Bara Mangwa : The fruit laden Himalayan slope

A mountain slope settled atop Darjeeling Hills towards the western side of the Kalimpong hills in the
Teesta Valley, with magnificent view of the confluence of Teesta and Rangeet Rivers on one side  and with Kalimpong Hills on the other side is Bara Mangwa. The terraced farms and Orange orchards at the places adds to the beauty. Other fruits grown here are lemons, passion fruit and pomegranate. The
locals are mainly engaged in farming and the main produce is rice along with vegetables like squash,

The slopes of Bara Mangwa

karela (not the one we usually know), french beans and long beans. Numerous Himalayan birds assembles here to get their share. The name comes from the Lepcha language, Bara Mangwa in Lepcha dialect means "A big place of finger millet".

Resort at Bara Mangwa

Perfect place for adventure seekers and nature lovers, the Bara Mangwa village perched on a mountain slope amidst orange orchards facing the confluence of Teesta and Rangeet Rivers. Located in the Darjeeling district, towards the western side of the Kalimpong hills, in the Teesta Valley, the Bara Mangwa village is home to few terraced farms, local huts and too many orange orchards.  Bara Mangwa is a tiny village that gives you the opportunity of experiencing life in its simplest forms in a little and forgotten corner of the Himalayas.

Resort Interiors

Placed wonderfully with these heavenly view Bara Mangwa Village is rapidly growing as a calm tourist destination along with Chota Mangwa and Tinchuley. This circuit of Bara Mangwa, Tinchuley and Takdah can be a very good alternative in your next North Bengal tour. With both side views and orange gardens and citrus plantations surrounding the small quiet village, Chota Mangwa is also rapidly growing as a hot tourist destinations. Chota Mangwa is settled just beaneath Tinchuley of Darjeeling Hills and a three to four days trip comprising of Tinchuley, Chota Mangwa, Bara Mangwa is quite popular among tourists who have been to Darjeeling and Kalimpong a few times.. Chota Mangwa is an eco village in the Mangwa hills with a population of 150 families living nearby. The marvelous view of Mt. Kanchenjungha and equally wonderful sunrise will definitely charm you during your stay at Chota Mangwa.

Things to do at Bara Mangwa: 
You have a lot of opportunities for activities at Bara Mangwa. Trekking and rock climbing are abundant and so is river rafting in the waters of Teesta. Fishing and angling is equally enjoying in the waters of Teesta. There is a Yoga and Martial Art Centre where you can learn some martial art techniques as well. The village of Bara Mangwa promotes local sports which are quite exciting activities to take part in.

Getting to Baramangwa:
At a driving distance of around 2.5 hours from the nearby railhead New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and 3 hours
from Bagdogra , the nearest airport ,

Nearby Destinations:
Chotamangwa
A mere 20 minutes drive from Baramangwa, Chotamangwa is settled atop a ridge with valley view on both sides.
Tinchuley
A beautiful forest hill hamlet within 45 mins drive.
Chatakpur
A very popular upcoming hill destination with magnificent view of Majestic Kanchenjhengha
Latpanchar
At the top point of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Latpanchar offers excellent opportunity for birding and other wildlife.
Darjeeling
The place with no need to mention, an evergreen hill destination
Kalimpong
Cross river Teesta to get to the Kalimpong hills to cover Dello, Lava, Lolegaon and many more.

Where to stay:
Quite a few resorts from budget to luxury to suite every pocket. Alternative places of stay are various homestays where it is possible to have a taste of the lifestyle of the indigenous people. Homestays are located away from the busy market areas.

For booking, contact us at GreenChannel.treks@gmail.com or phone us at +91-8145863495

Silk tour package for 4 nights & 5 days

No: of adults   : 8

No. of children: 0

No. of rooms: 4 Double bedded

​

DAY 1: NJP/BAGDOGRA/SILIGURI -- KALIMPONG – RESHI (101 km / 3.5 hours)
Welcome arrival at NJP/Bagdogra/Siliguri. Pickup at morning by Bolero/Sumo. Transfer to Reshi via Kalimpong (Nightstay at Reshi Khola resort)

DAY 2: RESHI - ZULUK (40 km / 1.5 hours)

Transfer to Zuluk via Rongli, Padamchen and sightseeing on the way. Stay at Zuluk homestay.

DAY 3: ZULUK - KUPUP - OLD BABA MANDIR - ZULUK (80 Km / 5 hours)
Thambi view point, Lungthung, Kupup, Elephant lake, Memenchu lake, Old Baba Mandir. Stay at Zuluk homestay.

DAY 4: ZULUK - SILLERY GAON (74 Km / 3 hours)

DAY 5: SILLERY GAON - NJP/BAGDOGRA/SILIGURI (100 Km / 3.5 hours)

Pickup at early morning, Drop to NJP/Bagdogra/Siliguri 

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

·       All transfers & sightseeing by Sumo/Bolero as per itinerary

·       Accommodation on twin sharing basis for 4 nights

·       Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner at hotels/homestays)

·       Permits for restricted areas

PACKAGE EXCLUSIONS

·       Airfare / train fare

·       Entry fees

·       Camera fees

·       Anything not mentioned in the ‘PACKAGE INCLUSIONS’ part.

