The Shakti Sikkim Village Houses are quite simply the most authentic way to unravel the wonders of this unspoilt, rural and naturally breathtaking corner of India's Himalayan region. With three Village Houses, you can explore them on a superb trek.
Highlights
The best way to explore Sikkim rather than visiting the main cities of Gangtok and Pelling which aren't what Sikkim is all about
Breathtaking mountain views
The chance to be in an area where there are no tourists except you
Fantastic experiences such as meeting local headmen, morning prayers in a Tibetan Monastery and visiting local schools and families
Located in the heart of rural Sikkim, these village houses offer the best chance to get off the beaten track in this wonderful part of India and interact with the thoroughly welcoming local communities who live in this region.
There are three houses in total, all of which can accommodation 4-6 people at any one time. They all have en-suite western bathrooms and are carefully furnished by the Shakti team who have delicately blended the charm of a local village house experience with the needs and desires of a western guest. The villages are within a day’s walk from each other (although there is a short drive involved from Sangdyang Lee to Hee). The houses are simple, but this is more than made up for by the warmth of the local community and the chance to mingle in villages that few tourists ever come to visit. As with all Shakti walks, you are fully escorted by a team who are always there to make sure your experience more than matches your expectations, including a guide, sherpas and a chef. The walks are on a fully inclusive basis meaning all your meals and alcohol are included. It is highly recommended that you try the locally brewed wine, known as Shin-Lee, Ghaar/Raksi and Thongba.
The village houses are located in Yangsum, Sangdyang and Hee – all of which are away from the main roads in quiet and peaceful locations. The Sikkim walk will expose you to more dramatic snow capped mountains than the walks in Uttaranchal, and also let you witness the prevalent Tibetan Buddhism which thrives in this area – morning prayers at Rinchenpong Monastery are a real highlight. Along the way you will no doubt catch sight of Khachenjunga, the third highest mountain in world, and other amazing mountain vistas (weather permitting). But above all, it is the simple interaction with the local communities that will really make this trip so memorable, and by getting into the heart of this superb part of India you will find out how truly mesmerising Sikkim actually is.
When to visit
To make the most of the Shakti experience in Sikkim, try to finish it with three nights at Glenburn Tea Estate.
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Enquire NowLocated in the North East of the Indian sub continent, the Buddhist Kingdom of Sikkim is nestled in the heart of India’s Eastern Himalayan range. Shakti Sikkim is north of Darjeeling on the road to Gangtok.
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