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

Toryok

Toryok is a beautiful village hideaway located in Middle Sitong near Kurseong. This picturesque North Bengal hamlet is a new entry in the tourism map of Bengal. With a meager population of just 600 people, the village, although small, has got a spread-out appearance due to the fact that all the houses are located some distance apart from each other. The calm and scenic surroundings of the village provide you the perfect company while you stare at the horizon where the mighty snow-capped peaks stand tall against the sky. Toryok offers its visitors some fantastic views of the Eastern Himalayas - from the imposing Mt. Kanchenjunga range to the meandering Riyang River and the soothing greenery of the forests embracing the place. As the entire region is a forest area, the place is also home to an innumerable variety of birds. So if you are looking for a quiet, peaceful haven where you can unwind from the hectic life schedule, this is the ideal place for you.

Toryok

Sightseeing and Activities

The quaint village of Toryok is surrounded by orange orchards, jharu and cardamom plantations. You can enjoy a leisurely walk past the orchards and plantations while savouring the exquisite natural beauty of the place. A 1 km downward hike will take you to Buddha Falls. You may also visit the Sherpa Monastery situated at the end of the village. The neighbouring village of Mamring is primarily inhabited by the Lepchas. Their houses built in an unique traditional architectural style are an attraction in itself.  There are many other places of tourist interest near Toryok. Ahaldara Viewpoint, Namthing Pokhri, Tamang Gumpha, Maldiram Viewpoint are a short drive away and can be visited on a day excursion. On another day, you can visit the nearby tourist places of Mongpu, Bagora, Chimney and Kurseong.

Best Time to Visit

Toryok can be visited all throughout the year except during the months of December and January when the weather gets quite chilly. During the summer months of April to June, the weather is pleasant. The misty cloudy weather during the rainy months of July to September gives a magical look to the entire area. October to November is the best time to get a sweeping view of the region along with Mt. Kanchenjunga range.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Howrah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Siliguri is 2 km from New Jalpaiguri station. Toryok is 68 km from Siliguri. You can hire a car from Siliguri to reach Toryok via Rohini Road, Dilaram and Pokritar. Car charges from Siliguri to Toryok is around Rs. 3000. Alternatively you can also reach Toryok via Kalimpong and Mongpu.

Accommodation

Rashika Homestay
Tariff: ₹1000/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9733279212

Ryang Homestay
Tariff: ₹1250/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 7980453218

Mukhia Homestay
Tariff: ₹1200/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9733454779

Pubung

A little-known place in North Bengal, Pubung is a picturesque hamlet surrounded by lush tea gardens and blissful mountains. Nestled in the lap of nature, the village of Pubung houses a range of organic farms. You can enjoy a leisurely walk past the various organic farms where fruits and vegetables like orange, tomato, potato, cauliflower, squash, and elaichi are cultivated. 2 km from Pubung lies a 100-year old bridge which connects Rongli Rongliot and Pubung. A 1 hour downhill trek from Pubung will take you to the source of Kalijhora River. As you walk on the trail, you will hear the twittering of birds, smell the scent of flowers and be amazed by the fascinating vistas that unveil in front of your eyes. At the end of the trail, you will be awestruck by the beautiful waterfall coming down the hill. This waterfall is actually the origin of the Kali river.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Pubung is 90 km from New Jalpaiguri. You can hire a car from New Jalpaiguri to reach Pubung. The journey takes around 3-4 hours.

Accommodation

Pubung Homestay
Tariff: ₹1350/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9932317299, 9434072552

Gajaldoba

Gajoldoba is a tiny village on the western side of Teesta River, 30 km from the town of Siliguri. The village is situated in Oodlabari area of Jalpaiguri district. 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.

Sightseeing and Activities

Every year during the month of November, thousands of migratory birds from Ladakh and parts of Central Asia flock to this place. The endless chirping and melancholy of the birds continue until March. During this time, Gajaldoba becomes every bird watcher's dream come true. The awe inspiring natural beauty of the place with its view of the forest, river and splendid backdrop of mighty mountains will leave you mesmerized.

