This was the first visit to Darjeeling for each of our family members. I tried to find a budget-friendly accommodation in the online booking sites, and I found this homestay - Hamro Ghar Farmstay at Tamsang Khasmahal, with excellent reviews, but around 20kms away from Darjeeling mall market. I, being a nature-lover preferred a serene location in the lap of nature as a place for accommodation than a conventional hotel amidst the hustle-bustle of Darjeeling town. And, this was indeed a good decision.
Next morning, we were lucky to get a clear view of the majestic Kanchanjangha from the roof of the homestay during sunrise, and that was a memorable experience for all of us. Just behind the house, there is beautiful view of pine trees. The use of kansa utenslis (kansar bason) to serve homemade tasty meals (including vegetables of their own garden) deserves explicit mention. Everyone in the host family (including the pet dogs and cats) is very welcoming, and always took care of our necessity. I caught cold during my stay here, and aunty made a herbal drink for me and provided a bowl of boiling water to inhale steam. We never asked for it, but it was very sweet of her to provide all those.
The drive from the homestay to Sukhia Pokhri (i.e., from the village interior to main road) is another adventurous experience. The owner family have their own vehicles and guests can travel to Darjeeling or other places for sight seeing by their vehicles only.
I can write pages appreciating this location, this homestay and the people here. But, in short, I am fully satisfied with my decision of bringing my family here for our first visit to Darjeeling and thouroughly enjoyed the stay. I would love to come here again.