5 offbeat places you must visit near Darjeeling
Planning to visit the Eastern Himalayas this summer? The first name to come to your mind must be Darjeeling, especially if you are from West Bengal. However, with rising temperature, tourist footfall increases in the hills and it just starts to look like a hilly version of a metro city. Why not consider visiting some offbeat places near Darjeeling and avoid the crowd?
Lamahatta
Lamahatta translates to a monk's home (Lama stands for Buddhist Monk, and Hatta stands for a hut or home). The place, about 20 km from Darjeeling town, is home to numerous orange orchards, and also offers a beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga. The inhabitants of the town work closely with the state government for eco-tourism endeavors, trying to promote sustainable tourism.
Lava and Loleygaon
Lava and Loleygaon are two villages in the Kalimpong district. Since they are quite near to each other, tourists travel to both places on the same trip. A canopy walk in the forest of Lolegaon can be an amazing experience as you walk on a 180-meter-long wooden tree-top bridge. You can also visit the Changey Falls, Lava Monastery, and Jhandi Dara viewpoint.
Rishyap or Rishop
The meaning of the Tibetan name Rishyap or Rishop is "Ri," meaning mountain peak (or lofty), and "shop" meaning age-old trees. The main attraction of this village is the remarkable view of the Kanchenjunga among other peaks of the Himalayan mountain range. Tiffin Dara viewpoint here is a 45-minute trek, taking you to the top where the sunrise and sunset will serenade you.
Sukhiapokhri
Less than 20 km away from Darjeeling town is Sukhiapokhri or Sukhia Pokhari, a small town near Nepal's eastern border. The on-road journey to Sukhiapokhri itself is a magnificent experience. Situated at 7,198 ft, it is an amazing place blooming with rhododendrons, silver fir, hemlock, and magnolia. The Japanese Peace Pagoda and the Ghoom Monastery are the sights to see.
Rimbik village
Rimbik, situated almost 60 km away from Darjeeling town, in the Singalila National Park area is a trekker's hub. This hamlet has gained a soft spot among offbeat travelers who want to explore the region of Darjeeling beyond traditional destinations. You will get an incredible view of the Kanchenjunga from here. The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, and Dhirdham temple are worth a visit.
