D's Travelogue

Dhanyakuria Travel Guide: Places to Visit, How to Reach & Stay

2026-10-12T01:26:40.426+05:30

Published: October 2026 | Last updated: October 2026

Discover Dhanyakuria, Bengal’s atmospheric “Village of Castles.”

Looking for a different kind of weekend trip from Kolkata?

If you ask this question to travel enthusiasts, most of the people would answer about sea beaches, mountains, or forests. Majority of the travelers who look for amazing weekend trips from Kolkata head either to the mountains in the north, to the sea beaches in the south, or to the Sundarbans. However, these are not different or unique. When searching for something really exclusive, only a few of the tourists turn towards Dhanyakuria - a quiet hamlet in North 24 Parganas where the highway suddenly turns to open on to a gothic gateway, a three-storeyed tower with Islamic arches, or a rooftop full of stucco "dolls" looking down at the road.

Dhanyakuria, often called the Village of Castles of Bengal, is located at a distance of only about 55 kilometers from the city of Kolkata. It is village where a European Gothic gateway seems to appear suddenly in the Bengal countryside.

To know about the great experience that we had during our day trip at Dhanyakuria, visit the post on Dhanyakuria Day Trip.

This complete Dhanyakuria travel guide helps you plan your visit to Dhanyakuria by providing information on:

How to go to Dhanyakuria?
Where to stay in Dhanyakuria?
Where to eat while visiting Dhanyakuria?
What to see and how to plan the day?

Dhanyakuria at a Glance

Detail	Information
Location	Near Berachampa and Deganga, North 24 Parganas, West Bengal
Distance from Kolkata	About 55 km (roughly 2 hours by car, depending on traffic)
Known for	Zamindar mansions, the Gaine Castle (Gaine Baganbari), Gaine Rajbari, Sawoo Rajbari, European-influenced architecture, Durga Puja
Best time to visit	November to February
Ideal duration	One full day (add Chandraketugarh and Taki for a longer trip)
Nearest towns	Berachampa, Barasat, Basirhat, Taki
Nearest airport	Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (about 2 hours by road)
Entry fee	No ticket for walking around the village; some mansions are closed or need permission
Accommodation	Only the Sau Rajbari offers accommodation at the heritage mansion. If rooms are not available, you can stay in Basirhat, Taki, Barasat, or Kolkata, and visit from there.

Why Visit Dhanyakuria?

India has no shortage of heritage towns. There are many in West Bengal itself. Bishnupur has its terracotta temples. Murshidabad has its nawabi palaces. Shantiniketan has the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore.

What makes Dhanyakuria different is the concentration of grand private mansions in a single village, far from any city. Most of these mansions were built by trading families who prospered in the 18th and 19th centuries dealing in jute.

Dhanyakuria is primarily a day-trip destination from Kolkata. We also had gone to Dhanyakuria on a day trip. Remember, there is no luxury resort in the hamlet. However, the Sau Rajbari or the Sawoo Rajbari has recently opened two rooms as Heritage Homestays and are accepting guests.

Here is what we found Dhanyakuria offers:

A genuine architectural surprise. Corinthian pillars, stucco work, arched balconies, family coats of arms, sculpted European heads, and sentry towers appear like magic in the middle of a rural landscape.
A photographer's paradise. Crumbling facades, overgrown lawns, ponds that mirror the old, majestic buildings, and old iron gates make for atmospheric photographs.
A day trip without crowds. Unlike popular weekend spots, you may find yourself nearly alone in front of a castle.
Historical sites nearby. Dhanyakuria is not far from Chandraketugarh, a 2,500-year-old archaeological site, and the town of Taki lying on the banks of Ichamati river.
A cultural glimpse. If you visit during Durga Puja, the family pujas held in the old mansions offer a grand and rare experience.

If you enjoy lesser-known places like Dhanyakuria, you're surely going to find the list of offbeat tourist places in West Bengal interesting!

A Brief History of Dhanyakuria

The area where Dhanyakuria lies today, was a part of the Sundarbans about three centuries ago. There were forests and saline creeks all around. At around 1742, a man named Jagannath Das settled here with his family after clearing a patch of the forest. Other families followed. In about a century, a village took shape here.

Several of these families became prosperous through trade. Among the best known are the Gaines, the Sawoos (also spelt Sahoo or Sau), the Ballavs, and the Mandals. Some accounts say the Gaine patriarch, Ramkishore Gaine, arrived around 1820. Their wealth came largely from trade, including rice and sugarcane, and later from industry, including jute. The Gaines, in particular, are remembered as industrialists with jute mills.

With all the money that these families earned, they did one thing in common. They built. At a time when the British were adding grand buildings to Calcutta, these wealthy landowners and traders at Dhanyakuria were building their own dream houses and garden retreats (baganbaris) in the countryside. The architecture of these houses and baganbaris borrowed heavily from European architecture. The result: a village where a castle, a palace, and several mansions stand within a short distance of one other.

The same families also invested in the community. Local histories credit them with the establishment of an English-medium school in the 1880s, a girls' school and a charitable hospital in the 1890s, and a public library in the 1930s. If you spot an old school building or library as you drive around, look closely - several of these public buildings share the fusion architecture of the mansions.

Today, many of the mansions are closed or only partly maintained. Descendants of the original families mostly live in Kolkata and other cities, and come back for special occasions, especially Durga Puja. That atmosphere of faded grandeur is a large part of the charm.

Best Time to Visit Dhanyakuria

If you're planning to visit Dhanyakuria, remember that the best time to visit is between November and February. During that time, the weather is pleasant with a chill in the air and the sky is usually clear for photography. Walking from one mansion to another is comfortable. This is also the season for fresh date-palm jaggery, which is quite popular in this area of West Bengal.

Try to avoid March to May for the hot and humid weather, and from June to September for monsoon, when the lanes usually get muddy and it's difficult to walk around.

One of the best times to visit Dhanyakuria is autumn, during Durga Puja (usually late September to October). The whole village celebrate the festivals. Traditional Durga Puja is organized in Gaine Rajbari and Sau Rajbari, and the large courtyard or thakurdalan of the Gaine Rajbari comes alive. This is the best time to visit Dhanyakuria if you want to see the mansions at their liveliest. However, if you're visiting during this time, expect crowds on the roads and it might take a long time to reach Dhanyakuria from Kolkata. Taki, not far away, is also famous for the Bijaya Dashami immersion on the Ichamati river, where boats from both sides of the India-Bangladesh border meet.

How to Reach Dhanyakuria from Kolkata

Kolkata to Dhanyakuria by Car (Best Option)

A car is by far the most convenient way to go to Dhanyakuria, because the mansions are spread out and public transport inside the village is limited. The distance from Kolkata to Dhanyakuria is about 55 km and the drive usually takes around two hours.

The route we followed on our own trip was:

Start from south or central Kolkata and head towards Science City.
Drive through Rajarhat and pass Kharibari.
Turn right onto Taki Road near Deganga.
Continue past Berachampa, where Chandraketugarh is located.
Take a left near Nehalpur to reach Dhanyakuria.

The village or hamlet sits along the Kolkata-Basirhat road corridor, and the Gaine Castle is right on the road. So, you will not miss it once you are close. For the return, we took the Basanti Highway via Basanti and Minakhan, which gives a scenic rural drive back, though you can simply return the way you came if you prefer a familiar road.

Tips for driving:

Start early. It will be extremely good if you can leave Kolkata by 7 am. This will ensure that you avoid city traffic. Besides, you'll get the perfect light of early morning, against which the castles will look wonderful.
Google Maps can come in handy while going to Dhanyakuria. However, it is better to confirm with the local people.
Fill up your car's fuel tank before you leave the main road. Petrol pumps are not frequent in the interior.
You can usually park by the roadside near the mansions, but do not block the gates or the lanes.

Kolkata to Dhanyakuria by Cab or Hired Car

If you do not have your own vehicle, you can book an outstation cab from Kolkata for the day. Ask for a round trip with waiting time. Agree on a fixed price, including tolls and waiting charges, before you start. If you have the plan to visit Taki or stop at Chandraketugarh, inform this to the driver beforehand. Prices vary by season and operator - so compare a couple of quotes.

Kolkata to Dhanyakuria by Train

You can take a local train from Sealdah on the Barasat-Basirhat-Hasnabad line. It is the line that serves the part of North 24 Parganas where Dhanyakuria lies. Basirhat is one of the closest stations, and Taki Road is further along the same line. Malatipur, on the Sealdah-Basirhat railway line, is the nearest railway station to Dhanyakuria. However, it is always a good idea to check at the ticket counter about the best station to get down at to go to Dhanyakuria. It's important to follow the timetable in the Indian Railways app before you travel, because local train schedules change.

From your arrival station, you will need to hire a toto (e-rickshaw), auto, or van-rickshaw to reach the village and go from mansion to mansion. Agree on a price for the full round before you start. Ask the driver to wait at each stop, since vehicles are not easy to find in the lanes.

Kolkata to Dhanyakuria by Bus

Buses run from Kolkata to Barasat and onwards to Basirhat. You need to get down at Basirhat or at a stop close to Berachampa. From there, you have to take a local auto or toto. This surely is the cheapest option, but is also the slowest.

By Air

The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. From the airport, continue to Dhanyakuria by road; allow extra time for traffic and confirm your route before departure.

Moving Around the Village

The key mansions are close enough to be covered in a few hours, and some can be reached on foot once you park. If you came by train, hire an auto or toto for the whole day. Locals know the places by their family names, such as "Gaine Rajbari", "Gaine Baganbari", "Sau Bari" and "Ballav Bari". Keep this in mind when you ask for directions. You may also hear the Ballav mansion being called Putul Bari (House of Dolls), which is its popular local name.

What to See in Dhanyakuria

There are quite a few places to visit in Dhanyakuria. These Dhanyakuria tourist places are mostly the mansions that were built by the families residing in this hamlet. It will be easier for you to go around the lanes of the hamlet in a car and visit these mansions.

1. Gaine Castle (Gaine Baganbari)

The primary attraction of Dhanyakuria is the Gaine Castle or the Gaine Baganbari, which, because of its unique architecture, is the only building here to be called a castle. The Gaine Castle Dhanyakuria, or Gaine Baganbari, was the garden retreat of the Gaine family. It stands on the Kolkata-Basirhat road, and if you did not know better, you might think a gothic English castle had been transplanted onto a Bengal roadside.

While visiting the Gaine Baganbari or Gaine Castle, do not miss:

The gateway. These are two towers, each with a balcony for sentries. Both the towers are linked by an arch, which carries a sculpture showing two Europeans wrestling a lion with bare hands.
The portico. On one side of the gate, there is a portico in European style with human figures on the roof.
Coats of arms and sculpted heads. The family crest appears on the exterior walls, around the doors and along the balcony arches. Sculpted European heads decorate the walls as well.
The gravel drive and the pond. A gravel road, mostly covered by overgrown shrubs, leads towards the castle through fields, which once used to be properly maintained lawns. A water body in front of the building mirrors it and creates a scene, which can be a photographer's delight.

Access: The castle sits on a large estate, and we found the gate shut with a police guard posted there. Entry typically requires written permission from the local police station. The building is also in very poor condition, and going inside without proper guidance is not safe.

2. Gaine Rajbari (Dhanyakuria Rajbari)

If the Gaine Castle is the ruined gem, the Gaine Rajbari, also known as the Dhanyakuria Rajbari or the Gaine Palace, is the living one. It is the best-maintained of the mansions of Dhanyakuria, partly because members of the family still use it as a residence.

The highlights of the Gaine Rajbari or the Gaine Palace include:

The Nazar Minar. A domed tower of three storeys supported by massive pillars gives the mansion its signature profile. The arches on the lower floors show Islamic influence, which mixes with European detailing.
The pillars. We were amazed by the sheer number of columns; one local account counts 21 massive pillars on the main building.
The Gaine Mandir. Next to the mansion is the family temple, built in a traditional Hindu style, which adds another architectural layer.
The thakurdalan. The big courtyard hosts the family's ancestral Durga Puja every year.
Film connections. The mansion has appeared in a number of Bengali films and television serials, and it is still used as a shooting location. Do not be surprised if you spot a crew.

The Gaine Rajbari is a private property. Whether you can step inside depends on who is at home and what is going on. Be polite, ask for permission at the gate, and respect a refusal. If it is closed, the exterior and the temple area usually still make the stop worthwhile.

3. Sawoo Mansion (Sau Bari / Sahoo Mansion)

Built almost two centuries ago, this mansion is another witness to the village's prosperous past. According to local accounts, this mansion was commissioned by Patit Chandra Sawoo. Its facade features Corinthian pillars and stucco ornamentation above the window arches, which make the Sawoo Mansion an architectural wonder of Dhanyakuria.

Most of the time, the gates are locked because the owners live in Kolkata. However, you can peep through and get a glimpse of the amazing interior. Just outside the gate stands an old bael tree, which looks as if it is as old as the building. A short distance away is the Sawoo Baganbari, a smaller garden house that is less grand, but is still a part of the story. Like the Gaines, the Sau family also celebrates Durga Puja at their mansion.

4. Ballav Mansion (Ballav Bari / Putul Bari)

Close to the Sawoo mansion is the Ballav Bari, built, according to local accounts, by Shyamacharan Ballav more than 150 years ago. There is an extensive lawn in front of this mansion. If you are inside the premises, you can sit on the few benches that are there in the lawn. There's also a pond within the compound that the local people use on a regular basis.

The feature that sets the Ballav Mansion apart is the row of human figures on the roof: royal personages, guards, and a peacock motif at the center of the parapet. From the road, they look like large dolls. And these are the figures, which give Ballav Mansion its other name - Putul Bari, which in Bengali means the House of Dolls. On the premises, you'll find a couple of outhouses too. The guards once kept watch from these outhouses, but they are now in a state of collapse.

5. Thakur Dalan, Rash Mancha and the Library

The North 24 Parganas District Tourism Listing for Dhanyakuria also names the Thakur Dalan of the Gaine zamindar house, a Rash Mancha or a traditional platform for the Rash festival, and the village library among its points of interest. The public library, Dhanyakuria Sadharon Pathagar, dates back to the 1930s and is almost a century old.

6. Schools and Public Buildings

The same families who built the mansions in Dhanyakuria funded educational institutions in the village. The architecture of the school buildings also carries similar arches and pillars.

Nearby Places to Combine with Your Trip

Chandraketugarh (Berachampa)

If history is your thing, add Chandraketugarh to your itinerary. This archaeological site is located near Berachampa and is roughly 2,500 years old. Its history goes back to the 3rd century BCE. It is thought to have been an important town and river port at that time and is thought to be a part of the Gangaridai kingdom. It is famous for its fine terracotta art. Excavations in the 1950s and 1960s by the Asutosh Museum of Indian Art revealed relics from several historical periods. Many of these finds are now in museums in India and abroad.

