North Bengal, with its diverse landscape and cultural heritage, is a paradise for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. From snow-capped mountains to dense forests, the region offers a wide range of offbeat tourist places that are still unexplored by many. In this article, we will take you on a journey to explore the top offbeat tourist places in North Bengal that are worth visiting.
1. Lepchajagat
Lepchajagat, a small hamlet located at an altitude of 6,956 feet, is a hidden gem in North Bengal. Surrounded by dense forests and tea gardens, it offers a breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga range. The place is also a paradise for bird watchers, with a variety of Himalayan birds making their home here.
2. Jhandi
Jhandi, a small village in the Kalimpong district, is another offbeat tourist place that offers a stunning view of the Himalayas. The village, embraced by pine forests, presents numerous trekking trails that lead to picturesque viewpoints. It is renowned for its orange orchards and offers an ideal escape for nature lovers.
3. Tinchuley
Tinchuley, located near Darjeeling, is a picturesque hamlet that offers a stunning view of the Kanchenjunga range. The village is encircled by tea gardens and orange orchards, providing multiple trekking trails to stunning viewpoints. It is famous for its homestays, offering an authentic immersion into the local culture.
4. Samsing
Samsing, located in the Jalpaiguri district, is a serene village that offers a perfect escape from city life. The village is enveloped by tea gardens and features numerous trekking trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls. It is renowned for its wildlife sanctuary, which shelters several endangered species of birds and animals.
5. Bindu
Bindu, located near the Indo-Bhutan border, is a small village that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The village is surrounded by hills and offers a stunning view of the Jaldhaka River. The place is also known for its cardamom plantations and offers a perfect escape for those looking to explore the local culture.
6. Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary
Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Jalpaiguri district, is a paradise for wildlife lovers. The sanctuary is home to several species of animals, including elephants, tigers, and rhinoceros. The place also offers several trekking trails that lead to some beautiful viewpoints and waterfalls.
7. Neora Valley National Park
Neora Valley National Park, located in the Kalimpong district, is a biodiversity hotspot that offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. The park is home to several endangered species of animals, including the red panda and clouded leopard. The place also offers several trekking trails that lead to some beautiful viewpoints.
8. Lava
Lava, located in the Kalimpong district, is a small hamlet that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Surrounded by dense forests, the place offers a mesmerizing view of the Kanchenjunga range. The village is renowned for its monastery, providing an insightful glimpse into the local culture.
9. Rimbik
Rimbik, located in the Darjeeling district, is a small village that offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. This serene destination is renowned for its trekking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints, including the majestic Sandakphu Peak. Surrounded by dense forests, it offers a tranquil atmosphere for travelers seeking an escape from city life.
10. Rocky Island
Rocky Island, located in the Kalimpong district, is a small village that offers a perfect escape for adventure lovers. The place is known for its adventure sports activities such as rafting, camping, and trekking. The village is also surrounded by dense forests and offers a beautiful view of the Teesta River.
11. Suntalekhola
Suntalekhola, located in the Darjeeling district, is a beautiful village that offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. Surrounded by dense forests, the place has numerous trekking trails that lead to exquisite waterfalls. The village is famous for its suspension bridge, which provides a magnificent view of the surrounding hills.
12. Gorumara National Park
Gorumara National Park, located in the Jalpaiguri district, is a paradise for wildlife lovers. The park is home to several species of animals, including elephants, rhinoceros, and bison. The place also offers several trekking trails that lead to some beautiful viewpoints and waterfalls.
13. Loleygaon
Loleygaon, located in the Kalimpong district, is a small village that offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. Surrounded by dense forests, the place offers a breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga range. The village is also renowned for its canopy walk, providing visitors with the unique experience of walking on a hanging bridge.
14. Mongpu
Mongpu, located in the Darjeeling district, is a small village that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Surrounded by hills, the place provides a mesmerizing view of the surrounding valleys. The village is also famous for its Rabindranath Tagore museum, offering visitors an insight into the life of the Nobel laureate.
15. Kalijhora
Kalijhora, located in the Darjeeling district, is a beautiful village that offers a perfect escape for nature lovers. Surrounded by dense forests, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary offers visitors several trekking trails that lead to stunning waterfalls. The village is renowned for its hydroelectric power station, providing a unique opportunity to learn about renewable energy.
In conclusion, North Bengal is a treasure trove of offbeat tourist places that offer a perfect escape from city life. From serene villages to wildlife sanctuaries, the region offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to explore the unexplored gems of North Bengal.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit North Bengal?
The best time to visit North Bengal is between October and May when the weather is pleasant and dry.
- Is it safe to visit the offbeat tourist places in North Bengal?
Yes, it is safe to visit the offbeat tourist places in North Bengal. However, it is advisable to take necessary precautions while traveling in the hilly terrain.
- How to reach North Bengal?
North Bengal is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Bagdogra, and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri.
- What is the local cuisine of North Bengal?
North Bengal is known for its delicious momos, thukpas, and noodles. The region is also famous for its tea and coffee plantations.
- What are the must-visit places in North Bengal?
Some of the must-visit places in North Bengal are Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Gangtok, Lepchajagat, and Neora Valley National Park.