KALIMPONG CLASSIC TOUR

Your journey begins with a warm welcome from our representative at NJP Railway Station, Bagdogra Airport, or Siliguri Bus Stand. From here, you’ll be escorted towards Rishop via Gorubthan and Damdim. Arrival in Rishop, which is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is an offbeat gem in Darjeeling. Known for its deep pine forests and rare species of flora and fauna, Rishop is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The village is situated just 9 km from Lava, offering stunning panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other snow-capped peaks.

Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, enjoying the scenic beauty of Lava, Lolegaon, and Rishop. This area is perfect for leisurely walks, nature photography, or simply relaxing in the tranquil surroundings. Settle in for the night at your hotel or homestay in Rishop, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this beautiful destination.

Begin your day with a soft trek to Tiffindara, a 3 km uphill journey through dense forests. The trek offers a memorable experience as you pass through serene pine, birch, fir, and orchid-filled landscapes, accompanied by the chirping of birds. At the summit, Tiffindara provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other majestic peaks such as Mt. Kharg, Kokthang, Rathung, Kabroo, Talung, Pandim, Simvo, Narsingh, and Siniolchu. The panoramic vistas are a reward for the trek, making the effort worthwhile.

Following breakfast, travel to Kalimpong, a picturesque hill station renowned for its views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and lush valleys. The local sightseeing tour in Kalimpong includes:

• Dr. Graham’s Homes: Founded in 1900 by Dr. J A Graham, this missionary school was initially established as an orphanage and school for destitute Anglo-Indian children. It remains a significant historical site.

• Deolo Hill: A major attraction featuring manicured gardens and viewpoints offering breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Durpin Hill, Kalimpong Township, and the surrounding valleys and rivers.

• Mangal Dham: A temple complex dedicated to Lord Krishna, built in memory of Guruji Mangal Das Ji.

• Durpin Monastery: Also known as Zang Dog Palri Monastery, it was established in 1972 and houses rare Buddhist scripts brought from Tibet by the Dalai Lama. The monastery offers stunning views of the town and surrounding landscapes.

After exploring Kalimpong, proceed to Lolegaon, a quaint village in the Kalimpong Subdivision. Known for its natural beauty and tranquility, Lolegaon is a prime spot for village tourism. Upon arrival, visit the Eco Tourism Park, where a giant statue of Lord Buddha greets visitors. Conclude the day with an overnight stay at a local hotel or homestay in Lolegaon, surrounded by the peaceful ambiance of the village.

Begin your day with a visit to Changi Falls, also known as Changey or Chaney Falls. This scenic waterfall is nestled deep within the Darjeeling Hills and is accessible via a 3 km jeep ride followed by a 1.5 km walk down a well-maintained staircase. The descent to the falls includes rest huts where you can pause and enjoy the surroundings. Changi Falls is a stunning natural wonder, surrounded by lush greenery and the serene sounds of the forest. The journey to the falls is made even more memorable by the presence of rare tropical birds like wagtails and minivets, which add a vibrant touch to the experience.

Following your visit to Changi Falls, explore the Neora Valley Forest. This dense, tropical forest is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. A jungle safari by jeep or a trek through the forest provides a unique opportunity to encounter the rich biodiversity of the region, including rare bird species and diverse flora. The deep forest, with its rich sounds and sights, offers a captivating experience for all visitors. For those seeking more adventure, there is an option for a trek towards Aritar, though this requires special permission from the Lava Interpretation Centre.

After your exploration of the Neora Valley Forest, head towards the town of Lava. The journey to Lava is relatively short, about 9 km and takes approximately 1 hour. Once in Lava, you have the rest of the day free to relax and unwind. This town is known for its peaceful ambiance and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal place to rest after a day of sightseeing.

Spend the night in a hotel or homestay in Lava, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the mountains and prepare for the next day’s adventures. Lava serves as a gateway to further exploration in the region, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Start your day with a visit to the Lava Monastery, also known as Ratnashri Bihar Buddhist Gompa. Located in the serene town of Lava, this monastery is a significant spiritual center founded by Karma Lodra Rimpoche. The monastery, built using brick and concrete, sits beside the picturesque Neora Reservoir Lake, offering a tranquil environment for meditation and reflection. Over the years, the monastery has expanded its facilities to accommodate the growing number of devotees and monks. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the scenic backdrop, makes it a perfect place for visitors to experience the spiritual and cultural essence of the region.

After your visit to the monastery, proceed towards your departure point, whether it be NJP (New Jalpaiguri Railway Station), Siliguri, or Bagdogra Airport. The journey offers one last chance to take in the beautiful landscapes of the region. This tour of Lava, Lolegaon, Rishop, and Kalimpong will leave you with lasting memories of the breathtaking views, serene monasteries, and the unique cultural experiences of the Eastern Himalayas.

As you depart, carry with you the peaceful and rejuvenating experiences from your journey, with the hope of returning to these tranquil hills in the future.