We spent around half an hour on the grounds of Chandraketugarh while going to Dhanyakuria. On the ground of Chandraketugarh, we saw the mounds and ramparts, including the mound connected with the legends of Khana and Mihir. There is also a museum linked to a local college (the Chandraketugarh Sahidullah Smriti Mahavidyalaya). There are small private museums run by local collectors, including one with over 1,500 artefacts. Opening hours of these small museums are informal. So, if you want to visit any of these, ask locally before you go or contact the local college. Chandraketugarh is only around 8 to 10 km from Dhanyakuria, which makes it an easy add-on.

Taki and the Ichamati River

Further along the road lies Taki, a riverside town on the Ichamati, which forms the India-Bangladesh border. It is roughly 70 km from Kolkata by the shortest route.

Some of the things to do in Taki

Boat ride on the Ichamati. You can hire a boat for a ride on Ichamati, but only on the Indian side of the river.
Mini Sundarban. A small patch of mangrove (Golpata) forest along the riverbank, with ticketed entry.
Watch tower and riverside walk. A pleasant place for an evening stroll.
Taki Rajbari and old houses. Taki has its own heritage buildings and zamindar mansions.
Sweets. Taki is known for chhanar malpoa and, in winter, khejur patali (date-palm jaggery sweets).

Because Taki is so close, a lot of travelers stay there overnight. That brings us to accommodation.

Where to Stay near Dhanyakuria

Dhanyakuria itself has no hotels or resorts. Most of the mansions are private properties. The Sawoo Rajbari, however, has turned itself into a Heritage Stay and opened two rooms for travelers.

If you want to turn your visit to Dhanyakuria into an overnight or weekend trip, here are your realistic options.

Option 1: Heritage Rajbari Stay

Dhanyakuria's Sawoo Rajbari, also known as Dhanyakuria Sau Rajbari, is the only mansion in the area that provides a lodging option. While staying there, you can spend a lot of time in activities, such as fishing in the pond, rest in the shades of the mango orchard, or just loiter around visiting the rasmancha or enjoy the mystery of the corridors decked with Corinthian pillars.

Option 2: Hotels in Taki (Riverside)

Hotel Sonar Bangla, Taki is the best-known property on this stretch. It is on Mansingha Road, on the banks of the Ichamati, a few kilometres outside the town. The hotel offers rooms with views across to Bangladesh. It also has a fusion restaurant called Ichamati, and a ghat for boat rides and picnics. Hotel Sonar Bangla, Taki, has twin outdoor pools, parking and a fairly high guest rating. It is not a heritage property, but it is comfortable and scenic and the most "resort-like" option in the area.

Taki is a bit further than Dhanyakuria (the drive from Dhanyakuria is about an hour or less, depending on the road), but it works well if you want to combine the mansions with the river.

Option 3: Hotels in Basirhat and Barasat

Basirhat has budget and mid-range hotels and guesthouses, mostly clustered around the railway station and main road. These are practical if you want a bed close to the road network. Barasat, on the way from Kolkata, has a wider choice, including mid-range and some upscale hotels near the airport.

Option 4: Stay in Kolkata and Go on a Day Trip

We went on a day trip to Dhanyakuria from Kolkata and we really think this is the best option. The drive is short enough to do comfortably in a day, and Kolkata offers hotels at every budget, from guesthouses to five-star properties. If you are flying in or out, staying near the airport (Dum Dum, Rajarhat, or New Town) shortens the drive.

Availability, room rates, and rules differ from time to time. So, contact the property directly or check their official pages for current details. During Durga Puja, many of the properties in Dhanyakuria hold festivities and so, the rooms of Sawoo Rajbari are booked well in advance. If you're willing to visit during the pujas, book your stay well in advance.

A Note on Booking

Hotel rates in this region vary by season and by day of the week. Weekends and the Puja period cost more, and weekday stays in the monsoon are the cheapest. Always check the cancellation policy and confirm directions, since some riverside properties are a few kilometres outside the town.

What to Eat near Dhanyakuria

Dhanyakuria is a village with minimal options when it comes to dining. Do not expect a restaurant strip here. You can find simple local eateries, tea stalls, and sweet shops. You can find better options in Basirhat, Berachampa, and Taki.

Bengali Staples

Rice, dal and fish curry. A simple Bengali meal of rice, dal, vegetables and a fish curry is the safest and most satisfying lunch. Fish dishes are a speciality near the river towns. So, ask what is fresh that day.
Luchi, kochuri and alur dum. A classic breakfast, especially on a cold morning.
Ghugni, singara and jhal muri. Perfect for roadside snacking when you are moving between mansions.
Chai in earthen cups (bhar). Often the best part of a stop at a roadside stall.

Sweets

Chhanar malpoa. Taki is known for this sweet, which is a good reason to include the town in your trip.
Khejur patali (date-palm jaggery). A winter special in this area, usually available between December and February.
Rosogolla, sandesh and mishti doi. Available in any decent sweet shop in Basirhat or Barasat.

Before we left Kolkata on our own trip, we had breakfast at the well-known sweet shop Maharani near Deshapriya Park early morning, which ensured a fine start to the drive. If you are leaving from the south of the city, it is a handy place to fill up before hitting the road.

Food Tips for the Trip

Carry drinking water. Do not rely on finding sealed bottles in the village.
Carry snacks and fruit for the stretches between towns.
Prefer freshly cooked food over anything that has been sitting out, especially in warm weather.
If you have dietary restrictions, ask before ordering, because many dishes use mustard oil and fish stock.
Keep some cash, since small shops may not accept digital payments reliably.

A Sample One-Day Itinerary from Kolkata

Here is a relaxed schedule that covers the main sights without rushing:

7:00 am: Leave Kolkata. Have breakfast at a sweet shop or snack stall on the way.
9:00 am: Reach Berachampa. If you are interested in archaeology, spend 45 minutes at the Chandraketugarh mounds and the local museum.
10:15 am: Drive to Dhanyakuria. Start with the Gaine Castle (Gaine Baganbari) while the morning light is soft. From the road, photograph the gate, the portico, and the pond with the reflection of the castle.
11:00 am: Walk or drive to the Gaine Rajbari. Look at the Nazar Minar, the temple and the thakurdalan from outside, and ask politely about going in.
12:00 pm: Visit the Sawoo mansion and the nearby garden house.
12:45 pm: Visit the Ballav Bari, and spend a few minutes on the lawn.
1:15 pm: Short stop at the library and the old school buildings.
1:45 pm: Head to Basirhat or move back to Berachampa for a late lunch.
3:00 pm: Optional extension to Taki for a river boat ride and sweets, or start the drive back via the Basanti Highway.
6:00 pm: Back in Kolkata.

For a two-day trip: Spend day one at Dhanyakuria and Chandraketugarh, stay overnight at a riverside hotel in Taki, and use day two for the Ichamati boat ride, the Mini Sundarban trip, and savoring the sweets at Taki's sweet shops before heading back.

Practical Tips for Visiting Dhanyakuria

Respect private property. Many of these buildings in Dhanyakuria are family homes or properties with caretakers. Do not climb walls, enter through broken gates, or walk into compounds without permission.

Ask before photographing people and interiors. The exteriors are generally fair game from the road, but if a caretaker or resident is present, ask first. If you plan to shoot professionally, commercially, or with a drone, you will need permission, and filming on a property that is used for productions may have its own rules.

Be careful around ruined buildings. The Gaine Castle and several outhouses are in poor condition. Floors, balconies and roofs can collapse, and the grounds may have snakes, particularly in the monsoon and in long grass. Keep to open areas.

Dress comfortably. Wear walking shoes and light cotton clothes. However, don't forget to carry warm layers if you're vising Dhanyakuria in winter. For summer months, don't forget to carry a cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as there is not much shade between the mansions.

Plan for toilets. Public facilities are limited. Use the facilities at a hotel or restaurant in Basirhat, Berachampa or Taki before you go into the interior.

Carry cash. ATMs are more reliable in Basirhat and Barasat. But there's hardly any ATM in Dhanyakuria.

Check the conditions before you go. Mansion access, police permissions, museum timings, and train schedules can change. A phone call or a message to a local guide a day before saves a lot of disappointment.

Mind the daylight. Roads are narrow and poorly lit after dark. Try to be back on the main highway before sunset.

Take only photographs. Do not remove anything from the sites, do not litter, and leave the lanes cleaner than you found them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Dhanyakuria from Kolkata?
About 55 km, which is roughly a two-hour drive.

Is Dhanyakuria worth visiting?
Yes, if you enjoy architecture, history, and offbeat places. If you expect a polished, ticketed tourist site with facilities, you may be disappointed. It is best enjoyed as a slow and curious exploration.

Can you go inside the Gaine Castle?
Entry is usually restricted, and permission from the local police station is required. The building is also in poor condition. We decided to view it from the gate and the road, but were still able to click some good pictures.

Can you stay in a castle or palace at Dhanyakuria?
The mansions are private, and the village has no hotels or resorts. Only the Sawoo Mansion offers heritage stay. You can stay in Taki, Basirhat, Barasat or Kolkata.

How many hours do you need?
Three to four hours is enough for the mansions. A full day lets you add Chandraketugarh and a meal in Basirhat or Taki.

What is the best time to visit?
November to February, or Durga Puja if you want to see the family pujas and if you can handle the crowds.

Is Dhanyakuria safe for solo travelers and families?
It is a quiet rural area and generally comfortable for day travelers, but we found that the facilities are basic. Our advice would be to go during the day, tell someone your plan, and travel with a driver or a local contact if you are unfamiliar with the area.

Are there guides?
We did not find any formal guide in Dhanyakuria. However, the local residents, rickshaw drivers, and caretakers were often happy to point us in the right direction. If you want a deeper story and to know the history of Dhanyakuria, a heritage walk operator based in Kolkata may be able to arrange a guide.

Is it suitable for children and older travelers?
Yes for a car trip, but we found that there is a fair amount of walking on uneven ground, and the facilities are limited. Carry water, snacks, and any medicines you need.

Final Thoughts

Dhanyakuria will not give you a long list of ticketed attractions, but we found that it gives you something rarer: a village where a few families once decided to build their own fairyland, and where the buildings still stand, sometimes proud and sometimes crumbling, along a quiet road. Spend a morning with the Gaine Castle's gate, the Nazar Minar, the stucco of the Sawoo mansion and the rooftop dolls of the Ballav house, and the village begins to feel like a story you are walking through.

Pair it with the ancient mounds of Chandraketugarh and an evening by the Ichamati at Taki, and you have a weekend that feels far from Kolkata, even though it is barely two hours away. If you want to add some sea air to your West Bengal plans afterwards, read our guide to the top sea beaches in West Bengal.

Have you been to Dhanyakuria, or do you know of a heritage house in the area that welcomes guests?

Share your experience in the comments, so that other travelers can plan better.

Where to Stay in McCluskieganj - McCluskieganj Bungalows, Guest Houses, and Homestays

2026-10-03T22:07:09.927+05:30

McCluskieganj is a one of Jharkhand's most unusual destinations. Established as a haven for the members of the Anglo-Indian community in the 1930s, the town, however, never fully became what its founders had dreamt it to be. Most of the people of the Anglo-Indian community moved to other Indian cities or to England. So, McCluskieganj now exists as a shadow of what it was actually meant to be. Yet, the old bungalows with a touch of British architecture, the quiet lanes, and the colonial-era charm have turned McCluskieganj into a popular weekend getaway. Many of the old homes and bungalows still remain and many of these family homes now welcome visitors as homestays.

Are you not sure where to stay in McCluskieganj? Are you looking for hotels and lodges in McCluskieganj? This guide will help you choose between heritage bungalows, homestays, guest houses, and a resort-style stay.

Tourists from India and abroad visit McCluskieganj to spend a few days in this quaint, little town and enjoy its colonial charm. You can reach this beautiful town from Ranchi or can take trains from other places, such as Kolkata, directly to the town. McCluskieganj's location makes it easy to incorporate the town into a larger itinerary, which can include places like Netarhat, Maromar, and Betla.

Planning a trip to enjoy the natural beauty of Jharkhand and want to make McCluskieganj a part of a larger trip? Read our article about Jharkhand road trip to know how to incorporate McCluskieganj while visiting other places, such as Netarhat, Maromar, and Betla during your trip to Jharkhand.

As McCluskieganj experiences a steady flow of visitors on a regular basis, a number of bungalows in the town have been turned into homestays and guest houses.

New to the destination? Read our McCluskieganj travel guide to know about the history and attractions of the place.

If you're planning to go to McCluskieganj, you can book a British-era bungalow or a homestay to have a cozy time there.

Among the hotels in McCluskieganj and the McCluskieganj homestays available, Rana's Country Cottage, where we stayed during our McCluskieganj travel, is one of the best. However, there are other guest houses, homestays, and Bungalows in McCluskieganj as well.

Where to Stay in McCluskieganj

McCluskieganj had long been a favorite among the tourists looking to explore the Chhotanagpur Plateau and Jharkhand. However, despite being frequented by tourists, there is a dearth of good hotels and lodges in McCluskieganj.

Where We Stayed: Rana's Country Cottage

During our visit to McCluskieganj, we stayed at Rana's Country Cottage. That stay remains one of our favorite in town.

Located among the lush greenery of McCluskieganj, this aesthetic guest house, run by the Rana Family, offers a sylvan charm. Standing with its wooden pillars and cement-plated roof in the middle of the Sal trees, this beautiful property covers quite a lot of area.

Here's a look at some of the popular stays by category in McCluskieganj:

Heritage / bungalow stays

Raja Bungalow
Raj Bungalow
Victoria Bungalow
Rana's Country Cottage

Farmstays

Casa Blue Heritage Farmstay
Rana's Country Cottage

Homestays

Amyra Home Stay
Aparajita Home Stay
Tirkey Homestay and Heritage House
Mac Garden Homestay

Guest houses

Gordon Guest House
Dream Destination Guest House
Vrindavan Guest House

Resort-style stay

Getaway Ecovillage

However, because of the colonial and post-colonial history of the place, there are quite a few Bungalows. For McCluskieganj Bungalow booking, you can call them on their phone number or go there directly once you reach McCluskieganj. There are quite a few Guest Houses in McCluskieganj that you can book. Besides, you can also choose one of the best McCluskieganj Homestays for your stay. You can book any of the McCluskieganj Homestays to enjoy a great stay and some delicious local dishes there.

Staying in McCluskieganj Bungalows, Guest Houses, and Homestays

McCluskieganj is known for its palatial Bungalows from the late British era and also the post-colonial days. They form great lodging options in McCluskieganj for the tourists.

In this otherwise grey world of concrete, the town of McCluskieganj, Jharkhand, is still full of greenery. There are large fields and dense forests all around. While taking a walk down the dusty roads, you might even come across a jackal or a fox looking at you from the not-so-dense forests beside the road.

