Jhandi is
an offbeat tourist spot located at a distance of 12 km from Lava in West
Bengal. Perched at a height of 6200 ft above sea level, this picturesque
village is surrounded by mighty hills and dense forests. Set in a calm and
serene environment, the hamlet is embraced by lush, tropical evergreen Sal and
Pine forests, which are home to some of India’s rarest flora and
fauna. Jhandi is a bird-lover’s paradise with hundreds of different breeds
offering glimpses and calling out to you from treetops. Numerous species of
birds like Himalayan monal, Himalayan black bulbul, satyr tragopan, slender-billed scimitar babbler
and sunbird are sighted at Jhandi. The forest is full of birds and also hiking
trails which are quite interesting for the adventure lovers. Low altitude trekking,
visit to Samabeong Tea Garden and lonely walks through the quaint hamlet will
keep you entertained. The sunrise and sunset point, commonly known as Jhandi
Dara, is known for its fantastic views of the rising and setting sun, from where you can experience the phenomenal view of sunlight making its way over the mountains through the mist. One can get a
panoramic view of the vast Mahananda River valley and the snow-clad peak of Mt.
Kanchenjunga from this place. You can also visit the Lava, Lolegaon and
Gorubathan from Jhandi. Bestowed with endless nature’s bounties, Jhandi is a
perfect destination for those who wish to spend some relaxing time away from the
monotonous city life.
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| View of Mt. Kanchanjunga from Jhandi |
Sightseeing
Jhandi Dara Viewpoint
Located atop a hill, the Jhandi Dara viewpoint offers some of the most breathtaking views of the rising and setting sun. From Jhandi Dara, you can get a surreal view of sunrise and sunset along with a panoramic view of the imposing Mt. Kanchenjunga range and the Mahananda River valley. Witnessing sunrise at Jhandi Dara is an experience you will never forget. Hold your breath in excitement as you watch the sky light up, changing colours from dark blue to fiery orange and finally the sun peeking into your view from behind the undulating hills. Enjoy the soothing views of dense green sal and pine forests spread all over the hilltop with Mt. Kanchenjunga as backdrop. Boasting of luxuriant and mountainous environs, the Jhandi Dara Sunrise Point offers ample opportunities for capturing some amazing photographs. Besides, the viewpoint is a perfect retreat for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
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| View from Jhandi Dara Viewpoint |
Samabeong Tea Estate
While at Jhandi, you would not want to miss a visit to the Samabeong Organic Tea Garden. Nestled in the middle of the Neora Valley Forest, the tea garden has a charm of its own. Samabeong Tea Estate is well known for employing biodynamic farming in tea cultivation. Tea produced in Samabeong is famous in India and abroad for its unusual, distinctive taste, which is attributed to their particular cultivation technique. A trip to the tea garden will soothe your senses. Revel in the lush green tea plantations, fill your lungs with unpolluted air and enjoy the exquisite beauty of nature. Samabeong is also home to a diverse range of native and migratory Himalayan birds.
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| Samabeong Tea Estate |
Lava Buddhist Monastery
Built in 1987, this small yet vibrant monastery is just few kilometres away from Jhandi. Officially known as Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery, this Buddhist religious centre is an ideal place for those who wish to spend a bit of time away from the usual tourist rush. The tranquil and serene ambiance of the monastery provides a perfect setting for the spiritual travellers who wish to reflect over things in a calm and peaceful environment. The monastery houses a 1000-armed Avalokiteshwara statue along with various Buddhist scriptures and figurines.
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| Lava Monastery |
Changey Waterfalls
The scintillating Changey waterfalls with its lavish green surroundings is one of the best relaxation spots near Jhandi. From the point where the car drops you, a 900 m walking trail through the green wilderness takes you to the front of the mesmerizing waterfalls. The awe-inspiring sight of the white, foamy water tumbling down from a height of 400 ft will leave you transfixed. The waterfall looks absolutely stunning amidst the mighty mountains and emerald thickets. The continuous singing of Himalayan birds like White Capped Water Redstart, Verditer Flycatcher, Blue Fronted Redstart, Grey Treepie, Indian Robin and Blue Whistling Thrush in the background will make you feel as if you are on heaven.
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| Changey Waterfalls |
Fafar Kheti
Another nearby attraction is Fafarkheti. It is a picture-perfect village and an ideal picnic spot with the snaking Chel River and surrounding jungles. The spot is actually a bridge alongside a big rock. The Chel river flows underneath the bridge. A spectacular waterfall, evergreen forests, the winding Chel River, tweeting of unknown birds and the fabulous scenery make Fafar Kheti, a must visit for tourists vacationing at Jhandi.
Ruins of Dalim Fort
You can also visit the ruins of Dalim Fort, located high above Gorubathan for the remains of a Bhutanese fortress, hemmed in on all sides by thick forest cover.
How to Reach
Trains are running from Howrah and Sealdah to New Mal Junction. Jhandi is 32 km from New Mal Junction. It takes about one and a half hours to reach Jhandi from New Mal Junction. Hired cars are available from New Mal Junction to reach Jhandi. You can also reach Jhandi from Siliguri by car. Distance from Siliguri to Jhandi is 87 km.
Accommodation
The Retreat Jhandi
Tariff: Rs. 3500 per room. Food Charges: Rs. 450 per head
Tel: 9836830342, 9831309512
Jhandi Eco Hut
Tariff: Rs. 1500-4000 per room
Tel: 9002266755
Prantik Homestay
Tariff: Rs. 1600 per room
Tel: 9830371744
Humro Home Jhandi
Tariff: Rs. 2600-3600 per room with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 18001233759
Places Near Kolkata