A boat ride in the Teesta River at Gajaldoba is an unforgettable experience. You can easily spend a couple of hours with a binocular spotting various species of birds like common shelduck, ruddy shelduck, little egret, great egret, brown-headed gull, great cormorant, red-crested pochard, bar-headed goose, Pacific golden plover and northern lapwing. Still an unexplored tourist destination, Gajaldoba offers you a chance to enjoy the serenity, experience the fresh air, witness the beauty of nature and have a rendezvous with some cheerful migratory birds.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Gajaldoba is November to March. However, if you are keen on seeing the maximum number of migratory birds, then you should plan your trip around end of November and early December.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Toto rickshaws are available from New Jalpaiguri station to Gorar More. From there, you can get a Trekker or Magic van to reach Gajaldoba Teesta Barrage.

Accommodation

Bhorer Alo
Tariff: ₹1100-2500/- per room with breakfast
Tel: 7029435557
Online Booking: www.wbtdcl.com

Kamarpara

If you are in the lookout for a rustic destination, where you can relax and enjoy an idyllic life then Kamarpara in Birbhum district of West Bengal is an ideal option for you. Located in a rural setting, the homestays in Kamarpara offer you a chance to spend a day or two away from all the city humdrums. There is a lake located close to the village. It is known as Lakshmi Sayar. The locals believe that the lake possesses a sacred power of fulfilling one’s wishes. Another nearby attraction is the Surkeswar Shiva Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Lord Shiva. A lazily walk from Kamarpara through the Sonajhuri forest will take you to the bank of Ajay River. You will lose yourself in a different world as you walk on the winding red soil road, the smell of the red earth touching your senses and the fresh wind caressing your face – it’s a worthwhile experience. While you are at Kamarpara, you should not miss a visit to the Amkhoi Fossil Park. Spanning over a vast area of 10 hectares with a huge waterbody in the middle, the park houses fossilized wood 15 to 20 million years of age. The angiosperm wood fossils that are presently displayed in the fossil park were collected during pond digging at Amkhoi village.

Kamarpara

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah, Sealdah and Kolkata to Bolpur. Kamarpara is 14 km from Bolpur. Totos are available from Bolpur to reach Kamarpara.

Accommodation

Chottoneer
Tariff: Rs. 1800/- per room with complimentary breakfast
Tel: 9804168179, 9073919368

Udasin
Tariff: Rs. 2000-3500/- per room with complimentary breakfast
Tel: 9831948634, 9830730570

Banjara Hat
Tariff: Rs. 1500-2500/- per room
Tel: 9830552535

Baghmundi

Often a times, the biggest surprises of life come in small packages. The little village of Baghmundi might sound like just an ordinary village but once you visit the place, your perception is bound to change. Located at the foot of Ayodhya Hills, the village acts as a charming hideaway for tourists from the stress and anxiety of modern life. A rendezvous with the peaceful serenity, uneven topography, cascading waterfalls, trickling rivers, and diverse flora and fauna of the place will leave you awe struck. Bamni Falls is one of the major attractions of the place. This perennial waterfalls is flanked by charming landscape and vivid greenery. Another tourist spot near Baghmundi is Khairabera, a beautiful lake in the midst of mild slopes and thick woods. You can also visit the Tarpania Lake. This blue lake settled in a desolate landscape is a must visit for those who wish to experience serenity and solitude. Art lovers should make it a point to visit Charida, a village famous for the making of Chau masks. Chau is an acrobatic martial art based tribal dance of the region which involves wearing handcrafted, colourful masks while dancing. You can witness the entire process of making a mask and even collect a few as a souvenir.

