Summit Hotels & Resorts is expanding its Signature Collection with a 17-villa retreat in Lachung, North Sikkim, scheduled to open in December 2026. The upcoming property will strengthen the company’s presence in the Eastern Himalayas while catering to leisure travellers seeking premium accommodation and destination-focused experiences.
The retreat will feature 17 villas inspired by traditional Sikkimese architecture and the surrounding Himalayan landscape. Situated at an altitude of around 8,600 feet, Lachung lies approximately 118 km from Gangtok and serves as a gateway to popular destinations such as Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, and Katao.
Beyond accommodation, the property will offer experiences centred on the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The retreat will offer guided village walks, introduce guests to local Bhutia traditions and cuisine, arrange visits to orchards and monasteries, and organise excursions to nearby alpine valleys.
Depending on seasonal and local conditions, guests may also enjoy activities such as rhododendron viewing, winter snow excursions, and stargazing. Through these offerings, the retreat aims to encourage visitors to explore Lachung beyond conventional sightseeing itineraries.
“North Sikkim has considerable potential to develop beyond conventional sightseeing-led tourism. Lachung is already an important stop on the Yumthang and Zero Point circuit, but we believe there is an opportunity to encourage travellers to spend more time in the destination itself. With this retreat, we want to introduce a premium stay experience that draws on the region’s architecture, culture, and natural surroundings. We also see opportunities to work with local communities through employment, sourcing, and destination experiences as tourism develops,” said Sumit Mitruka, CEO, Summit Hotels & Resorts.
The planned opening comes amid growing interest in tourism across North Sikkim, supported by improved access along the Lachung–Yumthang–Zero Point circuit. Known for its Himalayan scenery, rhododendron forests, and Bhutia settlements, Lachung is also attracting travellers interested in longer stays centred on nature, culture, and authentic local experiences.
The new retreat will join Summit Hotels & Resorts’ Signature Collection, which includes Summit Norbu Ghang in Gangtok and Summit Rungkhung Village Resort in Dirang, Arunachal Pradesh.
Through the collection, the company aims to expand its portfolio of destination-focused accommodation across the Eastern Himalayas and other leisure markets in India, combining premium stays with experiences rooted in local culture and the surrounding landscape.
