Whispering Hills Retreat – Samthar

Discover Whispering Hills Retreat – Samthar, a serene group accommodation nestled in offbeat Kalimpong with stunning views of both the Teesta River and Mt. Kanchenjunga.

About Samthar Village

Samthar, a small village in Kalimpong district, is a true offbeat destination in North Bengal. Located at an altitude of 1400m–1600m above sea level and spread across just 5 sq. km, the village was excluded from the 2011 Census as it was categorized as forest area. Originally inhabited by the Lepchas who follow animism and live in harmony with nature, the village later saw the settlement of Bhutia and Nepali communities in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, most residents are Nepali, and agriculture and eco-tourism form their primary livelihood.

At the hilltop of this peaceful village lies Whispering Hills Retreat — a large group accommodation offering stunning views of both Mt. Kanchenjunga and the Teesta River.

Samthar Large Group Accommodation

Planning an office picnic, a family reunion, or a college friends’ get-together? Make it memorable at Whispering Hills Retreat — your perfect group stay in offbeat Kalimpong. We host up to 45 guests on a scenic hilltop with mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views right from your bed. Our cottages and rooms (across three floors) are clean, spacious, and offer large windows with panoramic views. Heaters are available during winter for an extra charge. Enjoy the pool in summer and gather around the bonfire with barbeque in winter for unforgettable evenings.

Sightseeing Around Samthar

• Lava – A misty hamlet known for its Buddhist monastery and as the gateway to Neora Valley National Park.
• Lolegaon – A peaceful hill station famed for its hanging canopy bridge and panoramic views of Kanchenjunga.
• Rishop – A quiet village perched on a ridge, offering spectacular sunrise views and pine-scented forest walks.
• Kalimpong Town – A colonial-era hill station with historic monasteries, flower nurseries, and the iconic Morgan House.
• Pedong – A heritage-rich village with ancient forts and monasteries along the old Silk Route trail.
• Charkhole – A hidden gem surrounded by dense forests offering a rare 360° view of the Himalayan peaks.
• Tiffin Dara View Point – A short trek from Rishop to this viewpoint offers sunrise vistas over snow-capped ranges.
• Deolo Hill – The highest point in Kalimpong with lush gardens, paragliding, and panoramic valley views.

Sightseeing arrangements are available at an additional cost of approximately ₹3,500.

Best Time to Visit Samthar

The ideal time to visit Samthar is during Autumn (October–November) and Spring (March–April), when the weather is pleasant, skies are clear for Kanchenjunga views, and it’s perfect for trekking, birdwatching, and village walks.

🌸 Spring (March – April)

• Weather: Pleasant, blooming rhododendrons, crisp air.
• Max Temp: 18–22°C
• Min Temp: 8–12°C

☀️ Summer (May – June)

• Weather: Mild and breezy with occasional showers.
• Max Temp: 22–26°C
• Min Temp: 14–17°C

🌧️ Monsoon (July – September)

• Weather: Heavy rainfall, rich greenery, limited accessibility.
• Max Temp: 20–24°C
• Min Temp: 15–18°C

🍁 Autumn (October – November)

• Weather: Clear skies, golden light, excellent mountain views.
• Max Temp: 18–22°C
• Min Temp: 8–12°C

❄️ Winter (December – February)

• Weather: Cold and crisp, with occasional frost. Cozy indoor atmosphere.
• Max Temp: 10–15°C
• Min Temp: 2–6°C

How to Reach Whispering Hills Retreat

• By Road: Around 14 hours’ drive from Kolkata via Dalkhola – Bagrakote – Kalimpong route.
• By Train: Nearest station is NJP; approx. 3.5 hours to the retreat.
• By Air: Bagdogra Airport is 3.5 hours away by road.

Pick-up and drop services are available on request at ₹3,500.

Pocket Pinch

• Cottage Stay: ₹1,800 + 5% GST per person/day (includes all meals)
• Rooms (Ground & First Floor): ₹2,200 + 5% GST per person/day
• Top Floor Room: ₹2,500 + 5% GST per person/day

Child Policy

• Children aged 1–4 years stay free of charge
• Children up to 10 years are charged half price
• Children above 10 years are charged full rate

Driver Accommodation

A driver stays with meals is available at ₹600 per day.

Don’t forget to check other offbeat places to stay in Kalimpong

Know more about Kalimpong from our blog post