Homestays in Chimney, Kurseong – A Peaceful Himalayan Retreat

Discover Chimney – Kurseong’s Hidden Gem
Tucked quietly into the lush green folds of the Eastern Himalayas, Chimney is a quaint little hamlet near Kurseong that feels like a slice of old-world serenity. Just 8 km uphill from Kurseong town, this charming village sits on the historic Dowhill Road and offers magnificent views of the rolling tea gardens, pine forests, and distant snow peaks. It gets its unique name from a solitary British-era chimney—one of the last remnants of a colonial dak bungalow that once hosted travellers during the Raj. Today, Chimney is known not just for this heritage structure, but also for its calm surroundings, stunning viewpoints, and increasingly popular homestays.

For tourists looking for a quiet holiday in the hills—away from the crowds of Darjeeling or the traffic of Kurseong—Chimney homestays offer the perfect balance of comfort, nature, and authentic local experience.

Why Tourists Love Chimney Homestays
The chimney is located on the upper ridges of the Kurseong hill. The road passing through the village is also called the Old Cart Road. This is part of the original Siliguri Darjeeling highway constructed by the British. Being on the high ridges, you get an excellent view of the Kanchenjunga massif from here. Also, the plains of Terai and Dooars are visible from several viewpoints in the area. The mountain view on one side and the plains view on the other, together, make this a unique destination that attracts tourists. The There’s something deeply nostalgic and calming about Chimney. The breeze carries the scent of pine and wildflowers, the forests echo with birdsong, and time seems to slow down here. Bengali tourists, in particular, are drawn to this kind of place, where the air is clean, the people are friendly, and the food reminds you of home. Chimney doesn’t try to impress with glitz. Instead, it charms you with simplicity, quiet beauty, and a pace of life that invites you to breathe and just be.

The Homestay Experience in Chimney
Homestays in Chimney are mostly cosy cottages or family homes nestled along forest edges or overlooking the valley. The rooms are clean, airy, and equipped with basic comforts like attached bathrooms, hot water geysers, and often a balcony or verandah to take in the view. Interiors are simple but tasteful, reflecting a mix of local tradition and practicality. What stands out, though, is the peace. You’re far from traffic, far from noisy tourists—just the rustle of leaves, the chirping of birds, and the occasional call of a barking deer from the forest.

The history of homestays in the area is not very old. Most of the homestays have come up during the last few years. Much of the area is forested, and hence, the scope of big accommodation here is limited. Some homestays in the area have already made quite a name for themselves with excellent hospitality.

Most homestays offer home-cooked meals using fresh ingredients—often vegetables grown in the garden or from nearby farms. And yes, they understand Bengali food preferences very well. From aloo bhaja to egg curry and even simple mutton curry on prior request, they’ll make you feel right at home. Hosts often go out of their way to customise meals, especially if you’re travelling with kids or elderly parents.

Beyond food and lodging, the hosts also assist with local sightseeing, car arrangements, bonfire evenings, and guided nature walks. Whether it’s planning a short hike to nearby Bagora, visiting the iconic Chimney Heritage Park, or just sitting around a fire in the evening listening to local folk tales, your hosts make sure your stay is memorable.

What Makes a Chimney Special?
Chimney is not just a place—it’s a feeling. Perched at around 7200 feet, this village offers stunning panoramic views of the Mahananda Valley, the Teesta basin, and on clear days, even the snow peaks of Kanchenjunga. The forests around Chimney are rich in biodiversity, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers. You can spot species like the Himalayan woodpecker, sunbirds, barbets, and pheasants right from your homestay window.

The highlight, of course, is the Chimney Heritage Park, where the lone British-era chimney still stands. The park is beautifully landscaped with orchids, camellias, rhododendrons, and seasonal blooms. It’s a lovely place to walk around, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the peace. There are gazebos to sit and relax, and a short forest trail that leads to a viewpoint ideal for sunrise or sunset. The park is open daily (except Thursdays) and charges a nominal entry fee.

Nearby attractions include the misty forest trails of Dowhill, the haunted Dowhill School, the NSC Bose Museum, Deer Park, and the serene hilltop villages of Bagora and Chatakpur. All of these can be explored in short day trips from your homestay in Chimney.

When to Visit and What to Expect
The best time to visit Chimney is from March to June and October to December. During these months, the skies are mostly clear, the weather is pleasant, and the views are spectacular. Winter brings a chill in the air and sometimes even frost, making it ideal for those who enjoy cold-weather holidays. Monsoon (July to September) can be avoided due to the risk of landslides and slippery trails.

Most homestays in Chimney offer only 2–3 rooms, which means the environment remains peaceful and exclusive. However, it also means they get booked out quickly during peak seasons like summer holidays and Durga Puja. So if you're planning a trip during these times, it’s best to book well in advance.

How to Reach the Chimney
Chimney is easily accessible from Kurseong, which is well connected by road from Siliguri, NJP Railway Station, and Bagdogra Airport. From Kurseong town, it's a short 8–10 km uphill drive via the scenic Dowhill Road. Cars and taxis are available at Kurseong station, or you can arrange for a pick-up through your homestay. The drive itself is beautiful, winding through forested stretches and old colonial-era bungalows.

Book Your Homestay Through Humro Home
To enjoy a truly authentic and comfortable stay in Chimney, the best way is to book your homestay through Humro Home. They have a carefully curated selection of homestays in Chimney and nearby areas that are perfect for Bengali families, couples, and solo travellers. Each property is verified for comfort, safety, food quality, and host friendliness.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet couple’s retreat, a family vacation, or a base for birding and nature photography, Humro Home will help you find just the right place. Their team also assists with transport arrangements, local sightseeing, and any special requests you may have regarding food or accommodation.

For booking enquiries, call 9733071716 or 9733069690. The team at Humro Home will not only suggest the best options but also ensure you get a smooth, hassle-free experience from start to finish.