the fact that even in the harshest winters parts of the lake remain unfrozen. The lake is considerably inaccessible and requires a two-day expedition. A popular destination closer to the capital, Gangtok is Yumthang – the Valley of Flowers. In spring, Yumthang is bathed with scarlet rhododendrons and wildflowers, a sight to behold.

East Sikkim: Gangtok, the capital of the state lies in this part of Sikkim. In Gangtok, one can enjoy the local cuisine and shop for handicrafts. Many beautiful tourist destinations like the Rumtek and Enchey monasteries, Jhakri Falls and Tashi Viewpoint are a short drive from the city. Perhaps the most enchanting attraction of the state is the Nathula Pass-Tsomgo Lake-Baba Mandir trinity. Although these destinations aren’t in this part of the State, taxis and tours to reach them are best hired in Gangtok itself. Nathu-La is located at over 14,200 meters and offers one of the most breathtaking sights in India. En route to Nathu-La stop at the still and crystal-clear Tsomgo/Chhangu Lake, where you can ride on a yak, shop for locally produced goods and catch a bite to eat. Tourists require special permits to visit Nathu-La. It is closed on Monday and Tuesday

Sikkim’s State Assembly Building, Gangtok

South Sikkim: This is the sleepy and peaceful part of the serene state. The hub of this district is Ravangla, which is located at the height of 7,000 meters. The township, famous for the Temi Tea Garden and wildlife, comes alive during the Lhabsol festival in August-September. Before leaving the district make sure you visit Samdruptse. In the Bhutia language, Samdruptse means ‘Wish Fulfilling Hill’. Here stands the 135 feet high statue of Guru Padmasambhava, made of concrete and copper.

The monastery at Ravangla

Western Sikkim: While South Sikkim is a haven for peace lovers, Western Sikkim is for thrill seekers. Rafting and kayaking on River Teesta draws people from far and wide to this small region. For visitors who prefer to tame the mountains, rock climbing and mountain biking expeditions can be organised.

Teesta River

If you want to explore Sikkim contact our reservations team who will help you build a custom itinerary.

Indian lakes and rivers for a water based vacation

Mahindra Homestays — Sat, 29 May 2010 02:00:52 +0000

Sometimes referred to as the land of rivers the waterways of India play an essential role in day to day life with strong religious, cultural and economic significance. Tourists can enjoy the Indian lakes and rivers in a number of ways, from exploring spiritual lakes to riding white knuckle river rapids.

Ganga Dashara Festival

Haridwar: One of the holiest places in India is Haridwar (the gateway to God). Millions of people come here to wash away their sins with a dip in the Ganga. Haridwar is particularly crowded during the Kumbh and Maha Kumbh Melas. These two festivals attract a sea of humanity and is popular with both devotees and photographers.

Rishikesh: Rishikesh attracts a very diverse crowd. It is packed with pilgrims as well as adventure seekers. This is one of the most popular places in North India for white water rafting. Rafting and kayaking here are seasonal sports because during monsoons the Ganges becomes extremely dangerous. Rafting camps are organized in Shivpuri, which is very close to Rishikesh.

Chhota Chaar Dhaam: Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath and Kedarnath together form the Chhota Chaar Dhaam (the smaller holy four centers). The religious centers offer visitors divine beauty and an adventurous experience. One has to brave highly testing terrains to reach these locations. The glaciers that are the actual source of the Ganga and Yamuna are slowly melting, which has added to the urgency in people to see them as soon as possible. Of all the locations, Kedarnath is the hardest to reach and is off limits to people for several months of the year.

Rental boats on the shores of Nainital

Nainital: Nainital is possibly North India’s most popular hillstation particularly amongst families. Nainital is the land of nine lakes and the most popular activity here is boating on the Naini Lake. One can hire row boats, pedal boats or sail boats to explore the massive lake.

Bhimtal: The Bhimtal Lake is the largest lake in the district of Nainital and people come here in large numbers from Nainital for boating. On the lake’s island there is a beautiful aquarium, which replaced a famous but overcrowded restaurant. The aquarium houses many species of fish from all corners of the world.

