Darjeeling homestays – What's Next?

A Slice of Greece in Goa

4th October 2018Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Darjeeling homestays, family, family get together, family holidays, friends, Goa, Goa, Goan Vacation, greek styled homes, Holiday, holiday villas in Goa, homestay, Homestays, Homestays in India, Mediterranean styled apartments, ocean view apartments, Pool Villa, saffronstays, seaside apartment, Weekend getaways, weekend tripsLeave a comment

This cozy abode in Dona Paula channels the picture perfect aesthetic of a Greek home.

Haven’t you ever dreamed of going on a vacation on the whitewashed Isles of Greece? Where you wake up every morning to a view of the turquoise blue waters right from your own vacation apartment. Where your morning alarm gets replaced by the rhythmic pounding of the waves and the aroma of your breakfast is rivalled by a mixture of crisp, earthy scents. If you’re on the look-out for a beautiful, pocket-friendly and an easily accessible, Greek-holiday; SaffronStays Cabo de Goa is your answer.

Sitting on the crest of the Dona Paula headland and offering magnificent views of the sea below, SaffronStays Cabo de Goa gives you the feeling of being among the cliff-dotted houses in Greece.

This stunning 3-bedroom Mediterranean-style apartment in Goa could have been airlifted off the Aegean coast and transplanted in the waterfront corniche of Dona Paula.

Through the interiors of this Mediterranean-style apartment

On entry, the floor-to-ceiling glass window teases you with a glimpse of the bright ocean beyond. As you make your way through the rest of the house, it unfolds before you, leading up to the three master bedrooms – Alveila, Cavado & Alcao – each with its own unique view of the sea.

The views play perfect accomplice to the pastel-colour palette of the home. The wooden elements strewn across the space add to its cosy ambience. This is a home for all reasons and seasons, and it welcomes the outdoors in, all year round. The sun-kissed colours make the four walls and the sun appear seamless. The virescent hues of potted plants finish off the colour scheme perfectly. Gracious amounts of light streams in unfettered through the large glass doors and windows.

Sit back, pour a glass of rosé and watch the gentle waves scatter the evening sun like tiny sequins. The true highlight of the place, however, remains the infinity pool, barely 150 meters from the apartment. Just make sure to bring a pair of binoculars – if you’re lucky you’ll spot dolphins riding along the waves below. Also, don’t forget to check out the Mario Miranda wall decal in the living room depicting ‘A Goan wedding banquet’. It truly reflects the identity of Goa and artistically tells the story of the land.

The opulent beauty of the apartment and the constant music of the waves crashing against the rocks make SaffronStays Cabo de Goa ideal for a Santorini-inspired Goan vacation.

For bookings call us at +91-8424040040 or drop us an email: book@saffronstays.com.

SaffronStaysXEzy Mov: Travel With Dignity

21st July 2017Posted in Responsible tourismTagged accessible, Alibaug, champions with disability, crutches, Darjeeling homestays, dignity, empowerment, enabled, Ezy Mov, family, family get together, fracture, Holiday, Home, homestay, incusive, Maharashtra, mobility, old age travel, paralyses, physical disability, restricted mobility, saffronstays, senior citizen, senior citizen accessibly, travel, vavaction, Weekend Getaways from Mumbai, wheelchair, wheelchair friendly, women empowermentLeave a comment

Picture this: Lush tress all around, rivers brimming with water, birds flitting around against a dramatic sky and the pitter-patter of raindrops against your car’s window. Reminiscent of a road trip with your family, is it not? With the monsoons, a sense of wanderlust is imminent. The urge to travel to exotic locales, try mouth-watering cuisines and cherish every moment spent together with your family, even if it’s just over one weekend, can be overwhelming. Yet, instead of acting upon those urges and heading out for a getaway, we delay the plan for another time. And the main reason, more often than not, is a senior family member who, due to mobility constraints does not wish to burden himself/ herself, or the family members during that long journey.

To break these very shackles, Ezy Mov, India’s premier wheelchair accessible cab company was conceived. Founded by Rrajesh Patil, Romeo Ravva, and Bennet D’Cunha in 2015, Ezy Mov had only one objective in mind: To ensure a dignified mode of transport for all those with limited mobility through a technically advanced fleet of cabs fitted with world class equipment like hydraulic lifts and wheelchair restraint systems driven by a team of professional and courteous drivers. Much like Ezy Mov, other platforms like Enable Travel and ENAT ensure a comfortable and honourable travel experience for individuals with access hindrances.

Reclaiming Freedom

Having one’s independency and freedom snatched away is a difficult obstacle to overcome. By accepting accessible transport, travellers both young and old can head out to their favourite spots, stress-free. Be it permanent or temporary, respite from being someone’s responsibility is empowering in its own stance. Ezy Mov’s vehicles ensure that a patient or traveller reaches his/ her destination sans any external help.

Gratitude for the Teachings

We are always trying to honour the toils and troubles our parents went through to raise us. A vacation away from the noise and din is something any senior citizen would appreciate. A number of SaffronStays homes have been designed to ease access for those who may face ascent or descent complications. A holiday package, gifted to your dear ones would be the ideal form of gratitude, wouldn’t it? After all, we too promote inclusive holidays where the entire family bonds!

Here are some of the homes SaffronStays recommends for those with mobility restrictions:

SaffronStays L’attitude, Kamshet

When rest and relaxation is on your mind, SaffronStays L’attitude is the place to be at. Nestled in the hills of Kamshet, Maharashtra, this uber-luxurious home has been designed with comfort of accessibility as the highest priority. With no steps at the entrance of the home, open access to the balcony overlooking a gorgeous lake, and two bedrooms on the ground floor, L’attitude is a must visit. This monsoon, head over with your family and friends for an inclusive vacation, and enjoy the 108 lush trees around the property in all their grandeur.

Accessibility Quotient: 10/10

SaffronStays Little Paradise, Murud

Save the 2 steps to get into the home at SaffronStays Little Paradise, the beachfront cottages are a perfect getaway. With a manicured lawn, pathway to the beach, and a tranquil porch, everyone can now enjoy a stay by the sea.

Accessibility Quotient: 8/10

SaffronStays Bliss, Mulshi Road

With 2 bedrooms, a home theatre and a pool all on the ground floor, SaffronStays Bliss can be the place your family and friends head out to next. Close to Pune city, Bliss, Bhugaon proves for soothing weekday visits too. So close to the metros, accessible by all, and equipped with amenities. Need we say more?

Accessibility Quotient: 8/10

SaffronStays 9 Palms, Alibaug

How often have your parents’ Bridge-playing buddies made a plan to head out of the city for a vacation? Gift them that perfect holiday at SaffronStays 9 Palms, Alibaug and help them cherish unforgettable memories. Home-cooked meals, vast lawns and a pool to while away a lazy afternoon is what we all crave for, don’t we?

Accessibility Quotient: 7/10

Book your holiday now: www.saffronstays.com | book@saffronstays.com

8 Best Places in India to welcome Spring

9th March 2015Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Coorg Homestays, Cottages in Manali, Darjeeling homestays, homestays in himachal pradesh, Homestays in India, Homestays in Sikkim, homestays in uttarakhand, Kanha National Park, Kerala homestays, Periyar National Park, Rhododendrons in Sikkim, Sikkim homestays, spring in India, summer destinations in India, Tree houses KeralaLeave a comment

By Alaric Moras

Spring in India is a beautiful time to pack your bags and travel. Coffee and apple flowers are in bloom, the first flush of tea is picked, wildlife spotting is at its best and the mountains fill with colors – enough incentive to take a vacation with your family, friends or loved ones. SaffronStays recommends 8 places to visit this spring and some cottages, homestays and Villas that you can consider staying in while there.

