Lepchajagat literally meaning the world of the Lepchas, the original tribe of Eastern Himalayas is now a beautiful tourist destination famous for its romantic atmosphere and sunrise point. Located at an elevation of 6,956 feet, Lepchajagat offers a fascinating sunrise from the Ghoom Rock which is unparalleled in its appeal. Though the place is located at a short distance of 19 kilometers from Darjeeling main town and is only 45 minutes drive from Ghoom, it seems like a completely different world. Quiet, tranquil, romantic; it is an ideal destination for honeymooners to spend time each other forgetting all about the world. Lepchajagat is now a reserved forest area maintained by the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation.
How to reach Lepchajagat sunrise point
Lepchajagat can be directly reached from Bagdogra airport or New Jalpaiguri railway station in a prepaid taxi in approximately 3.5 hours. There are 2 routes to reach Lepchajagat; one is through Hill Cart Road and the other through Pankhabari via Ghoom. It precisely falls on the Route towards Mirik from Darjeeling. You can also opt for shared jeeps from Ghoom which will take you to the beautiful Lepchajagat. The best time to visit the place and admire the sunrise and sunset at Kanchenjunga is from October through April. If you are visiting during the winter months, then remember the cold is severe. Monsoons must be avoided because the trails are not safe during this time.
Accommodation in Lepchajagat
The WBFDC Lodge is great for a short stay at Lepchajagat. This is a bungalow constructed in 1800 by the British in the middle of the jungle about 300 meters from the main road.
Alternatively there are so many home stays are also available in Lepchajagat, which is a fun experience. Per head per day cost is in-between Rs. 1200-1500.
Attractions in Lepchajagat
Lepchajagat is a place wrapped in tranquility. Vast stretches of rhododendron, oak, pine forests along with an awe-inspiring view of India’s 3rd highest peak and Bengal’s Pride Mt. Kanchenjunga. During the day you can savor the beauty of nature’s abundance and as night falls you can enjoy the peacefulness of the environment with occasionally the crickets breaking it. You can also ask the caretaker for the Darjeeling Tea rich in aroma and taste.
You can also take the trail to Ghoom Rock and Hawa Ghar within 2 kilometers of the lodge. The Ghoom Rock located at an altitude of 7,900 feet offers amazing view of the Kanchenjunga massif and same with Hawa Ghar. Ghoom Rock is one of the most popular sunrise points in Darjeeling from where you will witness the sun spreading its radiance to the nature under it. The Balsan Valley is also visible from here in its full glory. Visit Mirik after you have savored the fullness of Lepchajagat which is only 27 kilometers away.