Oodlabari

A very popular tourist destination in Dooars area of West Bengal, Oodlabari boasts of astonishing natural beauty and vivid greenery. Situated in the midst of river Chel and Leesh, Oodlabari has become a very popular tourist destination of Dooars due to its unique location. On the west of the town is river Leesh and on its east is river Chel. Enclosed by meandering river streams and dense forest, Oodlabari is bestowed with abundance of Mother Nature. The view of lush tea plantations surrounding the quaint town of Oodlabari which stands against the backdrop of the towering Himalayas is a sight to behold. Just 47 km from Jalpaiguri, Oodlabari is blessed with nature's bounties in abundance. Lush green tea shrubs, dense emerald forests and burbling Himalayan rivers make this place look completely out of the world. Embraced by soothing greenery all around, Oodlabari brings a big relief from the mundane daily routine of city dwellers.

Things to do

At Oodlabari, life is slow and lazily. You will wake up to the call of birds. As you sip a cup of hot tea and look out of the window, you find a whole world of greenery waiting to be discovered by you. You can effortlessly take a walk on the forest trail and breathe in some pollution-free air while treating your eyes with the sights of untouched nature. Located in the periphery of Baikunthapur forest, Oodlabari is endowed with rich flora and fauna. Several tea gardens like Ranichera, Rungamatee, Gurjanjhora and Oodlabari tea estate are located at a close proximity to Oodlabari. The bank of river Chel where the junction of three river streams can be seen is a famous picnic spot close to Oodlabari. The place is ideal for spending some quality time with your loved ones. You can also visit the first water reservoir of Dooars region built in the Teesta Basin at Gajoldoba.

Sightseeing

Gorumara National Park

Gorumara is located close to Oodlabari. An hour drive from Oodlabari, this forest covers an area of 79 square km. One can see rhinos, elephants, bisons, leopard, gaur, sambhar and many other species of deer here. You will also see innumerable peacocks dancing. There are four watch towers - Yatraprosad, Medla, Chandrachur and Chukchuki. In winter lots of birds can be seen at Chukchuki.

Baikunthapur Forest

The Baikunthapur forest located 5 km from Oodlabari. Legend has it that Lord Krishna with his principal wife and queen Rukmani chose Baikunthapur Forest for hiding, which is also the reason behind ISKON choosing the nearby town of Siliguri as the site for the biggest Krishna Centre in North East India. Revel in the beauty of this enchanting forest by going on a jungle walk. Listen to the melodious chirping of birds, smell the aroma of exquisite wild flowers and picnic on the bank of Chel River. And if you are lucky, you might even spot some untamed wild animals.

Gajoldoba

Gajoldoba is a tiny village on the western side of Teesta River, 18 km from Oodlabari. Located in close vicinity to the Baikunthapur forest, Gajoldoba is known for the Teesta River Barrage that was built for irrigation of agricultural land in the surrounding areas. The dam has resulted in the creation of a large water body upstream which has become a hotspot for migratory birds during the winter.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah, Sealdah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Oodlabari is 40 km from New Jalpaiguri station. You can get a car from New Jalpaiguri to reach Oodlabari.

Accommodation

Manabari Greens
Tariff: Rs. 2000 per person inclusive of all meals
Tel: 9830737313, 9874880613

Kajori Heritage
Tel: 9830649376

Ghalaytar

A remote hilly village situated at an altitude of about 4500 ft, Ghalaytar is blessed with mind blowing views of Mt. Kanchenjunga range. The calm and peaceful ambience mingled with the serene natural surroundings make Ghalaytar an ideal place for those who wish to spend a leisurely holiday away from the humdrum of city life. Take a stroll along the village trails while feasting your eyes with soothing lush greenery and feeling the fresh mountain air on your face. Forget all your tension and worries as you witness the simple lifestyle of the rural people of the village. Ahaldara Viewpoint is 5 km from Ghalaytar. You will be enthralled by the 360 degree panoramic view of the surrounding hills, valleys and forests. The breathtaking view of the ivory snowcapped Himalayan peaks from Ahaldara will leave you spellbound. A 20-minutes drive from Ghalaytar will take you to Latpanchar. Latpanchar is home to several species of birds and is a perfect spot for bird watching.

Humro Home Ghalaytar

How to Reach

The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, 60 km away. Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Hired cars are available from New Jalpaiguri to reach Ghalaytar via Kalijhora.