·       Any expenses of personal nature.

Total package cost for 8 persons in 4 bed rooms = 49920/-

Package cost per person 6240/-

Silk tour package for 3 nights & 4 days

No: of adults   : 8

No. of rooms: 4 Double bedded

​

DAY 1: NJP/BAGDOGRA/SILIGURI -- KALIMPONG – RESHI (101 km / 3.5 hours)
Welcome arrival at NJP/Bagdogra/Siliguri. Pickup at morning by Bolero/Sumo. Transfer to Reshi via Kalimpong (Nightstay at Reshi Khola resort)

DAY 2: RESHI - ZULUK (40 km / 1.5 hours)

Transfer to Zuluk via Rongli, Padamchen and sightseeing on the way. Stay at Zuluk homestay.

DAY 3: ZULUK - KUPUP - OLD BABA MANDIR - ZULUK (80 Km / 5 hours)
Thambi view point, Lungthung, Kupup, Elephant lake, Memenchu lake, Old Baba Mandir. Stay at Zuluk homestay.

DAY 4: ZULUK - SILLERY GAON (74 Km / 3 hours)

DAY 5: SILLERY GAON - NJP/BAGDOGRA/SILIGURI (100 Km / 3.5 hours)

Pickup at early morning, Drop to NJP/Bagdogra/Siliguri 

PACKAGE INCLUSIONS

·       All transfers & sightseeing by Sumo/Bolero as per itinerary

·       Accommodation on twin sharing basis for 4 nights

·       Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner at hotels/homestays)

·       Permits for restricted areas

PACKAGE EXCLUSIONS

·       Airfare / train fare

·       Entry fees

·       Camera fees

·       Anything not mentioned in the ‘PACKAGE INCLUSIONS’ part.

·       Any expenses of personal nature.

Total package cost for 4 persons in 2 bed rooms = 46080/-

Package cost per person 5760/-

Adventure Camping

Namchi & Char Dham

The small town, Namchi is the epitome of culture, diversity, religion, benevolence, and also depicts the magnificence of Sikkim. Namchi is blessed with welcoming monasteries, traditional temples, lush greenery, flora, and forests. On a tour to Namchi, tourists can unveil the best kept secrets of the Himalaya. The beauty of Namchi can't be defined in a single word or phrase.

 
Namchi is fast becoming a major tourist spot and pilgrimage centre. The Namchi Monastery, Ralang Monastery and Tendong Hill are important Buddhist pilgrimage centres.

An important station associated with Namchi is the Samdruptse Hill. Folklore says that Samdruptse Hill fulfils the wishes of every tourist. On Samdruptse Hill, a tourist can see the largest statue (120 ft) of Lord Padmasambhava in the world. According to history, the hill was once a volcano sight. Saints go up the hill and pray that volcano never erupts. Myths say that the buddhist monks have been going on top of the hill and offering prayers to the volcano to keep it calm. There is also a Rock Garden just few kilometers up from the town on the way to Samdruptse. Sikkim Best Home Stay Dong Busty Home Stay just 8km away from Namchi Bazar. The Rock Garden displays a wide variety of Flora and is a local recreation and picnic spot. It offers a magnificent view of Mt. Kanchendzonga (aka Mt. Kangchenjunga, the world's third highest peak).

Statue of Guru Rinpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim. The statue in Namchi is the tallest statue of the saint in the world at 36 metres (120 ft).
Recently inaugurated (November 2011) Siddhesvara Dhaam is a unique pilgrimage tourism venture of the Sikkim Government developed as “Pilgrim cum Cultural Centre” having a 87 ft statue of Lord Shiva and replicas of four Dhaams of the country at one place at Solophok hilltop in Namchi. Char Dham, the four most revered Dhams of the Hindus have been replicated in this fantastic complex to benefit the devotees and tourists. The dream project of Chief Minister Pawan Chamling which was conceived by him and started in the year 2005 stands promisingly amidst the breadth taking surrounding of Solophok hill, befitting the mythological setting behind the establishment of the original Dhams. For the consecration of the Dham Shri Jagadguru Sankaryacharya Swami Swarupananda Saraswati in the presence of the Chief Minister Shri Pawan Chamling and his wife Smt Tika Maya Chamling did the “Pran Prastisha” of the Dham. There are replicas of the “Dwadash Jyotirlingas” (the twelve jyothirlinga) of Somnath, Mallikarjuna, Mahakaleswar, Omkareshwar, Kedarnath, Bhimashankar, Viswanath, Triambakeshwar, Vaidyanath, Nageswar, Rameshwar at Rameswaram and Grishneshwar surrounding the statue of Lord Shiva and the Char Dhams. There is a grand statue of Kirateshvar Mahadev and a temple of Shirdi Sai Baba too. One can have a view of the Mt Kanchenjunga, Statue of Guru Padmasambhava at Samdruptse, Darjeeling and other such locations from here. The Dham has stay facility for the devotees at “Yatri Niwas” which can accommodate more than 90 people at a time. The Dham has won the National Tourism Awards 2010–11 under the category of “Most Innovative/Unique Tourism Project” by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.

