Sittong
North Bengal’s Hidden Gem Surrounded by Lush Orange Orchards“. Situated in the heart of North Bengal, Sitong is a quaint Lepcha hamlet known as the Orange Village. Surrounded by alpine pine forests, Sittong is an offbeat destination near Darjeeling that offers a serene ambiance and calm weather at an altitude of 4000ft. It’s the perfect place to escape the scorching summer heat of the plains region.
With its mouth-watering oranges and surreal view of Mt Kanchenjunga, Sitong has become a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique experience. Get ready to be enthralled by the beauty of Sitong, North Bengal’s hidden gem.
Sitong Sightseeing
Mahaldiram :
Mahal Diram Forest is an offbeat destination situated in the Kurseong district of West Bengal. This dense forest is located at an altitude of 4,000 feet above sea level and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The forest is spread over an area of 17 acres and is surrounded by the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. Mahal Diram Forest is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
The forest is famous for its scenic beauty, lush greenery, and wildlife. It is home to a variety of animals like barking deer, sambar deer, wild boars, and leopards. Mahal Diram forest is also home to various birds, making it a paradise for bird watchers.
One of the most popular activities to do in Mahal Diram Forest is trekking. There are several trekking routes in the forest, each offering a unique experience. One of the most popular treks is the one that leads to the Mahal Diram Waterfall.
The trek is moderately difficult, but the views of the waterfall make it all worth it. Another popular activity in Mahal Diram Forest is camping. There are several campsites in the forest, where visitors can set up their tents and spend a night in the wilderness. Camping in the forest is a great way to connect with nature and experience the beauty of the forest up close.
Mahal Diram Forest is an offbeat destination that is still relatively unknown to most tourists. However, with its breathtaking natural beauty and abundance of wildlife, it is slowly gaining popularity among adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in the lap of nature, then Mahal Diram Forest is definitely worth a visit.
Kurseong :
Kurseong is a picturesque hill station located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. Nestled in the lap of nature, Kurseong has gained popularity among tourists for its serene beauty, pleasant weather, and stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.
The town is situated at an altitude of 1458 meters and is surrounded by lush green tea gardens. Kurseong is a perfect getaway for those seeking peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is dotted with several tourist attractions, including the famous Eagle’s Crag viewpoint, Dow Hill Park, Giddapahar Durga Mata Mandir, and the Kurseong Railway Station.
The town also serves as a gateway to several offbeat destinations such as Mahal Diram Forest, Sitong, and Latpanchar.
Kurseong is also known for its tea estates, and visitors can take a tour of the tea gardens and witness the tea-making process. The town also offers a glimpse of the colonial past with its old buildings, churches, and schools. The best time to visit Kurseong is between March to June and September to December when the weather is pleasant, and the sky remains clear.
Tourists can reach Kurseong by road, rail, or air. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is about 50 km away, and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is about 53 km away. Kurseong is connected by road to major cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Kolkata.
Overall, Kurseong is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking peace and relaxation. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, Kurseong is a must-visit destination in West Bengal.
Latpanchar :
Latpanchar, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is a tranquil hamlet surrounded by lush forests and tea gardens. Its abundant biodiversity, boasting over 240 bird species, including the elusive Rufous-necked Hornbill, makes it a haven for birdwatchers.
Besides birds, visitors can also spot wild animals like elephants, leopards, black bears, and more at the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary. The best time to visit Latpanchar is between October and April when the weather is pleasant and perfect for trekking and birdwatching.
Travelers can reach Latpanchar by road, with private cars available for hire from NJP, Bagdogra, and Siliguri. The distance from Siliguri to Latpanchar is 40 km and takes approximately 2 hours to cover. Bagdogra is the nearest airport, located 52 km away, and NJP railway station is the closest major railway station, located 43 km away.
Accommodation options in Latpanchar include cozy homestays run by the locals, offering a comfortable stay amidst nature. Basic amenities like attached western bathrooms and running water are available at these homestays.
In conclusion, Latpanchar offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with its breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the simplicity of rural life.
Mungpoo :
Mungpoo, located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, is a serene and offbeat destination surrounded by picturesque tea gardens, lush green forests, and glistening rivers.