Baghmundi

Sightseeing

Bamni Falls

Bamni Falls is one of the major attractions of the place. This perennial waterfalls is flanked by charming landscape and vivid greenery. Every year, a large number of tourists from Baghmundi, Ajodhya Hills and Murguma visit this place. A 20-minutes downward trek from the main road along a rocky and lightly-forested trail will take you to the front of the beautiful Bamni Falls. The cascading water falls over the rocks and form a small lake down below. You can even indulge in some shopping as there are many stalls near the road selling a variety of handicraft items and other stuff.

Turga Falls

Located close to Bamni Falls, this waterfalls also attracts a lot of tourists. From the main road, you can catch glimpses of the gushing white waters through chinks in the forest cover. Away from busy city life, the charming songs of colorful birds and chattering noise of squirrels make the environment a pleasant place to be in.

Khairabera Lake

Another tourist spot near Baghmundi is Khairabera, a beautiful lake in the midst of mild slopes and thick woods. The beauty of the place is its serenity, uneven terrain, falls, streams, thick vegetation. During the spring, the Palash trees enhance the scenic beauty of the area with their orange-red flowers. The ample scenic beauty of nature at Khairabera makes it a prime tourist spot.

Pakhi Pahar

This 800 ft high hill called Pakhi Pahar is a canvas for the artist, Chitta Dey, who along with his team, has sculpted nearly 65 images of birds on the sheer rock face. The hill has now become a hotspot for tourists who visit this place, only to be left speechless by the single-minded dedication and passion of the veteran artist. Encompassed by verdant forest, Pakhi Pahar is also a great spot for bird watching.

Upper Dam & Lower Dam

Both the upper and lower dams are part of the Purulia Pumped Storage Project (PPSP). These huge reservoirs are engineering marvels. Water from these reservoirs are used for hydroelectric power generation. The Lower Dam, especially, looks spectacular when viewed from the roadside viewpoint situated between the Upper Dam and Lower Dam.

Charida Village

Art lovers should make it a point to visit Charida, a village famous for the making of Chau masks. Chau is an acrobatic martial art based tribal dance of the region which involves wearing handcrafted, colourful masks while dancing. You can witness the entire process of making a mask and even collect a few as a souvenir.

Marble Lake
You can also visit the Marble Lake situated near Ajodhya Hill Top. This blue lake settled in a desolate landscape is a must visit for those who wish to experience serenity and solitude. Once you reach the place, you will be mesmerized by the charming beauty of the place. This man-made lake was formed when the rocks here were quarried for stone to build irrigation dams. The Marble Lake is surrounded by towering walls of scraggy boulders overhanging the clear, azure waters. There are two points from where you can enjoy the lake's beauty - one is from the top, and the other one is from the side of the lake.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Barabhum. Baghmundi is 19 km from Barabhum. Buses and cars are available from Barabhum to reach Baghmundi. Alternatively, you can reach Purulia by train from Howrah, Santragachi or Shalimar. Baghmundi is 59 km from Purulia town.

Accommodation

Chhowburu Guest House
Tariff: Rs. 800-1000/- per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 9732294515

Aranyak Lodge
Tariff: Rs. 500-800/- per room
Tel: 9732394115

For more places to visit near Baghmundi, buy the Weekend Destinations travel guidebook.

Pemling

A picturesque hill hamlet situated 38 km from Kalimpong, Pemling is an ideal retreat for a soul seeking peace and solitude. It is mostly inhabited by the Lepchas and the Tamangs. Around 230 inhabitants reside in this small village. The village of Pemling offers some stunning views of the surrounding hills and valley. Savour the beauty of nature as you walk through orange orchards, elaichi farms, lush green meadows and dense forests. You can take a leisurely stroll on the forest trail and discover the joy of being away from the buzzing city life. The Juge Waterfalls is a must see attraction of Pemling which you will not want to miss. A 3 km downhill car ride from the village and a 50 minutes jungle trek will land you in front of the mesmerizing waterfalls. The place is a bird watcher’s paradise. With a binocular, you can simply spend hours here witnessing these colourful creatures. You can also visit Charkhole, Lava, Lolegaon, Pabong and Chuikhim from Pemling.

