Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about staying at East Himalayan Homestay, Kalimpong

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Booking & Reservations

Q.How do I make a reservation at East Himalayan Homestay?

A.You can book directly through our website at easthimalayanhomestay.com/book for instant confirmation and best rates. Alternatively, call us at +91-9775338338 or email stay@easthimalayanhomestay.com. We recommend booking 2-3 weeks in advance during peak season (October-May).

Q.What is your cancellation policy?

A.We offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before your scheduled arrival. Cancellations made less than 48 hours before check-in will incur a charge of 50% of the first night's rate. No-shows will be charged the full booking amount.

Q.Do you accept advance payments or only full payment?

A.For regular bookings, we require 30% advance payment to confirm your reservation, with the balance payable at check-in. For long-term stays (1 month+) and events, custom payment plans are available. We accept UPI, bank transfer, credit/debit cards, and cash.

Q.Can I modify my booking dates?

A.Yes, date changes are allowed subject to availability. Please contact us at least 7 days before your check-in date. No charges for modifications made 7+ days in advance.

Location & Accessibility

Q.Where exactly is East Himalayan Homestay located?

A.We are located in Kalimpong, West Bengal, in the Eastern Himalayas at an elevation of 1,250 meters. The exact coordinates are 27.0669°N, 88.4719°E. We are 15 minutes walk from the main Kalimpong bazaar and offer stunning views of Kanchenjunga.

Q.How do I reach East Himalayan Homestay from Bagdogra Airport?

A.Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is 80km away, approximately 3 hours by taxi. We can arrange pickup service for ₹2,500-3,000. The journey is scenic through mountain roads. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to Siliguri and then to Kalimpong.

Q.Is the location accessible for elderly people or those with mobility issues?

A.Yes, our property is accessible with paved pathways. However, Kalimpong has hills, and some walking is involved. Ground floor rooms are available for guests with mobility concerns. Please inform us in advance so we can make appropriate arrangements.

Q.How far is it from Darjeeling and Gangtok?

A.Darjeeling is 50km (2 hours drive) and Gangtok is 75km (2.5 hours drive). Both make excellent day trips. We can arrange transportation and guided tours.

Accommodation & Amenities

Q.What types of rooms are available?

A.We have 6 luxury boutique rooms: Deluxe Double (₹2,500-3,500), Valley View Suite (₹3,500-4,500), Kanchenjunga View Suite (₹4,500-5,500), Family Suite (₹5,000-6,500), Workation Suite (₹4,000-5,000), and Premium Suite (₹6,000-8,000). All rooms have mountain views, private balconies, modern bathrooms, and premium amenities.

Q.Is breakfast included in the room rate?

A.Yes, complimentary breakfast is included in all room rates. We serve a multi-cuisine breakfast with Indian, Continental, and local options. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated - please inform us in advance.

Q.Do you have WiFi? How good is the internet connection?

A.Yes! We have high-speed fiber WiFi with 50-100 Mbps speed, which is the BEST in Kalimpong. We also have a backup connection for uninterrupted service. This makes us ideal for digital nomads and remote workers. WiFi is available in all rooms and common areas.

Q.Is hot water available 24/7?

A.Yes, we have 24/7 hot water supply in all rooms, powered by solar heaters with electric backup.

Q.Do you provide room heaters in winter?

A.Yes, all rooms are equipped with room heaters and electric blankets for the cold winter months (November-February). Kalimpong can get quite cold in winter.

Workation & Long-term Stays

Q.What makes East Himalayan Homestay suitable for workation?

A.We are Kalimpong's #1 workation destination with: high-speed fiber WiFi (50-100 Mbps), dedicated coworking spaces, ergonomic workstations in rooms, quiet peaceful environment, video conferencing facilities, long-term stay discounts up to 40% off, and a community of digital nomads.

Q.What discounts do you offer for long-term stays?

A.Weekly stays: 15% off, Monthly stays: 40% off, 3-month stays: 50% off + extra amenities like weekly laundry and priority room service. These rates include WiFi, workspace access, and breakfast.

Q.Can I work effectively from the homestay?

A.Absolutely! We have the most reliable internet in Kalimpong specifically for remote workers. Many digital nomads have successfully completed projects while staying with us. Quiet environment, comfortable workspaces, and all necessary amenities.

Q.Is there a coworking space or common work area?

A.Yes, we have a dedicated coworking area with multiple workstations, comfortable seating, excellent WiFi, and mountain views. Perfect for those who prefer working outside their room. Available 24/7.

Food & Dining

Q.What type of cuisine do you serve?

A.We serve multi-cuisine food including authentic Nepali (momos, thukpa, gundruk), Tibetan, North Indian vegetarian & non-vegetarian, and Continental options. We use organic farm-fresh ingredients whenever possible.