#1. See the colorful rhododendrons blossom in Sikkim

Homestays in Sikkim — Photo Source: thehindubusinessline.com

Homestay in Sikkim — Stay in this beautiful Heritage Farm house in West Sikkim

Sikkim is worth a visit throughout the year but the months of April and May are definitely the best for the colorful rhododendrons are in bloom and one can see them all across the towns and villages. Irrespective of whether you’re planning to go for a trek to the Rhododendron Sanctuary, you’ll still be able to see the colorful flowers in the well-maintained gardens of the homes of locals. Staying in homestays is the best way to soak up the natural beauty and culture of the region – stay next to a forest in a cottage in Ravangla, go bird watching with the host during your stay in log cottages in Kewzing or stay in a homestay in a scenic village near the Rhododendron Sanctuary.

Click here to choose from more homestays in Sikkim.

#2. Watch the white coffee flowers blossom in Coorg, Karnataka

Coffee blossoms in Coorg — Photo source: coorgstories.com

Homestay in Coorg — A beautiful Heritage homestay in a coffee plantation

Famously known as ‘the Coffee Cup of India,’ the months of March and April find the Coorg air filled with the heavy fragrance of snow white coffee blossoms. Enjoy the cool breeze that accompanies you through your exploration of the Coorg district, particularly so in the numerous wildlife sanctuaries in the area. Of great interest to nature lovers is the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary, where evergreen forests and high altitudes cause a further dip in temperature. The district is also known for the famous Bylakuppe Tibetan Settlement, home to around 70,000 Buddhists today, which houses a number of beautiful Tibetan monasteries.Watch the coffee flowers bloom by staying with the locals in a Colonial Bungalow dating back to the British Raj, in a rustic homestay in the coffee plantations or in a Farm House. Make sure to try the Pandi curry while there!

Click here to choose from more homestays in Coorg.

#3. Watch the apple orchards in full bloom in Kotgarh, Himachal Pradesh

Homestays in Kotgarh — Photo source: bcmtouring.com

Stay in this beautiful cottage located in the midst of apple trees

Located about 6,500 kilometres above sea-level, Kotgarh is situated about 75 kilometers away from Shimla. The scenic hill station hosts terraced fields dotted with apple trees and bungalows, and is famous for its many apple orchards and pine forests, all in full-bloom during the season of Spring. Places to visit include the Hatu Peak, from where one can stare, awe-struck, at a spectacular view of the Himalayan range, including the snowline. Other sites include St. Mary’s Church, a marvellous epitome of gothic architecture, built in 1872, and interestingly, the setting for Rudyard Kipling’s ‘Plain Tales from the Hills.’ There are two beautiful Homestays to choose from – one that lies in the midst of apple orchards, and the other that lies in a quiet spot surrounded by woods. Both homestay hosts gladly organise barbeques, orchard tours and village walks for guests.

Click here to choose from more homestays in Kotgarh

#4. Watch the snow melt in Kullu- Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Stay in Manali — Tents in a scenic site in Manali

Springtime at this hill-station is particularly fulfilling because of the apple and plum orchards that are in full bloom. These reside side by side with tall deodar trees, and birdsong is the only sound that fills the air. Whether you choose to visit the Jana Falls, Solang Valley or drive all the way to Rohtang Pass- you’ll see the snow melting away to reveal lush green landscapes and a weather that is it’s pleasant best. Avoid staying near the markets and choose homestays and cottages located in scenic locations instead – stay in an apartment en route Rohtang, in a cottage in the village of Shuru, or in a homestay in Bipasha Valley – all of which are run by locals and offer great hospitality.

Click here to choose from more homestays in Kullu-Manali.

#5. Watch the first flush of tea being picked in Darjeeling, West Bengal

Boutique property near the tea gardens in Kurseong

Darjeeling has long since shaken off its colonial roots to become a destination that attracts travellers round the year. If you’re a tea lover, then we recommend you plan your trip in Spring to grab a cup of tea brewed from the first flush. Tea plantations abound in Darjeeling, and the first flush of tea is picked during this time. It is a beautiful sight to witness planters harvesting the fruits of their labour after many months of hard work. Darjeeling also has its own passenger ropeway that offers a splendid view of the many tea factories down below. Make the most of your trip by staying with the locals – stay with a warm family in Darjeeling town, in a beautiful farm house where you can also see orange flowers in bloom, or in simple homestays in the tea garden of Makaibari where you can learn about tea processing first hand.

Click here to choose from more homestays in Darjeeling.

#6. See the mountains and valleys fill with colors in Uttarakhand

Homestays in Uttarakhand — A beautiful cottage in the hamelt of Nathuakhan in Uttarakhand

Homestay in Uttarakhand — The beautiful homestay near Valley of Flowers in Joshimath

Uttarakhand’s northern borders are largely comprised of the Himalayan mountain range, and thus, many of India’s major rivers find their headstreams located in this beautiful state. During spring, make your way to Uttarakhand to experience the rivers in fool flood. The snow that accumulated through the months of October through February begins to thaw in the valley at this time and the hamlets begin to fill with colors. Nature lovers and backpackers will be delighted to know that every year, Uttarakhand organises the Uttarakhand Spring Bird Festival, where bird watching camps are conducted at 25 birding destinations within the state. Also of interest is The Valley of Flowers in the Chamoli district, home to 300 different species of wildflowers and also a UNESCO heritage site. There are some beautiful stay options here – a homestay near Alaknanda river and Valley of Flowers, a lake view cottage in Naukuchiatal, and a beautiful cottage in Nathuakhan.

Click here to choose from more homestays in Uttarakhand

#7. Welcome mango season & spot wildlife in Thekkady, Kerala

Homestays in Thekaddy — A beautiful Farm house near Periyar reserve.

Homestay with a view of the Periyar Forest

Mango plants are in full bloom in Kerala by the end of February. Thekkady, best known for its lush fields and the Periyar National Park, is the ideal place to be at this time. This is the time when many species of animals, from tigers to sloth bears, emerge from within the forests. It is also an ideal time to escape the holiday crowds who do not begin to flock here till later in the year. Homestays in Thekkady include rustic huts, tree-houses, and properties near jungles. You can choose to indulge in a farm experience in a beautiful farm house, soak up nature in a luxury tree house or stay in a homestay in the buffer zone of Periyar National Park.

Click here to choose from more homestays in Thekkady

#8. Go wildlife spotting in Kanha

The town of Mandla is situated in a loop, surrounded by the Narmada river on three sides. A short distance away is the Kanha National Park which is best visited in spring. The National Park is home to around 1,000 different species of flowering plants, and also boast open grasslands and aquatic plants in the little lakes that dot it. At this time of the year, the vegetation is lush and abundant, and chances of spotting tiger are more favorable as many resident naturalists will tell you. During your visit, choose to stay in a beautiful homestay which allows you to feel one with the forest – rooms with a view of the dense cover, a swimming pool, outdoor decks, private balconies and the option of dining in the open.

Click here to learn more or to book the homestay in Kanha

Click here to visit SaffronStays and choose from over 1000 homestays across India.