This is the statue of Lord Shiva at Siddhesvara Dhaam in Namchi, Sikkim. A helipad is located 5 km from town at an altitude of around 5000 ft. From here one can get the most panoramic view of Mt. Kanchanzonga with the surrounding mountain a part of Darjeeling Kalimgpong and the rolling plains of Bengal. The visitors can savour the view of temi tea garden the one and the only tea estate in the state which produces top quality tea in the international market.

Temi Tea Garden

Near the town, Sikkim's sole tea estate — the Temi Tea Garden is situated. The tea carries a premium the world over and costs around Rs. 800/- a kg. The tea is marked by its exotic odour and flavour.

In the month of February, the Namchi garden hosts it annual flower show. The flower show is the largest in Sikkim, with flowers in a riot of colours. The prime attraction of this show is the display of exotic and rare orchids.

One of the highlights of the town is the football stadium – the Baichung Stadium built by the Sikkimese government in honour of its most famous citizen, footballer Baichung Bhutia. "The Gold Cup" football tournament is held in Bhaichung Stadium almost every year. Football teams from all over India, Nepal, Bangladesh and Bhutan vie for the honour which draws lot of crowds from all over Sikkim. Namchi is also the base of the chief minister of Sikkim, Pawan Kumar Chamling.

Historically, Namchi was the place where Pende Ongmoo, the treacherous princess who poisoned one of the Chogyals of Sikkim, was caught and killed for her deed. Legend says her spirit still haunts the foothills of Ghurpisey.

Furthermore, Namchi is the land of celebrations and carnival. Every year Namchi hosts the 'The Gold Cup' football tournament at Baichung stadium. Teams from Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and all over India participate in the football tourney. In the month of February, Namchi hosts an annual flower show which exhibits rare collection of orchids. The flower show is considered as the largest in Sikkim. Additionally, in the month of October, Namchi festival is hosted by the cultural and food tourism. There's a lot more to explore in Namchi. Make your way to this subtle town and enjoy the picturesque Sikkim at its best.

How to Reach Namchi:
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra airport which is 124 km from Gangtok and 190 km from Mangan. Gangtok and Bagdogra are connected through helicopter services. From Gangtok to Namchi jeep and buses services are available.
By Rail: The nearest rail is New Jalpaiguri. It is well connected to most of the major cities in India.
By Road: Roads are good and the vast network of road in Sikkim is well connected with the rest of the destinations of the region. Gangtok is located at a distance of 124 km, Kalimpong is located at a distance of 49 km, and Darjeeling is located at a distance of 45 km from Namchi. Private buses, jeeps and taxis are also available from Siliguri and Bagdogra. Bookings can be made at the SNT terminus, Siliguri. Namchi is accessible from Gangtok, Yukosom and Pelling through NH 31A.

Best Time to visit Namchi: Summer (March to October)

Weather Information:
Summer (March to October): 13°C- 25°C
Winter (November to February): 2°C- 12°C

Where to stay:
Plenty of hotels from budget to luxury to suite every pocket. Alternative places of stay are various homestays where it is possible to have a taste of the lifestyle of the indigenous people. Homestays are located away from the busy market areas. For booking, contact us at GreenChannel.treks@gmail.com or phone us at +91-8145863495

Lataguri: The most happening place of Dooars

Lataguri is a sprawling village located in the Jalpaiguri district of Indian state of West Bengal. It is one of the villages that are located along the periphery of the Gorumara National Park. The Champramari Wildlife Sanctuary is also located nearby and permits for entering this place are also available at Lataguri. The village is located outside the Gorumara National Park on National Highway No. 31. Permits for entering Gorumara are given from Lataguri. Lataguri also has a "Nature Interpretation Center", which gives information about the flora and fauna of the area. A few roadside restaurants ("Dhabas") and hotels cater for tourists. Many new hotels and resorts with modern facilities have come up recently. There is a thick lining of Gorumara National Park along the eastern side of the Lataguri village and from the rooms different wild lives can be seen.

Gorumara jungle is a very attractive place for nature and wildlife lovers. Full of dense forests and riverine grassland, the region is home to many species of flora and fauna. Some of the animals that can be seen here are elephants, rhinoceros, sambar deer, bison, gaur, hispid hare and leopard. The park is home to a small population of Bengal tigers. This is a haven for bird watchers as there are a wide variety of birds that can be seen here, the most prominent ones being Giant asian hornbill, Peafowl and Green tailed malkoha. This park is located in the Dooars Region of Jalpaiguri district. River Murti, Jaldhaka and Ingdong passes through this national park.


