Kalimpong sits at an altitude of 1,250-1600 meters and is seamlessly connected to other parts of Darjeeling district. Kalimpong, known for its scenic beauty, hospitable people, fantastic climate and central location is a popular destination of the tourists who love hill stations. For those who prefer oceans will also fall in love with this town which has a glorious history and an equally captivating present. The wonderfully snow capped peaks of the Himalayan mid ranges are most beautiful in this town and it perfectly connected to the railway station and airport being within a range of 80 kilometers. Tourists find Kalimpong to be an easily accessible hill station whose charm can mesmerize even the non-romantic treading this earth. Continue reading
Tag: fantastic climate
Rimbik falls towards the Singalila National Park via Kurseong
Rimbik falls on the southern part of Darjeeling towards the Singalila National Park. It appears to be perched on the top of the Himalayan range like a roof. Rimbik sitting at an altitude of 2,286 meters is a little village in the shadow of the Kachenjunga overlooking the River Ramman. It is close to the Skim and Nepal border area. The village is naturally endowed with scenic beauty and offers a captivating halt to the trekkers enroute to Sandakphu. Arguably the best view of the Kanchenjunga is achieved from Rimbik. Along with the mighty Kanchenjunga, other snow capped peaks can also be seen from Rimbik village. The play of colors on the top of the peaks is incredible. Continue reading
Chimney Village of Kurseong
Chimney Village of Kurseong is a lovely place amidst the mountains of Himalaya. There is an interesting anecdote regarding the queer name of the village. There is a 23 feet high chimney in the village which was constructed during the World War I under which the British soldiers and officials used to take rest. Hence, the name Chimney village. It is also sometimes spelled as Chimeni. This village is actually located in a valley overlooking the two swift rivers of the mountains- River Mahananda and River Teesta. The beautiful snow capped peak of Mt. Kanchenjunga can be seen from the pine covered valley. Continue reading
Kurseong, Lepcha means small white orchid
Kurseong, the name in Lepcha means small white orchid and the place is often referred to as the land of the white orchid which grows in abundance throughout the year. Kurseong is located at a distance of 32 kilometers to the south of Darjeeling and is often referred to as the young sister of the Queen of Hills that is Darjeeling. Kurseong stands at an elevation of 1458 meters and experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year. It is also known as the gateway to north Bengal and is surrounded by beautifully trimmed tea estates attracting tourists all the year round.
Attractions in Kurseong
Kurseong is a popular destination where lots of eminent personalities have spent a considerable time of their lives. Among them were Rabindranath Tagore, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Sister Nivedita and also Mark Twain. One of the highlights of Kurseong is the Makaibari Tea Estate. Visitors are allowed to see the organic procedure of processing tea here. Trips are free and mornings are the best time to visit.
The Ambootia and Castleton Tea Estate also welcome visitors to their aromatic factory. There is an old graveyard of St. Andrews as a poignant reminder of the era of tea planters. Walk down to Eagle’s Craig or trek to Deer Park to enjoy your day. From Eagle’s Craig you can witness the golden rays of the sun on the Himalayan range which is a visual treat. Visit the Museum of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and also the Forestry Museum to gather knowledge. On the way there are several religious temples, churches, Buddha gompa and mosques. Do not forget to trek to the Balason River and visit Chimney village which is home to a 100 year old gigantic chimney.
You will be able to enjoy your trip to Kurseong if you visit during March through Mid June and September through December.
How to reach Kurseong
Getting in the little town of Kurseong is easy as it is nicely connected with the rest of north Bengal through railway and road. Shuttle jeeps are available from New Jalpaiguri station to Kurseong which approximately takes 2 hours by Hill Cart Road and 1 hour by Old Army Road or Pankhabari Road. The route through Hill Cart Road is often preferred by tourists because they can relish on the visual treat provided by the Himalayan range. The jeeps normally charge 40 INR for 1.5 hours from Darjeeling. Traveling by the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway’s steam toy train is the best experience you can have enroute to Kurseong. Leaving at 6 in the morning it provides ample opportunity for the tourist to capture the pretty sight while moving up the winding railway track.