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Where will you be welcoming spring this year? Share with us in your comments.

About the author: Alaric Moras spends most of his time reading, writing and interning with industries that read and write. He aims to become a clinical psychologist, providing therapy and catching Freudian slips during the day, writing and reading through the night. He likes all manner of animals, the smell of books, and the oxford comma.

15 Offbeat Getaways from Kolkata

7th March 2015Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Cottages in Meghalaya, Darap homestay, Darjeeling homestays, Getaways from Kolkata, Guest House in Meghalaya, Homestays in Gangtok, Homestays in India, Homestays in Sikkim, MG Road Gangtok, Northeast travel, Offbeat Darjeeling, Offbeat Meghalaya, Offbeat vacations from Kolkata, Offbeat vacations in India, Ravangla homestay, Sikkim homestays, Sikkim local culture, Sikkim tour, Umden, weekend getaways from Kolkata, weekend getaways near KolkataLeave a comment

By Sarita Santoshini

We travelled to Sikkim, Darjeeling & Meghalaya last year, and while we were awe struck by the unspoilt natural landscapes, we were also overwhelmed by the cultural experience and hospitality that the homestay hosts had to offer. We want you to go out there and experience what we did. So, to make your planning easier, we handpicked 15 Homestays, Cottages and Farm Houses which will make for a perfect getaway or vacation from Kolkata (or from Mumbai if you’re planning a long holiday).

#1. Beautiful Homestay with traditional Sikkimese decor in Gangtok

Located a short walk away from the bustling MG Road in Gangtok, this homestay makes for a great base in the capital city of Sikkim. The entire property has been very thoughtfully designed by the hosts using traditional Sikkimese furniture and artefacts, and painted ceilings that showcase Sikkimese art. There are four colour therapy rooms in the main house which have been designed to provide therapeutic healing and positive energy to the guests. Another block of the property houses six rooms, each of which has a balcony and seating area to enjoy the view. Exploring the property is a breathtaking experience as guests stumble upon flower creepers hanging from small windows in the in-house restaurant in one corner and walk through old photographs and books lining a dim-lit corridor of the living room at another.

Click here to know more or to book.

Click here to choose from other homestays in Gangtok

#2. Homestay with a farm and swimming pool near Gangtok

Located in a small village called Chota Singtam, which lies half an hour away from Gangtok, is this lovely stand-alone Bungalow where the warm hosts have been welcoming travellers for a few years now. Here, you can enjoy a scenic view of lush greenery and hills from every corner of the house. There are two simple yet comfortable rooms in a private cottage and one room in the main-house. There is a spacious veranda where you can lounge when you’re not floating in the tiled pool set in the manicured lawn. The highlight of the stay, however, is the food. The host also enjoys cooking delicious meals using organic vegetables and diary products from their own farm. Their momos, baked bread and cocktails are a must try. (Also read: For the love of food and conversations)

Click here to learn more or to book.

#3. Heritage Farm house in Mangalbarey, Sikkim

The Heritage Farmhouse is located in the scenic village of Mangalbarey that lies at an altitude of 4100 feet at a short distance from Rinchenpong in West Sikkim. Fourteen generations of the hosts’ family have lived here and the current generation recently built cottages in the 20 acre farm to welcome travellers and introduce them to their culture and heritage. There are three Suites, each with a spacious living room and a bedroom that opens out onto a private garden, two Heritage Rooms, and five Double Unit Cottages. Other than the facilities of a traditional spa, an infinity pool, kids pool and jacuzzi, there is also a traditional deck, overlooking the lush valley and the mighty Khangchendzonga, where you can unwind. If you manage to drag yourself away from the property, there’s still plenty to do – village walks, a trek to Lheuntse Monastery, birding trips, and picnic by the riverside.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#4. Cottage by the forest in Ravangla, Sikkim

This beautiful family-run property lies in the outskirts of Ravangla in South Sikkim, with a forest at its backdrop and makes for a great stay option if you’re looking for some quiet and solitude. In addition to the luxury that the stay provides, there is a local touch to the property in terms of its food and hospitality. There are seven spacious and chic rooms, each with its own entrance and a glass wall facing the forest, which are a part of three stand alone cottages – two rooms in two of the cottages and three rooms in the other. While there, take guided walks in the forest that surrounds the property or go for a longer trek to Dolong Gompa and visit a small fishing lake en route.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#5. Traditional Farm house in Kewzing, Sikkim

If you’re a birding enthusiast, this traditional farm house in Kewzing, located a short distance from Ravangla in South Sikkim, is just the place for you. The host, who happens to be one of India’s most renowned ornithologists, has been leading birding tours around Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Bhutan and Nagaland since 2001. During your stay, you can take guided birding tours to Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Borong and on trails that lie close to Doling Monastery in Ravangla and Mambru Monastery that is perched on top of a hill. The homestay itself is located next to a monastery. You can choose to stay in the log houses, suites, villas or the family rooms, and eat delicious organic meals with a view of the Kanchenjunga during your stay.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#6. Homestay in the scenic village of Darap, Sikkim

This homestay retreat is located in the small, scenic village of Darap which lies at a short distance from the tourist town of Pelling in West Sikkim. The Limboo community, the largest community of the village, has led to its identity of being a culturally rich location and it makes for a great addition to your Sikkim itinerary. While here, you can soak in the slow village life and explore the rich flora and fauna around or take day trips to Kanchenjunga Water falls, Khecheopalri Lake, Rimbi Water Falls, Pemayantse Monastary and Rabdentse Ruin among other sites. There are seven rooms in the homestay, each made intricately with brick and wood. Though very simple and basic, the rooms have a very cosy and rustic feel to them, with little details adding to their charm. There is a small lake and a gushing stream in the premise as well.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#7. Rustic Homestays in Lingee Payong, Sikkim

These homestays are located in the remote twin-village of Lingee Payong that lie scenically at the base of Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, 3 hour drive away from Gangtok. The locals here have come together to promote sustainable and responsible village tourism by forming a very dedicated committee. Safely tucked away from civilisation, living here is a very different experience. Every house is located at a considerable distance from the other, with forests, orchards and picturesque terraced farms surrounding it. While a lot of these homestays can only be accessed by trekking, there are some that can be accessed by car and opted for by families. The simplicity of the stay is made up for by the gorgeous views, declicious organic food and warm hospitality. While here, you could request your host to take you for short guided treks around the area and learn about the local culture while at it. (Also read: Going off the grid in Sikkim)

Click here to learn more to book.

#8. Log Cabins in a Farm House in Mawphlang

If you want a complete break from your daily routine and be one with nature, this Farm House in Mawphlang, half an hour away from Meghalaya’s capital city Shillong, is the best place to go to. It’s completely off grid and the hosts generate their own electricity using solar and wind energy. A stream runs all around the property and there are farms everywhere as far as the eye can see. There are four insulated cabins, each of which has a loft with a queen size bed, as well as a common dining and kitchen area where you can enjoy home cooked local meals. While here, you can go for long walks to enjoy the countryside or hike to the Sacred Grove which is 20 minutes away. (Also read: A Walk to Remember)

Click here to learn more or to book.

