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Explore the Splendid Natural Beauty of Chuikhim
Kalimpong is a popular hill station in North Bengal well known for its panoramic views, orchid gardens, and Buddhist monasteries. Though it is a delight to visit Kalimpong, the destination often remains overcrowded. If you are searching for an offbeat location with the spectacular beauty of Kalimpong, you can visit Chuikhim, a small village in the Kalimpong district.
Courtesy: https://www.flickr.com/photos/nitya800/26261660121
This small village was hardly visited by tourists, mainly because it was almost inaccessible. One traveling from the New Jalpaiguri station took 5 hours to reach this place via Kalimpong. In recent years, the road condition has improved, and another alternative way through Bagrakote has become operational, which has renewed the interest of visitors to explore the unbelievable natural beauty of this small village.
What are the top attractions of this village?
This valley is situated on the slopes of the mountain and mist and clouds make it appear like a wonderland. The valley gently rolls down to the Leesh river bed. Another river Ghish flows through this region. Bagratoke, a small tea garden lies between these two rivers.
The place is all about enjoying the mesmerizing beauty of nature rather than hopping around in search of an attractive spot. Each corner of the village offers a magnificent view. Just spend the day lazily walking through the Chel forest, enjoying the stunning sunrise or sunset from atop the hill inside the village, or sitting ideally on the bed of the Leesh River. If you are looking for some adventure, trekking to the Ghish riverbed can be a good option. There are waterfalls, caves, and canyon formations in the river valley, which may give you a rush of adrenaline.
Courtesy: https://www.flickr.com/photos/saikatroy30/9692378698/
How is the weather in Chuikhim?
The weather is pleasant around the year. So, this place can be visited anytime. Winters are a bit chilly. The pollution-free serene atmosphere is what is most enjoyable.
Witness the Orange Orchard in Shelphu?
Sittong and Shelphu are one of the most untouched tourist destinations yet to be discovered. These villages are situated on the foothills of the Darjeeling Himalayas. They are also famous as Orange Orchards of Bengal.
These scenic Lepcha villages of North Bengal are valleys in between the green hills. As the winter approaches, the air is filled with the exotic aroma of orange blossoms. In winter, it appears someone has poured orange colours on these villages. Along with the orange cultivation, organic farming and orchids are something you cannot miss while visiting these places.
If you are searching for a holiday destination that will let you spend some cozy quality time with your family, Sittong and Shelphu can be the perfect choice.
Getting there
These beautiful hamlets are a couple of hours drive from the Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Station. The places have excellent road connectivity. Buses and taxis are easily available from the New Jalpaiguri Station, Siliguri, or Bagdogra Airport plying to these places. Shelphu is almost 48kms from New Jalpaiguri station.
Major attractions
One of the primary reasons to visit these picturesque villages is to look at the orange orchards from close. It is during the winter months you will get to see the entire village covered with oranges. It is indeed an incredible experience, especially for those who have never seen the orange orchards before.
Another popular reason why many tourists now visit these places is for bird watching. More than 200 varieties of birds have been sighted in these and surrounding villages which include many rare as well as commonly sighted birds.
You may visit the Sittong Church or the old Monastery. From the Monastery ground you may get a view of the full Kanchenjunga ranges. The snow-clad Kanchenjunga is a beauty to behold.
Accommodations
Tourism has become popular in the last few years and therefore several places to stay have also emerged. Homestays and lodges are the common accommodations available in these areas.
If you are want to stay at Sittong, there are few good homestays available.
Dhotrey: An Unexplored Natural Paradise
If you are searching for an offbeat location for a weekend gateway near Darjeeling that has the beauty and glory of a hill station but is untouched by the tourists at large, Dhotrey or Dhotre can be the one. Situated within the radius of Singalila National Park, it is just 43 km from Darjeeling town. This place can be accessed easily from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station.
A part of the Eastern Himalayas, Dhotrey is situated at an altitude of 8500 feet above sea level. This hidden Himalayan village is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. It is the place from where the full range of Kanchenjunga is visible. One can experience the majestic beauty of the sleeping Buddha, as these ranges are often referred to. The village is also the base camp for different trekking expeditions to Tonglu, Phalut, and Sandakphu.
What is the best time to visit Dhotrey?
The weather remains best from October to January, and you can expect to gain a clear view of the beautiful Kanchenjunga ranges during this time. Just before the summer from March to early April, is a good time to visit this village. During this time, the air is filled with the smell of rhododendrons and magnolias. These blossoms add to the natural beauty of the place and create a surreal atmosphere.
What to do?
This place is popular among the hikers as they begin their journey to Sandakphu or Phalut from here. The region falls under Singalila National Park and is home to many different species of birds. So, bird watchers get to see wide varieties in this area. It is an ideal place if you are trying to get away from the hustles and bustles of city life. The village with splendid natural beauty and a quiet and calm atmosphere with highly hospitable inhabitants will give you exceptional peace of mind.
Where to stay?
Homestays are the only option available in this place. Most of these accommodations provide all the basic amenities and offer comfortable stays.
Chitre – a Hidden Gem Enroute to Sandakphu
Chitre, a small picturesque village in North Bengal, is where the hikers meet to begin their journey to Sandakphu. The trail from Mane Bhanjang to Chitre, which covers a distance of almost 3 km, is one of the steepest in the entire stretch of the Sandakphu trek.
How to reach Chitre?
If you prefer walking, it will take about an hour and a half to reach the place from Mane Bhanjang. However, you can also hire a four-wheeler to cover this distance. It is situated at an altitude of 8340 ft. The road to Chitre is scenic replete with lush greenery of evergreen trees. After reaching the location, it is best to rest in this beautiful Buddhist village before you travel ahead.
The vast stretch of emerald green land and clear blue sky will make you spellbound. Even though most trekkers do not stop here for the night, they start the journey after halting for a few hours. But, there are some who like to spend the night before embarking on a strenuous journey the following morning.
What to see at Chitre?
The main attraction of this place is the old Buddhist monastery and the mesmerizing view of Kanchenjunga peaks that one can have from this place. Even if you have plans to stay in this village for a few hours, make sure to explore the monastery. Along with the main monastery, there are eight small stupas. In the main building, there is the famous 15 ft high statue of Maitreya Buddha.
On a clear day, in the early morning, the travelers are gifted with a fascinating view of Kanchenjunga. At night, they can witness the sky studded with millions of stars. The town of Darjeeling looks like a crown with glittering jewels from here.
Which is the best time to visit the place and where to stay at Chitre?
The best time to visit the place is during the summer months – June to April. However, winters also promise clear skies and remarkably beautiful landscapes.
There are a few homestays and adventure camps where you can stay for the night. A local restaurant near the monastery serves fresh foods, and the travellers have breakfast there before proceeding further.