Maheshwari House | Homestay In Samthar

Nestled in wilderness of the mountain countryside, Maheshwari House Samthar is a perfect refuge for tourist looking for peaceful and tranquil ambience. It is a small village of not more than 400 people. Most of the Hindu Bramhins with very religious bent of mind. So donot expeect any extravegance or loud lifestyle. Mostly calm and quiet you can expect only the raw nature and the silence.

Samthar Homestay, Maheshwari house is spead in two units. One is the 4 storey building where the guests are accommodated offering marvellous view of the surroundings. The other unit is a stand alone cottage made of wood, surrounded by a open garden space, where there is the greenhouse and activitie like campfire, evening gettogethers, for the guests are organised. 

There are 9 rooms in the building unit, each having access to a balcony. All rooms are cozy and provided with comfortable beds, hot water/tea makers, warm blankets and other basic amenities like sitting chairs, mirrors, a table, TV, etc. Each room has attached western toilets with fitted geysers, providing hot and cold running water 24 hours a day.

Samthar is located in the Kalimpong Hills District. It is about  40 kms from the town of Kalimpong. Samthar is in close vicinity to Pambu Dhara & Charkhole.

Nearest Airport: The closest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 80 km from Kalimpong.

From Bagdogra Airport:

• Taxi: You can hire a taxi from Bagdogra Airport to Kalimpong. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours.
• Shared Cabs: Shared cabs are also available from the airport to Kalimpong.

Nearest Railway Station: The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 77 km from Kalimpong.

From New Jalpaiguri:

• Taxi: Hire a taxi directly to Kalimpong. The travel time is around 3 hours.
• Shared Cabs: Shared cabs are available at the station.

By Car From Siliguri:

The most covinient way to travel to Samthar is to book a reserved cab which will take about 2 and half hours from Siliguri. Charges for a 4 seater sedan car is about 3000/- while a eight seater will charge you 3500/-

• Taxi or Shared Cab: You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Siliguri to Kalimpong. Siliguri is about 70 km from Kalimpong, and the journey takes around 2.5-3 hours.

From Kalimpong to Samthar:

• Taxi: Hire a local taxi from Kalimpong to Samthar. The distance is approximately 25 km, and the road is scenic but can be rough and narrow.
• Local Transport: Depending on availability, you might find local shared jeeps or small buses traveling to Samthar from Kalimpong.

Samthar Homestay offers Stay and Meals as part of  standard packages which includes 

Bed Tea

Breakfast with Tea/Coffee

Lunch

Evening Snacks with Tea/Coffee

Dinner.

This cost you Rs 1400 per person per day.

For single person occupying a room charges are 2200/- per day.

Additional food llike snacks, extra beverages, bonfire & Bar B Que are separately payable.

Pambu & Charkhole-

• Pambu is a tiny village with population less than 100. The village is located 6 Kilometers away from Saamthar and 12 kmss Charkhole. An exquisite view of majestic Kanchenjunga Range on one side and while on the other side provides a distinct view of plains of Dooars. The Panbu view point is renowned for its clear sunrise and sunset view. The popular Coronation Bridge is also visible from the viewpoint. 

• Charkhole is famous for the view of mighty Kanchenjunga and forest of huge Pine, Cypress, Oak, Shal, and Rhododendrons. The picturesque valley is home of numerous birds like Blue Fronted Redstart, Indian Robin, Green Backed Tit, Pipit, Ashley Prinia, Verditer Flycatcher, Himalayan Bulbul, etc. Take a tour to the forest of Charkhole to enjoy the music and silence of the wilderness.

Kalimpong-  

• Deolo Hill: One of the highest points in Kalimpong, offering panoramic views of the town, surrounding hills, and the Teesta River. It's a great spot for paragliding and picnicking.
• Durpin Dara Hill: Another excellent viewpoint that provides stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range and the Teesta River. The hill is home to the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, which houses rare Buddhist scriptures.
• Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery: Also known as the Durpin Monastery, this significant Buddhist monastery offers beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Kalimpong Pine View Cactus Nursery: Home to a wide variety of cacti and ornamental plants, this nursery is a must-visit for plant enthusiasts.
• Pine View Nursery: Another popular nursery in Kalimpong, known for its extensive collection of cacti and succulents.
• Dr. Graham's Homes: An educational institution founded in 1900 by Dr. John Anderson Graham, it's spread over 500 acres and includes schools, a hospital, and cottages. The campus is beautiful and offers insight into the region's history.
• Tharpa Choling Monastery: One of the oldest monasteries in Kalimpong, founded in 1912, it offers a serene environment and a glimpse into the local religious practices.
• Mangal Dham: A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, it's known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• Crockety: A colonial bungalow built by the British wool traders, it is an example of colonial architecture and offers a glimpse into Kalimpong's past.
• Morgan House: A colonial mansion now managed by the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation, it is said to be haunted and offers a unique experience for visitors.

Lava, Lolegaon (Kafergaon) & Rishop- Lava, Lolegaon (also known as Kafergaon), and Rishop are picturesque destinations in West Bengal, India, known for their serene landscapes and natural beauty. Here are some of the key sightseeing spots in each of these locations:

Lava

• Neora Valley National Park: A rich biodiversity hotspot, ideal for trekking and bird-watching. It houses rare species of flora and fauna.
• Lava Monastery (Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery): A beautiful Tibetan monastery offering peaceful surroundings and a glimpse into Buddhist culture.
• Changey Waterfall: A scenic waterfall located about 14 km from Lava, perfect for a short trek and nature photography.
• Tiffin Dara View Point: Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially during sunrise and sunset.
• Lava Nature Interpretation Centre: Provides information about the region's rich biodiversity and natural history.

Lolegaon (Kafergaon)

• Canopy Walk: A unique experience walking through the forest canopy on a hanging bridge, providing a close encounter with the lush greenery.
• Jhandi Dara View Point: Offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks and the surrounding valleys.
• Lolegaon Monastery: A serene Buddhist monastery that provides a peaceful retreat and spiritual experience.
• Eco Park: A well-maintained park ideal for leisurely walks and picnics amidst nature.
• Heritage Forest: A dense forest area with a variety of flora and fauna, perfect for nature walks and bird watching.

Rishop

• Tiffin Dara View Point (also accessible from Rishop): One of the best spots to enjoy panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range and the surrounding landscape.
• Rishop View Point: Offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks. It's an ideal spot for sunrise and sunset photography.
• Trekking: Various trails around Rishop offer opportunities for trekking and exploring the pristine natural surroundings.

These destinations are relatively close to each other, allowing visitors to explore multiple spots during a single trip. The combination of serene landscapes, adventure activities, and cultural experiences makes Lava, Lolegaon, and Rishop popular choices for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

Yelbong Canyon Adventure-

Up for some adventure Yelbong the only river canyon in North Bengal is the main attraction of this destination. Embark on a River Canyon Trek, through gorges carved out by the Rumti River. With cascading waterfalls and flock of exotic butterflies cross the 2km-long River Canyon River bed, an unique geological feature found nowhere in North Bengal.