In the year 1949, Gorumara Forest was declared as wildlife sanctuary when it was a small forest. Later in the year 1992, it was declared as a National Park, comprising of 89 square kms.
The wildlife, in addition to one-horned Rhinos, consists of wild Elephants, Deer, Sambhar, Barking Deer, Spotted Deer and Hog Deer, wild Pig, Gour and a number of Birds, Peafowls, etc. Tourist may visit Gorumara National Park in day time staying at Lataguri. Day visit permits to the National Park may be obtained from: Nature Interpretation Centre, Department of Forest Govt. of West Bengal), Lataguri. Quite a few watch towers are constructed in vantage points inside the national park for easy spotting of wildlife. Outside cars are not allowed inside the national park. Only petrol driven gypsey cars with special permits are allowed inside.

How to reach: Lataguri is situated in 30 km. from Jalpaiguri Town Station / 27 km.from Jalpaiguri Road Station / 25 km. from New Mal junction / 75 km.from N.J.P Railway station and 95 km. from Bagdogra Airport. Hired cars and SUVs are available at all the places.

Silk Route: The ancient trade route via Jelep La, Kupup & Zuluk

The Old Silk Route or Silk Road which passes through East Sikkim is a part of the ancient
network of trade routes which connected China to India. This route passed through Lhasa and Nathu La and Jelep La Passes, Kalimpong, and finally reached the port of Tamralipta (present Tamluk in West Bengal) from where it took to the sea and reached the wrest of the world. This Ancient Silk Route is said to have been discovered by traders as early as First Century AD.

Thambi View Point: winter view

In the modern age, trade linkages between British India and Tibet through this route was revived in the late 18th Century.  The adventurous British army mission led by Younghusband  was launched from Sikkim during 1903-04 accomplished it’s task in reaching Lhasa through the famous Old Silk Route thereby leading to 1904 convention that firmed up Anglo-Tibet trade. This ancient Silk Route was in use even a few decades ago, till the Sino-Indian War in 1962.

In the travel circuit this territory has been opened to the tourists very recently. Even now most of the route is restricted area due to its international boundary with Tibet (China) and the route is controlled by the Indian Army named as “ Cloud Warriors”.

Jelep La
Jelep La is a high altitude mountain pass at 13,999 feet linking Lhasa to India. It nestles between India and Tibet in the eastern part of the Sikkim in India. The word Jelep La is of Tibetan origin and it means “the lovely level pass”. It is truly the most level among all the passes between Sikkim and Tibet.

The beautiful Memencho Lake flows below the Jelep La Pass. One can savor the awesome sight
of the pass, while coming from New Baba Mandir to Kupup Lake, just after crossing the Memencho Lake on the GN Road. There are some small military settlements at the Jelep La Pass. The complete trail from Jelep La Pass to the Kupup Lake is visible.

At the Indian side, Jelep La features two routes. One runs through Kalimpong and the other through Gangtok. The Kalimpong route is the older one and it passes across the pristine towns of Pedong in Northern part of West Bengal, Rhenok and Kupup. The Kalimpong route has played a pivotal role in the upliftment of local economic condition, as it was used for trading furs and wool, till early last century. However, the route has been closed down after the Sino-Indian War in 1962.

Zuluk
Zuluk is an abode of peace. Located at a height of around 10,100 feet and perched on the rugged terrain of the lower Himalayas in East Sikkim, Zuluk or Juluk is a hamlet close to Indo-China border. It was once a transit point and overnight base to the historic Silk Route from Tibet to India. It is a relatively new and emerging offbeat destination in East Sikkim. This small village accommodates a population of around 700 people. There is also an Indian Army base at Zuluk, which has been used as a transit camp for the army movement to the Chinese border, a few kilometres away.  It is the very first village within this whole Silk Route circuit to offer home-stay facilities for tourists. Zuluk itself does not offer views of the snow peaks but only 14 kms away the Thambi View Point offers a panoramic view of the entire Mt. Kanchenjungha range.

Winter is severe in Zuluk with heavy to very heavy snowfall and freezing temperature while summer is wet and foggy. During the summer, Zuluk and its surrounding hills are covered with thousands of blooming rhododendron. Zuluk, during these months, is a riot of colors due to the variety of rhododendron that can be seen here.

Homestay at Zuluk

In Zuluk, there is no conventional Hotel or Resort. Some home-stays are there which run by local people with attached bath and basic necessities. But those home stay cottages are clean and hygienic. Room Heater or fire Places which are called “ Bukhari” in local language arrange by home-stay owners to make bedroom warm and comfortable.

What to see in Zuluk:
Surrounded by virgin wild forests, Zuluk is full of nature’s boon. Zuluk has large diversity of the Himalayan flora and fauna. It’s quite common to get a view of variety of birds such as Monal Peasant, Blood Peasant, Snow Peasant, Khaleez Peasant and others. You may also catch a glimpse of Himalayan Weasel or a Yellow Martin. Sighting of Red Panda, wild dog and deer in the high hills have also been recorded. While staying at Zuluk you can cover Padamchen, Lungthung, Nathang, Kupup Lake, Tukla Valley and all other spots in the Silk Route circuit in day trips.