Q.Do you accommodate special dietary requirements?

A.Yes, we can prepare vegetarian, vegan, Jain, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. Please inform us about your dietary restrictions at the time of booking.

Q.Is there a restaurant on-site?

A.Yes, we have an in-house restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In-room dining is also available. Our chef specializes in local Himalayan cuisine.

Q.Can I try local Kalimpong cuisine?

A.Definitely! We specialize in authentic local dishes. Our chef can prepare traditional Nepali and Tibetan delicacies. We also offer cooking classes where you can learn to make momos and other local dishes.

Destination Weddings & Events

Q.Do you host destination weddings?

A.Yes! We specialize in intimate mountain weddings for 20-50 guests. Our packages include venue, accommodation, meals, decoration, and event coordination. The Kanchenjunga backdrop makes for stunning wedding photos. Starting from ₹3,50,000 for 25 guests (2-day event).

Q.Can you arrange corporate retreats or team offsites?

A.Yes, we regularly host corporate retreats, team building events, and business offsites. We provide meeting rooms, AV equipment, customized meals, and team activities. Capacity: 20-30 people comfortably.

Q.Do you organize yoga retreats or wellness programs?

A.Yes, we can arrange yoga retreats, meditation sessions, and wellness programs. We work with experienced yoga instructors and wellness practitioners. Custom retreat packages available.

Activities & Experiences

Q.What activities and experiences do you offer?

A.We offer village cultural walks, monastery tours (Zang Dhok Palri, Durpin Dara), organic farm visits, tea garden tours, cooking classes, handicraft workshops, bird watching, nature photography sessions, trekking arrangements, and more. Most experiences are included or available at minimal cost.

Q.Can you arrange treks and day trips?

A.Yes, we can arrange guided treks, day trips to Darjeeling, Gangtok, Silk Route, Lava, Lolegaon, and other nearby attractions. We work with experienced local guides.

Q.Is the Kanchenjunga visible from the property?

A.Yes! On clear days, you get stunning panoramic views of Kanchenjunga (world's 3rd highest peak) from our property. Best views are usually in the morning and during October-May.

Q.What can I do in Kalimpong?

A.Kalimpong offers: monastery visits, scenic viewpoints (Durpin Dara, Deolo Hill), flower nurseries, local markets, handicraft centers, village walks, nature trails, bird watching, and cultural experiences. It's quieter and less commercialized than Darjeeling.

Policies & Facilities

Q.What are your check-in and check-out times?

A.Check-in: 2:00 PM (early check-in on request based on availability). Check-out: 11:00 AM (late check-out available on request). We try to be flexible with timing when possible.

Q.Are pets allowed?

A.Yes, we are pet-friendly! Small to medium-sized dogs are welcome. Please inform us in advance. A small cleaning fee may apply.

Q.Is parking available?

A.Yes, we have secure parking space for 8-10 vehicles. Parking is complimentary for all guests.

Q.Do you have a no-smoking policy?

A.Smoking is not allowed inside rooms or common indoor areas. Designated smoking areas are available outdoors.

Q.Is the property child-friendly?

A.Very much! We have a children's play area, kids menu, high chairs, cribs, and family-friendly activities. Many families with young children stay with us.

Weather & Best Time to Visit

Q.What is the best time to visit Kalimpong?

A.October to May is ideal for pleasant weather and clear mountain views. Each season has charm: Winter (Dec-Feb) is cold but offers clear views, Spring (Mar-May) has blooming flowers, Monsoon (Jun-Sep) is lush with fewer tourists and discounted rates.

Q.How cold does it get in winter?

A.Winter (December-February) temperatures range from 5-15°C. It can feel quite cold, especially at night. We provide room heaters and electric blankets to keep you comfortable.

Q.Is it safe to visit during monsoon?

A.Yes, Kalimpong is relatively safe during monsoon. While there's occasional rain, it's not as heavy as other Himalayan regions. Roads are well-maintained. You get discounted rates (20-30% off) and a lush green landscape.

Safety & Health

Q.Is it safe for solo women travelers?

A.Absolutely! Kalimpong is very safe for solo women travelers. Our property has 24/7 staff presence, well-lit premises, female staff available, and CCTV in common areas. Many solo women guests have stayed with us comfortably.

Q.Are there medical facilities nearby?

A.Yes, there's a primary health center 2km away and a district hospital 5km away. Private clinics are also nearby. In case of emergency, we can coordinate with local doctors and hospitals.

Q.What COVID-19 safety measures do you follow?

A.We maintain regular sanitization, offer contactless check-in, our staff is fully vaccinated, and we follow social distancing protocols. Masks and sanitizers are available.

Ready to Book Your Stay?

Experience the best of Kalimpong at East Himalayan Homestay