How to Reach

Purchase the Weekend Destinations Travel Guide Book to find out the best way to reach Pemling from Kolkata. Click here to buy the eBook. Pay securely with Paytm.

Accommodation

Buy the Weekend Destinations eBook to get in-depth information about Pemling along with tariff and contact details of homestays in Pemling.

Places Near Kolkata

Suntalekhola

Suntalekhola is an unexplored tourist destination in Kalimpong district of West Bengal. A small village at the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, Suntalekhola derives its name from a small stream named Suntaley Khola. In Nepali language, khola means river and Suntale mean orange. The place is situated in the Western region of Dooars in a beautiful calm and serene environment. If you would like to spend some undisturbed time in the hills, then Suntalekhola is a good place for you. Located on the South Eastern fringes of Neora Valley National Park, the altitude of the place ranges from 650 to 950 m.

Suntalekhola

Sightseeing and Activities

At Suntalekhola, you can feast your eyes on the marvelous mountain vistas while spotting colourful birds and watching the small river flow in its own pace. You can spend some time sitting in the bank of the river and enjoy the beauty of nature. If you are adventurous enough then go take a dip in the flowing river and revel in a cold splash. Going on a nature walk or a hike to the Neora Valley National Park are some of the other things you can try at Suntaleykhola. You can also visit the nearby places of Samsing and Mouchuki. Samsing is 4 km from Suntalekhola and Mouchuki is 6 km from Suntalekhola.

Best Time to Visit

Suntalekhola can be visited throughout the year. However monsoons should be generally avoided.

How to Reach

You can reach New Mal Junction from Sealdah by train. From there you have to board Banarhat Passenger and disembark at Chalsa. Suntalekhola is 24 km from Chalsa. Trains are also running from Siliguri to Chalsa. Cars can be hired from Chalsa to reach Suntalekhola.



Accommodation

WBFDC Suntalekhola Eco Tourism Centre
Tariff: Rs. 1800/- per room
Tel: 8001648914, 9434602390

Places Near Kolkata

Khoai Sonajhuri Forest

Khoai Sonajhuri Forest is a true abode of peace lying in tranquility and serenity hidden by vivid greenery and quaint villages. Tucked a little away from the small town of Santiniketan, the place is embraced by a thick forest cover on all sides. Khoai attracts visitors with its curious canyon-like formations made by blowing wind and flowing river. The dense Sonajhuri Forest surrounding the place is a treat for nature lovers. This immensely beautiful forest was immortalized by Rabindranath Tagore in many of his compositions.

Khoai

Sightseeing and Activities

Your trip to Khoai Sonajhuri Forest remains incomplete if you miss the vibrant Saturday market where local artisans sell their handcrafted creations. Officially known as Khoai Boner Annya Haat, the weekly market is a great place to shop for ethnic jewelry, kanthas, showpieces and garments while treating your taste buds with some traditional food delicacies. The wide variety of artifacts along with their jaw dropping prices will make you want to shop till you drop. Bauls sitting under the Sonajhuri trees, singing with their single string instrument, ektara, brings a different charm to the place.



During your stay at Sonajhuri, you can wake up in the early morning and go for a rejuvenating nature walk. Sonajhuri is probably one of the cleanest forests of Bengal and a stroll through the forests will fill your lungs with pollution-free air and your minds with a positive energy. Kopai River is located 1 km away from Khoai. Often you will find Baul singers singing to some heart-warming folk songs on the bank of the Kopai River. And when you are at Khoai, you would surely not want to miss a visit to Tagore’s Santiniketan. For the avid bird watcher and wildlife lover, a visit to the nearby Ballabhpur Wildlife Sanctuary should also be on the cards.

Sonajhuri Forest

Best Time to Visit

October to March is the best time to visit Sonajhuri.

