West Bengal This July: Explore 5 Mountain Towns Worth Visiting

The summer heat can be relentless, but West Bengal offers a refreshing escape in its picturesque mountain towns. Nestled amidst verdant hills and pristine forests, these destinations beckon adventurers and nature lovers alike with their breathtaking trekking trails, serene ambiance, and stunning Himalayan vistas. This July, embark on an unforgettable journey through the state's hidden gems, where tranquillity meets awe-inspiring natural beauty.

Hill Stations Near West Bengal

Sandakphu and Phalut Trek

According to Travel+Leisure magazine, the Sandakphu trek in Darjeeling district, at an altitude of 3,636 metres, offers mesmerising views of the 'Sleeping Buddha' range, including the four highest peaks of the world, Mt Everest, Kangchenjunga, Makalu, and Lhotse. The trek begins from Manebhanjan and traverses through the Singalila National Park, providing opportunities to spot exotic wildlife like red pandas, barking deer, and leopards.

How to Reach:

• Take a taxi from NJP station or Bagdogra airport to Manebhanjan.
• The 32 km trek from Manebhanjan takes 2-3 days.

Neora Valley Trek

Travel+Leisure magazine recommends the Neora Valley trek in Kalimpong district, which takes you through the pristine forests of the Neora Valley National Park. The trek begins from the hamlet of Lava and leads to the Rachela pass, offering stunning views of Mt. Kangchenjunga, Nathula range, and the towns of Darjeeling and Gangtok.

How to Reach:

• Lava is accessible by road from NJP, Bagdogra, and Kalimpong.
• Jeep safaris are available to enter the national park.
• Alternative routes start from Suntalekhola, near Samsing in the Dooars region.

Samthar-Purbikhola Trek

As per Travel+Leisure magazine, the Samthar-Purbikhola trek in Kalimpong district takes you through scenic villages, tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls, offering gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga range. The trek begins from Samthar village and ends at Purbikhola, with a stopover at the hamlet of Ponbu.

How to Reach:

• Samthar village is accessible by road from NJP railway station and Bagdogra airport.
• Alternatively, take a scenic drive from Kalimpong via Rili and Sinji valleys.
• From Lava, take the route via Loleygaon.

Bamunpukhuri Jungle Trek

According to Travel+Leisure magazine, the Bamunpukhuri Jungle Trek, located near Siliguri, offers a stunning Himalayan experience. The trek begins from Gridhura and leads through dense forests and aromatic tea gardens, providing a refreshing escape amidst the north-eastern Himalayas.

How to Reach:

• Gridhura is accessible by road from NJP station or Bagdogra airport.

Gorkhey Trek

Travel+Leisure magazine recommends the Phalut-Srikhola-Rammam-Gorkhey trek, which offers a glimpse into the simple life and culture of north Bengal. The trek starts from Phalut and goes through dense forests, villages, and the tranquil Gorkhey village, where you can experience a homestay and enjoy local hospitality.

How to Reach:

• Take the route from Phalut to Srikhola, then Rammam, and finally Gorkhey.
• Alternatively, descend via Samanden to Ribdi or take the route to Bhareng from Gorkhey, both of which are connected by roads to NJP or Siliguri station.

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Image Courtesy: Wikipedia