Naukuchia Tal: just 4 kilometers from Bhimtal is Naukuchiatal. The serene lake rests at an altitude of over 1,200 meters. Activities like boating and walks around the lake are popular amongst young couples as well as families. Naukuchiatal attracts large numbers of migratory birds from all over the world and is a haven for birdwatchers.

Gurudongmar lake

Sikkim: One of the 7 states that make up India’s North East is Sikkim. And in North Sikkim one can find the revered Gurudongmar Lake. To reach this enigmatic lake one has to undertake a two-day expedition as this is one of the highest lakes in the world. Another spiritually significant lake in Sikkim is Lake Khecheopalri. It is a two-hour drive from Gangtok and is respected as a wish fulfilling lake.

Manali: White water rafting on the River Beas is a popular adventure sport in Manali. The 10 kilometer trip down the river starts at Mohal offering grade II and III rapids. Rafting season usually lasts from April till June and September to October but monsoons highly influence the possibility of undertaking a trip. A famous source of hot springs in Manali is Manikaran. It is located between River Beas and River Parvati at an altitude of over 1750 m. The spring is believed to have curative powers and is important for its piligrim centres.

Reflection on Dal Lake

Jammu and Kashmir : Located in the state’s capital of Srinagar is the beautiful Dal Lake. This is the sight of quintessentially Kashmiri scenes which have captured the world’s imagination for decades. The view of floating shikaras, houseboats and the floating gardens is simply mesmerising. These shikaras and houseboats are easily available for rent. Unfortunately, the river has suffered extensively due to years of eutrophication but the government has now undertaken multimillion dollar drives to restore the lake to its original glory. In Srinagar one can also find the beautiful Chashme Shahi (Royal Spring). This is the smallest Mughal garden in Srinagar but is home to many springs, cascades and fountains.

Leh and Ladakh: Ladakh is one of India’s most enigmatic regions and it’s a splendid retreat for adventure seekers who love truly daunting challenges. In Ladakh one can choose from many rafting options that are carried out on the River Indus and its tributaries. While the easiest trip would be in Karu, a popular stretch is the one between Spituk and Saspol. The rapids beyond Saspol can turn the nerves of the most hardened thrill seekers to jelly. Another such stretch is the route between Padum and Nimo. This journey requires advance preparation. The most intimidating route is the one involving the mighty Zanskar. Even with professional guides and participants, rescue crews are a pre-requisite on this journey.

Staying in a homestay provides an excellent base to explore India from as your hosts will be able to help you plan activities and can advise you on local sights. You can build your own custom itinerary staying in our network of award winning homestays with the help of our reservations team.

Tweets Of The Week: India Travel On The Web Round-Up 4

luke — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 19:17:51 +0000

Ravangla Man, Sikkim

This wonderful capture of a man at Ravangla market, Sikkim, leaped out at us this week. It was taken by Sukanto Debnath of Hyderabad. Sukanto says “Photography is a hobby and Flickr is an addiction. It’s mostly when I go for vacations, I take photographs. And then I take photographs like crazy…almost non stop. I love Sikkim and Nepal. Every year I try to spend at least few days there. I mainly do environmental candid portraits.” Sukanto is also a talented concept artist – see his Doodles N Drawings blog.

We also liked…

How to wrap a turban
Last week we posted Wrapping A Sari, this week Beth Whitman at WanderlustAndLipstick.com is sharing her Wrapping A Turban video. Beth’s post includes a photo of – legend has it – Rajasthan’s most photographed man. See what he looks like.

Varanasi views
More photographic goodness. The World Effect travelogue takes the reader on a journey down the Ganges river, Varanasi, in part one, and then through its narrow roads and alleys in part two.

The corkscrew minarets
Madhu and Savita, who are on an 18 month trip around India and surrounding countries, were recently in Gujarat. They posted photos from the mesmerising, though sadly decaying, Bahauddin Makbara in Junagadh. Read more of their blog.

Honest appraisal of a houseboat tour
Dave and Deb bought the Kerela backwater experience after hearing so much about it. Here they give a balanced review of the things they liked, and the things they didn’t.

Nine day India tour
Lee Harrison of the UK’s Select World Travel shares his photo album after a tour of the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Delhi, Jaipur and Agra.

