Martam Village
Ancestral homes,
Mountain views,
Local treks
Couples,
Families
This rustic, humble ancestral Sikkimese home is perched on a hillside looking across the rice terraces and fields of Martam in Sikkim. You can spend your time here exploring the nearby village, spotting birdlife and enjoying the slow pace of life.
The engaging owner is well-known in the village as having become the de facto mayor when developers tried to move in. He helped to keep the village as it is and faught for the villagers’ land rights. While there aren’t facilities so to speak, aside from the casual restaurant in the main building, you can use the indoor pool at the neighbouring property if you’d like. As for experiences and excursions, you can head out on treks through forests and to local monasteries, go bird watching, relax with yoga and meditation as well as cooking classes.
Martam Village is best suited to travellers looking to slow down and experience a quieter, more authentic side of Sikkim. It’s ideal for those who enjoy nature, culture and staying somewhere with real character rather than polished luxury.
Life here moves at a gentler pace. Spend your mornings looking out across the hills with a cup of tea, wander through the gardens or settle in with a book while the mountain weather drifts in and out around you. The home-cooked meals and friendly atmosphere make it feel more like staying with family than checking into a hotel.
If you’re keen to explore, there’s plenty nearby. Local villages, forest walks and scenic drives through the eastern Himalayas are all within easy reach. It’s a rewarding base for travellers who enjoy meaningful experiences and don’t mind swapping polished glamour for warmth, simplicity and a strong sense of place.
The Rooms
There are 13 traditional-style cottages made from local materials scattered around the hillside. They provide a comfortable stay while giving you a feel for the area’s traditional roots.
Staff are from the local area and aren’t formally trained, so service can be slightly informal, but always comes with a smile. We feel it complements your laidback experience of the area. While it’s not for those seeking luxury or formal hotel-style service, it’s a charming, quiet place providing insight into Sikkimese village life.
What You’ll Find:
Why You'll Love It:
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Martam Village on the map
In Our Travellers’ Words
The best family holiday we have ever been on
Wonderful introduction to India
With ETG, we have visited extraordinary places
The Curious Traveller’s Expert Guide to India
Want to know more? With its vast size, rich diversity, and countless possibilities, planning a holiday to India can feel overwhelming – so we’ve created our Curious Traveller’s Guide to India to help make sense of it all.
It’s our experts’ pick of standout experiences and places to stay, with honest advice on the best regions and tips for both first-time visitors and those returning for more.
