Noted especially as the house where the last princess of Burma resided in exile between 1939-40, Arcadia is a single-family owned 3 1/2 acre property for four generations. Located at the foothills of the eastern Himalayas in North Bengal, India, the colonial-style bungalow and cottages boast a spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga range and Sikkim hillsides. The estate is also a organic cardamom and turmeric farm bordered by streams and dozens of uncultivated fruit trees and lush bamboo groves. Ideal for artists, scholars, birders, backpackers & families. A small reference library is open to visitors.
You can spot many species of butterflies and at least a dozen species of birds as well as squirrels snacking on guavas, pears, peaches, amlas, persimmons, rudraksha berries and bamboo shoots.
On a clear day, you can view the 145-foot statue of Shiva at Char Dham Temple in Namchi, Sikkim, a couple of hills to the North. Kalimpong town is visible from the front lawns, including Delo, the highest point of the township as well as gorgeous views of Macfarlane Church (1890), Dr. Graham's Homes (1900) and the old leprosy colony. And, of course, sunrise and sunset views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
Guests are free to spread a blanket and picnic anywhere within the estate.We have three friendly dogs and plenty of nosy squirrels. Kids love to go insect hunting here. Or pick up a gardening tool and help out.
Cell phone signals are good. Wi-fi is available in the library. Plug in your laptop anywhere. Or sit outside in the lawns. Get a haircut and a massage from the local barber (our family barber for 50 years!) Ayurvedic oil massages from trained masseur/masseuse may also be arranged.
