Off Beat Darjeeling

Gorkhey is a gorgeous valley village in the district of Darjeeling. It is situated strategically between Darjeeling and Sikkim, and is one of those rare places that’s still untouched by tourism. Surrounded by thick pine forests and a small river flowing through it known as Gorkhey Khola (which marks the boundary between Sikkim and West Bengal), Gorkhey is a natural wonder at its best. There are approximately 30 families residing in this village and they are mostly dependent on agriculture, but some of the villagers have come up with an idea of running the home stay which has been flourishing with the increase number of the visitors. There is also a beautiful trekker hut maintained by GTA tourism department. The visitors here are mostly the trekkers descending from Phalut to rest here overnight and heads further towards Ribdi or Srikhola. Gorkhey is one of the least heard traveled destinations in Darjeeling hills and is a valley surrounded by thick pine forest and a small river flowing in between. The river is known as Gorkehy Khola, which separates the boundary between Sikkim and West Bengal. Population in Gorkhey is quite on the lower side with only 30 families’ residing in this village. While most of the populations are dependent on agriculture, some have come with the idea of running a homestay. People in the valley are very friendly and welcome their visitors with great respect. If you are someone who wants to spend some lone time in the lap of Mother Nature, Gorkhey is where you should be. If you have a love for remote places and barren panoramas then you are in for finding the elixir! Why Visit Gorkhey? Gorkhey is a popular stop on the Singalila Ridge Trek, attracting nature lovers, trekkers, birdwatchers, and photographers. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, experience the warm hospitality of local communities, explore rich biodiversity, and soak in breathtaking views of the Eastern Himalayas. Its peaceful environment and untouched landscapes make Gorkhey an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and an authentic mountain experience. Reach Out for Enquiries Full Name* Phone* E-Mail ID* Address Message Best Time to Visit Gorkhey Spring (March to May): Ideal for viewing rhododendrons in full bloom and enjoying clear, breathtaking mountain vistas. Autumn (September to November): Offers the crispest skies and the best panoramic views of the mighty snow peaks. Accommodation Homestays & Huts: There are roughly 30 families in the valley. Many run cozy, welcoming homestays for weary travelers. There is also a well-maintained Trekkers’ Hut managed by the GTA (Gorkhaland Territorial Administration) tourism department. How to Reach By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, approximately 95 km from Manebhanjan, the gateway to Gorkhey. By Rail: The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), well connected to major cities across India. From NJP, travelers can hire a taxi to Manebhanjan. By Road: Manebhanjan is about 26 km from Darjeeling and can be reached by shared or private vehicles. From Manebhanjan, visitors can either trek through the scenic Singalila trails or travel by local Land Rover routes via Tumling and Kalipokhri to reach Gorkhey.

Tonglu, A small village between Manebhanjyang and Sandakphu in the Darjeeling district. Tonglu is actually one of the peaks of Singalila range and is situated at an altitude of 3070 meters.A small settlement and a mountain hamlet, Tonglu is along the route to Sandakphu and falls under the Darjeeling district. Tonglu is the perfect retreat to unwind and/or explore the mountains. A trek through a forest in the eastern Himalayas, a panoramic view of snow-covered peaks such as the Kanchenjunga, Pandim and the Makalu, a picturesque trekkers’ hut and solitude — Tonglu promises much and delivers for the most part. Why Visit Tonglu? Enjoy the panoramic view of mount Kanchenjunga from tonglu view point, one can also explore tumling village. Tumling is a Gurung village in Nepal side which is 2.5 km far from tonglu. Trekking lovers can go for short hike till dhotre, a small village below tonglu. Tonglu is also famous for red panda sightseeing, bird watching and medicinal plants. Best Time to Visit Tonglu The best time to visit Tonglu is from October to April, when the weather is pleasant and the mountain views are at their finest. October – November: Clear skies, crisp weather, and stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. December – February: Cold winter months with chances of frost and occasional snowfall. March – April: Blooming rhododendrons and vibrant Himalayan landscapes make it ideal for nature lovers and trekkers. June – September: Monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and slippery trekking trails, making it less suitable for travel. Reach Out for Enquiries Full Name* Phone* E-Mail ID* Address Message Accommodation GTA (Gorkha Territorial Administration) trekkers hut at Tonglu is where the trekkers and travelers usually spend their first night. There is also the District Magistrate Bungalow which can be booked from Darjeeling dm office. How to Reach & Stay Drive to maneybhanjyang from Darjeeling which is 25 km, from maneybhanjyang you have to hire a landrover vehicle and drive up to tonglu which is another 11 km. Nearest Airport is Bagdogra Airport ( 93km) Nearest Railway station is NJP ( 95 km)

Dhotrey is one of a beautiful forest village in Darjeeling district, it is situated in buffer zone of Singalila National Park at a altitude of 8550 ft.105 Km from NJP and 44 km from Darjeeling, dhotrey is upcoming rural tourism destination for travelers. It is situated close to Singalila National Park under Darjeeling district. This place is known to a few of the North Bengal lover tourists. As it is a little bit popular now days, some small shops for regular belonging, home stays for accommodation and some public vehicle for transportation available. But still, the natural beauty of the place did not diminish. A lot of Pine trees make the place eye-catching. The stunning beauty of Kanchenjunga is visible from here in a clear sky which is the added attraction of Dhotre. The village can be seen by a little casual walk. To gather some peace and concentration in the mind in a calm and quiet environment, some time can be spent in a local temple of Lord Shiva. Enjoy the beauty of the mountain range up to the eyesight from the nearby viewpoint. A lot of floating cloud is very charming in monsoon. The unforgettable beauty of the sunset from the viewpoint will definitely take place in the mind forever. The mind will be more refresh by hearing the chirping music of the variety of birds throughout the day. If there is a desire to see the variety of flower-like Rhododendron, Magnolia, or different type of orchids, then the ideal time to visit the place is in-between the month of March and May. One can even go for 4 km hike upto tonglu , Situated at an altitude of 10,130 ft Tonglu is a small settlement on the way to Sandakphu from Manebhanjyang in Darjeeling district. Why Visit Dhotrey? Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the Kanchenjunga range (the “Sleeping Buddha” formation). Trekking & Nature Trails: The village is surrounded by dense pine forests and serves as the starting point for a lush, 7 km forest trail to Tonglu. It is also highly regarded for bird watching and spotting diverse flora like rhododendrons and magnolias. Cultural Highlights: Features a tranquil local Tibetan Buddhist monastery renovated by the Rumtek authorities. Peaceful Retreat: Unlike bustling towns, Dhotrey provides a serene escape, offering basic but cozy homestays where you can enjoy authentic Tibetan/local food like momos and thukpa. Reach Out for Enquiries Full Name* Phone* E-Mail ID* Address Message Best Time to Visit October to February: Provides the clearest skies for unobstructed views of the snow-capped Himalayan peaks. You may even experience snowfall in January. March to May: The perfect season to see the forests and valleys bloom with colorful rhododendrons, magnolias, and orchids. How to Reach & Stay Accommodation: The village features only a few dozen small huts and homestays, maintaining its secluded vibe. Travel: The nearest major transit hubs are the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) and Bagdogra Airport (IXB), both located roughly 100–105 km away (a drive of about 3.5 to 4 hours).