Bunkulung is a small village located in the Mirik region of the Darjeeling district in West Bengal, India. It is situated at an altitude of about 4,000 feet above sea level and is surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills.
The name Bunkulung is derived from the local Lepcha language and means “place of the bamboo grove.” The Lepchas are the original inhabitants of the Mirik region and have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. Bunkulung, like many other villages in the area, has a strong Lepcha presence and culture.
Bunkulung is known for its scenic beauty and peaceful environment. The village is surrounded by lush green forests, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna. The forests are also a haven for many species of birds and animals, making Bunkulung a popular destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
One of the main attractions of Bunkulung is the Bunkulung Forest Reserve, which covers an area of over 300 acres. The reserve is home to many rare and endangered species of plants and animals, including the red panda and the Himalayan black bear. Visitors to the reserve can enjoy nature walks and bird-watching, as well as camping and picnicking.
Another popular attraction from Bunkulung is the Rameetay Dara viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests. The viewpoint is located at the top of a hill and can be reached by a steep trek through the forests. The views from the top are breathtaking and well worth the effort.
Despite its remote location, Bunkulung has a thriving economy based on agriculture and tourism. The village is known for its production of tea, oranges, and cardamom. The tea gardens and orange orchards are a major attraction for tourists, who can enjoy guided tours and taste the locally produced tea and oranges.
Best Time to Visit Bungkulung
Bunkulung is a year-round destination, but winter is considered the best time to visit, especially for those who want to enjoy the beauty of orange orchards. The rainy season also has its own charm, with the verdant forest appearing even greener and fresher. Bunkulung’s temperature remains moderate throughout the year, making it pleasant to visit anytime. Additionally, the skies are mostly clear, providing an ideal environment for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Things to do in Bunkulung
- Trek through the dense forest to discover other mesmerizing scenic attractions near the settlement.
- Explore the tea factory, Tea Gardens of Murmah, and Gayabari.
- Take a short excursion to Mirik, which is only 18 km away, and visit the iconic Bokar Monastery.
- Take a leisurely stroll around the village, paddy fields, and tea gardens to experience their serenity.
- Watch the magnificent sunrise while enjoying a cup of tea.
- Spend the evening relaxing while listening to the sound of the crickets.
- Go angling in nearby rivers like Balason and Murmah Khola.
- Have a picnic on the riverbank of Balason and create sweet memories with your loved ones.
How to Reach Bunkulung
Bunkulung is located 14 km away from Siliguri on the Siliguri-Mirik highway. The nearest railway station is NJP, and the nearest airport is Bagdogra. Once you arrive, you can hire a car to reach Bunkulung. Alternatively, you can opt for tour packages to avoid the hassle of renting a vehicle and reach Bunkulung comfortably.
Where to stay
In recent years, Bunkulung has become a popular destination for Eco-tourism. The village has a number of Eco-friendly homestays, which offer comfortable accommodations and a range of activities such as bird-watching, trekking, and camping. The homestays also support the local economy by using locally sourced products and employing local people. Bunkulung is a great destination for those who love nature and peace and quiet. The beautiful forests and hills, the abundant wildlife, and the friendly locals make Bunkulung a place that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