Where to stay in Kurseong
Accommodation in Kurseong is aplenty. Right from tourist lodges to hotels are available for the visitors. However, if you want to experience the lifestyle of the residents, then homestay facility is the best option. Many families of the Makaibari tea estate offer this facility which includes rooms, typical Kurseong meals, exploring the tea garden and also taking part in the local development programs. They usually charge 800 INR for rooms and meals.
Phalut, a table top on the Singalila ridge
Phalut is a table top on the Singalila ridge of the Himalayas located on the same trekking trail as Sandakphu. Its distance from Sandakphu is 23 kilometers which takes around 7 hours to trek. Phalut means a bare table top mountain and is 3600 meters in height. The Singalila ridge is a famous spur lying at the southern end of a prolonged crest running down from the Kanchenjunga massif forming the Sikkim and Nepal border. Trekkers love to climb the various ridges of the Himalayas not only because it throws lot of challenge to them but also because of the scenic beauty of the surroundings. The route along the high ridge through small settlements is absolutely spellbinding. Continue reading
Chamurchi, hill town located at Indo-Bhutan border
Chamurchi is a small hill town located at the Indo-Bhutan border. It is a relatively new tourist destination and is far from the madding crowds. You can explore this hill station without much chaos and people who have already visited the town wish to come back here again and again. It is a place of natural abundance and generally has a soothing effect on the mind and body of the tourists.
The lush green sprawling tea gardens, the cascading rivers and the small market add to the charm of this small yet pristine hill station of Chamurchi. One of the major attractions of this small town is the view of Mt. Kanchenjunga which looks breathtakingly beautiful.
Top tourist attractions in Chamurchi
The Musical Stone Cave – The Musical Stone Cave is another highlight of Chamurchi. The interesting part of this cave is that when you strike one of the stones inside the cave, the sound traverses as a musical tune to the ears. It is a unique experience for the visitor and the best part is that it is located at a distance of only 3 kilometers. If you decide to trek the road to the cave you will be considerably rewarded with beautiful scenes from the natural reserves of Chamurchi. The Diana River flows through this region giving life to the flora and fauna around it. Wild animals are sometimes spotted drinking from the river.
Garuchira, Kalapani and Rohiti – Garuchira, Kalapani and Rohiti are located close by and do not miss them while you are exploring Chamurchi. They are equally rewarding in terms of tourist attractions. The forests of these regions are home to leopards, elephants and gaurs that are easily visible.
Tea Gardens – One of the primary attractions of Chamurchi is the tea garden. The quaint tea gardens at Chamurchi though not in a good condition can still attract tourists. There is a Mukti Bungalow in Chamurchi which not many people know about. Thanks to the discerning travelers to these parts of the world that this bungalow was discovered and now tourists with adventurous interests are finding it interesting.
Shopping in Chamurchi – Take a walk through the Chamurchi bazaar and explore the shops there. You might also collect a souvenir.
Best time to visit Chamurchi
Chamurchi can be visited through the year, however, try to avoid the rains because it gets dangerous at times.
How to reach Chamurchi
Tourists generally visit Chamurchi on a tour of Dooars though it is slightly off route on private cars. The easiest route to Chamurchi from Kolkata is boarding the Kanchankanya Express departing from Sealdah and arriving at New Mal Junction. You can hire a car from here to take you to Chamurchi and the fare will be 900 INR.
Accommodation in Chamurchi
Accommodation in Chamurchi is sparse. The only place for tourists is the Eco Resort which charges 800-900 INR for double bed rooms and 325 INR for food.
After you have reveled in the natural beauty of the place, it is time to visit Samtse in Bhutan. It is only a short distance away and is equally spectacular. There is a monastery in Samtse which can be visited early in the morning.
Darjeeling, Queen of Hill Stations
Darjeeling, situated on the lofty Himalayas, is a part of West Bengal. It was built by the British and is known as the ‘Queen of Hill Stations.’ It is particularly famous for its natural beauty. The mountain ranges, tea gardens and snow covered Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, provide a unique opportunity to tourists who can relax amid nature here. The sight of red rhodendrons, swift flowing Teesta river and green tea estates are particularly breath taking.