The village sits at an altitude of 1066 meters above sea level, providing awe-inspiring vistas of the Eastern Himalayas. Mungpoo, once the residence of the renowned Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, invites visitors to explore his ancestral house, now transformed into a museum.
Mungpoo is known for its beautiful orange orchards and the unique flavor of its oranges, which are a must-try when visiting this quaint village. Another popular attraction in Mungpoo is the Kurseong Bird Museum, which houses a vast collection of birds and provides an excellent opportunity for birdwatchers to explore the region’s diverse avian fauna.
Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful tea gardens of Mungpoo, which offer a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The village is also an ideal destination for adventure enthusiasts, as it offers a range of exciting activities like hiking, camping, and mountain biking.
The nearby Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary is a popular spot for wildlife lovers. Travelers can spot animals like elephants, tigers, leopards, and deer. To reach Mungpoo, visitors can take a taxi or bus from Siliguri or Darjeeling, both of which are well-connected to other major cities. The best time to visit Mungpoo is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
Visitors can stay in comfortable homestays and guesthouses in the village. This offers a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and hospitality.
Bagora :
Bagora, located in the Kurseong district of West Bengal, India, is an enchanting offbeat destination that attracts travelers. Perched at an altitude of 7,000 ft, this scenic hamlet offers mesmerizing views of hills and valleys.
Bagora is a haven for nature lovers, trekkers, and adventure enthusiasts. It provides a peaceful escape from city life, surrounded by dense forests of pine, oak, and rhododendron.
The renowned Bagora Tea Garden is a major attraction, offering a panoramic view of the valley. Visitors can enjoy a tranquil stroll and learn about the tea-making process while savoring some of the finest tea produced in the region.
Within 10 km lies the Tinchuley viewpoint, which offers a captivating sight of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. Bagora’s pleasant weather and serene atmosphere are perfect for long walks, birdwatching, or simply unwinding in tranquil surroundings.
Accommodation options in Bagora are limited but offer a unique experience of staying close to nature and immersing in local culture and hospitality.
In conclusion, Bagora is a hidden gem gaining popularity among travelers seeking offbeat destinations. With its serene environment, breathtaking views, and diverse activities, Bagora is a must-visit in the Darjeeling district.
Top Activities to Enjoy in Sittong
To make the most of your trip to Sittong, here are some things you can do. Take a leisurely stroll around the village and immerse yourself in the serene natural surroundings. This village is famous for Sittong Viewpoint. Visit the Sitong Viewpoint near the church for a panoramic view of the lush orange orchards.
If you are a bird lover, then Sitong is a paradise for you. The oranges of Sitong attract many different bird species, making it an ideal destination for avid birdwatchers. You can spend hours watching and capturing photographs of the beautiful birds that flock to this orange village. So, don’t forget to bring your camera and binoculars.
Accommodation in Sitong
If you’re planning a trip to Sittong, don’t worry about where to stay. There are plenty of homestays available for accommodation. The Church Guest House in Sitong has been recently renovated and now offers modern amenities for visitors. There are also several cozy homestays in Sitong that offer a warm and hospitable stay. Moreover, visitors can relish fresh organic vegetables during their stay in Sitong.
How to reach Sitong/Sittong
If you are planning a trip to Sitong, you can reach this offbeat destination via various modes of transportation.
By Road: Sittong is well connected to Siliguri and other nearby towns. One can hire a private car or taxi from NJP, Bagdogra, or Siliguri to reach Sitong. The journey from Siliguri to Sitong takes approximately 2.5 hours and covers a distance of 47 km.
By Rail: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest major railway station to Sittong. NJP is well connected with all the major cities of India. From NJP, one can hire a car or taxi to reach Sitong, which is approximately 40 km away.
By Air: The nearest airport to Sittong is Bagdogra Airport. Bagdogra airport is well connected with all the major cities of India. From Bagdogra airport, one can hire a car or taxi to reach Sitong, which is approximately 52 km away.
Best time to visit Sittong
For an idyllic retreat to the serene village of Sitong, the best time to visit is between October and April. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the sky remains clear.
Enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding orange orchards and the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga. This is also an ideal time for bird watching as many migratory birds flock to the region during this season. However, Sitong can be visited throughout the year as each season has its own charm.
