Here’s a detailed guide on the last villages of West Bengal, including how to reach them, the best time to visit, things to do, and accommodation options.
1. Pangakhua (Easternmost Village) – Kalimpong District
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport – Bagdogra Airport (130 km)
- By Train: Nearest railway station – New Jalpaiguri (NJP) (120 km)
- By Road: Drive via Kalimpong Town and Lava. Hiring a local vehicle is recommended due to the hilly terrain.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to May (Pleasant weather, clear skies)
- Avoid monsoon (June to September) due to landslides.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Bhutan border area.
- Visit the Neora Valley National Park for wildlife and trekking.
- Experience Lepcha culture and traditions.
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas.
Accommodation:
- Lava and Loleygaon: Homestays and eco-resorts available.
- Kalimpong: Hotels and lodges with better facilities.
2. Bantir (Westernmost Village) – Purulia District
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport – Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi (90 km)
- By Train: Nearest railway station – Purulia Junction (80 km)
- By Road: Well-connected by roads from Purulia and Jhalda.
Best Time to Visit:
- November to February (Best for sightseeing and adventure)
- Avoid peak summer (April to June) due to high temperatures.
Things to Do:
- Trek to Ayodhya Hills for breathtaking views.
- Visit Pakhi Pahar (Bird Hill) for rock art.
- Explore Bamni Falls and Khairabera Dam.
- Enjoy local tribal festivals and Chhau dance.
Accommodation:
- Stay in Purulia town or Ayodhya Hills resorts.
- Basic homestays are available in nearby villages.
3. Lepcha Gaon (Northernmost Village) – Kalimpong District
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport – Bagdogra Airport (100 km)
- By Train: Nearest railway station – New Jalpaiguri (NJP) (90 km)
- By Road: Drive from Kalimpong town via Algarah and Lava.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to April (Best for clear views and trekking)
- Monsoon (June to August) is not recommended due to heavy rains.
Things to Do:
- Enjoy stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
- Visit the Lepcha Heritage Museum.
- Explore Silent Valley for its peace and beauty.
- Trek to Kolakham and Rishop for nature trails.
Accommodation:
- Lava and Loleygaon: Budget-friendly homestays and guesthouses.
- Kalimpong town: Luxury resorts and mid-range hotels.
4. Mousuni Island (Southernmost Village) – South 24 Parganas
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport – Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Airport, Kolkata (130 km)
- By Train: Nearest railway station – Namkhana (25 km)
- By Road & Ferry: Take a bus to Namkhana, then a ferry to Mousuni Island.
Best Time to Visit:
- November to March (Ideal for beach activities)
- Avoid monsoon (June to September) due to flooding risks.
Things to Do:
- Relax on Mousuni Beach.
- Enjoy seafood and local cuisine.
- Experience camping under the stars.
- Explore the Sundarbans Delta nearby.
Accommodation:
- Beachside eco-resorts and camps.
- Limited homestay options in nearby villages.
5. Turturi Village (Northeasternmost Village) – Alipurduar District
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport – Bagdogra Airport (175 km)
- By Train: Nearest railway station – Alipurduar Junction (45 km)
- By Road: Accessible via Alipurduar town and the Buxa forest area.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to April (Cool weather, best for sightseeing)
- Avoid monsoon (June to August) due to heavy rainfall.
Things to Do:
- Explore the Buxa Tiger Reserve and its wildlife.
- Visit the Turturi Hill and tea gardens.
- Experience local Bodo and Rajbanshi tribal culture.
- Take a river walk along the Torsa River.
Accommodation:
- Alipurduar town offers hotels and lodges.
- Jungle resorts near Buxa provide a more immersive experience.
Final Thoughts:
Each of these villages offers a unique experience, whether it’s Himalayan landscapes, tribal heritage, beach camping, or wildlife exploration. Which one are you planning to visit? Let me know if you need more details! 🚗🏔️🏕️