Accommodation

Humro Home Ghalaytar
Tariff: Rs. 1500/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9733071716

Baguran Jalpai

Located close to Junput, Baguran Jalpai is a virgin offbeat beach resort in West Bengal. The outstanding allure of the beach is partly due to its graceful scenic beauty as well as the serene, sublime ambience of the place. Standing apart from the usual overcrowded beaches, Baguran Jalpai provides a refreshing retreat from the racing metro life. Several fishing villages dot the outskirts of the place. Red crabs playing in the golden sands of the beach, rolling waves caressing the sea shore and sweet winds blowing on your face - the experience is mesmerizing. You can walk along the beach, chase the mud crabs into their holes, collect sea shells or try building sand castles. Relax and unwind as you lose yourself in your good old childhood memories. Evenings are even more beautiful at Baguran. They are perfect for spending some precious time with your loved ones. The all-engulfing silence interrupted by the roaring of the sea creates a mystic aura that is so thrilling yet so beautiful. You will definitely want to come back to Baguran again.

Baguran Jalpai Sea Beach

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Kanthi. Hired cars are available from Kanthi to reach Baguran Jalpai.

Accommodation

Hotel Sagar Niralay
Tariff: Rs. 1000/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9434012200

Deulti

Beautifully located on the bank of the Rupnarayan River, Deulti is a nice little escape from the mundane daily routines. It is nestled amidst a serene and calm rural ambience, yet not too far from Kolkata, which makes it a good choice as a weekend destination. Lose all your worries, rejuvenate your body and unwind your soul as you watch the Rupnarayan River flow through the pristine nature at its own pace. Walk along the edge of the river or set sail on a boat for a unique experience. Deulti is filled with rich biodiversity, pure air and cultural heritage. Samtaber, the neighbouring village of Deulti, is popular among the tourists for being the abode of the famous Bengali novelist Late Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay. The charming two-storied dwelling house is a real delight for the visitors. The building is now converted into a museum where mementoes of the author like table, chairs, sandals, stick and bed are kept apart from his books, manuscripts and personal letters. If you have some spare time, do visit the beautiful Terracotta temple of Madangopal and Radha. This temple was built in 1651 AD by Mukundaprasad Roychowdhury, the then Zamindar of Mangalhat Pargana. Deulti is also well known as a picnic spot.

Rupnarayan River, Deulti

How to Reach

You can reach Deulti station from Howrah by local train. The village is located close to the railway station. Deulti is also easily accessible by car from Kolkata. You can drive along Vidyasagar Setu and then take the route to Kona Highway. After few hours, you will reach NH6 from where you will have to drive straight along the national highway to pass Panchla, Uluberia, Kulgachia, Chandpur and Bagnan until you reach Deulti crossing.

Accommodation

Prantik Retreat. Tariff: ₹900-1600. Tel: 8588029760, 9231507277, 8335888718.
Nirala Resort. Tariff: ₹900-4000. Tel: 03214-275043.

Singell Tea Garden

Just 3 km from the busy town of Kurseong lies the Singell Tea Garden surrounded by alpine villages and luxuriant tea plantations. Situated at an altitude of 5000 feet above sea level, this lesser known destination is quickly becoming a hotspot of tea tourism. At Singell, you will be surrounded by green tea plantations, lofty mountains and soul-soothing peace and serenity. You can visit the tea estate factory, take an inside tour and watch tea processing and plucking of leaves. If you feel too lazy, just sit in the balcony of your homestay and watch the panorama unfold in front of your eyes. On one side, there is the lush green tea estate and on the other side the mighty mountains. You can pass some time watching the usual busy stream of vehicles travelling on the Hill Cart Road at a distance. And when you hear a whistle, don't forget to behold the sight of a toy train chugging along the narrow gauge track.

Singell Tea Garden

Sightseeing and Activities

The prime attraction of Singell is undoubtedly the Singell Organic Tea Garden. A 10-minutes downhill walk will take you to the tea factory. You can stroll along the winding road, clicking photographs, resting on benches and enjoying the serene quietude, all while treating your eyes to the marvelous vistas. Singell also offers its visitors a spectacular view of sunset over the Eastern Himalayan mountains. Kurseong is 3 km from Singel Tea Garden. There are a lot of tourist spots in Kurseong including the Eagle's Craig View Point, Makaibari Tea Garden, Deer Park, Forest Museum, Ambotia Shiva Temple and Giddapahar. You can also visit the bank of the Balason River by trek or car ride.

Best Time to Visit

Singell Tea Garden can be visited all throughout the year. The place experiences pleasant climate round the year, even during the winter months.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Kurseong is 40 km from New Jalpaiguri. You can reach Kurseong from New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri by either reserved car or local taxi service. Singell Tea Garden is 3 km from Kurseong.