Most of the McCluskieganj Bungalows, Guest houses, and houses offering homestay options have gardens around them. When you're staying in one of these lodging options in McCluskieganj, such as a McCluskieganj bungalow or a hotel in McCluskieganj or even in a McCluskieganj homestay, you can enjoy relaxing on the couch in the gardens. You can spend the time sitting on the grass under the shadow of the trees. You can even enjoy your lunch under the garden umbrella sitting amid the greenery of the lawn of Rana's Country Cottage and Homestay in McCluskieganj.

What to Eat When Staying in McCluskieganj

One of the best things about McCluskieganj travel is the food you get there.

Are you a vegetarian or a non-vegetarian?

No matter what you are, you'll get dishes fresh and right from the farms of these bungalows and homestays. The amazing tastes of the dishes cooked from the fresh vegetables and meat will help to make your stays even better.

If you're planning to eat outside, you can try out the foods at some of the cafes and restaurants in McCluskieganj. Some of these include:

Gunj Cafe, McCluskieganj
Silverstar Restaurant, McCluskieganj
Santosh Fast Food
Maria Dhaba

Book Your Stay

Before you visit McCluskieganj, it is advisable to book your stay there. More so, if you're visiting the place from September and October to March - because it's the time when McCluskieganj weather remain pleasant and tourists crowd this pristine town. It will help to ensure that you get the best places to stay in McCluskieganj and enjoy your time there.

Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu Travel Guide: Places to Visit, How to Reach & Where to Stay

2023-02-02T16:17:00.000+05:30

Kiriburu and Meghahatuburu are twin mining towns and hill destinations in West Singhbhum, Jharkhand, in the Saranda forest region. They lie close to the Odisha border. Surrounded by forested hills, mining landscapes, and spectacular viewpoints, the twin destinations offer a very different experience from the more commercial hill stations of eastern India.

Kiriburu is closely associated with the Kiriburu Iron Ore Mine, while Meghahatuburu is home to the Meghahatuburu Iron Ore Mine, both operated by the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL). But the appeal of these hill towns extends beyond mining. The surrounding forests, hills, viewpoints, waterfalls and quiet roads make Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu an interesting destination for travelers looking for a less commercial hill experience.

I visited Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu during the monsoon and found the landscape particularly atmospheric at that time. Clouds, rain, mist, red earth, forests, and waterfalls - together they transformed the journey into an experience quite different from a conventional sightseeing trip.

Last updated: October 4, 2026

Published on: February 2, 2023

Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu at a Glance
Location	West Singhbhum, Jharkhand, close to the Odisha border
Region	Saranda forest region
Known for	Forests, hills, viewpoints, waterfalls and iron-ore mining
Nearest major railway options	Barajamda and Barbil are useful railway access points; check current train schedules and onward road transport before traveling.
Major nearby towns and cities	Jamshedpur, Chaibasa, Barbil, Rourkela, and Keonjhar
Best for	Nature, photography, waterfalls, viewpoints and offbeat travel
Best season	Depends on your purpose; monsoon offers lush scenery and waterfalls, while drier months can provide easier road and trail conditions
Suggested duration	2 nights / 3 days
Accommodation	Limited; check availability before traveling
Important consideration	Some mining and forest areas may have access restrictions

During my visit, we traveled from Howrah towards Barbil by train on a monsoon morning. Barbil was our railhead for the onward road journey to Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu.

After the train reached Barbil station, we boarded the car sent by our tour operation from just outside the station to start our journey towards Kiriburu.

How to Reach Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu

Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu can be reached by road from several towns in Jharkhand and northern Odisha. The most convenient route for you will depend on your starting point.

By Train

Barajamda is one of the nearest railway stations for reaching Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu, while Barbil is another useful railhead, particularly for travelers approaching from the Odisha side. Jharkhand Tourism also notes road connectivity from Barajamda and Barbil towards Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu. Check the current railway timetable and arrange onward road transport before traveling.

If you are traveling from Kolkata, check the current railway timetable before booking, because train schedules and operating days can change.

By Road

Kiriburu and Meghahatuburu are connected by road with the surrounding towns of Jharkhand and Odisha. Road connectivity exists from Tatanagar/Jamshedpur and there are routes through the West Singhbhum region.

For a road trip, check the current road condition before starting the journey, particularly during the monsoon.

From Barbil

One practical option is to reach Barbil by train and arrange a car or local transport for the onward journey.

This was the option I used during my trip. A car was waiting for us outside Barbil station and took us towards Kiriburu. My experience was based on the travel arrangements available at the time of my visit, so travelers should confirm current taxi availability and fares before traveling.

Important

Do not rely on old train timings, taxi fares or package prices mentioned in older travel blogs. Check the current railway timetable and local transport availability before your trip.

Best Time to Visit Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu

The best time to visit Kiriburu and Meghahatuburu depends on the type of experience you want.

Monsoon - July to September

I visited Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu during the monsoon and was struck by how dramatically the clouds and rain transformed the landscape. The hills became greener, mist frequently covered the higher areas, and waterfalls and streams were more active. However, heavy rain can make forest roads, trails and waterfall approaches slippery and difficult.

Winter - October to February

The cooler months generally offer more comfortable conditions for sightseeing, road travel, and outdoor exploration. Clearer weather can also make the viewpoints more rewarding.

Summer - March to June

Summer can be warmer, but the forested landscape still makes the area suitable for travelers who prefer quieter trips. If you plan outdoor sightseeing, start early and check local conditions before heading out.

Before travelling to Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu, check the latest weather and road conditions, particularly if you plan to visit waterfalls or take forest routes.

My recommendation based on experience: If your priority is lush greenery, mist, and waterfalls, the monsoon can be particularly atmospheric. If easier road travel and outdoor exploration are more important, the drier months may be more convenient.

Day 1: Arriving in Kiriburu and Exploring the Surroundings

After reaching the Kiriburu Hilltop Guest House, we freshened up. The dining hall at the Kiriburu Hilltop Guest House is a large one. We had lunch at the guest house before starting our sightseeing. During my stay, meals included rice, dal, vegetables, salad and fish curry. Once the lunch was over, we got into the car and headed toward the Bolani Ores Mines.

The surrounding hills, forest roads, mining landscape and changing monsoon weather also make the area interesting for photography. During my visit, I found several viewpoints and roadside landscapes worth stopping for.

Bolani Ores Mines: A Mining Landscape Along the Journey

The mining landscape is an important part of the character of the Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu region. During my visit, we traveled towards the Bolani Ores Mines and viewed the mining area from outside rather than entering the operational mine.

The red earth, forested hills and mining landscape create a striking contrast, particularly during cloudy or rainy weather.

What's the color of the soil that you're accustomed to seeing?

The soil around the mining landscape appeared distinctly reddish during our visit. The colour, combined with the forested hills and mining activity, created a striking landscape. We could see the mine from which the ores are extracted. In fact, the large trucks, which were carrying the fresh ores out of the iron mine seemed like giants coming out of underground caves.

Important: Bolani is a working mining area. Do not enter restricted or operational areas without explicit permission from the responsible authorities. Follow all signs, security instructions, and local safety requirements. If access is restricted on the day of your visit, enjoy the landscape from permitted public areas instead.

SAIL's current information continues to list Bolani Ores Mines among its mining operations.

During our visit, some of the water and wet soil around the mining landscape appeared distinctly reddish. The red earth, cloudy sky and surrounding forest created a striking contrast with the mining landscape.

From the Bolani Mines, we headed toward the Kiriburu Sunset View Point near Meghahatuburu.

Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu Viewpoints and Sunset

The sunset viewpoint is one of the places travelers can visit for views across the surrounding hills and forests.

After getting down from the car, we walked a little uphill through the overgrown shrubs to reach the Kiriburu Sunset View Point. The viewpoint has railings along the edge of the gorge, and the surrounding hills and clouds create an impressive landscape, particularly during the monsoon. Take a look and you can see the clouds roaming around there just as cattle grazing in a field.

Travel tip: Sunset times vary throughout the year. Reach the viewpoint with enough daylight remaining, and avoid returning through unfamiliar forest roads after dark, unless you are traveling with a local driver who knows the route. Viewpoint access can depend on local conditions and restrictions, so confirm the route with your accommodation provider or local driver before setting out.

After witnessing the amazing sunset, we went to the main marketplace of Kiriburu. It is small and relatively modest market, with just a few local shops and eateries. However, the coffee that we had at a restaurant there was amazing and perfect to give us some warmth in that ambiance. Besides, the rains, the fog, the clouds, the light from the street lamps, and the darkness had created a magical atmosphere at that seemingly mundane place.

After a while, we started for our Guest House. The roads were pitch dark and the headlight of the car illuminated just the area where it fell. We returned to the Guest House, had our dinner, and retired for the day.

Day 2: Kundul Forest and Jhinkra Waterfall

We started early the next day, going to the local forest called Kundul. Staying in the cities, we hardly get a chance to come so close to nature. The road into the forest was made of red soil and gravel and passed between the trees.

During my visit, our driver took us into the forest and we stopped at a suitable location before walking around the area. Access to forest roads can depend on local conditions and permissions, so check locally before entering.

After spending some time in the Kundul Forest, we headed toward a popular waterfall - the Jhinkra waterfall.

Jhinkra Waterfall

Safety note: Forest and waterfall routes can become slippery and difficult during heavy rain. Wear suitable footwear, avoid walking close to unstable edges, and do not enter fast-flowing water. Conditions can change quickly during the monsoon.

The road to Jhinkra Waterfall passes through forests and open fields. And if you look closely, you might find a few huts with thatched roofs here and there on those fields. We even crossed a stream during the journey. During our visit, the water appeared reddish against the surrounding landscape.

After a while, the road isn't that great. That's because we had entered a dense forest. So, we got down from our car and started walking. Our driver became our guide. He took us through narrow roads with forests on both sides. Soon those roads disappeared and we started walking through a field. And as that field ended, we started walking up a mountain. From far away, we could see the waterfall as a small thread of water flowing down the body of the mountain. We stepped on boulders and crossed a few streams and rivulets.

This little trek seemed to make sense when we reached the spot just below the waterfall. The view was amazing!

The water was flowing down from quite a height and appeared reddish as it cascaded down the rocks. It sprinkled anyone who came close to the bottom of the cascade of waters.

The water, with a touch of sunrays, formed a magical rainbow right at the bottom of the waterfall.

Visiting the Jhinkra Waterfall

The approach to the waterfall can involve walking over uneven terrain, streams, and rocks, particularly when traveling during the monsoon.

Before setting out:

Wear shoes with a good grip.
Carry drinking water.
Keep your phone and camera protected from rain.
Avoid visiting alone.
Follow local instructions about forest access.
Do not enter the water if the current is strong.
Avoid the area during dangerous weather conditions.

Because road and trail conditions can change, ask your local driver or accommodation provider about the current route before leaving.

Back to Kiriburu Hilltop Guest House

By the time we came down from the waterfall to our car, it had started raining heavily. We moved across drenched roads through the forests that added to the sense of adventure.

When we reached Kiriburu Hilltop Guesthouse, the surroundings were covered with dense cloud. The place seemed to live up to its name of Meghahatuburu - the abode of clouds.

By evening, dense clouds had covered the area and the surroundings became extremely dark. The combination of mist, trees and the few distant lights created a memorable atmosphere around the guest house. The little bit of light coming from some faraway place, together with the trees and the clouds, formed a magical ambiance at the Kiriburu Hilltop Guest House.

Day 3: Murga Mahadev Temple and Return Journey

The next morning, we had a train to catch. And we had another destination on our list before we board the train - the Murga Mahadev Temple at Noamundi.

Murga Mahadev Temple and Waterfall near Noamundi

Our final sightseeing stop was Murga Mahadev Temple and Waterfall near Noamundi.

We started early from Kiriburu. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and the waterfall beside the temple makes the site an interesting stop for travelers combining a temple visit with a nature outing.

We visited the temple before continuing towards the railway station for our return journey.

If you plan to visit, check the current local road conditions and any temple-specific arrangements before traveling, particularly during festivals and the monsoon.

We had our lunch at a restaurant near the station. Instead of going to the Barbil station, we went to the Bara Jamda Railway Station and boarded the train for Howrah from there, bringing an end to our short but amazing Kiriburu Meghahatuburu trip.

Where to Stay in Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu

Accommodation in Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu is more limited than in established tourist destinations. So, it is advisable to arrange your stay before traveling.

Kiriburu Hilltop Guest House

During my trip, I stayed at the Kiriburu Hilltop Guest House. The accommodation was modest, but its hilltop location and surrounding landscape were major advantages.

As you enter the one-storied Kiriburu Hilltop Guest House, there’s a long verandah that runs from one end of the building to the other. Along this verandah are a few rooms and a kitchen-cum-dining hall. The room that we had booked seemed to be quite modest. It had a bed, a couple of chairs, a small table, and an almirah. There was an attached washroom with basic toiletries.

The rooms and facilities I experienced were basic rather than luxurious. Food was also available at the property during my stay.

Important: My description reflects the condition and facilities I experienced during my visit. Accommodation facilities, availability, tariffs, and booking procedures can change. Confirm the current status directly before traveling.

Other accommodation options may be available in and around Kiriburu, Meghahatuburu, Barbil and Noamundi. Availability, tariffs, facilities and booking arrangements can change, so confirm current options before traveling.

Things to Do in Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu

There are quite a few things that you can do during your visit to Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu. Depending on current local access and weather conditions, a trip can include:

Enjoying the hill and forest scenery
Visiting permitted viewpoints
Photographing the monsoon landscape
Exploring the local marketplace
Visiting permitted waterfall areas
Visiting the Meghahatuburu viewpoint and surrounding hills
Enjoying views of the Saranda forest and surrounding hill ranges
Visiting Murga Mahadev Temple and Waterfall near Noamundi
Experiencing the changing landscape of the Saranda region

Mining and forest areas may have access restrictions. Always follow local instructions and avoid entering restricted areas.

If you are interested in exploring more destinations in Jharkhand, you can also read our Jharkhand road trip guide covering Netarhat, Maromar, Betla and McCluskieganj.

How Many Days Are Enough for Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu?

For a first visit, 2 nights and 3 days is a practical duration for Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu.

A three-day trip gives you enough time to:

Arrive and settle in
Explore Kiriburu and Meghahatuburu
Visit viewpoints
Explore permitted forest and waterfall areas
Visit Murga Mahadev
Travel back without making the trip unnecessarily rushed

If you are traveling specifically for photography or monsoon landscapes, you may prefer a slower itinerary.

Suggested 3-Day Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu Itinerary

Day 1 — Arrival and Kiriburu

Arrive at Barajamda, Barbil or another suitable rail/road access point, depending on your route.
Travel to Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu by car.
Check in to your accommodation.
Have lunch and rest.
Explore permitted nearby areas.
Visit a viewpoint around sunset.
Return to your accommodation before it's dark.