Thambi View Point
Immediately after crossing Zuluk, your vehicle will start climbing steep mountains. The famous Zig Zag road, takes couple of dozen turns and twists to cover the 14 kms distance to Thambi view point. Located at a height of 11200 ft above the sea level, this view point offers a very clear view of  three-level Zig-Zag Road  on one side and a panaromic view of Kanchendzonga on the other side. The geometry of curves of the three level Zig Zag Raod is clearly visible on a clear day and is unique and unparalleled. The entire eastern Himalaya can be viewed from this spot including the Kanchenjunga massif. In front of you is the dense virgin forest parts of which have never been reached by human. Look out for large colourful birds such as Satyr Tragopan or the Himalayan Monal. You can also walk around and try to locate the original silk route. The stone paved road is still intact at many places.

Thambi View Point: Summer view

In winters till april, both sides of the road are coverd with snow, while in Monsoons i.e May to July, the entire range is filled with Rhodedondrons on both the sides of the road.

Lungthung
Little ahead (about 4 kms) is Lungthung at an altitude of 13,000 ft. Your steep uphill journey ends here as you will start following the mountain ridges now. The village of Lunghthung-Dhupidara located at almost 11,500 feet is perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjungha on one side and the winding roads of Zuluk on the other. The panoramic views from nearby Laxmi Chowk of the hill towns like Kalimpong, Pedong, Lava, Algarah and the sub Himalayan ranges of Sikkim and West Bengal can also be seen from here. A couple of small tea stalls can refresh you before you continue your journey further. Much of the population of Lungthung as well as other villages in the area constitutes of Tibetan migrants who had to flee their country at the time of Chinese invasion.

Tukla
About 4 kms ahead of Lungthung is Tukla, known for the battle of Tukla. A contingent of British army led by Lt. Col Francis Younghusband invaded Tibet through this route in 1903. They faced fierce resistance from the Tibetan fighters and the battle of Tukla ensued. The Tibetan soldiers suffered heavy loss in the face of British firearms. It is said that close to 2000 Tibetan soldiers lost their life in this battle. There is a memorial here remembering the British soldiers who fought and fell here.

Way to Nathang Valley

Nathang Valley
If you do not like Nathang Valley, you would not like paradise. Located at an altitude of
13,500 feet, this lush valley was the home to traditional yak herders who came from Tibet. Few streams crisscross the valley, and prayer flags flutter on the mountain edges on this vast plain of nothingness. Nathang Valley appears in different colours in different times of the year. In autumn it looks golden when the grass dries up, in rainy season it’s
covered in flowers and in winter it is buried in 5 feet of snow. Nathang Valley is also visited by migratory birds just before the onset of winter. There’s a monastery, a temple and a small bridge over a small stream in the distance dotting the valley.

Nathang falls in the middle of the Silk Route circuit and is the most scenic place to stay. There are some nice newly-built, well equipped modern homestays at Nathang Valley, which offer basic but comfortable accommodation with the very essentials like hot meals, hot water, comfy beds, room heaters, attached western bathrooms, 24-hr electricity and endless supplies of blankets. However accommodation options are more limited than in Zuluk. Also as the place is situated at a high altitude, sudden night stay without acclimatisation may lead to altitude sickness. It is also nearest (just 20 mins) to the best sunrise view points like Lungthung and Eagle’s Nest Bunker. There are numerous trek routes from Nathang too. Nathang valley is an ideal place for winter sports. This is the only place in Sikkim where you can try skiing or snow boarding.

Old Baba Mandir

Old Baba Mandir
Your next stop should be the Old Baba Mandir, which you may also visit on your way back. The Old Baba Mandir is less touristic and more authentic. The original Bunker of Baba Harbhajan Singh, dresses, bed, even the writing desk is preserved here. There is a temple in the neighbourhood in the name of Baba Harbhajan Singh.

Kupup
Kupup is 16 km away from Tukla Valley and one of the most important places on Old-Silk-
Route. If you are hungry, you may grab a few bites in the small eateries here. This place is famous due to several reasons. From Kupup Jelep-la and China border can be seen. The Yak Golf course of Indian Army here is said to be the highest in the world (13025 feet, 3970 meter). However do not expect the usual greenery of a golf course at this altitude. Kupup also has an ice hockey field. The Kupup lake locally known as Hatisure, is shaped like Hati or the elephant. Traces of  Younghusbands’s Track, who led the historical mission to Lhasa through Jelepla in 1903-04 are visible here.  This route starts near the Golf course. However the Younghusbands track is out of bound for tourists.