Best beaches in India?
Finally we enjoyed About.com (and sometimes Mahindra Homestays) writer Sharell Cook’s pick of India’s top beaches. Do you agree with these?

We love sharing links and conversation on Twitter and Facebook. If you do to, don’t be shy to send us a message!

India Mountain Views Quiz – How Well Do You Know India’s Mountains?

Mahindra Homestays — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:55:54 +0000

We’ve just uploaded some guests photos to our new Flickr page.

All the images show mountain views that have been captured close to our homestay properties.

That’s right: as well as our numerous homestays in popular destinations such as Kerala, Goa and the big Indian cities, we also have homestays in India’s most mountainous and remote regions, offering a unique and rich experience for the intrepid traveller.

Just for fun, we’re inviting blog readers to test their India knowledge and guess where these five views can be found.

Choose a, b or c and then click on the image to find out the answer (new window opens – close when finished to return to quiz).

1. The image above shows:
a) Pushkar Lake in Rajasthan
b) Tsomgo Lake in East Sikkim
c) Dal Lake in Kashmir

2. The hauntingly desolate landscape above can be found in:
a) Batal, Spiti, Himachal Pradesh
b) The Western Ghats at Matheran near Mumbai
c) Aravalli Hill in Rajasthan

3. The mountain above is:
a) K12, seen from Kashmir
b) Changuch, seen from Uttarakhand
c) Kanchenjunga, seen from Sikkim

4. The lush green view above can be found in:
a) Munnar, Kerala
b) Manali, Himachal Pradesh
c) Naga Hills, Nagaland

5. Finally, the view above can be enjoyed at:
a) Obalagandi Gorge in Karnataka
b) Rishi Ganga Gorge in Nanda Devi National Park
c) Mekedaatu Gorge near Bangalore

How did you do?

For more of our mountain views, explore our Flickr photoset.

Book homestays in the mountains of Sikkim, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and more.

Head For The Hills! 8 Things To Do In Sikkim

Mahindra Homestays — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 14:39:37 +0000

Sikkim is arguably the little package that all good things come in.

It’s where nature’s bounty comes together with a gracious people to give its guests a memorable experience.

Here we bring you a collection of things to do in this small state; things that make Sikkim as unforgettable as it is unique.

1. Get spiritual

The Sikkimese are spiritual in nature and their secular faith is reflected by the presence of countless monasteries that co-exist with temples. While the majestic Rumtek monastery, home of the Golden Stupa, is one the most revered monasteries in India, the Enchay monastery is Sikkim’s oldest. Amongst Hindu temples, the Hanuman Tok and Ganesh Tok are frequented by visitors and locals. They’re also popular amongst tourists because of their locations, which offer splendid views of the Kanchenjunga range and the city below. But for a truly rare and unforgettable spiritual encounter take a two-day expedition towards North Sikkim. There, you will come across the revered Gurudongmar Lake, which is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. It is one of the highest lakes in the world and is believed to have mystical and curative powers. Parts of it remain unfrozen, even in the harshest winters.

2. Make a wish

A two-hour drive from the capital will take you to the famed Khecheopalri Lake. Originally known as Sho Dzo Sho, meaning “Oh lady, sit here,” the lake is venerated as a wish-fulfilling lake. While Lake Khecheopalri is in East Sikkim, in the Southern district you’ll find Samdruptse, which means ‘Wish Fulfilling Hill’ in the Bhutia language. Here stands the 135 feet high statue of Guru Padmasambhava, made of concrete and copper.

3. Have coffee up high

En-route to the Nathu-La Pass you will come across one of the most splendid landscapes in the world. The popular destination is famous for its enchanting drive as well as its snowy carpet. The picturesque Lake Tsomgo offers a short stop for those heading for Nathu-La. Between posing with yaks, travelers can also grab a bite to eat or shop for local handicrafts.

4. Eat well

From food stalls set on pavements to five star dining halls, Sikkim is a virtual smorgasbord of remarkable dishes, which are not only unique and delectable but also easy to master. If you are staying in a local homestay then it’s a strong possibility that your hosts will eagerly teach you the basics. Otherwise easily available cookbooks can guide you though the process.