Day 2 — Forests and Waterfalls

Start early.
Visit permitted forest areas.
Explore Jhinkra Waterfall, if local conditions and access permit.
Return to your accommodation.
Spend the evening exploring the hill town and surroundings.

Day 3 — Murga Mahadev and Return

Check out after breakfast.
Visit Murga Mahadev Temple and Waterfall near Noamundi, if it fits your route.
Continue towards your railway station or onward destination.
Confirm your train or road connection in advance.

Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu Trip Cost

The cost of a Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu trip depends heavily on your starting point, transport, accommodation, number of travelers, and whether you hire a private vehicle.

Your major expenses are likely to include:

Train or bus fare
Local/private vehicle
Accommodation
Food
Local sightseeing
Entry or permission charges, wherever applicable

Check current transport, accommodation, and vehicle rates before planning your budget.

Where to Eat in Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu

Dining options are mostly limited in Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu. You are likely to get modest but delectable food at the place where you're staying. While I stayed at Kiriburu Hilltop Guest House, I was served rice, dal, vegetables, salad and fish curry for lunch.

What to Pack for Your Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu Trip

Things you need to pack for your Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu trip depends on the time when you're visiting. It varies significantly from one season to another. Some of the most important things that should be part of your Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu packing list are:

Comfortable walking shoes
Rain jacket and umbrella during monsoon
Water bottle
Power bank
Basic medicines
Torch
Mosquito protection
Waterproof phone/camera protection
Light warm clothing for cooler months
A small backpack

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu worth visiting?

Kiriburu-Meghahatuburu is a good fit for travelers who enjoy forests, hills, viewpoints, waterfalls and quieter destinations. My monsoon visit was particularly memorable for the mist, greenery and waterfalls. Travelers looking for nightlife, extensive shopping or a highly developed tourist infrastructure may find the destination limited.

What is Kiriburu famous for?

Kiriburu is known for its forested hill landscape and its association with iron-ore mining. It is located in the Saranda region of West Singhbhum.

What is Meghahatuburu famous for?

Meghahatuburu is known for its hilltop location, forest scenery, viewpoints and connection with the SAIL mining area.

Is Kiriburu suitable for a family trip?

It can be suitable for families who enjoy nature and quiet destinations, but some sightseeing locations involve uneven roads, walking and outdoor terrain. Families should choose attractions according to weather and current access conditions.

Is Kiriburu suitable for a monsoon trip?

The monsoon can produce dramatic scenery, mist and flowing waterfalls, but heavy rain can also make roads and trails slippery. Check weather and local conditions before traveling.

How many days are enough?

Two nights and three days is a practical starting point for a first visit.

Is accommodation easily available?

Accommodation is more limited than in mainstream tourist destinations. Booking in advance is advisable.

Can tourists enter the mines?

Do not assume that core mining areas are open to tourists. Operational and restricted areas should only be entered with explicit permission from the responsible authorities.

Monchasha: Complete Travel Guide & Weekend Trip from Kolkata

2022-01-21T19:40:00.001+05:30

Monchasha, an offbeat weekend destination from Kolkata was waiting for us. Our weekend trip from Kolkata was no longer a dream—it was finally happening! The time had finally arrived, and we were on our way to this beautiful eco-resort in Purba Medinipur, West Bengal.

Monchasha is an eco-resort in Purba Medinipur, West Bengal, developed as part of a rural ecotourism initiative. Surrounded by greenery and located close to the Bagda River, it offers a peaceful setting away from the busy city life of Kolkata. With its bamboo cottages, rural surroundings, local food, ponds, and opportunities to enjoy nature, Monchasha can surely be ranked among the best relaxing weekend getaways near Kolkata.

While planning our West Bengal travel from Kolkata for the weekend, we were looking for a quick retreat close to nature. And it's not easy to find an offbeat destination from Kolkata that's really alluring and something that quenches your thirst for travel close to a river and in the lap of nature.

This is when we came across this place with a beautiful name - Monchasha. In Bengali, the name is an amalgamation of two parts - Mon, which means the soul or the heart, and 'Chasha', which translates to Farmer. So, this retreat, which lies close to nature, is a place where you can reconnect with your soul and spend some quality time near a village with a flowing river.

Monchasha at a Glance

Location: Purba Medinipur, West Bengal
Type: Eco-resort and rural retreat
Best suited for: Weekend trips, nature stays, and relaxing getaways
From: Kolkata
Surroundings: Greenery, rural landscapes, ponds, and the Bagda River
Accommodation: Bamboo cottages and rooms
Experiences: Nature, local food, fishing, boating, and rural surroundings

How to Reach Monchasha from Kolkata

We left the southern fringes of Kolkata at around 8 in the morning and headed towards Monchasha. The journey took us through Vidyasagar Setu, Uluberia, Bagnan, and Kolaghat before we continued towards the resort in Purba Medinipur. We took the route toward Vidyasagar Setu, also called the Second Hooghly Bridge.

After crossing Vidyasagar Setu, we passed through Uluberia and Bagnan before continuing towards Kolaghat. We took a short break for breakfast at Kolaghat and continued toward Nandakumar. From Nandakumar, we took a right turn toward Digha and continued on Contai-Nandakumar Road and then on the Digha Road. After reaching Kalinagar Bus Stop, we took a right turn. After a while, we had to cross a bridge, the Pausi Desapran Setu, and drive along the small and narrow roads of a small but beautiful village that has a sweet name - Pausi.

The road ran along the banks of the local river named Bagda. Soon we reached the gate of Monchasha.

For anyone planning a Monchasha weekend trip from Kolkata, this route offers a convenient way to reach the resort while also taking you through several familiar towns and roads of southern West Bengal.

First Impression of Monchasha

We parked our car just inside the main gate of Monchasha Resort and walked the stretch to the reception area. Our luggage was left behind at the gates. Soon, the bags we had brought with us were carried in a hand-drawn cart. These carts are common in rural India but are not commonly seen in hotels or resorts.

The narrow, unpaved road leading into Monchasha has a couple of medium-sized ponds on either side. If you're planning a trip to Monchasha, you can enjoy fishing or swimming in these ponds. Fishing rods are available at the resort.

Welcome and Check-in at Monchasha

Once we reached the main area, on our right was a large, earthen-floored reception area. As we entered it, we were welcomed with cool and fresh lime water - much needed after our long drive from Kolkata.

Soon, we were allotted two rooms in a cottage with a pristine appearance.

Bamboo Cottages at Monchasha

At Monchasha, you get to stay in bamboo cottages with thatched roofs. A short flight of stairs from the grounds of Monchasha led to the sitting area outside the rooms. A couple of sofas made from cane are placed here to relax. Just beyond the sitting area, the Bagda River ran relentlessly. A sweet breeze came from the side of the river. It immediately gave us the feeling that we would enjoy the peace and comfort at Monchasha Resort that we often look for but rarely find amid the crowds of city life.

On both sides of the sitting area were the two rooms. The floors of the rooms are made from mud and are covered with carpets. The walls are made from bamboo. Each room has an attached washroom and a balcony facing the Bagda River, which flows right behind the thatched bamboo cottages of Monchasha.

Things to Do and See at Monchasha

After refreshing, we headed out of our rooms and started exploring the amazing space of Monchasha. The resort has been developed as a responsible ecotourism initiative, with its natural surroundings and rural character forming an important part of the experience. A large number of trees have been planted around the area. They provide the required shade and keep Monchasha cool. The shade from the trees, along with the breeze from the Bagda River, kept the surroundings cool and comfortable, so we did not need an air conditioner.

There's a large area with a mud floor and a thatched roof. It has one verandah and a couple of rooms. On one side of this area is the reception and the dining area. There are several games, such as carrom, in this area. You can also find a canvas and a few tools, which you can use to draw pictures. Besides, there are a few handicraft items on the walls of every room of Monchasha. Most of these handicrafts are created by local artisans in Monchasha. If you want, you can purchase a few handicraft items as souvenirs.

As you move ahead, there's a sitting area with a small bed at one end of the verandah. There's a waterbody right where the verandah ends and beyond that, you can see acres of paddy fields.

The sitting area has a couple of small cots made from bamboo, a couple of tea tables, and a few chairs. This surely is the perfect area to lie down and spend a lazy afternoon, while enjoying the greenery.

Along with the cottages, there's also a small hut in Monchasha that displays the essentials of rural life. These include ploughs, spinning wheels, a weaving machine, a potter's wheel, and a few earthen and wooden decorative items made by the local artisans from the village of Pausi who come here.

A gate toward the rear side of the resort takes you to the banks of River Bagda. You can enjoy a walk along the banks or go boating on the river whenever you want to spend time closer to nature.

The area outside the reception is well managed with several flowering plants and large trees. A small waterbody has been created artificially to grow lotus plants. A few colorful fish swim in this little pond.

Food and Lunch at Monchasha

The sumptuous lunch at Monchasha was full of the flavors of rural Bengal. The menu comprised:

Rice
Fried bitter gourd or ucche bhaja
Locally prepared ghee
Dal
Fried potato or alubhaja
Mixed vegetable or sabji
Two types of fish curries or maacher jhol
Chatni
Sweets

All the items that were served in Monchasha were quite fresh. The food was also prepared with great care.

They were cooked with special care and were extremely delicious. In addition, the staff at Monchasha served the food in such a caring way that we felt really welcome at this serene resort in Purba Medinipur.

An Evening at Monchasha

After taking a walk across the grounds, we felt tired as an effect of the heavy lunch. So, we decided to go for a short afternoon nap. After the siesta, we experienced the beautiful sunset while sitting on the cozy cane couches in the cottage's common area and enjoying the breeze from the river.

As the darkness rolled in, Monchasha changed its appearance immediately. The lights that were switched on were dim. So, the magic of the night was not wiped away completely with any vibrant lighting system. While relaxing on the cane bench on the balcony of our cottage in Monchasha, we enjoyed the soothing evening breeze that was coming from the side of River Bagda that shimmered in the darkness.

A bit later, we were served our evening snacks - muri and telebhaja. These consisted of puffed rice along with a few deep-fried accompaniments, such as peyaji and alur chop, which were really enjoyable.

Soon after, we were sitting on the sofa and looking at the magical, moonlit landscape across river Bagda.

Dinner and Overnight Stay at Monchasha

Before it was too late, we were informed that our dinner was ready. So, we headed toward the dining area. It was now lit in a natural and understated manner. The low lighting helped preserve the natural ambiance of the rural setting at Monchasha.

The dining table was filled with dishes from the local cuisine. These included both rice and chapatis or roti, along with different types of accompaniments, such as dal, vegetables, and chicken.

We were planning to stroll through Monchasha after dinner. However, the darkness and our concern about encountering snakes made us rethink the idea. This was also one of the reasons we preferred visiting Monchasha during winter. The clear night sky offered a view of stars that is often difficult to enjoy in cities. After spending some time staring at the pitch-black darkness across Bagda River and enjoying the look of the star-studded sky, we retired for the day inside our cottages.

The next morning, most of the staff were ready even before we woke up, and we were served cups of bed tea. After getting refreshed, we strolled the area and found that the beautiful morning light had actually augmented the beauty of the place. After some time, we went to have the delicious breakfast.

The breakfast menu at Monchasha was quite delectable, to say the least. The enticing menu comprised:

Fruits
Luchi or deep-fried flatbread
Sada aloor torkari or accompaniment made of potato
Pickle
Sweets

After completing our breakfast, we spent a bit of time fishing in a pond at Monchasha. Then we bathed in another pond within the resort grounds. Soon, we were ready to leave the magical world of Monchasha.

On the way, we had our lunch at Sandeepa Restaurant at Kolaghat and reached home before sunset.

A-Z Tourist Places in India for the Curious Traveler

2022-01-03T18:35:00.001+05:30

India is a vast country with many tourist places for long vacations as well as a quick weekend trips. These tourist places in India include scintillating mountains, exotic sea beaches, dense forests, interesting historical as well as religious places, and even deserts. Therefore, if you want to have a vacation in India, you can just select your type of place and plan your India trip. However, during your India travel, you might find it difficult to select the right places to go to. Having a list of the places can come in really handy when you are planning your India travel.

So, here's a list of tourist places in India in alphabetical order from A to Z.

A for Andaman & Nicobar Islands

One of the most popular tourist places in India, Andaman & Nicobar Islands offers you some amazing places. Unlike other islands that offer only beaches, these islands also have several other places of interest. These include the Cellular Prison, where Indian freedom fighters were sent as punishment by the British before India's independence. There's also Ross Island that has the army bunkers that were made during the Second World War. Besides, you can also visit the mud volcanoes or the limestone caves that make the Baratang Island of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands famous.

Only a few places in India have as exotic sea beaches as the Andaman & Nicobar Islands. These beaches are spread across various places, including Port Blair, Havelock Island, Neil Island, Long Island, Little Andaman, and more. Some of the most popular sea beaches in Andaman & Nicobar Islands are Corbyn's Cove Beach, Radhanagar Beach, Kala Pathar Beach, Elephant Beach, Vijaynagar Beach, Laxmanpur Beach, Govind Nagar Beach, Wandoor Beach, Sitapur Beach, and others.

The beaches in Andaman & Nicobar Islands are perfect for strolling and indulging in various kinds of adventurous activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, sea walking, and so on.

B for Bodh Gaya

One of the major places of worship for the Buddhists, Bodh Gaya is located on the banks of River Falgu in the state of Bihar. This is the place where Prince Siddhartha from Kapilavastu attained enlightenment under a fig tree and became Gautama Buddha, the sage whom the world worships.

During your visit to Bodhgaya, you must visit the main tourist attraction of the place - the Mahabodhi Temple. Besides, you can have a look at the other important sites, such as the 25 meters tall Buddha Statue made of stone and the Durgeshwari Temple. The Daijokyo Buddhist Temple, the Thai Temple and Monastery, Royal Bhutan Monastery are the famous monasteries of Bodhgaya. Besides, there are also several other tourist attractions of Bodhgaya that you can visit during your stay at this pilgrimage.

C for Calcutta

Want to visit the cultural capital of India? You need to look no further than Calcutta, the capital of the state of West Bengal, which is often dubbed as the City of Joy. Now renamed as a Kolkata in line with the Bengali pronunciation of the name, Calcutta was the capital of the British Colonialists till 1911. Therefore, the city is full of buildings built in accordance with British architectural styles. This has given the city the name of the City of Palaces.

Being a metropolitan, Calcutta has people from various parts of the country giving it a lively charm. Some of the most important places of tourist attractions in Kolkata include the Victoria Memorial Hall, Kolkata Zoological Gardens, the Indian Museum, St.John's Church, St.Paul's Cathedral, Nakhoda Mosque, Kalighat Temple, and Mother House. Visit Jorasanko Thakurbari, which is the house of Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore, and the house of Swami Vivekananda. Both of them have been turned into museums. If you can travel a bit away from Kolkata, visit Belur Math founded by Swami Vivekananda and the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple.