#9. Luxury Cottage by the lake near Shillong, Meghalaya

Located by the beautiful Umiam Lake near Shillong, this eco-property is the perfect place if you’re looking for a slice of luxury in the midst of nature. The spacious cottages, which have balconies facing the lake, have been designed keeping the traditional Khasi architecture in mind while ensuring all modern needs of travellers are taken care of. There’s an in-house restaurant which serves delicious local and international cuisines and a spa where you can choose to indulge in traditional Khasi herbal treatments, massages and bath. While here, you can go trekking, boating, for long walks through pine woods by the lake, or for picnics with your family or loved ones – an ideal place to getaway from the chaos of city life.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#10. Homestay in the traditional weavers’ village of Umden, Meghalaya

These two beautiful cottages lie in the scenic hamlet of Umden in Meghalaya which can be easily accessed from both Guwahati and Shillong. Nestled in a valley, the village is famous for Eri silk production and weaving of traditional handlooms like ryndia, stoles in exquisite patterns. During your stay, you can learn about weaving, go for guided heritage walks conducted by trained local youth to learn about the history and culture of the Bhoi people. You could also go angling at the pond just behind your cottage and catch a fish for the evening meal or go mountain biking along the moderately challenging biking track around the village.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#11. Homestay in the honey producing village of Konghtong, Meghalaya

Nestled between the Sohra and Pynursla ridges in Meghalaya is the village of Kongthong which houses two cottages for travellers, built entirely of bamboo and wood and designed in a way that is traditional to the area. Kongthong has a distinction in honey production and although much of its inhabitants engage in agriculture, it is a marvel on its own to be able to witness agro-forestry in the steep hills along the village. The journey to the homestay takes one through living root bridges, suspension bridges that hang over clear water, bamboo groves that sing an eerie silence and little villages tucked away seemingly forgotten by time. It is a great place to explore a part of Meghalaya that very few know of.

Click here to learn more or to book.

#12. Homestay in the old-world fossil rich village of Mawlongbna, Meghalaya

The beautiful village of Mawlongbna in Meghalaya, tucked away from local tourists, houses two cottages for the adventurous travellers. Reaching the village involves a walk through the community forest, with little streams, brooks and a waterfall en route. During your stay, you can set off with the locals to discover fossils of sea-creatures (remnants of an era when the entire area was covered by the expanse of the seas), go fishing or kayaking in a water reserve nearby, and visit the local markets. The best part? Dining on local Khasi cuisine with a view of the plains of Bangladesh!

Click here to learn more or to book.

#13. Boutique property with a touch of history in Kurseong, Darjeeling

This tastefully done boutique property, located in the hill town of Kurseong which lies an hour’s drive away from Darjeeling, is a recreated and restored British home. You can see artefacts of local, historical and cultural relevance here – anecdotes from British times, replicas of trains, paintings, modern art as well as several framed photographs of residents birds of the region. There are thirty one rooms in the large property, all of which have been artistically designed and decorated. There is an in-house restaurant that dishes up local and international cuisine on request and a large open terrace right outside it that provides stunning view of the mountains and the valley below. While here, opt for their curated heritage walk that includes a visit to a British era cemetery and nun-run monastery among other places

Click here to learn more or to book.

#14. Homestay in a hill top village near Kurseong, Darjeeling

This small little homestay is located in a charming little village called Chimney which lies at an altitude of 6800 feet in the outskirts of Kurseong, accessible after a 2 hour drive from Darjeeling. The best part about the location is the bird’s eye view of Teesta river, Siliguri and neighbouring regions from its roads. At night, on a clear night, the sight of whole valley lit up is one to behold. On the other side is a beautiful misty juniper forest, and there are a few waterfalls and viewpoints that lie a short hike away. There is one guest room in the ground floor and a beautiful attic room with an attached terrace. The delicious Nepalese cuisine is another reason for you to choose to stay here. (Also read: Memories of a Dreamy Village)

Click here to learn more or to book.

#15. Farm stay in the outskirts of Darjeeling

This homestay in Darjeeling is located in the midst of farms, orange orchards and tea plantations in the small village of Mineral Spring. It lies at a short distance from Darjeeling and offers travellers a taste of local culture and a sense of tranquility. The spacious property has two tents and two huts, both of which have been tastefully designed and come with private verandas where you can lounge and relax. A short distance from the rooms is a swimming pool and an open restaurant where you can order for local meals. There’s ample space for walks and lots of scenic corners where you can read or sip tea.

Click here to learn more or to book.

Click here to choose from other homestays in Sikkim

Click here to choose from other homestays in Meghalaya

Click here to choose from other homestays in Darjeeling

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Which of these retreats would you like to getaway to for your next vacation? Share with us in your comments.

About the author: Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. She currently works as the Content Editor for SaffronStays. You can read more of her travelogues on her blog- http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com.

12 Homestays you must add to your 2015 Bucket list

20th December 2014Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged coorg, Coorg Homestay, Darjeeling, Darjeeling, Darjeeling homestays, Goa, Goa, Goa Homestays, Himachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh homestays, Indian hospitality, kashmir homestays, Kerala homestays, Kottayam, Kullu Manali, Ladakh homestays, Manali homestay, Meghalaya, Rajasthan homestays, Sikkim homestays, Udaipur, Udaipur HomestaysLeave a comment

By Sarita Santoshini

2014 has been a remarkable journey for us. We launched our website and travelled to different parts of the country to bring some beautiful properties to you. As the year draws to an end, we want to leave you with plenty more reasons to travel in 2015 through our curated platform – great adventures, friendly locals, delicious food, beautiful landscapes, and warm experiences irrespective of where you decide to go. Out of the 800, we’ve painstakingly chosen these 12 beautiful stay options across India that we think you should add to your bucket list – one destination for every month of 2015!

1. Surround yourself by luxury, nature and tens of spotted deer – Udaipur, Rajasthan

Udaipur Homestays — You’ll always be surrounded by nature in this luxury homestay.

Amidst verdant and scenic hills of the Aravali mountain range in Udaipur is Shikarbadi. Once the chosen big game hunting area of the royalty of Mewar, Shikarbadi today is home to this beautiful, luxury property that allows you to experience an untouched side of the White City. The six themed suites of the homestay have been set around a manicured garden on a floor above the host’s rooms. Here, you can listen to the songs of the birds and often spot deer, porcupines and foxes trotting outside the fences of the house. Rest assured you can experience true Rajasthani hospitality here through the friendly service and delicious local food, recipes of some of which have come straight from the royal kitchen.

Click here to learn more and book.

2. Getaway from Mumbai to a hilltop farm overlooking the valley – Chiplun, Coastal Maharashtra

Maharashtra Homestays — Plunge into this inviting pool and enjoy the view of the mountains and the valley.

If you’re looking for an offbeat getaway from Mumbai, this farm house in Chiplun, built on an 18 acre land, on a hilltop overlooking the valley, is just the place for you. The rooms are very simple, but you’ll have peacocks and friendly dogs here for company, an inviting open pool that you can plunge into, and home-cooked Maharashtrian fares, prepared on the traditional wood-fired stoves under a mango tree, to relish. During your stay, you can spend your day floating on a boat in the Vashisth estuary and your nights either watching a star studded sky from the terrace or driving through the jungle in a jeep. Not a dull moment here! (Also read: A Surprise Anniversary Getaway )

Click here to learn more and book.

3. Escape to a royal Villa overlooking the Dal Lake – Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir

This beautiful Villa in Srinagar is owned by the descendants of Maharaja Hari Singh.

