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.