If you are a foodie, Calcutta has many places where you can savor your taste buds. Being a cosmopolitan city, it has options for all kinds of cuisines. You can enjoy anything you wish, ranging from Mughlai and biriyani to Chinese and South Indian cuisines. And if you want to taste the local cuisines, don't miss the rice with fish, egg, chicken, and mutton.

To view Calcutta in its full grandeur, it is always a good idea to visit it during the time of its most vibrant festival - the Durga Puja. It occurs during the month of September or October and changes the mood of the city completely, making it livelier and more vibrant. The city still gives out an old-world feel that's enough to charm almost anyone.

D for Darjeeling

Often dubbed as the Queen of the Hills, Darjeeling is a town in the Indian state of West Bengal. It is popular around the world for its tea industry and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Darjeeling is renowned for its beauty and the views of Mount Kanchenjunga.

Some of the major places of attraction in Darjeeling include the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling Ropeway, and Nightingale Park. If you're in Darjeeling, don't miss your visit to Tiger Hill to experience an amazing sunrise. And if you're a foodie, you can also try out a few local dishes of Darjeeling, which include momos, thukpas, and other traditional Nepali dishes.

If you want to go to some offbeat places in West Bengal, you can also explore our guide to the top offbeat tourist places in West Bengal.

E for Elephanta Island

Elephanta Island, located in the Indian state of Maharashtra, is home to the Elephanta Caves. These caves have several temples dedicated to Hindu god Shiva. Besides, there are a few Buddhist stupas as well. This island was known earlier as Gharapuri. As there are statues of elephants in the caves, the Portuguese colonials named it Elefante. This became Elephanta with the passage of time.

Six caves create the whole network of the Elephanta Caves. Among them, the first cave is the largest one. It has various entrances that lead to the main place of worship or mandapa. It is decorated with several pillars. The walls around the hall contain carvings of various events from the life of Lord Shiva, the Hindu God. These include giant statues of Shiva's incarnation of Nataraja slaying Andhakasura, the event of Shiva's wedding, Shiva as Ardhanarishwara, Sadasiva Trimurti, and others.

If you're planning to visit the Elephanta Island to view the Elephanta Caves, you can go for a boat ride from the Gateway of India. Tickets for the Elephanta Island are available from the Gateway of India. A boat ride of an hour can take you to the place where you can feel astonished at the architectural genius who created this such a long time ago, between the 5th and 7th centuries AD.

F for Fatehpur Sikri

Fatehpur Sikri was established in 1571 as the capital of the Mughal Empire by Emperor Akbar. It was inhabited even before that period. Fatehpur Sikri functioned as the capital of the Mughal Empire till 1585 and was completed abandoned in 1610. However, the buildings and monuments at Fatehpur Sikri still remain bearing testimony to those busy times.

There are quite a few palaces and major buildings in Fatehpur Sikri. Some of these include the Jama Masjid, the Tomb of Salim Chisti, the Panch Mahal, Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and so on. There are various palaces for different queens of Akbar. Besides, the house of Birbal, who was the minister of Akbar, is also located inside. Buland Darwaza, the largest gate in Asia, is located in Fatehpur Sikri.

G for Goa

The name Goa brings to mind the scenes of exotic beaches where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the blue waters. This town offers one of the best sea beaches in India and is loved by both Indians as well as foreign tourists. It offers excellent opportunities of engaging in watersports, such as jetskiing, banana boat rides, and so on. Some of the best beaches in Goa include Baga Beach, Anjuna Beach, Calangute Beach, Palolem Beach, Vagator Beach, Colva Beach, Mobor Beach, Dona Paula Beach, and Sinquerim Beach.

However, Goa isn't only about the sea and the beaches. There are also several forts along the sea beaches that are spotted by palm trees. You visit these forts. Some of them, however, requires trekking. Apart from its tourist spots, Goa is also known for its vibrant nightlife, which include nightclubs, bars, and parties. So, don't miss out enjoying a chunk of it during your trip to Goa.

Some of the attractions of Goa you just cannot miss include the Grand Island, Fort Aguada, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Basilica of Bom Jesus, Chapora Fort, Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, and Arvelam Waterfalls.

H for Hyderabad

Hyderabad, the capital of Telengana, is also known as the City of Nizams. It has a rich history that goes back to the time of the Nawabs and Nizams. The city is located on the shores of the Hussain Sagar Lake. The city is spotted with some architectural beauties. These include the Charminar, the Falaknuma Palace, Chowmahalla Palace, Qutub Shahi Tombs, and Purani Haveli. You can visit some the Salar Jung Museum, which has the collections of Nawab Turab Ali Khan or Salar Jung I and Mir Yousuf Ali Khan or Salar Jung II. This museum has outstanding collections of art, manuscripts, and books.

If you take a city tour of Hyderabad, you can go to Ramoji Film City, which is a film studio complex that showcases various aspects of filmmaking. It is the largest integrated film studio complex in the world and is visited by many tourists on a regular basis. The Golconda Fort is also not far from the city and is one of the popular tourist attractions of Hyderabad. If you're a foodie, don't miss the delicious taste of Hyderabad-styled biryani from some of the famous eating joints of the city.

I for Imphal

Looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy city life? Want to unwind in the mountains? Imphal, the capital of Manipur in northeastern India, can be the perfect destination for you. The place is rich in history and also offers a time close to nature. Imphal also has a rich culture, which you can witness if you visit the city. It is known for folk and classical dances and music.

Some of the tourist attractions in Imphal include the picturesque Lake Loktak, Sambal-Lei-Sekpil Garden, Matai Garden, and Kangla Fort. When you're in Imphal, ensure that you visit the Imphal Zoological Garden as well as the Manipur State Museum.

J for Jaisalmer

You can find almost every landscape, such as the mountains, forests, valleys, and sea beaches across various places in India. However, if you want to visit the desert, there's only one place that you have to head to. It's Jaisalmer in the Rajasthan.

The town of Jaisalmer is a favorite of the tourists coming to India for its desert and the Jaisalmer Fort, which was constructed using yellow limestone. This is the second-oldest fort of Rajasthan and one of the few forts in the world, where people still reside. The renowned, Oscar-winning Bengali filmmaker Satyajit Ray based one of his films on this golden fort of Jaisalmer. Besides, the town is jeweled with majestic Havelis and several Jain temples.

The desert town is also spotted with a few lakes, especially the Gadisar Lake, which was built in 1156 AD by King Rawal Jaisal, the founder of Jaisalmer. It was also reconstructed in 1367 AD by Gadsi Singh.\

Don't miss out on a camel ride across the desert when you're in Jaisalmer. Cross the sand dunes on the back of a camel while going to experience the sunset in the Thar Desert. You can also visit the town of Kuldhara nearby, which is said to be haunted.

If possible, book your stay at the desert tents, so that you can view the beauty of the desert during the sunset and into the night. These tents let you sleep on beds in the open under the starry sky.

K for Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve

Situated on the floodplains of river Brahmaputra in the state of Assam, Kaziranga National Park is known for its amazing flora and fauna. If you're a wildlife lover, you can't miss this forest, which is known for its one-horned rhinoceroses. In fact, Kaziranga has world's largest population of one-horned rhinoceros in the world. In addition, you can also find various types of birds and animals, such as elephants, swamp deer, wild water buffalo, and so on.

Kaziranga National Park is also one of the tiger reserves and has a population of over 100 Bengal Tigers. It also has India's only Golden Tiger, which has a color aberration that makes it appear golden. And if you're lucky while traveling to Kaziranga National Park, you might even catch a glimpse of the rare Ganges River Dolphin that swims in the River Brahmaputra that flows through the park. If the weather is clear, the peaks of the Himalayan mountain range are also visible from Kaziranga National Park.

L for Lucknow

Located on the banks of River Gomti in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow is often dubbed as the City of Nawabs. It has a history that dates back to an ancient era, but it was under the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, and the Nawabs of Oudh that the city reached its peak. The Old City of Lucknow still bears testimony to those amazing times through its grand architectural wonders. One of the most famous tourist attractions of Lucknow is the Bara Imambara, which houses the extremely famous Bhul-Bhulaiya labyrinth. In addition, the other structures in Bara Imambara include the Asfi mosque and a Bowli or stepwell that has running water.

Close to the Bara Imambara is the Chota Imambara, whose hall is decorated with numerous chandeliers and crystal glass lamp shades. The Chota Imambara also contains the Tombs of Princess Asiya Begum and Muhammad Ali Shah, and the Treasury Building. Some of the other Lucknow attractions include the Ghari Ghar or the Clock Tower, Dilkhusha Kothi, Satkhands, and Rumi Darwaza.

Apart from the architectures from the time of the Nawabs is ruins of The Residency or The British Residency. As the name suggests, it was the resident of the British Resident General and was constructed for him by the Nawab Sadaat Ali Khan of Lucknow between 1798 and 1814. This complex of buildings were attacked by the Indian soldiers during the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857. Several buildings, such as the Banquetting Hall, Dr.Fayrer's House, and others were damaged during the mutiny.

If you're a foodie, Lucknow has some amazing places for you. Don't miss out on the Awadhi dishes that are available at different restaurants of the city. You can also try out the biriyani and kebabs at Tundey Kababi and Dastarkhwan.

M for Manali

If you're looking for a few places in India that offers fascinating natural beauty, you can head to Himachal Pradesh. There are quite a few places in the state that are the perfect example of nature's charm. Manali and the town of Kullu close by stand out. There are numerous places of interest in and around Manali. Some of them are Solang Valley, Bhrigu Lake, Hampta Pass, Arjun Gufa, Gulaba, Jogini Waterfalls, Great Himalayan National Park, Rahala Falls, and Nehru Kund.

If you are interested in temples and mythology, don't miss the Hidimba Temple, Manali Gompa, Arjun Gufa, Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple, and Gauri Shakar Temple. You can stroll in the Mall. If you're interested in art and culture, don't skip your visit to the Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art. Some of the other places to visit from Manali include Rohtang Pass, Kothi, Katrain, and Chandrakhani Pass. If you want, you can go to the banks of River Beas and spend your time there.

If you're visiting Manali during the winter, you will find it covered in snow. You can do igloo booking Manali to have an offbeat experience and make your Manali trip even more memorable.

N for Nainital

The town of Nainital in Uttarakhan gets its name from the lake or tal Naini and the peak Naina. The town is located on the side of the lake. Nainital is one of the most popular hill stations in India. This mountainous city owes its beauty to this eye-shaped lake, which has emerald waters.

When you're in Nainital, don't miss the local attractions, which include several other lakes, such as Bhimtal, Sattal, Naukuchiatal, and others. You can also go up the hills to view the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas from there. Even the view of Lake Naini is also beautiful from up the mountains.

Nainital Zoo can be a good place to spend your time. And taking a stroll by the side of the lake during any time of the day and evening can help you unwind. It's also a good idea to taste some of the mouth-watering bakery items and momos at Nainital during your stay. And taking a boat ride on Lake Naini is a must before you end your trip of Nainital.

Some of the other places where you can head to from Nainital are Almora, Kousani, and Ranikhet.

O for Ooty

Located in the Nilgiri Hills in the Indian state of Tamilnadu, Ooty is the perfect hill station for you to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. Originally planned as a summer retreat for the British officials during their colonial rule, Ooty is known primarily for its tea estates and soothing climate.

In addition to the tea estates, Ooty also has lush greenery due to its tropical forests. It is situated in the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve where you can take safaris. Besides, there are also several gardens and parks in Ooty, such as the Government Rose Garden, which is India's largest rose garden, and the Ooty Botanical Gardens.

The beauty of Ooty is enhanced by the presence of several lakes, such as Ooty Lake, Porthimund Lake, Emerald Lake, and Avalanche Lake. Besides, River Pykara flows through the town. The Pykara Dam and the Kamaraj Sagar Dam are some of the places of tourist interest in the town. You can also visit the Doddabetta Peak.

P for Pondicherry

When it comes to places whose names start with P, there can be stiff competition between Pondicherry in Tamilnadu and Pahelgam in Jammu and Kashmir. Maybe we'll go to Pahelgam some other day. For the time being, let's head to Pondicherry.

An erstwhile French colony, Pondicherry or Puducherry still bears testimony to its colonial times. The French influence, especially in architecture and road planning, is still visible. Also known as the French Riviera of the East, Pondicherry also has some splendid sea beaches. When you're in Pondicherry, spend time in the French Promenade. And don't forget to taste the French dishes at the local restaurants.

Auroville and Sri Aurobindo Ashram are also located close to the city of Pondicherry.

Q for Qutb Minar Complex

Qutb Minar Complex is not a city or town, but a historical site in the Indian city of Delhi. True. But India doesn't have any tourist place the name of which starts with 'Q'. So, let's take this opportunity and visit one of the most renowned historical monuments in India.

Located in the Mehrauli neighborhood in South Delhi, the Qutb Complex houses a number of historical buildings and monuments. The star among them is surely the Qutb Minar, whose construction was started under Delhi Sultan Qutb-ud-din-Aibak in 1199 and was completed under Sultan Iltutmish in 1220. Since then, various rules, including the Tughlaqs, Alauddin Khalji, and even the British have added various structures to this complex.

Apart from the Qutb Minar, the Qutb Complex in Delhi also have other structures, such as the Tomb of Iltutmish and Tomb of Imam Zamin, and Ala-ud-din Khilji's Tomb and madrasa. It also has the Alai Minar, which was started by Ala-ud-din Khalji. The plan was to make this tower twice as tall as the Qutb Minar. However, its construction was not completed. There's also the Quwwat-Ul-Islam Mosque.

One of the most outstanding attractions of the Qutb Complex is the Iron Pillar. So, if you're visiting this place, don't forget to have a glance at it. And don't miss the sun-dial too.

R for Ravangla

Among the tourist places in India starting with R, Ravangla and Rann of Kutch can have a close fight. Let's stick to Ravangla, an alluring place in Sikkim.

Ravangla lies between Gangtok and Pelling. Just as many other places of Sikkim, in Ravangla too Mount Kanchenjunga offers a perfect backdrop. The place is rich in flora and fauna. There are quite a few tea gardens around Ravangla among which the Temi Tea Garden is quite famous. Besides, you can visit a few monasteries, such as the Ralang Monastery, the Doling Gompa, and the Bonn Monastery from this scenic town in South Sikkim.

When you're in Ravangla, you can experience a mesmerizing sunrise over Mount Kanchenjunga from Rayong Sunrise Point. If you are planning to spend some lazy time, a stroll in the famous Buddha Park of Ravangla can be refreshing. Have a look at the Buddha statue and climb the stairs up it.