  Kupup is the highest village in this region and was well known transit point during the Silk trade between India and Tibet. Lhasa is only 520 km from Kupup. An environmental park is being developed here. Nice handicrafts and pottery is still available in Kupup.  Besides the natural beauty of Kupup, it’s market is also an attraction for the tourists.

Memenchu Lake
About a kilometre before you reach Baba Mandir on your left you can see the Memenchu Lake.  The road to Memenchu originates from Baba Mandir but requires special permission to reach. There is a cottage next to the lake where you may also spend a night with special arrangements.

The road further ahead connects with the famous Tsongo lake near Gangtok. From here start
your return journey back to Zuluk.

Permit:
You need to pre arrange special permit for visiting this restricted area that is issued from a place called Rangli. The permits are also issued from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. At the time of writing this article, Sikkim government has not come out with a clear policy on tourism in the area. Hence the permit related issues keep changing and please consult our travel experts for the latest update on Zuluk permit. As an absolute nessecity, you need two copies passport photograph, voter i-card or passport and their photocopy.

Where to stay:
Hotels & resorts are available at Reshi Khola and Aritar. Alternative places of stay are various homestays where it is possible to have a taste of the lifestyle of the indigenous people. Homestays are available at Zuluk, Lungthung and Nathang valley.   For booking, please contact us at GreenChannel.treks@gmail.com or phone us at +91-8145863495

Package tours:
Package tours are very popular in this region. We conduct all inclusive regular and customized package tours for all budgets at fares starting from Rs. (INR) 6000/- per head. For booking, please contact us at GreenChannel.treks@gmail.com or phone us at +91-8145863495

Kaziranga: The Wildlife Paradise

Kaziranga is the unique place where nature unwinds its pristine form in millions of hues,
where wildlife roams fearlessly, where man and nature meets together. Kaziranga National
Park is solitary among the foremost National Parks on the earth and also famous as the
wonderful wildlife destination of North East India. Situated in a distinctive geographical

Asian one horned Rhino female with cub

location, the park presents a massive range of insurmountable natural beauty. Surrounded by
Brahmaputra River on the North and the Karbi Anglong mounts in the South, the park offers a splendid scenic sight. The beautiful geographical vicinity of the park makes it heaven for
wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. The title Kaziranga adopts its name to Karbi, which is the name of a woman who ruled here in ancient time. It is the only ancient park in Assam which wraps a vast region of numerous flora and fauna.

Kaziranga National Park is situated in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of the state of
Assam, India. The sanctuary, which hosts two-thirds of the world's great one-horned
rhinoceroses is a World Heritage Site. According to the census held in March 2015, which
was jointly conducted by the Forest Department of the Government of Assam and some
recognized wildlife NGOs, the rhino population in Kaziranga National Park is 2,401. It
comprises 1,651 adult rhinos (663 male, 802 are females, 186 unsexed); 294 sub-adults (90
males, 114 females, 90 unsexed); 251 juveniles and 205 cubs. Kaziranga is home to the
highest density of tigers among protected areas in the world, and was declared a Tiger
Reserve in 2006. The park is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water
buffalo, and swamp deer. Kaziranga is recognized as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife
International for conservation of avifaunal species. When compared with other protected
areas in India, Kaziranga has achieved notable success in wildlife conservation. Located on
the edge of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, the park combines high species
diversity and visibility.

Kaziranga is a vast expanse of tall elephant grass, marshland, and dense tropical moist
broadleaf forests, crisscrossed by four major rivers, including the Brahmaputra, and the
park includes numerous small bodies of water.

Activities to do:
There is no improved mode to observe the forest flora and fauna than by taking an elephant
safari. Trampling over the lowlands at an elevation of 9-10 ft, elephant safari is an
interesting trip for visitors. We advise you to trial jeep safari at least once, which is
appropriate and safe safari in Kaziranga national park. Birdwatchers have a pleasure in
store at the Midrange of the National Park.

How to Reach:
Kaziranga can be accessed by all modes of transportation from different major cities of India. Tourists can choose their own preferred mode of available transportation by airways, railways or bus. These modes of transportation connect Kaziranga from all major cities in India.
By Air: The nearest airport is in Jorhat town which is 97 kilometers away from the
Kaziranga. Travelers can book flight to Kaziranga from Delhi, Mumbai, Gangtok and Kolkata.
The other airport is positioned at Guwahati which at a distance of 217 kilometers from
Kaziranga. You can choose to land at Guwahati and take a cab or mini bus to reach the
national park.
By Rail: Railway is the easy and inexpensive mode of transportation to Kaziranga. Kaziranga
receives trains running from all major destinations in India. The nearest railways station to Kaziranga is Furkating (80 kms), Connected by trains form Guwahati. Gauahati is the nearest (320 Km) major railway station and well connected with rest of the Indian railway station.
By Road: If you wish to travel to Kaziranga by bus then first you have to reach Guwahati or
Jorhat by rail or air and board the bus or cab to Kaziranga National Park.

