Nature Walks
Glen Leu Farmstay stands at a height of 4,500 feet above sea-level, is untouched by industrialisation and offers nature at its most pristine state. Our farmstay lies in the periphery of the Kitam Bird Sanctuary, hence we are visited by a variety of bird species. In the early morning, chances are you will get to witness blue-winged minlas, crimson sunbirds, and many other colourful birds come for a drink or a bath at our water hole.
While on your walks within our farmstay property, you may be able to see the attractive orange rufous sibias perched on tree branches, or hear the bird calls of blue whistling thrushes. In the winter months, the farmstay is visited by great hornbills, who love to feast on our Japanese persimmons. You will also get to see different species of butterflies, and be mesmerised by the peacocks who are almost always around the property during autumn.
Nature enthusiasts would also surely love to familiarize themselves with the rich flora and native plant species of our area. We have many kinds of medicinal plants that grow in our forest, as well as different herbs, ferns and fungi, some of which we forage for consumption.
Farming
Our farmstay has been established to provide our guests with an authentic village experience, which includes getting a firsthand understanding of our various farming activities. From the milking of cows, to feeding the hens, and planting and harvesting various crops in our vegetable garden, we encourage you to participate in these activities to get a glimpse into our daily life at the farm.
During the month of February is when we harvest our tiger grass plants, the grasses of which are used to make traditional brooms. You will get to participate in the plucking and drying of the broom, which is then sold to a women's cooperative at a nominal price, who then tie the brooms and sell them for profit. We also have our own tea garden which we harvest between the months of March to July. You can time your visit during these months if you would like to experience making your own tea in our traditional method.
Visit Tamlay Chaur
A religious spot that is being developed by the State Govt., this incredibly beautiful spot is situated on a hilltop at a height of 6,000 ft. and is surrounded by pine trees, with a pond in the middle. A statue of Devi is being installed and the place has been christened as “Shakti Peeth”.
Legend has it that Tamlay, a poor nomad from Nepal, settled here and earned his livelihood through planting saplings and working as a farm helper. He worked tirelessly and planted many saplings in this spot, which later became a picturesque picnic spot - a "chaur". The name Tamlay Chaur, thus, is fitting.
Visit Sikkim's First Copper Mine
Sikkim's first copper mine, Tuk Khani, was set up by our ancestors. The copper was used to mint coins, and hence our ancestors were know as "Taksari" - minters of coins. The now defunct copper mine is located 3 kilometres from Sumbuk. Although a site of historical importance, it is barely visited by locals as well as travellers. A hike from the farmstay to the mine takes about 2.5 hours. The mine is located above a small waterfall which leads to a shallow creek, which was previously used to wash away the sediments from the mined copper.
Go On a One-Say Spiritual Excursion that Includes:
Chaar Dhaam and 12 Jyotir Lingas, Namchi
Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, Namchi
Samdruptse Monastery, Namchi which houses a huge statue of Buddhist Guru Padmasambhava
Visit Tarey Bhir
A picturesque hilltop from where you can see the confluence of Teesta and Rangeet, the two major rivers of Sikkim, along with Melli and the distant hills. The view will definitely leave you awestruck! A half kilometer paved walkway downhill with viewing spots also exists.
Bonfire Nights
Enjoy warm bonfires on a clear night under a starry sky! Roll up your sleeves and chop your own firewood, gather them from the forest, or help us build a bonfire! We shall also have marinated chicken and/or potatoes ready for you to roast and enjoy. Put on some music, and dance the night away!