Birding Homestay at Changthang, East Sikkim by Santa Rai

Are you searching for an unforgettable birding experience in Sikkim? The Birding Homestay at Changthang, hosted by Santa Rai, offers exactly that.

Tucked away in the pristine landscapes of East Sikkim, this homestay goes beyond simple accommodation. It serves as your gateway to an extraordinary world of avian diversity, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas. This region is home to the Near Threatened Yellow-Rumped Honeyguide, a species that has made these mountains its stronghold.

Each year, nature photographers and bird enthusiasts make the pilgrimage to Changthang to witness the incredible array of species found in these hills. The birding checklist reads like a dream: the striking Fire-tailed Myzornis with its jewel-toned plumage, the secretive Green-breasted Pitta, and the stunning Red-headed Trogon. Whether you’re hoping to spot the Slender-billed Scimitar-Babbler foraging through the undergrowth or capture the perfect photograph of a Sultan Tit, this location delivers an experience that birders will treasure.

Santa Rai’s warm hospitality makes guests feel immediately at home, but it’s the remarkable birdlife that will make you want to extend your stay. At the Birding Homestay at Changthang, you’ll discover that sometimes the best journeys are measured not in miles, but in the flutter of wings and the call of rare species echoing through mountain valleys.

Birds Checklist

Near Threatened Yellow-Rumped Honeyguide, Silver Eared Mesia, Black-Throated Bushtit, Green-Tailed Sunbird, Red-billed Blue Magpie, Grey-sided Laughingthrush, Black-Throated Pirinia, White-Naped Yuhina, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Red-faced Liocichla, Green-breasted Pitta, Black-throated Parrotbill, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Red-headed Trogon, Scarlet Finch, Sultan Tit, Slender-billed Scimitar-Babbler, Gould’s Shortwing and others. This place is a definite paradise for birders. Year on year, nature enthusiasts visit this area to witness the striking fairy feathers. And the view the place offers is unimaginable.

Some Images of the birds from the Region

Image Credit: Santa and her guests!

About the Changthang Birding Homestay

This is a family-run homestay, perfectly situated for accessing the prime birding hotspots along the Lachen, Thangu, and Gurudongmar Lake axis. The host is a local expert who understand the land and offer a warm, clean, and secure environment.

• Guests: Max 2 Guests in a Room
• Rooms: 1 Room
• Beds: 1 Bed
• Baths: [Attached Option and Shared Option ]

TARIFF for Changthang

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Room with Attached Bathroom – Rs. 2500/- per Night per person on twin sharing basis (Single occupancy Rs. 3500/- per night)

Room with Shared Bathroom – Rs. 2000/- per Night per Person on twin sharing basis (Single occupancy Rs. 3000/- per night)

Rs. 500/- Porter charges additional for carrying luggage upto 15 Kg to the Homestay from the base.

Package Includes:

• Stay at the Homestay
• Fooding (All 3 Meals with Evening Tea and Snacks)
• Kettle Provided in Each room
• Birding near Homestay

Important Note:

• The stay is located at a hill which requires one to walk uphill. Although, walk is an easy one, but carrying the luggage can be a challenge. For this, we can arrange porter services at an additional cost. of Rs. 500 per 15 Kg of luggage to be carried. This must be intimated in advance to avoid last minute panic.

Add on options:

• Our host, who has deep interest in Birds, can take you for a Birding tour to spot the Near Threatened Yellow Rumped Honeyguide. The Tour and Birding guide charges are Rs. 1500/-. Can be paid at the homestay.
• Plan a visit to Zuluk. Bird Guide charges range from Rs. 2000/- to Rs 3500/-. Host can arrange for a trip on additional request. Note, this is a service provided by local nature experts, not managed by the homestay. A prior request will help the host to arrange for the trip. Payment to be done at the homestay.

 

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CANCELLATION RULES​

a. 30+ Days before check-in: Rs. 300 per night as cancellation fee.
b. 30 Days before check-in: Cancellation Not Permitted.

 

 

Images from In and Around the Homestay

Note

This is a special collaboration to connect you directly with a local homestay that offers a truly authentic experience.

As a birder and photographer, I know how difficult it can be to find the right accommodation in remote, high-value birding areas. I also know that many of the best, most hospitable local hosts aren’t listed on the big, expensive travel websites.

That’s why I am helping to promote this homestay. The host is known for their warm, mountain hospitality and for providing a genuine local experience.

This model is simple: it bypasses the high commissions of large travel portals, which benefits both you as the guest and the host family. You get a more affordable, authentic stay, and you directly support a local family in this remote and beautiful region.

Do leave a Comment for the amazing Host! It will not only help other Birding enthusiasts/ Professionals, but also encourage the Host.

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Read more about Sikkim here: Sikkim Tourism Government Website

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