The journey to Kaziranga National is comfortable and easy provided you plan your trip well

Banashree Lodge

in advance and make preparations as required.

Nearby places:
Guwahati - 193 Km
Tezpur - 51 Km

Where to Stay:
Plenty of hotels from budget to luxury to suite every pocket. Alternative places of stay
are various homestays where it is possible to have a taste of the lifestyle of the indigenous people. In Kohora (on Guwahati-Jorhat route) there is a huge campus of Assam Tourism Department just opposite to Kohora bus stop (when coming from Guwahati/Tezpur side). Here you can find a number of economical as well as deluxe accommodation in a number of tourist lodges. Other accommodations are also available in some remote places. For booking, contact us at GreenChannel.treks@gmail.com or phone us at +91-8145863495

Bagora: Bird watchers' paradise

Bagora is a wonderful small village located at an altitude of 7,150 ft in Kurseong sub division. The quaint village is well known for its variety of birds, forest of oak and pine and of course the rhododendrons. Nestled amidst pine forests and rhododendron trees with majestic views of Mt. Kanchenjungha and the meandering River Teesta, this romantic getaway will not disappoint you. Bagora is also called Zero Point and has a station of the Indian Air Force with a helipad. If you are fond of low altitude jungle treks and bird watching then Bagora can be very interesting for you.

Places to see in Bagora: You can always enjoy a nature walk along the scenic landscape of the region. You can take a short stroll from Bagora to the Air Force base alongside the Tea Gardens. The site offers a spectacular view of the vast stretch of River Teesta and breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjungha. You can also visit the Forest Rest House to savor the view of the exotic variety of Himalayan flora. You will truly treasure the sight of the nicely maintained flower garden, adorned with terraced greenhouses. Bagora is renowned for its herbal and medicinal plants. Moreover, in the months of November-December, you will find the trees bearing oranges.

Twisting road to Mahaldiram

Nearby attractions: The little village of Chimni with its surrounding valleys is just a few kilometers away. The dense pine forests surrounding this little village, a viewpoint and a dilapidated British-built chimney in a nearby village are few other things to be discovered here. From the small and rural market area of Bagora, a road goes all the way to Latpanchar and beyond. Another road at the upper level leads to the Indian Air Force station. On this route you will find a small gazebo type view point which offers magnificent view of meandering river Teesta and that of Mt. Kanchenjunga. You can also walk up to the View Point and then up to the Air Station from the Market area in about 25 minutes. Bagora is an ideal place for trekkers and bird watchers. You can take a 12km trek to Mongpu, via Labda busty, or a nice modest day trek (about 6 hours) to Senchal Lake. From near the market area of Bagora, a trail goes through forest of Dhupi and oak, and then through a place called Chaitapani and then all the way to a small hamlet called Chimney.

You can also take your vehicle along this route. View of sunset from a point in Chaitapani is simply awesome. You see the sun setting on the opposite mountain beyond the forests. Along the way at Chaitapani you will also come across a temple of goddess Kali which is well known in this area. The temple is set up in a lush garden setting with many small fluttering prayer flags around. This is where most locals in the area come for worships.

Things to do in Bagora:  There is also a nice trekking trail from Bagora to Zero point. The place is also a heaven for the avid bird watchers, as Bagora is the home to a wide variety of birds. You can also walk down the shadowy forest trail to Tiger Hill, to watch the spectacular sunrise or plan for a trek of 12-km to Mongpu. If you are planning for more than a weekend in Bagora, enjoy a three-day forest trek from Kurseong to Kalijhora via Bagora, Namthing Pokhri and Latpanchar.

Forest Rest House at Bagora

How to reach Bagora: Regular bus and car services are available between Siliguri and Darjeeling via Kurseong and Ghoom. While driving from Kurseong to Darjeeling, take a right turn at Dilaram to reach the village of Bagora by a steep road of only 3 Km. The total distance is about 15 kms from Kurseong.

Best time to visit Bagora: You can visit Bagora any time of the year. In March and April, you would find the Rhododendrons in full bloom in the surrounding forests. This is also the best time for watching birds.

Where to stay: The accommodation options offered in Bagora is limited and exclusive. The State Government operated Forest Rest House is the best place to stay in Bagora. There is only one private homestay in Bagora run by a local family. The home stay has Double Bed rooms and Four-Bedded rooms in their main building and annexe cottage. All the rooms and cottages of the homestay have western bathrooms, comfy beds, running water in bathrooms and views of Mt. Kanchenjungha, surrounding forests and the deep valleys. The home stay can also arrange for local treks, birdwatching tours and campfire in the evenings. The homestay has a lovely terrace where guests can bask in sunny mornings and lush lawn for the children to run around. The food served is home-cooked and essentially Indian cuisine. For booking, contact us at GreenChannel.treks@gmail.com or phone us at +91-8145863495