Accommodation

Singell Homestay
Tariff: ₹1300-1800/- per room
Tel: 9832057237

Sanjeema Homestay
Tariff: ₹1500/- per room
Tel: 8759909225

Lamagaon

Lamagaon is a picturesque hamlet nestled amidst green foliage and lovely mountains. Located at a distance of 13 km from Bijanbari in Darjeeling district of West Bengal, the place is well known for the cultivation of Ishkus and cardamom. Also known as squash, Ishkus is a very popular vegetable in the hilly regions. The village of Lamagaon is idyllic, calm and peaceful. If you are looking to spend some time in solitude away from all rush and buzz, then Lamagaon is a place you should definitely visit. At an altitude of 5200 feet above sea level, the village offers its visitors some fabulous views of Mount Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan mountains. From Lamagaon, you can get a glimpse of the lush green tea gardens of Darjeeling. On a clear day, even the distant Darjeeling town and its adjoining areas are visible from this hamlet. At night, you can simply sit under the twinkling stars and watch the shimmering lights of the Darjeeling town. In the morning, you can lazily walk along the serpentine lanes of the village sniffing the fragrance of Himalayan orchids and flowers. At Lamagaon, you will always be accompanied by colourful birds and butterflies. The peace and tranquility together with the melodious singing of birds and fresh scent of flowers create a charming atmosphere that you will never forget.

Lamagaon

Sightseeing and Activities

While at Lamagaon, spend some quality time with yourself, your loved ones and mother nature. For the adventure lovers, there is plenty of scope for short treks and hikes through narrow trails and verdant forests. Lamagaon is home to a large number of species of birds. Whether you are a pro bird watcher or a novice, you will certainly enjoy the antics of these little creatures. You may also try your hands at barbecue in traditional village style by roasting your meat on log fire. Bijanbari is 12 km from Lamagaon. If you wish, you can go fishing in the Chhota Rangeet River at Bijanbari.

Best Time to Visit

Lamagaon can be visited all throughout the year except during the heavy monsoons. However, the best time to visit the place is September to November.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. You can reserve a car from New Jalpaiguri to reach Lamagaon via Kurseong, Ghum and Bijanbari. Lamagaon is around 102 km from New Jalpaiguri. Alternatively, you can reach Ghum from New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri by shared cars. From Ghum, you can get a car to get to Lamagaon.

Accommodation

Lamagaon Homestay
Tariff: ₹2100/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9832330100, 9434610510

Silent Valley Homestay
Tariff: ₹1600-2000/- per room
Tel: 9830190503

Chochenpheri

Perched at an altitude of 4000 feet, Chochenpheri is a blissful hamlet in East Sikkim encompassed by towering mountain ranges and lush green plantations. It is an ideal place to take a break from the monotonic city life. A village walk through the winding roads will help you soak in the beauty of Chochenpheri. Being a paradise for bird and butterfly watchers, you can go for a nature walk through the unforgettable jungle trail and spot some colourful birds and butterflies. The region also houses several rare species of Himalayan orchid and flowers. Few years ago, there used to be a lake at Chochen Pheri. However, the lake has now dried up completely and the area is being extensively used for cultivating paddy, wheat, corn, cabbage and cardamom. Mornings at Chochen Pheri are exotic and magical with the chirping of birds and fragrance of flowers filling the air with a charming vibe. The place also offers a magnificent view of sunrise and Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Chochenpheri

Sightseeing and Activities

Most of the attractions near Chochenpheri are located at a walking distance from the hamlet. One of the main attractions of the village is the Bhutia Heritage House. Built using stones in traditional architectural style, the heritage house is a masterpiece of architecture. You can also visit the Chochen Gumpha situated atop a small hill. The hike to the top is a little difficult but it is very rewarding. From the top, one can get a splendid view of the surrounding valley, tiny village houses, dense green foliage and mighty mountains.

While at Chochenpheri, you should not miss the thrilling experience of walking over the hanging footbridge across the Rolep River. Other attractions in and around Chochen Pheri include the Rolep Buddha Waterfalls, Machong Monastery and Rikip Mankhim Temple. If you plan to travel on the Old Silk Route, then Chochenpheri is a good starting point. Rongli, the place from where permission needs to be obtained for travelling the Silk Route, is an hour drive away from Chochen Pheri. The entire Silk Route is easily accessible from Chochenpheri.

Best Time to Visit

Chochenpheri can be visited all throughout the year as the climate is very pleasant round the year. However, the best time to visit the hamlet would be during the months of September to November.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Chochenpheri is 150 km from New Jalpaiguri. You can hire a car from New Jalpaiguri to reach Chochenpheri. The journey takes around 4 hours.

Accommodation

Chochen Eco Hut
Tariff: ₹1000-1300 per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 8346649001, 8348813845