Overlooking the Dal Lake and facing the Zabarwan range, this beautiful Villa is home to the descendants of the last ruling Maharaja of the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled amongst apple, cherry and plum orchards, it is a part of their larger private estate, one where they organise fortnightly farmers market and the annual Darah Shikoh Festival. With a 36 feet high central atrium, tastefully done rooms and a lounge that comes with a view, it makes for a perfect retreat when in Srinagar. During their stay, guests can enjoy strolls in the walking trail around the estate and the nearby pond that attracts a large number of migratory birds. If you are lucky you may even come across a Himalayan Black Bear!

Click here to learn more and book.

4. Stay with one of India’s best birding guides – Kewzing, Sikkim

Enjoy the unspoilt beauty of Sikkim while you stay in this Log House.

If you’re a birding enthusiast, this is just the place for you. Mr. Bon, your host, and one of India’s most renowned Ornithologists, has been leading birding tours around Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Bhutan and Nagaland since 2001. During your stay, you can take guided birding tours to Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Borong and on trails that lie close to Doling Monastery in Ravangla and Mambru Monastery that is perched on top of a hill. The homestay itself is located next to a monastery. You can choose to stay in the log houses, suites or the family rooms, and eat delicious organic meals with a view of the Kanchenjunga during your stay.

Click here to learn more and book.

5. Stay in a charming cottage surrounded by apple orchards – Manali, Himachal

The homestay lies surrounded by apple orchards and green mountains

Located in Bipasha Valley near Manali, this charming cottage lies nestled by apple trees and offers a scenic escape from the chaos of city life. The bedroom comes with a number of windows and a small personal balcony overlooking the hill station of Manali. There is a small garden outside where you can spend time enjoying the view, writing or sipping a cup of hot tea. The friendly hosts also whip up a delicious meal using fresh organic produce from their garden. During your stay, you can go for short treks around the cottage, on a trail leading to the Some River and another to a beautiful waterfall.

Click here to learn more and book.

6. Explore an exotic village while staying in the midst of a community forest – Mawlongbna, Meghalaya

Your cottage lies a walk away from this breathtaking spot. — Your cottage lies a walk away from this breathtakingly beautiful spot.

Click here to learn more and book.

7. Experience a lesser-known Ladakh by the cliff bank of River Indus – Uleytokpo, Ladakh

Set on the banks of the Indus river, these cottages let in a stunning view of Ladakh's landscape. — Set on the banks of the Indus river, these cottages let in a stunning view of Ladakh’s landscape.

Set at the cliff bank of river Indus, 70 Kilometers into Sham valley is the village of Uleytokpo. Here, set amidst apple and apricot orchards is a beautiful eco property that allows you to experience luxury, serenity as well as a lesser-known side of Ladakh. The rooms are large and spacious with a large number of windows where you can wake up to a view of the vast mountains. During your stay, you can pick from one of the many books in the cosy library, indulge yourself with a refloxolgy session in the in-house spa, or venture out for river rafting and hiking.

Click here to learn more and book.

8. Spend the night star gazing from an attic room – Chimney, Darjeeling

The stunning bird's eye view from the village of Chimney — The stunning bird’s eye view from the village of Chimney

Located in a charming little village called Chimney that lies at an altitude of 6800 feet, this homestay is your window into a side of Darjeeling that not many know or talk about. The best part about the location is the bird’s eye view of Teesta River, Siliguri and neighbouring regions from its roads. On the other side is a beautiful misty juniper forest, and there are a few waterfalls and viewpoints that lie a short hike away. Stay in this cosy attic room, taste some delicious Nepalese food, and spend your night star gazing or watching lights flicker in the valley below. (Also read: Memories of a Dreamy Village )

Click here to learn more and book.

9. Experience the lavish plantation life in a Colonial Bungalow – Coorg, Karnataka

Experience the lavish plantation life in this Heritage Bungalow in Coorg

Surrounded by sweeping vistas of the ever picturesque Kodagu Hills, this Heritage Bungalow is fit for royalty. With large, spacious rooms, fireplaces, Victorian furniture and manicured lawn, the Bungalow takes you back to a bygone era with its old world charm. During your stay, you can eat scrumptious meals of Coorg delicacies like Pandhi (pork) or Koli (Chicken) Curry, Akki Roti (Rice Roti), Kadumbuttu (Rice Dumplings), Wild Mushroom and Mango Curry. While there, other than strolling through the coffee plantations, you can take a trip to Abbey Falls, Nagarhole National Park and the Namdroling Tibetan Monastery.

Click here to learn more and book.

10. Stay in a rustic cottage in the heart of a forest – Corbett, Uttarakhand

These rustic cottages allow you to be one with the forest.

These cottages make for a very special wilderness destination where you can be in, and one with the forest. Situated on the banks of the Ramganga River in Corbett National Park, and accessible on foot, it’s for true forest lovers and those that seek the wild in its original, pristine form, away from the crowds, the vehicles and heightened human activity. The cottages here are beautiful and have been constructed with locally sourced clay, savannah thatch and wood inspired by traditional Vangujjar tribal style. While here, soak up the wilderness from your verandas, enjoy some delicious meals, explore the forest on foot, enjoy birdwatching, butterfly spotting, or look for signs of the big ones.

Click here to learn more and book.

11. Watch the sun set over lush fields from a hill top Bungalow – Kottayam, Kerala

Enjoy a gorgeous sunset from your balcony in the hill top Bungalow.

Set in the hills of the beautiful town of Kottayam, this bungalow lets you soak up the rich natural surroundings of Kerala away from the tourists trails. The charming rooms open up to a view of lush green fields and backwaters, which can be enjoyed with multiple cups of tea from the veranda. Other than enjoying delicious Malayali meals, you can enjoy cycling by the hilly countryside, take long leisurely walks through the fields and go for backwater rides through sleepy villages.

Click here to learn more and book.

12. Stay in a Wooden Chalet on the banks of a river – Ribandar, Goa

Goa Homestays — The beautiful wooden chalet by the Mandovi river in Goa.

Situated on the banks of Goa’s largest River, Mandovi, is this beautiful wooden chalet that looks straight out of a Hollywood movie. Built in 1730, the property comes with three bedrooms, one of which opens up to a paved patio by the edge of the river, living rooms, dining hall, kitchen, sun decks and even a convenience store. The house is designed perfectly to allow the view of the river, the Salem Ali Bird Sanctuary and adjacent islands from every location in the house. During your stay, you can enjoy fishing or rent a bike to explore the town of Ribandar.

Click here to learn more and book.

Which one of these homestays would you add to your 2015 Bucket list? Tell us in the comments section.

About the Author: Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. She currently works as the Content Editor for SaffronStays. You can read more of her travelogues on her blog-http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com.

6 Anniversary Getaway ideas to fall in love all over again

28th November 2014Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Anniversary getaway ideas India, Coorg Homestays, Darjeeling homestays, Himachal Homestays, Homestays in India, Houseboats, Kerala homestays, Meghalaya Homestays, Romantic getaway ideas India, Sikkim homestays, Srinagar homestays, Tree houses KeralaLeave a comment

By Sarita Santoshini

Winters, coincidentally, also happen to be the months of weddings and subsequent wedding anniversaries. If you’ve already ticked a great honeymoon off your list and are looking for new ideas and ways to spend a romantic holiday with your spouse, we’ve got it all covered for you.

