Sikkim is a small state in transition with an enormous cultural and natural diversity. Traditionally it was the favourite transit point between India and Tibet; culturally it lies between Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan – and with its merger with India it is now also at the intersection between tradition and modernity. Sikkim is like a melting pot in which the whole history, tradition, culture and clashing values of the entire Himalayas is reflected on a very small area. This makes Sikkim an extremely interesting experience that can also serve as a springboard for further explorations of the Himalayan belt.

Sikkim is neither poor nor isolated. There is a very well-developed road network and electricity in every village. Medical care is good by Indian standard and the crime rate low. Sikkim is in every respect a safe land with an infrastructure that differs less from the West than you might presume. Almost all our homestays are accessible by road in secure and modern jeeps. The small former kingdom that reserves the right to want to become Asia’s Switzerland is also relatively clean. Strict laws also have protected its bio-diverse forests better than in other regions in Asia. Homestays in Sikkim reflect its diversity but also its contradictions.

You should not expect having to stay in simple huts. With some exceptions the rooms can be compared to what you would encounter in southern Europe’s countryside. NGO-trained village-committees provide a relatively high standard. The food is bound to excite you and you will hardly be at risk of falling sick due to food. But you may be facing impressions where you feel as if set back in the middle-ages. Sanitary installations are also not up to European standard but they are clean and guarantee your privacy. Though beds are clean and warm, in some homestays you may feel more comfortable in a private sleeping-bag.

Despite the event of modernity Sikkim has preserved much of its original culture. It is a culture that is very much different from what we are used to in Europe. This diversity with its contrasts and controversies coupled with the hearty hospitality of the Sikkimese is bound to make your homestay-visit to Sikkim  an unforgettable experience.

Highlights & additional attractions of homestays in Sikkim:

• Sikkim’s cultural heritage (Lepcha, Bhutia, Limboo, Rai)
• Buddhist monasteries & temples; shamanism
• Diverse, exotic flora & fauna with orchids and rhododendron
• Meeting shamans; introduction to traditional healing using local herbs
• Folk songs and dances
• Jungle-hikes
• Alpine trekking; hiking through villages, forests and cultivated landscapes
• Mountain biking
• Guided birdwatching