Nearby Places:
Kurseong - 13 Km
Darjeeling - 21 Km

Rishyap / Rishop : Living beside virgin forests

Rishyap is a small hamlet in the Kalimpong hills at an altitude of about 8,100 feet, very  close to Lava . Being located in the close proximity to Neora Valley National Park, the charm of staying in a hill village among chirping birds and waking up with the view of the Majestic Kanchenjunga is the primary reason behind the popularity of Rishyap. The 300 degree majestic view of mountain ranges  visible from Rishyap/Risop are (left to right) Mt.Kharg, Kokthang, Rathong, Kabroo (North, South, Dome and Forked), Talung, Pandim, Khang-Chen-DZongha, Simvo, Narsingh, Siniolchu.  Apart from the Kanchenjunga range, a visitor can also see the Sikkim, Bhutan and Nepal mountains including Jelep la from Rishyap. Nathula, the famous Indo-Chinese border that has been opened up for trade, is also visible from here.

Rishyap can be reached either by vehicle or on foot. Rishap can be reached from Lava easy trekking ( only 5 kms) or Four Wheels ( 12 kms). But the bumpy road can make the jeep journey uncomfortable. An excellent view of Kanchenjungha from 'Tiffin Dara' (Dara means ridge in local language) in Rishop attracts tourists to this place. The same place is also sometimes referred to as Sherpa Dara. There is a viewing tower at Tiffindara for better view of Rishyap and around. The deep silent forest of Pine, Birch, Fir and Orchids with soothing path following the chirps of birus & the view of big sky on the lad of snowcapped Khang-Chen-DZongha is a special gift of Rishyap. At Rishyap/Risop the night sky is bright and clear. It may seem that the stars have come closer. Far below, one can view the lights twinkling in the nearby towns and villages.



Southeast of Rishyap/Risop is the Lava monastery. The entire village is not covered by motorable road. To see the whole village, you have to walk down the mountain paths with majestic Kanchenjungha standing in front.

Over the years a number of tourist accommodations have come up at Rishyap. Almost all of the tourist accommodation are village homestay type and cannot be compared with hotels in major towns. Basic facilities are available at the place with running water, attached bath and decent food. For booking, contact us at GreenChannel.treks@gmail.com or phone us at +91-8145863495

Nearby Places:

Lava – 12 kms
Lolegaon – 32 kms
Kalimpong – 35 kms
Siliguri – 95 kms

Kumai - An offbeat destination of North Bengal.

Kumai is one of the lesser known destinations of North Bengal that is yet to be explored by nature lovers. It's a place located between some of the most reknowned tourist destinations of North Bengal like Samsing, Suntalekhola, Gorumara-Lataguri. Kumai is nearly 80 kms from NJP railway Station, 90 Km from Bagdogra airport and one can truly enjoy the ride following the diverse beauty of nature covering the high mountains and vast plains.

The place is an attractive choice for a short stay because it has connectivity to all the above destinations, so you will perfectly connected to the outside yet remaining isolated from the crowd of floating tourists. Kumai is both a tea garden, forest land and even agricultural land. The journey starts from the plains and gradually rises to the hills covered with the dense forest of Neora Valley National Park.

Apart from wide varieties of wildlife combining birds like hornbill, minivets, peacocks and many other birds, the place has all the blissful beauty of Murti river and some historical memories.

Adventure Activities at Kumai:
Whether you love the cultural exploration of foothills of Himalayas, or love to explore the dense wilderness of pristine heritage forests, Kumai has all that will add up to your adventure tour a memory of unique experience. Apart from just the adventure lovers Kumai also serves as a healing destination for people who suffer from joint pains, fractures and broken bones etc. Our ethnic medicine men, who uses the methods of herbal treatment will certainly be a wonderful visit for the travelers.

Different Adventure Options at Kumai: Wild, Cultural, Ethnological, Volunteer, etc,
1. Togtongay Trek- (Neora Valley National Park)
2. Spend the night at Jungle with the Nomadic Cowboys of Himalayan culture.
3. Volunteer options available to work for hand made- tea processing units.
4. Workshop for herbal medicinal treatment available to work with patients at a local village herbal centre.
5. River trekking, fishing and visit to cinchona plantation to learn medicinal plants processing and cultivation.


Where to stay: 
Kumai Gorkha Homestay is a home stay owned by a small family of a veteran of the Gorkha Regiment of Indian army. So, you may see a culture blended with discipline and punctuality of an Army man. The homestay serves as the best accomodation to explore Kumai and other adjacent tourism destinations of North Bengal. Located on a sweeping lanscape beside the road, the homestay offers a mesmerising view of rivers flowing through the hills and getting lost in horizon of vast plains. Above all, the culture of a true Gorkha famaily is what that heralds all the nature lovers to be a part of their family for a memorable holiday experience.

Yonzonla Homestay is another newly started homestay in the Kumai area with excellent amenities and wonderful traditional food.

For booking, contact us at GreenChannel.treks@gmail.com or phone us at +91-8145863495

Nearby places:
Samsing, Meteli, Jhalong, Chalsa, Dhupjhora, Lataguri