S for Srinagar

Although Kashmir has long been politically disputed and had some severe unrest, the beauty of the place, nonetheless, is breathtaking. Tourism in Kashmir is also gradually coming back to its proper shape. So, you can plan your visit to this place, which is often dubbed as the Heaven on Earth. And when you go there, don't forget to halt at Srinagar, the capital of Jammu & Kashmir. To enjoy your time there to the fullest, you can book your stay in one of the houseboats on Dal Lake in Srinagar.

In addition to staying in the houseboats on Dal Lake, you can visit some of the tourist places in Srinagar. In addition to its natural beauty, the place also has a rich history. There are several gardens in Srinagar, such as the Nishat Bagh and the Shalimar Bagh, that date back to the Mughal period. You can also visit the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden or go to Hazratbal Shrine or Shankaracharya Temple. While staying there, don't miss shopping in the floating markets. And if you're going at a time when the apples bloom, make a point to visit the apple orchards of Srinagar.

Before planning your trip to Srinagar, you must check out the current political conditions and unrest in the state.

T for Tawang

Looking for a trip that blends the beauty of nature with local culture? Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh is probably the best for that. Located at an altitude of 10000 feet, this town offers scintillating views that can enthrall mountain lovers. There are several enchanting lakes in and around the town. Besides, you can visit different Buddhist monasteries. In fact, India's largest monastery, the Tawang Buddhist Monastery, is also located in town in Arunachal Pradesh.

Some of the places of interest in Tawang are Bumla Pass, Madhuri Lake, Pangateng Tso Lake, Nuranang Falls, and Sela Pass are some places you can't miss. There are also a few historical places, such as Tawang War Memorial and Jaswant Garh, which you can visit.

U for Udaipur

The state of Rajasthan in India has a rich history and royal glamor attached to it. It is spotted with destinations that attract tourists on their India travel. Udaipur, an important historical and tourist place in Rajasthan, can take you back in time with its stunning palaces and forts, such as the Udaipur City Palace, Saheliyon Ki Bari, Jagmandir, Lake Palace, Fateh Prakash Palace, and Sajjangarh Monsoon Palace. The Bada Mahal, which is a part of the City Palace, and Maharana Pratap Memorial are popular tourist attractions of Udaipur.

There are quite a few museums that, among others, include City Palace Museum, Ahar Museum, Vintage and Classic Car Museum, and the Government Museum. The city of Udaipur is dotted with lakes that make it even more graceful. Some of them are Udaisagar Lake, Doodh Talai, Jiyan Sagar, Jaisamand Lake, Rajsamand Lake, Lake Pichola, and Fateh Sagar Lake.

V for Varanasi

If India is the Spiritual Capital of the World, as it is often termed, then Varanasi or Benaras is it's epicenter. The city has always been a part of Indian mythology when it was called Kashi and finds in mention in various ancient literary works, such as the Mahabharata. Archeological evidence shows that people lived in the city even in 800 BC. If you visit Varanasi, you must immerse yourself in the spiritual journey through the city. The city is located on the banks of River Ganges, which is considered sacred by the Hindus.

Varanasi is known for its narrow alleys, bazaars, and the famous Ghats or riverfront steps. The city has a whooping 88 ghats. Don't miss out on the visits to some of the ghats, such as Dasaswamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, Scindia Ghat, Lalita Ghat, Raj Ghat, and others. Among these, the Manikarnika Ghat and Harishchandra Ghat are used for cremation.

You can also take a boat ride along River Ganges to view the city and its several ghats from the middle of the river. And don't miss the scene of priests worshipping River Ganges in the evening.

W for Wayanad

Kerala is known as God's Own Country and that isn't for no reason. And out of the many outstanding places in Kerala, Wayanad surely stands out for its soothing weather and picturesque views. The place is quite popular among trekkers as well as people who love adventure cycling. There are opportunities for rock climbing, mountaineering, and camping in Wayanad. Besides, just as the other areas of Kerala, this city also is known for its greenery. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is located in this city. You can go for a safari in this forest.

For planning a road trip across Kerala, explore our Kerala travel guide covering a road trip from Trivandrum to Munnar.

When you're in Wayanad, you can plan your stay in a treehouse to double the enjoyment. Don't forget to visit the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, the Edakkal Cave, the Pookode Lake, and the Kuruva Island. In addition, you can visit the Chembra Peak and the Thirunelli Temple. The Banasura Sagar Dam, the largest earthen dam in India and the second-largest in Asia, is also among the must-visit places in Wayanad.

X for 'The Unknown'

It seems India does not have any popular tourist place that starts with X.

Do you know why?

Because X has always been the unknown. So, you can explore it and find out your own favorite tourist spot from the unknown and unexplored places in India.

Y for Yumthang Valley

A picturesque valley located in North Sikkim, Yumthang lies on the banks of the Lachung River, a tributary of River Teesta. The slopes of the mountains around the valley are full of flowering plants and shrubs, such as Rhododendrons, primulas, iris, and poppies. During spring and summer, these flowers bloom to give the valley a vibrant look. Besides, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which boasts of several species of rhododendron, is located in Yumthang Valley. The colorful look that the valley wears from spring to monsoon gives it the name of the Sikkim Valley of Flowers.

Yumthang Valley has a hot spring where you can spend some time. Besides, the valley is surrounded by snow-capped ranges of the Himalayas. If the weather is clear, you can catch a glimpse of Mount Kanchenjunga. The valley, located close to Lachung, remains closed from December to March, as it experiences heavy snowfall during that time.

Z for Zuluk

Although Zuluk is a small village, which wasn't in the tourist map even a few years ago, it has every quality to surprise a travel-thirsty soul. Away from the crowded places of Sikkim, Zuluk allows you to enjoy the silence of nature. Besides, the roads to Zuluk that wind up and down the mountains with 32 hairpin-bends offer a delightful experience to the travelers. If you want to visit Zuluk, you need to get permission done from Gangtok.

The history of Zuluk also dates back to the ancient of times. It was a transit point to the Silk Route through which the travelers went from Tibet to India.

There are several tourist places close to Zuluk that you can visit. These include Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Baba Mandir, and Gurudongmar Lake.

Do you remember any other place of tourist attraction in India starting with each of the alphabets?

Share with us in the comments section below.

Netarhat Hotels & Resorts: Where to Stay, Prices & Best Picks (2026)

2021-11-23T11:34:00.009+05:30

Looking for an offbeat place in Jharkhand for a short trip?

Netarhat can surely be a great option. Located on the Chhotanagpur Plateau, Netarhat is one of the best tourist places in Jharkhand. In fact, Netarhat is also known as the Queen of Chhotanagpur Plateau, and that's not without any reason. Located at an altitude of 1,071 meters, this place also offers a wonderful climate. Netarhat also has mesmerizing pine forests that can attract the attention of the visitors with ease. Besides, it offers one of the best sunset views in India from the famous Magnolia Sunset Point.

This town in Jharkhand is located at a distance of about 156 kilometers from Ranchi. Therefore, if you're planning to visit Netarhat, it makes no sense to book a hotel in Ranchi and visit this place from there. Therefore, you should book a room in one of the several Netarhat hotels.

If you're planning a complete trip, read our Netarhat travel guide, which covers the best places to visit, accommodation, sunset points and a suggested itinerary.

Netarhat is surely one of the most visited tourist places in Jharkhand. Tourists from across India visit Netarhat and stay there to enjoy the beauty of the hills. As a result, there's no dearth of hotels in Netarhat. However, the Netarhat hotels are not known for offering luxurious accommodations. These accommodations in Netarhat are mostly comfortable, but does not offer anything extraordinary - except the magical views of the valley and the hills.

While booking a room in a hotel in Netarhat, ensure that you're going for one, which offers the best views of the hills. If possible, it is always a good idea to book a room in a Netarhat hotel that overlooks the valley. A glimpse of the rows of green hills are enchanting and, at the same time, soothing to the eyes.

Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat

Although there are several hotels in Netarhat and different new ones are also coming up, Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat remains the favorite among the tourists. This hotel is owned and run by Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation Limited.

Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat, is considered one of the best places to experience the beautiful sunrise in Netarhat. Tourists staying in Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat, usually gather on the terrace of the hotel to experience the sunrise. Those who are not staying in Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat, come to the street just outside the hotel premises and experience the sunrise from there.

Naturehat Meditation and Recreation Resort

Naturehat Meditation and Recreation Resort, Netarhat, is unique, as it offers visitors the opportunity to experience nature in its purest form. The resort is situated amidst dense forests, rolling hills, and glistening waterfalls, making it an ideal location for those looking for a serene and peaceful escape from the chaos of the city. The accommodation at Naturehat Meditation and Recreation Resort is designed to provide guests with a comfortable and relaxing stay, while also allowing them to connect with nature.

The resort offers a variety of accommodation options to cater to different needs and budgets. The resort has a total of 15 eco-friendly rooms, each of which is designed to provide a comfortable stay to guests. The rooms are classified into three categories: Deluxe Rooms, Super Deluxe Rooms, and Suites.

The resort also offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and guided nature walks, for the guests. It also has a meditation center where guests can practice yoga and meditation in a peaceful and serene environment. The resort also has an outdoor pool, which is perfect for a refreshing swim after a day of exploring the natural surroundings.

The restaurant at the resort serves a variety of delicious and healthy meals, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, using locally sourced ingredients.

Forest Rest House

The Forest Rest House in Netarhat is an excellent option for nature lovers who want to stay in the lap of nature. Located amidst lush green forests, the rest house offers basic facilities such as comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, and 24-hour electricity. The rest house can be booked through the Forest Department of Jharkhand.

Arunodaya Guest House

Arunodaya Guest House is situated amidst the lush green forests and offers a serene and peaceful environment to its guests. It offers a variety of rooms to suit the needs of different travelers. There are deluxe rooms, standard rooms, and dormitory-style accommodation. The deluxe rooms are spacious and come with modern amenities, such as air conditioning, television, and attached bathrooms. The standard rooms are simpler, but still comfortable and come with essential amenities. The dormitory-style accommodation is ideal for budget travelers who don't mind sharing a room with others. There's a restaurant on the premises that serves delicious local cuisine. There is also a conference hall that can be used for meetings and events.

Sunrise Guest House

Sunrise Guest House is a budget-friendly option for travelers who want to explore Netarhat without burning a hole in their pockets. The guest house offers comfortable rooms with attached bathrooms and basic amenities such as hot water, TV, and room service. The guest house can be booked through their contact number.

Panchwati Forest Resort

Panchwati Forest Resort is a luxurious option for travelers who want to indulge in some pampering during their stay in Netarhat. The resort offers well-appointed rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, and other facilities such as a swimming pool, a gym, and a spa. The resort can be booked online or through their contact number.

Guest House, Horticulture Department

The Guest House of the Horticulture Department in Netarhat is a peaceful and serene place to stay for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The guest house offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and other facilities such as a conference hall and a library. The guest house can be booked through the Horticulture Department of Jharkhand.

In addition to these, other hotels, such as Arunodaya Guest House and Naturehat Meditation and Recreation Resort, are also gaining popularity.

Here's a list of a few Netarhat hotels along with their address.

Name	Location
Hotel Prabhat Vihar	Near Bus Stand, Netarhat, Jharkhand 822119
Arunodaya Guest House	F7FH+R7H, Netarhat, Jharkhand 822119
Panna Lodge Netarhat	Sunset Road, near Durga Mandir, Bartoli, Jharkhand 835218
Naturehat Meditation and Recreation Resort	Forest Guest House, Road, Netarhat, Jharkhand 822119
Dak Bungalow	Link Rd, Netarhat, Jharkhand 822119
Hotel Royal Residency	Near Durga Mandir, Netarhat, Jharkhand 835218
Valley View Guest House	Forest Guest House Road, Netarhat, Jharkhand 835218
Forest Guest House	Link Rd, Netarhat, Jharkhand 822119
Lake View Resort	Lake road, near Van Atithi Sadan, Netarhat, Jharkhand 822119
Hotel Ravi and Shashi (also known as Ravi and Shashi Lodge)	Police station road, Netarhat, Jharkhand 835218
Hotel Sunrise	Netarhat, Jharkhand
Bhagwati Lodge	Near SUNRISE POINT, Netarhat, Jharkhand 835218
Hotel Verma	F7CH+P26, Netarhat, Jharkhand 822119
Mallika Hotel	F7J7+JVP, Netarhat, Jharkhand 822119
Hotel Magnolia Palace	-
Hotel Pine Valley	-
Aarohi Lodge	-
Hills Queen	-

The hotels in Netarhat can help you plan a proper stay in this beautiful hill station in Jharkhand. You can book any of these hotels in Netarhat to ensure that you don't face any hassle while going on your Netarhat trip.

Netarhat can also be included in a longer journey through the region.

See our Jharkhand road trip guide covering Netarhat, Maromar, Betla and McCluskieganj for a broader itinerary.

Top Bird Sanctuaries in India for Watching the Winged Beauties

2021-08-03T14:13:00.003+05:30

Are you a bird watcher who likes the companionship of birds from a distance?

Do you love to while away your time watching the winged beauties and clicking their pictures?

You can find several places to spend your free time engaging in bird watching in India. There are quite a few bird sanctuaries in India that attract the attention of bird watchers from across the globe. If you plan to watch the birds or click great pictures of these beautiful creatures, you can head to one of these excellent bird sanctuaries in India that boast of a wide range of flora and fauna. You can see some amazing species of birds, both endemic as well as migratory, in these bird sanctuaries in India across different states of the country.

Here's a list of some of these enchanting bird sanctuaries in India, which can keep you engrossed in watching different species and shades of birds.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Rajasthan

Also known as Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, is one of the largest and most popular places among birdwatchers. Full of marshes as well as large trees, the Keoladeo Ghana National Park in Rajasthan has several local birds. It also attracts a number of migratory birds from the Arctic region.

The best time to visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is from October to March. The Keoladeo Ghana National Park remains closed in May and June.

Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary Timings

The timings for Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary vary for summer and winter.

Summer: 6 AM to 6 PM
Winter: 6:30 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fee for Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

The entry fee per person at the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary varies for Indian citizens and foreigners. Students can enter the park at a discounted fee, if they can show a valid ID.

Entry Fee

For Indian Citizens: INR 75 to INR 155 per person
For Indian Students with a valid Student ID: INR 62 per person
For Foreign Nationals: INR 500 to 959 per person

Birds Found in Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary

Some of the common species of birds found in Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary are:

Oriental ibis

Siberian crane

Sarus crane

White spoonbill

Asian open-billed stork

Painted stork

Gadwall

Herons

Shoveler

Cotton teal

Common teal

Indian grey hornbill

Crested serpent eagle

Imperial eagle

Pallas' sea eagle

Short-toed eagle

Spotted eagle

Tawny eagle

Knob-billed duck

Tufted duck

Painted francolins

Osprey

For a more detailed account, read our Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary travel article.

