Like many people disillusioned by chaotic city life, the hosts of The Sacred Grove in Sikkim were positively itching to move back home and slow down. Luckily, they decided to share their space with you and me. This is the best welcome to gorgeous Sikkim – a farmstay a little away from Gangtok.
Using reclaimed materials like wood and bamboo from the surrounding forest, The Sacred Grove’s vernacular boasts Nepali and Sikkimese influences. Like most of our other homes, it doesn’t just exist for holiday comforts. It is also a fully operational organic farm bustling with activity. However, you can absolutely unwind here if you like! Explore the mountainous landscape covered with deciduous forest and get panoramic views of Gangtok town.
Everyone who works here hails from the surrounding regions. And they are all very focused on waste management. The compost from the waste generated is used for farming or given to a local piggery farm. In this respect (and many others, come and find out), The Sacred Grove is one of those rare spaces that is committed to a responsible travel experience.
comforts
Choose between a cottage with your own private lawn, or two suites to accommodate up to four people. Every suite has views of surrounding foliage, mountains, forest, and more. The cottage has a breathtaking view of the city in the distance, especially at night. All rooms come with attached baths, hot water, Wi-fi, and basic power backup.
The cottages are built with materials from the surrounding areas, inspired by traditional Sikkimese and Nepali vernacular, and are made from local wood, bamboo, rock, dung, and mud to keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summers. Most of the materials of the home are reclaimed from the surrounding areas.
The Sacred Grove is operational throughout the year.
food
Hello, you’re on a fully organic farm! Farm-to-table is the default, not a bougie concept. Eat super healthy meals three times a day while enjoying local recipes prepared the traditional way. There is no fixed menu, but the hosts are open to accommodate you if you have any food specifications. Meals are based on seasonal produce, and about 80% of the food you eat is grown right here.
FYI, Sikkim is the first state in India to go fully organic.
ideal for
If you want peace and quiet, look no further.
If you’re a budding farmer dreaming of growing your own food, this is the prettiest classroom.
If you want to go on brisk hikes, identify rare birds, and learn about the secrets of Sikkim’s forests, there’s no place more ideal.
The property may not be ideal for people with issues of mobility, and for infants and toddlers (see why in the next section). We don’t advise children below the age of 5 to visit.
getting there
The property is located approximately 20 kilometers from Gangtok. Getting here involves a 20-minute hike on cobblestone/muddy paths. Don’t worry about lugging all your stuff – a locally-employed porter will receive you at the beginning of the trail and assist you with your bags till you reach the property.
things to do
Explore the farm on a specialized walk designed to showcase the abundance of produce that has been grown with so much love by the locals and the hosts. Get involved and learn how to farm as well. Otherwise, picnic by a waterfall, go birdwatching, or take long walks. Do whatever interests you!
price
Prices begin at INR 4000 for two adults, inclusive of breakfast and in-house amenities.
