Darjeeling
Darjeeling homestay villages: which one suits you
Darjeeling town is only the start. Here is how the district's homestay villages differ, how long they take to reach, and which one fits your trip.
· 7 min read
Travel guides
Practical guides to homestay trips in Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Sikkim and the Dooars: which village suits you, when to go, how to get there and how to book directly with the host.
Trip planning
Best time to visit Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Sikkim and the Dooars
Clear mountain views, park closures, monsoon roads and winter snow: when to plan a homestay trip to each part of the region.
· 6 min read
Sittong
Sittong homestay guide: Darjeeling's orange village
Mandarin orchards, a river in the valley and family-run homestays. When to visit Sittong, how to reach it and what a stay there is like.
· 5 min read
Kalimpong
Kalimpong homestays: Lava, Loleygaon, Pedong and beyond
Quieter than Darjeeling: Kalimpong's forest villages, Neora Valley, the Loleygaon canopy walk and the old Silk Route town of Pedong.
· 5 min read
Dooars
Dooars jungle homestays: Gorumara, Jaldapara and Buxa
Tea gardens, rivers and forests with rhinos and elephants. Where to base yourself in the Dooars, and when the parks are open.
· 6 min read
Sikkim
Sikkim homestays and permits: what to know before you go
Village homestays from Pelling's ridge to the valleys of the north, and the permits some of them need. A practical primer for planning.
· 6 min read
Trip planning
How to reach Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Sikkim from NJP or Bagdogra
Almost every trip to the hills starts at Siliguri. Drive times, shared jeeps, reserved taxis and the toy train, place by place.
· 5 min read
Booking tips
How to book a homestay directly with the host, safely
Booking direct means no fees and a real conversation with your host. Here is what to ask, how to pay an advance safely and what to do if something feels wrong.
· 5 min read
Ready to choose? Explore every destination or browse all homestays.