Chintamani Kar Bird Sanctuary, West Bengal

Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary is one of the few bird sanctuaries within the city of Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal. Located near Narendrapur in South Kolkata, this bird sanctuary Kolkata is also referred to locally as Kayal-er Bagan. Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary is known for a wide variety of avian species, along with orchids, ferns, and trees. Different types of spiders and nimble butterflies can also be found in this bird sanctuary Kolkata.

The Best time to visit Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary is from November to February.

Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary Timing: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry Fee for Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary: INR 50

Birds Found in Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary

Some of the common species of birds found in Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary, Kolkata, are:

Black-hooded Oriole
Green Bee-eater
Little Egret
Streak-throated woodpecker
Indian Pond Heron
Shikra
Red-vented Bulbul
White-throated Fantail
Asian Koel
Brown Fish Owl
Blue-throated Barbet
White-throated Kingfisher
Rufous Woodpecker
Indian Paradise Flycatcher
Olive-backed Sunbird
Oriental Magpie-Robin
Spotted Dove
Common Emerald Dove

Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary, Tamil Nadu

One of the most important bird sanctuaries of Tamil Nadu, the Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary is also known as Chitragudi and Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary. Located adjacent to the Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary, this bird sanctuary in Tamil Nadu is famous for being the nesting place of different types of migratory water birds. Besides, this bird sanctuary in Tamil Nadu has several Babul trees that act as the perfect habitat for the birds.

The best time to visit Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary is between October and February.

The Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary is the breeding ground of different types of migratory water birds. Some of the birds found in this bird sanctuary in Tamil Nadu are:

Asian openbill stork
Spot-billed pelican
Pond heron
Grey heron
Purple heron
Little egret
Great egret

Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, Gujarat

Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary, also known as Kutch Bustard Sanctuary and Lala-Parjan Sanctuary, is the safe haven for Great Indian Bustard, a heavy bird, which is critically endangered. This bird, which is locally known as Ghorad, is quite difficult to spot.

Located in the Indian state of Gujarat, this bird sanctuary is close to the coast of Kutch and the Jakhau Creeks. As a result, it is visited by several birds throughout the year. This attracts a number of tourists and photographers to the Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary regularly.

The best time to visit Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary is from October to February.

Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary Timing: Sunrise to sunset

Entry Fee for Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary: Free

Birds Found in Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary

Some of the birds found in Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary are:

Indian Bustard or Ghorad
Lesser Florican
Egrets
Flamingos
Sandpipers
Herons
Black Patridges
Black and Grey Francolin
Quails
Common cranes
Shrikes
Plovers
Harriers
White-naped Tit
Stoliczka's bushchat
Imperial Eagle

Some of the animals often sighted in this bird sanctuary are wolves, desert cats, caracals, striped hyenas, fox, Indian gazelle, spiny tailed lizards, nilgai, mongoose, and so on.

Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary, Mizoram

Located close to the Indo-Myanmar border in the state of Mizoram, Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary is known for the wide range of birds available. In fact, this forest is considered as a safe haven for different kinds of rare species of birds. A protected area since 1999, this forest was given the status of a national wildlife sanctuary in 2001.

The best time to visit Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to April.

Birds Found in Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary

Some of the birds found in Kutch Great Indian Bustard Sanctuary are:

Great Indian hornbill
Pied hornbill
Wreathed hornbill
Grey sibia
Oriental pied hornbill
Rufous-bellied eagle
White cheeked patridge
White-naped yuhina
Dark-rumped swift
Blyth’s tragopan
Khaleej pheasant
Grey peacock pheasant
Mrs. Hume's pheasant

In addition, this wildlife sanctuary has several animals, such as tigers, leopards, giant squirrel, sambar, ghoral, Himalayan black bear, ferret badgers, serow, barking deer, and large Indian civet.

Mayani Bird Sanctuary, Maharashtra

There aren't many bird sanctuaries in India where you can watch flamingoes and other migratory birds. But you can usually find them in Mayani Bird Sanctuary during winter when they are on their route of winter migration. In fact, other migratory birds come in large numbers in this bird sanctuary in Maharashtra and the flamingoes paint the landscape of the sanctuary pink.

Mayani Bird Sanctuary in Maharashtra is built close to a dam. Different kinds of birds are attracted by the water of the dam. There are watch towers in the sanctuary, from where you can view various types of birds, which throng this sanctuary in Maharashtra.

Mayani Bird Sanctuary Timing: 7 AM to 9 PM

Entry Fee for Mayani Bird Sanctuary: INR 15 per person

Birds Found in Mayani Bird Sanctuary

Some of the common species of birds found in Mayani Bird Sanctuary are:

Flamingoes
Various types of kingfishers
Common Spoon Bills
Brahminy Ducks
Painted Storks
Black Ibis
Northern Shoveler
Different types of storks
Coot

Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary, Odisha

Chilka Lake in Odisha is the largest salt water lake in Asia. And on its northern shores is located Mangalajodi, a small hamlet that's becoming increasingly popular among the birdwatchers with every passing day. The Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary in Odisha is undoubtedly the best of all the bird sanctuaries at Chilka Lake.

The wetlands on the shores of Chilka Lake are full of marshes. Migratory birds of various kinds crowd these places during the winter. They join the native birds to increase the bird population at the Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary at Chilka Lake.

The best time to visit Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary in Odisha for bird watching is from November to February. However, maximum number of birds can be found during December and January.

Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary Timing: 7 AM to 9 PM

Entry Fee for Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary: INR 15 per person

Birds Found in Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary

A number of migratory birds from the Arctic regions as well as several native birds crowd the Mangalajodi Bird Sanctuary during the winter. Some of the bird species that are visible to the bird watchers include:

Purple Heron
Ruddy Shelduck, Knob-billed Duck, and Indian Spot-billed Duck
Northern Shoveler
Slaty-breasted Rail
Garganey
Northern Shoveler
Gadwall
Indian Spot-billed Duck
Little Grebe
Asian Palm-Swift
Pheasant-tailed Jacana
Bronze-winged Jacana
Gray-headed Swamphen
Watercock
Ruddy-breasted Crake
Baillon's Crake
Pacific Golden-Plover
Gray-headed Lapwing
Greater Painted-Snipe and Common Snipe
Black-tailed Godwit
Ruff
Collared and Oriental Pratincoles
Brown-headed Gull
Whiskered Tern
Little Cormorant
Yellow Bittern
Cattle Egret
Glossy Ibis
Osprey
White-throated Kingfisher
Pied Kingfisher
Blyth's Reed Warbler
Clamorous Reed Warbler
Bluethroat
Citrine Wagtail
Paddyfield Pipit

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, Karnataka

Situated across several islets on River Kaveri in the state of Karnataka, the Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary has a royal history. It was built by the Kanteerava Narasimharaja Wadiyar, who was the king of Mysore. More than 150 species of birds, including both native and migratory, build their nests on these river islets around the year.

This bird sanctuary in Karnataka is the result of the dedication of Dr.Salim Ali, who was India's Birdman. This bird sanctuary in Karnataka also offers boating options on the river.

The best time to visit Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary in Karnataka is from June to February. The best time for birdwatching is December.

Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary Timing: 7 AM to 9 PM

Entry Fee for Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary: INR 75 per adult and INR 25 per child

Birds Found in Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary

Some of the common species of birds found in Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary are:

Kingfishers
Open-billed stork
Painted stork
Cattle Egret
Little Egret
River Tern
White Ibis
Streak-throated Swallows
Large Cormorant
Little Cormorant
White Ibis
Darter
Shag
Indian Cliff Swallow
Peafowl
Lesser whistling teal
Spoon bills
Wild Duck
Pond Heron
Heron
River Tern
Great Stone Plover

Rasikbill Bird Sanctuary, West Bengal

Located in the district of Cooch Behar, Rasikbill Bird Sanctuary is one of the least explored places in West Bengal. It is situated across a large lake, which is named Rasikbill. The lake and its surrounding areas of marsh lands accept a large number of birds every year. The bird sanctuary has a watch tower from where you can watch different types of birds that flock here.

The best time to visit Rasikbill Bird Sanctuary is from October to March. Maximum numbers of migratory birds can be seen during the months of December and January.

Some of the species of birds found in Rasikbill Bird Sanctuary, West Bengal, are:

Birds found in Rasikbill Bird Sanctuary

Ibis
Storks
Parrots
Spoonbill
Common teal
Lesser whistling teal
Gadwall
Red-crested pochard
Ferruginous duck
Northern pintail
Eurasian wigeon
Northern shoveler
Northern lapwing
Grey-headed lapwing
Common kingfisher
Pied kingfisher
Stork-billed kingfisher
Great cormorant
Little cormorant

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa

Named after Dr.Salim Moizzuddin Ali or Dr.Salim Ali, the famous ornithologist of India, the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary stretches across the western part of the Chorao Island on the Mandovi River in Goa. This island is full of mangrove forests, which makes it a perfect nesting place for different types of birds.
Birding enthusiasts can reach this bird sanctuary in Goa by hiring ferry from Ribander to Chorão. Once they reach the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, they can hire canoes from Chorao to move through the narrow estuaries and canals. These canals have trees on both sides. Various types of birds crowd these trees. Besides, there's also a Mangrove Interpretation Facility inside the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa.
The best time to visit Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Goa is between October and March.

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Timing: 6 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fee for Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary: INR 10 per person for Indians and INR 100 per person for foreign tourists.

Birds found in Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary

Some of the species of birds found in Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa, are:

Western reef heron
Striated heron
Kites
Pintail ducks
Black bittern
Little bittern
Cormorants
Woodpeckers
Eagles
Kingfishers of different types
Curlews
Sandpipers
Mynahs
Drongos
Jack snipe
Red knot
Pied avocet

In addition to the birds, several animals, such as crocodiles, jackals, flying foxes, otters, fiddler crabs, and mudskippers can also be found in Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary in Goa.

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

A bird watchers' paradise, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary in Kerala had been described as the richest bird habitat on peninsular India by India's Birdman, Dr.Salim Ali. This forest has almost 300 species of birds. Along with the resident birds, it is also visited by migratory birds.

The best time to visit Thattekad Bird Sanctuary in Kerala is between October and February.

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary Timing: 7 AM to 5 PM

Entry Fee for Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: INR 40 per person for adults, INR 35 per person for children, and INR 180 per person for foreign tourists.

Situated on the banks of River Periyar, this bird sanctuary in Kerala offers a wide range of terrestrial as well as water birds. Some of these include:

Ceylon frogmouth
Malabar Grey Hornbill
Large-billed leaf-warbler
Orange-headed thrush
Indian cuckoo
Jerdon's nightjar
Whiskered terns
Oriental darter
Cormorants
Grey-fronted green pigeon
Collared scops owl
Yellow-browed bulbuls
White-rumped spinetail
Brown-cheeked fulvetta
Emerald Green Pigeon
Brown-backed needletails
Dark-fronted babbler
Drongo cuckoo
Large hawk cuckoo
Indian hawk cuckoo

Kaundinya Bird Sanctuary, Andhra Pradesh
Kaundinya Bird Sanctuary is a hidden gem in the state of Andhra Pradesh. With an area of over 358 square kilometers, this sanctuary is home to numerous species of endemic birds. In addition, Kaundinya Bird Sanctuary is also frequented by the migratory birds in winter.

The best time to visit Kaundinya Bird Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh is from October to April.
Kaundindya Bird Sanctuary Timing: Dawn to dusk
Entry Fee for Kaundinya Bird Sanctuary: Free
Birds found in Kaundinya Bird Sanctuary
Different varieties of birds can be seen in Kaundinya Bird Sanctuary. Some of these include:
Ducks
Peacocks
Rosy Pelicans
Grey Pelicans
Love Birds
Painted Storks
Pied Hornbills
Budgerigars
Cockatiels
The rich biodiversity, for which the Kaudinya Bird Sanctuary is popular, includes several animals as well. Some of the animals visible here include sloth bears, elephants, tigers, jungle cats, porcupines, monitor lizards, and so on.

India is a country rich in bio-diversity. These are some of the best bird sanctuaries in India. If you're a bird lover, you can visit some of these best bird sanctuaries in India and have a look at some unique avian species.
Are you aware of a few other bird sanctuaries in India where bird watchers can view some wonderful species of birds?
You can share them with us in the comments section.
For more destination ideas across India, explore our A–Z guide to tourist places in India.

Most Picturesque Valleys in India - For Your Bucket List

2021-07-08T00:55:00.001+05:30

India is a land of wonders for people thirsty for the beauty of nature. The large array of places that this land offers can surprise almost any traveler. There are several tourist places in India, which include sea beaches, mountains, forests, and historical sites. Besides, India also has quite a few valleys that are breathtakingly beautiful. These stunning valleys, located across different states in India are fed by various rivers, including the Narmada, Teesta, Kaveri, Jhelum, Lidder, and others.

For more ideas beyond India's valleys, explore our A–Z guide to tourist places in India.

Here's a look at some of the most stunning valleys in India.

Kashmir Valley

There are only a few places on earth the beauty of which has been compared to the enchantment of heaven since the earliest of time. The Kashmir Valley, drained by River Jhelum, is one such wonderful location that has attracted the attention of nature lovers for a long time. The Kashmir Valley is surrounded by high mountain ranges on various sides - the Karakoram Range in the north, the Zanskar Range in the east, and the Pir Panjal Range in the south as well as in the west.

The valley is covered with greenery - lush forests and flowering plants. There are magnificent lakes all around. Some of these include Dal Lake, Wular Lake, Satsar Lake, and others. The valley offers a different view during each season. During winter, it's covered in snow. But during spring and summer, you can visit the Kashmir Valley to enjoy the view of apple orchards in bloom. And the fall is the time to see the Kashmir Valley in the golden hue of the Chinar or Maple trees.

There are a few amazing tourist places in Srinagar, the capital of the Jammu and Kashmir, which is located in the Kashmir Valley. The place attracts a lot of tourists these days after years of political unrest had caused the tourism industry of this astounding valley to suffer to a great extent.

Spiti Valley

Himachal Pradesh, undoubtedly, is one of the most enchanting states in India. It has several tourist destinations, which include, among others, Kullu, Manali, Rohtang Pass, and the capital city of Shimla. It also has several valleys, among which is an enthralling valley - the Spiti Valley, which is fed by the Spiti River. This valley, located between India and Tibet, is a cold desert, which has meager vegetation.

The Spiti Valley is an important location for Buddhism and houses quite a few monasteries. It is a connection point of culture and religion between India and Tibet. These include the Tabo Monastery and the Key Monastery. Dhankar Lake is often visited by tourists during their Spiti Valley trips. Chandratal and Surajtal are also a few lakes, which can be visited from this valley. The Spiti River that flows through the valley often dives into a few deep gorges. Besides, the Pin Valley National Park and Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary, a few destinations that are the favorite of wildlife lovers, are also located in the Spiti Valley.