How to Reach

You can reach Prantik or Bolpur Santiniketan by train from Sealdah, Kolkata or Howrah station. Buses are also plying from Kolkata to Bolpur. Cycle rickshaws and e-rickshaws (Totos) are available from both Prantik and Bolpur to get to Sonajhuri.

Accommodation

Ram Shyam Village Resort. Tariff: Rs. 1599-1999. Tel: 9475032810, 7076319664.
Sonajhuri Athiti Nibas. Tariff: Rs. 500-3000. Tel: 9635200496.
Shakuntala Village Resort. Tariff: Rs. 950-2650. Tel: 9232637439.

Tinchuley

About 32 kilometres from the crowded hill station town of Darjeeling is a calm and quiet hamlet surrounded by thick pine forests and lush green tea gardens with a backdrop of the stupendous Kanchenjunga range. The word 'Tinchuley' literally means three chulahs or ovens, which is represented by the three prominent hilltops that resemble the three chulahs. An initiative that was started by the local people with active support from the World Wildlife Federation (WWF) turned this secret beauty into a self-sustained organic ecotourism destination. If you love to witness the beauty of the Himalayas, watch the Teesta river wind its way through the hills, smell the aroma of tea bushes, walk along lonely village trails and mingle with local people, then Tinchuley is the right place for you.

View of Kanchenjunga Range from Tinchuley

Sightseeing and Activities

The Sunrise Point at Tinchuley is an excellent place to view sunrise in the morning. It also offers a spectacular view of the snowy mountain peaks. One can go for village walks, nature hikes and tea garden visits during their stay at Tinchuley. The pristine natural forest surrounding the village is a paradise for birdwatchers paradise. Another attraction is the Tinchuley Monastery which is quite revered by the locals. Nearby lies the Gumphadara Viewpoint which provides a telescopic view of the Teesta River valley from above.

Best Time to Visit

Tinchuley can be visited throughout the year except during the monsoons. However if you would like to get a clear view of the snow-capped mountain peaks, then October to March would be the best time to visit.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Tinchuley is 80 km from New Jalpaiguri. Hired cars are available from New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri to reach Tinchuley via Teesta Bazaar.

Accommodation

Gurung Guest House. Tariff: Rs. 2000-4700. Tel: 9933036336, 9434514614.

Sky High Resorts. Tariff: Rs. 1600-2500. Tel: 9836739437.

For more information about homestays in Tinchuley, buy the Weekend Destinations eBook. Apart from that, the book provides you vivid and informative description of dozens of brand new weekend getaways from Kolkata along with in-depth coverage of each destination which make it a must-have for every travel enthusiast.

Nearby Places

Takdah
Lamahatta

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Rangaroon

Beautiful mist enveloping green tea bushes

Rangaroon Tea Garden is situated at a distance of 16 km from Darjeeling in West Bengal. The estate lies near the boundary of Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary at an altitude of 6100 ft above sea level. It produces some of the world's finest quality tea and is home to the famous Rangaroon Tea which had won the hearts of British colonists. You can take a leisurely walk through the lush green tea garden while enjoying the scenic beauty of the place. The view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other snow capped peaks from Rangaroon is truly awe inspiring. Rangaroon also offers its visitors a spectacular view of the Tiger Hill, Observatory Hill and the Darjeeling town.

Rangaroon Tea Garden

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Howrah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Hired cars are available from New Jalpaiguri to reach Rangaroon. On the way to Darjeeling, you have to take a right turn from Jorebungalow and then take a left turn from 3rd Mile to reach Rangaroon Tea Garden.



Accommodation

Khaling Cottage. Tariff - Rs. 1534 per person (including food and stay). Tel: 0353-2540492, 9434072552.