#1- Go Wild

This is of the Kanha property listed with us — After wildlife safaris in the day, spend the evening by the pool with a glass of wine. Photo by our host, Neelesh

Kerala homestays — Luxury tree houses in Periyar National Park at a height of 30 feet. Photo by our host, Saji

There’s something very wildly romantic about being with your partner, surrounded by acres of forest and knowing very well that the only thing separating you from the wild is a concrete wall. You could be in Kanha, waking up to the sight of the dense forests from the large windows in your luxurious room or in a tree house in Periyar where at a height of 30 feet, your private balconies will give you the best sight of bisons, elephants and barking deer. If you’re looking for something more adventurous and rustic, head to a homestay flanked by the forest in Dandeli or the earthen cottages in Jim Corbett National Park, accessible after a 2 km trek, where you can explore the magical forest on foot.

#2 – Whisk her off to an exotic land

Darjeeling Homestays — The breathtaking view from Kurseong. Photo by Sarita

Meghalaya Homestays — The scenic village of Kongthong in Meghalaya. Photo by our host, Aniduhan.

sikkim homestays — A luxury cottage in Sikkim with a dense beautiful forest at the backdrop. Photo by Sarita

When you live in a country like India, you need not look elsewhere for an exotic idea. The states in East and North-east India, untouched, scenic and extremely beautiful, make for some of the most romantic getaways. If you think Darjeeling is touristy, choose its lesser-known neighbour, Kurseong. Here, you can stay in a charming heritage property with some of the most characteristically-designed rooms or retire to Chimney, a scenic village with a dense juniper forest on one side and a bird’s-eye view of Teesta River and Siliguri on the other side, and enjoy long walks together. In Sikkim, you can stay in beautiful cottages that lie tucked in the midst of misty forests, with only the songs of birds and the whistling wind for company. You can also escape further to Meghalaya, to a resort by the lake in Shillong, to a farm house near the Sacred Grove Forest in Mawphlang or to remote villages like Kongthong and Mawphanlur where, after long scenic treks, you can sit together on a hill top and watch a gorgeous sunset together.

#3 – Treat her like a Queen! Live like Royalty

Rajasthan Homestays — A beautiful room, once occupied by the Maharani, in a Heritage Haveli in Jaipur. Photo by Sarita

Raasthan homestays — Step out of your luxury rooms and right into a pool like this in a Heritage Haveli in Jodhpur. Photo by Sarita

It’s your anniversary and we think that’s a great reason to be treated royally. Yes, we are referring to some beautiful heritage havelis in Rajasthan where you can soak up the winter sun in the traditional courtyards or on a sundeck by the swimming pools or simply never step out of your lavish rooms that come with antique four poster beds and jharokas. In the romantic city of Udaipur, you can stay in rooms by the Lake Pichola and sip wine in your very own private terrace. Then there are Colonial Bungalows surrounded by coffee plantations in Coorg, complete with Victorian furniture, large verandas and manicured lawns, where you’ll have plenty of scenic private space for yourselves.

#4 – Get snowed in!

Himachal homestays — The beautiful hill town of Kotgarh turns white and magical in December. Photo by our host, Shezad

Who wouldn’t want to be tucked under a blanket in a heated room and watch the streets outside get covered with snow or perhaps go out there and get into a snow fight? You can take your pick from beautiful cottages surrounded by apple orchards in Manali or in Kotgarh, a quieter alternative to Shimla, where the temperatures will be low and snowfall plenty. There’s the haven of romantics, Srinagar, where charming bungalows and villas offer plenty of luxury, privacy and comfort on snowy days. The beautiful hill town of Nainital makes for a great option too.

#5 – Escape to a virgin beach/river island

Coastal Maharashtra Homestays — Spend an evening in a beach in Ratnagiri with a hundred odd migratory sea gulls. Photo by Sarita

wooden chalet by the river in Goa — Watch the world go by with your soulmate, as you dip your feet in the river from the pier of this wooden house. Photo by our host, Capt Leo

We’re sure you’ve spent many holidays in Goa and seen all the beaches, but it is in the beautiful, lesser-known Divar Island, accessible by ferry from Old Goa, and in a wooden chalet on the banks of the Mandovi river that you can truly experience the Goan Susegad life. If you aren’t fussed about the luxuries of a high end resort, Coastal Maharashtra offers some pristine and unexplored beaches. Perfect for those endless sunset walks on soft sand and long conversations with your feet dipped in the cold water. All this with the promise of not a soul around.

#6 – Sail on tranquil waters for days

Srinagar Homestays — Heritage houseboats in Dal Lake make for one of the most romantic stays. Photo source: asiaexplorers.com

There’s no denying that the backwaters of Kerala make for some of the most scenic destinations in India. Imagine having a lovely room to yourself, complete with dining and seating arrangements at the deck of your luxury houseboat, and floating in the backwaters for days. If this idea interests you, you can also opt to stay in a heritage houseboat in the beautiful Dal Lake of Srinagar. No meal or conversation can ever be devoid of romance when you’re floating in these tranquil waters. Enjoy the star-lit skies, count the shooting stars from the deck, and you can almost hear the notes of the santoor playing.

Ready to make your anniversary special? Visit our website to book a stay in a beautiful location now!

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11 reasons I choose a Homestay over a Hotel, everytime!

9th November 2014Posted in SaffronStays DiariesTagged Darjeeling homestays, India homestays, Indian hospitality, Karnataka homestays, Kerala homestays, Leh homestays, Rajasthan homestays, reasons to choose homestay, reasons to homestay, Sikkim homestays, why choose homestayLeave a comment

Over the last few months, we’ve travelled to different parts of India, from its remotest corners to its most touristy belts. Our team of photographers and travel writers visited more than 700 homestays and personally interacted with as many hosts and locals. We also discussed the concept with a lot of friends, colleagues and like-minded travellers to understand why they indeed travel, and what has prompted them to move from hotels to homestays. All this has led us to believe that we are truly onto something magical.

So, while we at SaffronStays are busy curating our website with beautiful properties and travel experiences, I leave you with these reasons to choose a Homestay for your next holiday.

Reason #1 : “I travel to experience a place.”

Homestay Manali — The beautiful backyard of Sneh & Godwin’s homestay in the outskirts of Manali

We believe that the concept of travel has tremendously evolved in India over the years. While you’d like to visit the Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur, you’d perhaps also like to dine at a historic restaurant that doesn’t feature in tourist guides. With the little time that we all squeeze into our lives for travel, it is only important that we make the most of it. A Homestay lets you do just that. When you live with a local, you are exposed to local sights, sounds and flavours. A brochure in a hotel’s reception will never match up to that.

Reason #2: “I feel safe”

Homestay Srinagar — Jyotsna’s homestay in Srinagar where you can stay safe with a family and enjoy your privacy as well.

Homestays are largely run by families or a small staff personally appointed by them. Whether it be a sprawling Farm House in Meghalaya or a simple two bedroom home in the mountains of Sikkim, the hosts themselves take care of everything. It is in their own interest to ensure that theirs is a safe place for travellers to have a pleasant stay in. While living with a family gives you company and makes you feel safe, hosts also ensure that you have enough privacy by letting out rooms in a separate floor or an adjoining building some times. Both safety and privacy are ensured here.