5. Be adventurous

Laid-back Sikkim isn’t all about rest and recuperation. It is also popular for adventure sports like white water rafting on the River Teesta, mountain biking through testing but negotiable terrain, and mountaineering on the snow-clad Himalayas. Campers and bikers are known too bump into groups of ‘Bulletwalas’ quite frequently – the name given to motorcycle tourists.

6. Have a sing-along

India’s North-East is famous for its musical young people. You’ll frequently come across friendly college students who are inseparable from their guitars. Gangtok’s pubs, restaurants and cafes are a good place to find these passionate and talented youngsters playing live.

7. Hover above it all

While the four hour drive from the Baghdogra airport to Gangtok offers a splendid view of the Sikkimese landscapes, it is a truly spectacular experience to soak in the scenery from a helicopter. At a meager Rs. 1,500 (approx. $30) per person, the daily helicopter service gives you a bird’s eye view of the region and takes you to your destination in just 45 minutes.

8. Join the celebrations

In Sikkim there is a festival almost every month. The celebrations for each year begin with Losoong in December/January and conclude in October/November with Teohar. April and July are the only times when people take a break from the festivities, perhaps to rejuvenate themselves for the following months of feasts and revelry.

To find out more about staying in Sikkim and book accommodation, take a look at our Sikkim Homestays.

Liked this Things To Do India article? We’ve got lots more – see our updated list.

Small Village, Grand Experience: 8 Incredible Things To Do In Kewzing – Sikkim’s Little Gem

Mahindra Homestays — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:45:55 +0000

Main photo credit: Creative Commons

Kewzing might not be on most tourists’ itinerary but that’s what adds to its charm.

Gracious people, untouched scenery and an experience of a lifetime.

We bring you nine things to do in Kewzing that live long in your mind after you leave.

1. Trekking
Kewzing seems to have jumped out of an artist’s canvas, such is its picturesque, placid beauty. The best way to experience this bounty of nature is by trekking it. Armed with a good pair of shoes and with a friendly local guide you can trek to the local monastery, through the cardamom fields and along the village, as he enlightens you about the village’s history and culture.

2. Festivals
Festivals are an integral part of the Sikkimese culture. Celebrations are ongoing, almost all year round, throughout the state, and Kewzing is no exception. Festivals are celebrated here with great vigor and joy. Guests are encouraged to join in the festivities. Special cultural programs, which include music and dancing, are enthusiastically organised for those guests who have the misfortune of missing the festival season.

3. Organic Food
Most homes in Kewzing grow organic vegetables in their fields, which are unbelievably fresh and juicy. They redefine what organic food is supposed to be like and almost ruin the food experienced in big cities. With a little help and guidance from your hosts you can learn how to turn these delicious vegetables into remarkable dishes using a clay stove. A true pleasure for those who appreciate the rare and exotic, because these recipes are rarely found in a cookbook.

4. Local Drinks
Sikkim is known for its unique locally produced wines, beers and spirits. While bars in the city stock beer brands like Hit and Dansberg, in the countryside one can savor brands like Roxy. But in Kewzing, most homes produce their own homemade millet-based drinks that have a distinct and rich flavor. They have to be tried.

5. Hot Stone Baths
Imagine being surrounded by mountains and soaking in a traditional hot-stone, open-air herbal bath. This relaxing and curative bath is arranged for guests every winter and allows them to laze in a hot water while cloaked above by the nippy air of Kewzing’s winter.

6. Village Life
A typical day in a local’s life involves getting up at the crack of dawn to the milk the cow, feed the animals, tend to the fields and pick fresh vegetables to prepare for meals. Villagers realise that partaking in these activities is a novelty for most visitors, so if you’re staying in a Homestay your host will be happy to include you in these errands, teaching you their ways.

7. Photography
The idyllic and enigmatic surroundings of Kewzing are almost custom-made for budding as well as professional photographers. The sunsets, sunrises, vibrant hues of green and ever-smiling people are inspiration to start clicking away.

8. Nothing
Do nothing. In today’s world, where it’s hard to know when or how to stop, doing nothing has become a luxury. And a cottage in Kewzing in the company of a hot cup of chai is perhaps the perfect place to do that.

Liked this Things To Do India article? We’ve got lots more – see our updated list.