Your Moonbeam Farmstay Travel Guide

Welcome to Moonbeam, your ancestral "Thulo Ghar" nestled amidst the rolling green hills of Tunglabong, Gorubathan. This isn't just a stay; it's an invitation to immerse yourself in the warmth of Lepcha hospitality, vibrant culture, and the tranquil rhythms of farm life.

Before You Arrive

Getting to Moonbeam:

 * By Train: The closest station is New Mal Junction (28km- 50mins) and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (72km- 2hrs) is another option.

 * By Air: Bagdogra Airport (80km- 2hrs 7mins) is your nearest airport.

 * By Road: We're a scenic 20-minute ride from Gorubathan town. Please note that Moonbeam is in a remote area, so a private vehicle is highly recommended for exploring beyond the farm.

What to Pack:

 * Essentials: As shops are limited nearby, please bring all your personal essentials with you.

 * Clothing: Pack comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities, hiking, and farm work. Layers are best, as the weather can change.

 * Footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots are a must for farm activities and exploring the trails.

 * Protection: Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent will make your outdoor adventures more enjoyable.

 * Reusable Water Bottle: Help us protect the land by bringing a reusable bottle.

 * Flashlight/Headlamp: Handy for enjoying the night sky and navigating after dark.

 * Embrace the Unplugged Life: While we offer a profound connection to nature, connectivity can be limited. Prepare to unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature's pace.

 * Farmhand-in-Residence Program: Interested in a deeper dive? Our program offers hands-on farm life for a minimum 7-day stay. You'll contribute 4-5 hours daily to farm activities in exchange for a reduced rate, comfortable accommodation, and wholesome farm-cooked meals.

During Your Stay:

 * Immerse in Farm Life:

 * Participate Actively: Wander through organic vegetable gardens, explore our private tea garden, and discover paddy and millet fields. You're invited to engage in daily farm activities—just ask!

 * Farm-to-Table Delights: Savor fresh, locally sourced meals prepared with love by our Lepcha family. Every meal is a celebration of rural flavors.

 * Cultural Exchange: Our hosts are master storytellers! Spend evenings by the fireplace listening to captivating oral folk stories, gaining insights into Lepcha traditions and wisdom.

 * Respect Our Animals: Our gentle farm companions play an important role here. Please treat them with kindness and respect.

Explore & Discover

 * Hiking & Nature: Embark on invigorating hikes to scenic riversides, ancient Lepcha trails, and through the tranquil forests. Guided activities (hiking, birding, fishing) and specialized equipment rental may incur additional charges.

  * Village Life: Visit nurseries managed by the strong, independent women of the village.

  * Adventure: For the adventurous, rock and tree climbing await!

  * Local Festivals: Plan your visit around our vibrant festivals like Aasar Pandhra (Rice Sowing Festival) on June 29th or Namsoong (Lepcha Festival) in December for a truly unique experience.

 * Nearby Attractions: Explore Lavochar Tea Garden and Studio, or take day trips to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Gangtok, or Phuentsholing.

Farm Rules & Etiquette:

 * Dinner & Evening Chill: Enjoy dinner before 10 PM. After, feel free to relax and take in the night sky, silence, stars, and moon for as long as you wish.

 * Quiet Nights: We allow alcohol, but kindly keep noise levels down at night. We prefer low, slow music and soulful conversations.

 * Waste Management: Please dispose of all waste, including cigarette butts, in designated areas only to keep our farm pristine. Absolutely no litter or plastic on the land.

 * Our Flowers: To keep our farm blooming, please do not pick flowers without permission.

 * Bee Mindful: No smoking anywhere on the farm (it harms our bee hives). Also, switch off all outside lights before bed to protect our bees from disorientation.

 * Smoking Inside: Please refrain from smoking inside the mud and bamboo house; the scent lingers. You're welcome to smoke on the balcony.

 * Our Dogs: Our farm dogs are important for security and may bark at night.

 * Water Conservation: Our bathrooms are equipped for bucket baths only to conserve water; there are no hot showers. We're happy to provide a bucket of hot water if you need it.

 * Honor Quiet Moments: The farm's stillness holds its own wisdom. Let the sounds of nature prevail, keeping loud noises at bay.

 * Be Mindful of Resources: Water and energy are precious gifts; use them wisely.

 * Protect the Land: Our shared sanctuary; tread lightly and leave no trace.

 * Leave with Gratitude: Carry the peace of the farm within you.

Room Comforts:

 * Room 1: Queen + Single bed, private corridor, 1 attached Western washroom with bath, 1 attached Indian washroom.

 * Room 2: Queen bed, 1 attached Western washroom with bath.

 * Room 3: Two Queen beds, 2 attached Western washrooms, 1 bathroom, private balcony.

Moonbeam Farmstay is more than just a destination; it's a transformative journey through time and storytelling. We invite you to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the simple, profound joys of life rooted in nature and authentic human connection.

We can't wait to welcome you to Moonbeam!