Reason #3: “We can savour home-cooked local delicacies”

Homestay food — A plate full of delicious home cooked meal in Sameer’s homestay in Coorg

The best part about staying in a homestay is undoubtedly the delicious home-cooked food. It allows you to understand local cuisine and even learn what goes into the preparation as most hosts willing share secret recipes with you. A lot of homestays in Rajasthan, for example, hold active cooking classes during meal hours. Without the effort of hunting for local restaurants, you can indulge in Pandhi (pork) Curry in Coorg, Gatte ki Sabzi in Jaipur and Malvani Fish Curry with Solkadhi in a quaint village called Parule near Tarkarli.

Reason #4 : “Sometimes, I need my own local Sherpa”

Nobody knows a place better than someone who was born and raised there. Online research is great but usually, all you have to do is ask and your homestay host will share his local insight and vast network with you in minutes. Whether it be the contact number of a reliable auto driver, closing time of a local museum in Shillong, the timing of a special event in a Fort in Jaipur, the best eateries in Mysore and the dishes you should order or the direction to a virgin beach in Kerala – you’ll get this information from no one but a local and your homestay host is the best person to rely on.

Reason #5 : “I need warm glass of turmeric milk at 10 pm for my 5 year old daughter who has a sore throat”

Homestay Sikkim — A host in Sikkim who gladly opens up her kitchen and large kitchen inventory to guests

Ladakh SaffronStays host — A SaffronStays host in Ladakh

By staying in a homestay with another family (host) around, you can be assured that you’re not alone in case of a medical emergency. As a mother, I sometimes need access to the kitchen to be able to cook khichdi (simple rice and lentil dish) for my parents-in-law or prepare a glass of warm turmeric milk for my kids. A lot of homestays will allow you to use the kitchen or willingly help you deal with different situations.

Reason #6 : “Home stays are comparatively affordable”

Homestay Rajasthan — Experience Rajput hospitality in Prabhut’s homestay in a Bishnoi village without burning a hole in your pocket.

Hotels have become prohibitively expensive. Especially during peak season, hotels could charge you an arm and a leg. Homestays, however, offer a clean and affordable alternative and come with better experiences. While you might pay the same price in some places, you do so for the personal care and service that you receive in return.

Reason #7: “I am a curious cat”

Travellers are extremely curious and want to soak up as many stories as they can. Staying with a family gives you access to a lot of such stories during your many conversations with them. Most hosts have interesting background – some have ancestors who were the rulers or royal Diwans of the local state or Governor General of India or are simple families with deep cultural roots in the place that has been inherited over centuries. In Sikkim, we heard a host play a traditional Bhutia instrument called Damney while in Jodhpur, we heard stories about the Maharaja of Jodhpur – each a lasting experience.

Reason #8 : “Home stays generates income for locals”

Homestays Darjeeling — Homestays help women, like our host Mayadevi, gain income and take charge of the household.

Homestays are simple establishments run by local families to augment their family income. These families tend to open their homes to locals for want of company or for the sheer passion for hospitality. We’ve visited a number of community run homestays during our travels and have realised that the income that is generated from their operations is usually with the aim of making the women in the families more independent. By staying in these homestays, you contribute to their income.

Reason #9 : “I am a strict Vegan”

If you’re someone who adheres to strict rules when it comes to food, home stays give that option to you. The temple town of Pushkar, for example, is perfect for vegetarians as you can be assured that the hosts cook and serve just that in their homes. Homestays will also prepare and set up your meals in a specific way and with special care for your needs.

Reason #10 : “We travel as a large Indian joint family”

Host families usually enjoy the company of those travelling as a joint family. — Host families, like that of Tanuja & Dilip’s, enjoy the company of those travelling as a joint family and take special care for their comfort.

As Indians, we like to travel as one large joint family. Most often, you’re not looking for luxury but a caretaker or a host who takes care of all your simple needs. You could simply be looking for a place where mattresses are laid out on the floor and you are allowed the space and privacy to have a good time with your family. While you could be restricted to do so in a hotel, a large number of homestays are all about joint families and accommodate these simple requests.

Reason #1 1: “Because, there is no better place than a home”

Homestays leave with you a warm, unforgettable experience. — Homestays leave you with a warm, everlasting experience.

While we travel to get away, how amazing would it be to find second homes and make new connections with people that become like family by the end of your trip! We believe that in this busy, chaotic world, travel should leave you with an experience like that. By staying in a homestay, rest assured you’ll never be away from home.

Convinced and excited to book a homestay? Visit our website.

Read this to know some exciting tips on how to choose a homestay

About the author: Tejas Parulekar is a first generation entrepreneur who has (ad)ventured into a domain that is traditionally dominated by large hospitality chains and other travel portals. A Banker by experience and Chartered Accountant by training, she is aspiring to leave an imprint in the hospitality sector by bringing together the little fish (Homestays) to take on the mighty shark. Encourage her and her homestay hosts by booking your next stay on www.saffronstays.com.

Moods, Memories and Memorabilia of a Darjeeling trip

24th October 2014Posted in DarjeelingTagged Bara Mangwa, Darjeeling, Darjeeling, Darjeeling homestays, Ghum, Ghum Monastery, Kanchenjunga, Makaibari, Makaibari home stay, Mall Road, Sangeet, Teesta, Toy TrainLeave a comment

By Sreejita Basu

Few things spell ‘happiness’ better than the idea of a trip to the hills when the thermometer is close to touching 42 degree Celsius in the plains. So, when the idea of a Darjeeling trip was floated on a sultry afternoon, it was unanimously vetoed by all participants leaving no scope for discussion.

The four day trip executed in May was divided into two parts. The first day was to be spent in Bara Mangwa (Bara Mangwa literally means ‘Big Village’. There is a Chota Mangwa or ‘Small Village’ in the vicinity as well), a village towards the western side of Kalimpong Hills, followed by three days in the district of Darjeeling. The plan to head to Bara Mangwa was aided by a colleague of mine who had founded a charitable trust in this region back in 2005 with the objective of helping the local community of the village. Since then, the trust has begun organic farming, animal husbandry and flower cultivation in this region.

We were to stay at the Bara Mangwa Farm House also run by my colleague within the premises of the trust. One could say that we were not in the highest of spirits after the night-long train journey that was followed by a two hour bus ride and a bumpy jeep drive. But a refreshing drink of orange squash straight from the nearby orchard, and we were sprinting to explore the virginal beauty of Bara Mangwa. Accompanying us was Tyson- a distant relative of the Kumaon Mastiff and Rahi, a six month old German Shepherd. A quick spell of unexpected rain, endless servings of piping hot momos with the tantalizing Tibetan chilli dip, the strumming of the guitar and the spine-chilling (and sometimes comical) versions of ghost stories under the moonlit sky made our stay at Bara Mangwa more than just a perfect affair.

We started for Darjeeling early next morning where our plan was to first dig into the famed breakfast at Glenary’s before doing anything else. The first stop was the Teesta-Rangeet confluence- the meeting of the two largest rivers of Sikkim. Local guides of this region love to regale tourists with the anecdote of the ‘Lover’s Point’ with Teesta as the woman and Rangeet as her lover. Having lapped up the stories and the breath-taking beauty of the region along with some Wai-Wai noodles,we were on our way to Darjeeling again. This is when the surprise package of the tour presented itself before us. The pleasant morning breeze had turned into a nippy wind and soon a hailstorm struck the mountains with such gusto that all roads leading upto Darjeeling were jammed for a good forty-five minutes. But this was no ordinary hailstorm…this, believe it or not (even we did not until the newspapers announced it the next morning) was snowfall in the month of April! Although our feet were on the verge of developing frostbites and our luggage was soaked to the core, this was serendipity indeed.

