Dhuni Homestay
Dhuni Homestay is a special sanctuary located in Korangtang, Yangang, South Sikkim. Managed by the dedicated and passionate couple Mandeep and Bhavana, along with their 4-year-old daughter Nirbhika, Dhuni Homestay is more than just a place to stay—it's a heartfelt journey into the soul of Sikkim. The name "Dhuni," meaning fireplace, is a tribute to the spiritual heritage of Bhavana's ancestral home, a place once used for profound spiritual practices by her forebears.
The story
Dhuni Homestay was born out of a shared love for nature and a desire to lead a sustainable life. Mandeep and Bhawana met while trekking and instantly bonded over their passion for the outdoors. After getting married, they chose to settle in Bhawana’s ancestral home in Sikkim to raise their child close to nature. Mandeep left his job in Bangalore, and together, they renovated the house, transforming it into a warm and welcoming homestay.
About the hosts
Bhavana
Bhavana, a dedicated teacher, plays a vital role in managing the homestay alongside Mandeep. She has a remarkable talent for handicrafts and is deeply involved in promoting zero-waste practices within her community. Through her efforts in waste management education at her school, Bhavana is making significant strides towards a sustainable future. At Dhuni Homestay, she creates bio enzymes, toothpaste, soaps, and dishwashers, all aimed at achieving a zero-waste environment. Additionally, Bhavana is experimenting with therapeutic and essential oils, working on developing her own line of natural products.
Mandeep
Mandeep has an innate connection to the land and nature. His approach to farming and maintaining the property is guided by natural processes, allowing everything to grow freely and organically. As guests explore Dhuni Homestay, they'll notice the harmonious balance of nature, with nothing feeling out of place. Mandeep's passion for organic farming ensures that every meal served at Dhuni is fresh, local, and crafted with care. His storytelling ability brings the experience full circle, as he shares captivating tales from his travels and life, making each stay memorable.
Our Vision
Our vision for Dhuni Homestay is to create a sustainable and eco-friendly retreat that offers guests an authentic experience of Sikkimese culture and hospitality. We aspire to be a model of responsible tourism, where the beauty of Sikkim can be enjoyed while maintaining minimal environmental impact. Our commitment to zero-waste practices, organic farming, and community involvement is at the heart of this vision.
Activities at Dhuni Homestay
Organic Farming
Participate in our organic farming practices and learn about natural farming.
Organic Homegrown Food
At Dhuni Homestay, we prioritize nutrition and health. We grow our own organic food and enjoy experimenting with recipes to offer you wholesome, delicious meals.
Trekking
Explore the natural beauty of Yangang, with its stunning waterfalls, serene lakes, and the biodiversity-rich Mainam Wildlife Sanctuary. Don't miss the trek to the revered cliff of Bhaley Dunga.
Wellness Activities
Our homestay is ideal for those who practice yoga, meditation, or tai-chi, offering a peaceful space to connect with your inner self.
Cultural Experiences
Yangang and its surrounding areas are a vibrant blend of communities such as the Rai, Gurung, Bhutia, and Lepcha. Each community preserves its unique heritage and cultural narratives, making Yangang a fascinating place to witness the seamless coexistence of diverse cultures. The area is home to historic sites, including some of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, such as Yangang Tashi Palding Monastery and Chang Chu Tamu Monastery.
Meet the Gurung Wool Weavers of Pathing
Pathing, a quaint hamlet near Yangang, is home to the resilient Gurung community. Despite the devastation of a major landslide, they continue to preserve their rich cultural heritage
Dilmaya Gurung is a beacon of this resilience. Since the age of 18, she has practiced the traditional art of wool weaving, a vital part of Gurung culture. One of the most important items she creates is the Rari, a traditional woolen carpet essential to Nepali rituals and ceremonies. Today, Dilmaya and a few other women are among the last to practice this rare craft in the area. She also runs Rudi Ghar, one of the region's first homestays. Eager to share her traditions, Dilmaya offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience this ancient craft firsthand. Spending time at Rudi Ghar with Dilmaya provides a precious glimpse into the timeless heritage of the Gurung community.
Pathing
Dilmaya Gurung, Weaver, Homestay Owner
The Stay
Dhuni Homestay offers two spacious and comfortable rooms, each with an attached bathroom and stunning views. Guests can enjoy all the basic amenities needed for a relaxing and memorable stay.
Our Zero-Waste Initiative
At Dhuni Homestay, we are deeply committed to sustainability. Our zero-waste initiative includes:
Composting:
We compost all organic waste to enrich our gardens.
Recycling:
Meticulous sorting and recycling of waste materials.
Eco-friendly Amenities:
Provision of biodegradable toiletries and promotion of reusable items.
No dustbins:
We have decided to make our homestay dustbin-free. Situated in a rural area without a proper waste management system, we need help managing plastic waste.