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School Dara

Heaven for bird watchers

School Dara is a completely virgin village tourism destination situated in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. The picturesque hamlet lies at a distance of 5 km from Mirik. The scenic beauty of the place is amazing with its lush green surroundings and orange orchards all around the area. School Dara is also a bird watcher's paradise with several species of birds including flycatcher, minla and nuthatch often spotted in and around the village. The serene and calm ambiance of the place makes it an ideal retreat for those who want to spend their vacation in peace and solitude.

School Dara

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah, Sealdah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Auto rickshaws ply from New Jalpaiguri to Siliguri. Mirik is 52 km from Siliguri. Hired cars and shared jeeps are plying from Siliguri to Mirik. School Dara is 5 km from Mirik.



Accommodation

Rodhi Ghar Homestay. Tariff - Rs. 2100 (including food). Tel: 9434072552.
Rangbhang Homestay. Tariff - Rs. 1200. Tel: 9832913617, 9733242210.

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Palmajua

In the lap of Singalila National Park

Palmajua is a small hill village situated in the lap of the Singalila National Park in West Bengal. The place is surrounded by forests of oak, pine and dhupi trees. Located at an altitude of 7250 ft, the place offers peace and tranquility to the visitors amidst lush greenery and breathtaking scenery. A mind blowing view of the Mt. Kanchenjunga can be viewed from this village. The main attraction of Palmajua is the Singalila National Park. The forest is home to the Red Panda, Pangolin and about 170 species of birds. You can visit Dhotrey, Rimbik, Srikhola and Meghma from Palmajua. Adventure lovers can go for short treks from the village to the nearby forest.

Palmajua

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Palmajua is 65 km from New Jalpaiguri. Hired cars are available from New Jalpaiguri to reach Manebhanjan. Jeeps are plying from Manebhanjan to Palmajua.



Accommodation

Singalila Jungle Homestay. Tariff - Rs. 1300 per person (including food and stay). Tel: 9231581177.

Places Near Kolkata

Sonkupi

Destination for adventure lovers

Sonkupi is an awesome weekend getaway from Kolkata situated in Purulia district of West Bengal. The valley lies at the foothills of the Kukuburu hill. Numerous streams trickling down the hills, mesmerizing natural beauty and pollution-free environment of the place make Sonkupi an ideal retreat for nature lovers. However the prime attraction of the place is the Sonkupi Banjara Camp which offers several adventure activities for those who crave for thrill and excitement. From rock climbing to tarzan swing, the camp has got everything needed for an exhilarating adventure experience. You can also take a leisurely stroll to the nearby tribal villages and witness the daily livelihood of rural people.

Sonkupi

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to Barabhum and Purulia. Sonkupi is 20 km from Barabhum and 52 km from Purulia.



Accommodation

Sonkupi Banjara Camp, Tariff - Rs. 5800 per head (for group of 2 persons), Rs. 4900 per head (for group of 4 persons), Rs. 4200 per head (for group of 8 persons). Tariff consists of 2N/3D package including food, stay and local sightseeing. Tel: 9231581177, 9830063643.

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Rangbhang

Peaceful, serene and unknown

Rangbhang is an unexplored village located at a distance of 3 km from Mirik in West Bengal. The place is locally known as Mirik Busty. The peaceful, calm and serene ambiance of the village is its main attraction. Rangbhang offers its visitors a spectacular view of the snow capped Himalayan peaks along with beautiful landscapes and lush green tea gardens. The place is surrounded by orange orchards and organic plantations. You can also indulge in adventure activities like off road driving, hiking, nature trail walk and jungle camping.

Buy travel books, handcrafted by Week End Tour. Packed full of fresh destinations, authentic information and expert tips, our travel books are a must buy for every travel enthusiast.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Auto rickshaws ply from New Jalpaiguri to Siliguri. Mirik is 55 km from Siliguri. Rangbhang is around 3 km from Mirik. You can hire a car from Siliguri to reach Rangbhang.



Accommodation

Rangbhang Homestay. Tariff - Rs. 1200. Tel: 9832913617, 9733242210.

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