Darjeeling snow — Hail…or was it snow? Photo by Subhadip Dutta

The hail and the rain gave way to bright sunshine the next morning and we began the day with a languorous ride on the heritage toy train from Darjeeling to Ghum where we visited the Ghum Monastery and Batasia Loop, the obvious tourist destinations. What was not quite obvious was when the driver excitedly pointed out to St. Paul’s School on our way back, a location where the blockbuster ‘Main HoonNaa’ was shot more than a decade ago!

A visit to Darjeeling wouldn’t be complete without visiting its famed tea-gardens. We headed to the famous Makaibari tea estate. Apart from stocking up on tea-packets for friends and family, do not forget to don the traditional tea-pickers’ costume (available for a small rent) and get yourselves clicked if you happen to be visiting the tea estate. You will have a good laugh going over these in times to come.

Before we knew it, it was time to leave..The endless trips to Mall Road, the haggling over silk scarves and woollen caps, the meals at Keventer’s (alas, they do not serve the scrumptious pork ribs anymore), the cosy feeling of sporting woollens long stacked in naphthalene scattered suitcases, the headiness of sipping freshly brewed Darjeeling tea-we left with these images well stacked in our cameras and our heads. We weren’t lucky enough to catch a sight of the Kanchenjunga in its morning glory or the time to visit the Sumendu Lake at Mirik. But no one was complaining. For, as Lao Tzu very succinctly put it, “A good traveller has no fixed plans and is not intent on arriving”.

Visit our website to book homestays in Darjeeling.

About the Traveller: Born in the steel city of Jamshedpur, Sreejita grew up in Calcutta and Bombay and now resides in New Delhi. She loves unfamiliar roads and uncommon tastes. When she is not working as a communications professional for a living, she likes to read, eat, travel and pen down her random thoughts in her blog.

Memories of a dreamy village

30th September 2014Posted in Darjeeling, Hosts, Ninja Diaries, Responsible tourismTagged Chimney, Darjeeling, Darjeeling, Darjeeling homestays, great view, Juniper forests, Kurseong, North BengalLeave a comment

We stood there gaping at the bird’s-eye view of the rivers Teesta and Mahananda , patches of inhabited land that was Siliguri and its neighbouring towns, and a clear strip of land that we were told was Bagdogra airport. The wind continued to blow us over but we were too adamant to take pictures which could come close to replicating what we were observing with our naked eye.

Tejas and I had just about managed to get ourselves into the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway for Kurseong that morning. After what had been an extremely slow and scenic ride, with the sight outside our window never falling short of pine and juniper trees, we’d reached the small hill town of Kurseong. There on, we’d taken a shared taxi to reach Chimney, a village that lay a rugged drive away. Other than the half-baked information about the village deriving its name from a 23-foot tall abandoned Chimney that dated back to the British era, there was little else we knew about the place. We weren’t expecting much, until our cab screeched to a halt outside a beautiful house with yellow washed walls and a blue roof, and the driver called out for Amal, our host.

Bird's-eye view from Chimney — The stunning bird’s-eye view from Chimney

The Chimney that the village is peculiarly named after

Hugging ourselves against the strong wind and the biting cold, we made our way into the cosy house that had the prettiest attic room I’ve ever seen. Old classics and a few travel magazines lay scattered about the living room and guest room, both made partially of wood, and there was a certain old-world charm to the place. We spent the next few hours taking short walks around the village, gazing at the bird’s-eye view and watching the sky burst into shades of pink and orange during sunset. A short walk downhill from the home stay, kids ran about in the make-shift football field that stretched in front of the juniper forest, while uphill, the chimney lay hidden by tall wild grass in a small patch of land.

Attic room, Chimney — The pretty attic room in the home stay

Victoria on her way to school on a rainy morning — Victoria smiles her way to school on a rainy morning

Later that night, we accompanied Amal’s daughter, Victoria, as she made drawings of little princesses on her notebook, a talent she’s picked from her painter dad whose framed religious and landscape paintings adorned the walls. Minutes later, over a delicious dinner of chicken curry and rice, Mr. Amal Rai also modestly showed us a copy of a travel magazine dating back to 2010 where the writer wrote fondly about the very same home stay and their excellent hospitality.

I particularly remember the lines about their terrace. It made us tip toe up the stairs ourselves. It was cold and windy and a few stray clouds obstructed our view. But it was clear enough for us to spend a while watching the night sky flicker with a million bright stars and in the distance, the urban lights flickered in unison. I have been recalling that moment every now and then. In my head, I retire to the night in that beautiful village, and for the moment, it’s all okay.

Find more about Mr. Amal’s listing:

https://www.saffronstays.com/view/romantic-getaway-in-a-hill-top-home-stay-OaZGrf294H482ICK

About the Traveller: Born and raised in Assam, Sarita Santoshini has been travelling around India and penning down her experiences over the past year. You can read more of her travelogues in her blog- http://crumbsfromyourtale.wordpress.com .

Empowered in a beautiful tea estate

29th September 2014Posted in Community tourism, Darjeeling, Hosts, Ninja Diaries, Responsible tourismTagged Darjeeling, Darjeeling, Darjeeling homestays, Makaibari, Makaibari home stay, Rajah Banerjee, Tea garden, women empowermentLeave a comment

Born and raised in the tea gardens of Assam, I’ve always related home to the sight of dark green leaves glistening in the sun, the sound of large dryers whirring in the factory, and the smell of garden fresh tea lingering in the house. Habituated to the flat plains though, this was the first time that I was laying eyes on tea plantations that stretched across vast slopes of hills with greener mountains at their backdrops. In Darjeeling, the tea gardens provided a more dramatic and stunning sight than I was used to and I definitely wasn’t complaining.

On a rainy morning, Tejas and I reached Makaibari Tea Estate, our last destination in Darjeeling. Famed for producing the finest quality of organic tea and also the most expensive Silver tips tea, Makaibari hosts travellers and tea enthusiasts from across the globe every year. Seven villages and a dense forest cover characterise the tea estate.

As we zigzagged our way through narrow lanes of the villages that day, visiting the houses of the tea pluckers on our way, we noticed a pattern more striking than that of multiple cups of flavorful tea. The tea estate, through its various little policies over the years, had given rise to an empowered women population. Other than encouraging women to set up responsible home stays so they could generate extra income for their household, Makaibari had also begun the trend of electing female garden supervisors. In fact, our host, Mrs. Maya Devi was a garden supervisor herself, with a sizable number of tea pluckers under her, whose work she inspected and managed on a daily basis. We met Mrs. Bhumika, who actively took part in garbage management in the area, and Mrs. Verbina who encouraged her children to improve their English and learn about different regions and their cultures from her guests.

The most inspiring person we met, however, was Mrs. Ranju. Guiding us to her village of Phoolbari that lay a scenic walk way, she introduced us to home stay owners there. She constantly asked us for our suggestions and feedback, and advised families on ways to improve their service and hospitality. We learnt how passionate she was about propagating her culture to people from different parts of the world. In fact, she had been organising and taking part in local cultural shows out of the same passion. It was evident how the position of power, the ability to be entrepreneurs and contribute to the family income, had encouraged these women to be fearless and confident.

Before we said said goodbye, Mrs. Ranju left us with a beautiful Nepalese song and told us how much these interactions with working women encouraged her. I hope she realises that women like her inspire us way more.