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.

Explore Kitam Bird Sanctuary

Sikkim's only bird sanctuary, the Kitam Bird Sanctuary is located a mere 15 km from the farm. Birding enthusiasts can drive to the sanctuary early in the morning, where a local guide will take you through the popular trails for birdwatching. Birds include oriental white-eye, green magpie, Oriental-Pied Hornbill, Scarlet Minivet, and Himalayan Flameback, among others. If you're lucky, you may even be able to spot different animals, such as the Himalayan crestless porcupine, Assamese macaque, Barking deer, Indian civet, etc.

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!

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