Lidder Valley

In addition to the Jhelum River, the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is also fed by one of its tributaries - the Lidder River. This river forms a valley in Kashmir, which isn't less charming than any of the valleys in India. The Lidder Valley is also surrounded by mountain ranges. The Pir Panjal range stands in the south while the Sindh and Zanskar Ranges guard the valley from the north.

The Lidder River flows through a gorge through this valley and creates some places that seem to come right out of an artist's canvas. The Lidder Valley remains green and fresh during summer and is covered with a thick, white blanket of snow during winter. There are a few regularly visited tourist places along the Lidder Valley. These include popular tourist destinations, such as Pahalgam, Aru, and Akad.

Solang Valley

When you want an experience of the most alluring places in Himachal Pradesh, such as Manali or Rohtang, you need to visit the Solang Valley. The valley is the perfect spot to look at some of the majestic peaks of the Himalayan range. During summer, the valley offers pleasant weather. However, winter brings magic to the Solang Valley. During winter, the valley turns white with snow.

After the snowfalls, the Solang Valley also offers tourists the opportunity to engage in adventure sports, such as skiing, riding snow scooters, snowmobiling, paragliding, and camping at wild campsites. While visiting this place, you can ride the Ski Himalayas Ropeway to get the perfect view of the Solang Valley.

Valley of Flowers

Valley of Flowers, a National Parks located in the state of Uttarakhand, offers a paradise for trekkers and nature lovers. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this valley is created by the Pushpawati River, which runs through this area. The Valley of Flowers National Park derives its name due to the presence of numerous colorful flowering plants, which are in full bloom during the season of spring.

The Valley of Flowers National Park is also rich in flora and fauna. It is home to some of the endangered and rare animals and birds, including snow leopard, brown bear, musk deer, blue sheep, Himalayan Monal, and several other birds and animals. This valley is also the starting point for the Hemkund Trek.

Ketti Valley

Ketti Valley, also spelled as Ketty Valley, is often considered as one of the hidden gems for travel thirsty nature lovers exploring the state of Tamilnadu. Located close to Ooty, this 7000 feet deep valley owes its fame to its flora and fauna. There are forests all around, which offer the perfect spot for travelers who are looking to spend time close to nature away from the concrete jungle of the busy cities.

If you're planning to visit Ketty Valley, you can take a toy train ride from Ooty to this valley. There are several tea plantations all around in the Ketty Valley. When you're there, you can spend some time walking along the trodden trails of the nearby forests. If you're lucky, you can also experience some wildlife from some distance. This valley also has several waterfalls with unmatched charm. If you look around from Ketti Valley, you'll find ranges of blue mountains and hills extending to the horizon.

Neora Valley

Created by the Neora River in the state of West Bengal, the Neora Valley is home to an amazing national park - the Neora Valley National Park - situated at an altitude of 3200 meters. This valley in India is known for being one of the habitats of the elusive red panda. Besides, the Neora Valley National Park is also popular among tourists as it is quite rich in terms of flora and fauna.

Several other animals, such as leopard cat, Asiatic Black Bear, Asian Golden Cat, Barking Deer, Flying Squirrel, Clouded Leopard, and others. The forests of the Neora Valley National Park also have numerous types of avian and reptilian species that add to the variety.

The Neora Valley National Park is perfect for trekking through the diverse landscape. You can enjoy the ambiance of the forest while just strolling around. Besides, you can also take a jeep ride through the forests. If the weather is clear, you can also get a glimpse of some of the majestic peaks of the Himalayan Range from different points of the Neora Valley.

Dzukou Valley

Located at the border of the states of Manipur and Nagaland, the Dzukou Valley is undoubtedly one of the most scenic valleys in India. The valley attracts tourists for the natural beauty it offers.

Often referred to as the Valley of Flowers of Northeast India, the Dzukou Valley boasts of amazing flora and fauna. A number of seasonal flowers bloom in this valley. Among them, the Dzukou Lily, which is endemic to this valley, is the most famous. Other flowers that color the valley vibrant during the spring season include different types of lilies, euphorbias, aconitums, and so on. The Dzukou Valley is the home to Lake Loktak, which is an important tourist destination of Imphal.

The Dzukou Valley is known as one of the most visited places by trekkers during the Japfu Peak Trek.

Yumthang Valley

The state of Sikkim has a few places of breathtaking beauty and is also home to some of the most splendid valleys of India. Yumthang Valley is surely one of them. Created by a tributary of River Teesta, this valley is full of flora and fauna. In fact, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located in this valley. The Yumthang Valley has various types of rhododendrons. These flowers color the valley in different vibrant shades when they are in full bloom.

The towns of Lachen and Lachung are located close to Yumthang Valley. Although it's vibrant with rhododendrons during summer, the Yumthang Valley is all white with heavy snowfall during winter.

Araku Valley

A valley in the Eastern Ghats in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Araku Valley is known for its dense forests and tribal culture. The valley is home to the Anantagiri and Sunkarimetta Reserved Forest and boasts of diverse flora and fauna.

The Borra Caves, known locally as Borra Guhalu, is the star attraction of Araku Valley. Located at an altitude of 705 meters on the Ananthagiri Hills of the Araku Valley, this cave has various stalactite and stalagmite formations that create some interesting shapes.

Other major Araku Valley attractions include several waterfalls, such as Tadimada Waterfalls, Ranajilleda Falls, Chaparai Waterfalls, and Katiki Waterfalls. When you're visiting this valley, pay a visit to the Araku Tribal Museum, which offers interesting views about the history and culture of the Araku Valley. You can also Mastygundam, a pool formed on River Machkund, which is located here.

Araku Valley is known for its high-quality coffee, which is grown in the mountains. So, you can enjoy some freshly brewed coffee when you're in Araku and also take some coffee home.

Parvati Valley

Created by the Parvati River, this valley in India is another gem for travel lovers from the state of Himachal Pradesh. This place is close to the spot of the confluence of River Parvati and River Beas. There are several small streams as well as gushing waterfalls at various places across the valley. In this valley, you can also find a few hot springs that offer some respite from the freezing temperature of this region.

The Parvati Valley is the perfect spot to unwind yourself in the silence of nature. This place boasts of several eye-catching, green meadows along the banks of the rivers. Besides, it also offers some scintillating scenes that will be etched in your memories forever.

Nubra Valley

Nubra Valley, created by two rivers - Shyok and Nubra - is a valley of rugged beauty located in the Ladakh region. Often referred to as the Orchard of Ladakh for the presence of numerous orchards in the region, Nubra Valley, which is a cold desert, offers contrasting conditions during winter and summer. During winter, the valley, which contains farmlands, turns white with snow and is extremely arid and dry. However, during summer, it turns a bit greener and the lakes reflect the clear blue sky.

Nubra Valley, one of the highest valleys in India, has orchards of apples, the products of which are extremely popular across the globe. Besides, the region also produces walnuts, almonds, and apricots.

There are several monasteries in Nubra Valley. Some of these monasteries in Nubra Valley are Hemis Gompa, Diskit Gompa, Stok Monastery, Samstanling Gompa, Chemrey Gompa, and Stakna Gompa. The Shey Palace is also a popular attraction in the region. The Hunder Sand Dunes, located in the Nubra Valley, are part of this highest cold desert in the world. You can hitch a ride on the double-humped Bactrian camels of Nubra Valley to have a memorable experience at the place.

Kangra Valley

A breathtaking location in the Western Himalayas, Kangra Valley is home to some of the popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. As with any other valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Kangra Valley is also equally stunning and offers mesmerizing sceneries from various places of the valley.

The captivating Masroor Lake is located in this valley. Some of the most well-known hill stations of India, namely Dharmasala and McCleodganj, are located in the Kangra Valley. In addition to nature's gifts, the Kangra Valley also offers the tourists a touch of history as well. The Masroor Rock Cut Temple and the Baijnath Temple of Lord Shiva are some historical temples in the valley. Besides, the Noorpur Fort also attracts tourists. There are also several tea gardens in the region. You can also take a ride on the Kangra Valley Railway, which is more popular as the Kangra Valley Toy Train.

Dibang Valley

Named after the Dibang River, which flows through the state, the Dibang Valley is one of the most picturesque Indian valleys. Located between Bomdila and Tawang, this valley in Arunachal Pradesh is rich in natural beauty, which is common across Arunachal Pradesh.

The Dibang Valley is home to the Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary and the Dihang Biosphere Reserve. When you visit this valley, you can spend time on the shores of Sally Lake, Kampona Pond, and Mehao Lake. Some historical places of interest in Dibang Valley are Rukmini Nati Fort and Bhismaknagar Fort.

Patratu Valley

The state of Jharkhand has some outstanding places that are yet to be completely explored by tourists. Among these unexplored places in Jharkhand is the Patratu Valley. The valley is known for the lush green forests around it. The Patratu Dam, where you can enjoy boating, is also located in this valley.

One of the major attractions of Patratu Valley is the road that leads to it from Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand. This road follows a zigzag pattern with numerous hairpin bends. Besides, the forests around the roads offer soothing greenery for the eyes to relax. While visiting the valley, stop at one of the hairpin bends and catch a bird's-eye view of the Patratu Valley of Jharkhand.

Are you aware of any other Indian valleys that are even more attractive than any of these valleys in India?

Share your views with us in the comments.

Top Offbeat Tourist Places in West Bengal

2021-06-18T16:18:00.075+05:30

Looking for some amazing yet offbeat tourist places in West Bengal?

The state offers a blend of various kinds of tourist destinations. These range from serene sea beaches and dense forests to mighty historical places and misty, snow-capped mountains. You can explore almost any of them for a short tour in West Bengal. However, while planning your short tour in West Bengal, you might not be interested in something that has become too much mundane. These popular places are too crowded with tourists on a regular basis. Therefore, you must try something new for your short tour in West Bengal. You must try some offbeat places in West Bengal.

There can be various offbeat places in West Bengal. These can range from sea beaches and forests, such as the Gorumara National Park and others, to mountains and hills. Dhanyakuria, with its distinctive historic mansions and castles, is another interesting offbeat destination for a day trip from Kolkata.

Here's a list of a few awesome offbeat places in West Bengal to satiate your thirst for travel.

Latpanchar

Latpanchar is one of the most beautiful offbeat places in West Bengal. Nestled at an altitude of about 4500 feet above sea level, Latpanchar is a small town in the district of Darjeeling. It is a part of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and forms the highest point of the sanctuary. The hamlet is surrounded by forests. The charm of this place is surely going to mesmerize you. If you have interest in wildlife and bird watching, you must include Latpanchar in the itinerary for your short tour in West Bengal.

When you're in Latpanchar, you must visit the Ahal Dara View Point, which offers a stunning view of Mount Kanchenjunga, popularly known as The Sleeping Buddha. The view of the sunrise from this place is mesmerizing. You can also watch the River Teesta from this view point. You can also go to the Namthing Lake, located in magical wilderness. There are pine forests all around the lake. Some of the other places you can go from Latpanchar include the Sitong Orange Garden and Sarsari Dara.

Lepchajagat

When you're looking for offbeat places in West Bengal, you will surely want to go to a place that lets you spend some time alone, away from the crowd. Lepchajagat is one such place.

From the popular and crowded town of Darjeeling, a short ride of less than an hour across 19 kilometers can take you to a completely different world. A small mountain hamlet called Lepchajagat awaits you with its beautiful wilderness.

There are forests of pines and oaks all around. You can also stroll around and watch the blossoming rhododendrons that fill the landscape with color. You can book the WBFDC Forest Lodge at Lepchajagat and spend a relaxing holiday at Lepchajagat.

Dawaipani

Most of the hill stations in West Bengal become over-crowded during the summer months. However, there are still a few, which remain unexplored and are among the best offbeat places in West Bengal. Dawaipani is one such mountainous village. Located at a distance of about 20 kilometers from Darjeeling, this place is nestled in the hills and offers a captivating view of Mount Kanchenjunga.

Dawaipani, one of the most picturesque and offbeat places near Darjeeling for travel, is perfect for spending a lazy vacation. You can book one of the many homestays for a cozy stay. Taking a stroll down the winding mountainous roads and walking in the nearby forests of this offbeat place can help you get rid of all the stress.

Takdah

Close to the busy mountainous town of Darjeeling is Takdah - one of the major offbeat places in West Bengal with a characteristics completely different from the more popular town close by. There are forests and tea gardens all around Takdah. This place is mostly covered in blankets of fog, giving it a mysterious appearance. An army cantonment was set up here during the British rule. If you visit Takdah, you can see signs of the British era even today. You can even stay in bungalows of the British era while enjoying your time here.

When you're in Takdah, ensure that you visit the Tahdah attractions, which include the tea gardens, Takdah Orchid Center, the Tinchuley Gumbadara Viewpoint, and the Takdah Monastery. You can even book a car and go to Tiger Hill to view the breathtaking sunrise from there.

Pedong

Located close to the busy town of Kalimpong is Pedong, a relatively unexplored and serene destination, located at an altitude of 4070 feet on the historic Silk Road. One of the best offbeat places in West Bengal, Pedong is surrounded by forests of oak, pine, and birch trees. This place offers the perfect spot for spending a lazy vacation. All you can do is sit on the banks of River Teesta, which flows through Pedong or gaze at the number of small but beautiful streams that gushes through the surrounding mountains.

You can also visit various attractions of Pedong. Some of these are Ramitay View Point, Lampokhari Lake, Sangchen Dorjee Monastery, Silence Valley, Mankhim Hilltop, Cross Hill, Changey Waterfall, and Deolo Hill. You can also go for a short trip of the relatively popular destinations, such as Lava and Lolegaon.

Lamahatta

The Himalayas in West Bengal have many things in store for adventure seekers. However, you can head to the mountains even if you're not that adventures but enjoy the closeness to nature. Lamahatta, close to Darjeeling, is such a village that helps you relax and unwind through lazy walks on mountainous roads.

This village is being developed as a spot for eco-tourism. The Lamahatta Eco Park, which has been created as a part of this endeavor have several plants and orchids. If you're planning to visit Lamahatta during your next vacation, book one of the Lamahatta homestays that offer cozy lodging options.

Rajabhatkhawa

Love to spend time in the silence of the forests?

Then Rajabhatkhawa, an offbeat place in the northern fringes of West Bengal, can be your next destination.

It's a small town located in the district of Alipurduar in North Bengal. The town is the gateway to the dense forests of Buxa Tiger Reserve. If you plan to go inside the Buxa Tiger Reserve, you have to get the permissions and arrange the logistics from the town of Rajabhatkhawa.

Rajabhatkhawa can be the perfect starting point for trekking inside the Buxa Forests. You can trek to the Buxa Fort, which is of utmost importance in the history of India's freedom struggle. If you're planning to stay inside the forest, you can book the Buxa Jungle Lodge from Rajabhatkhawa.

At Rajabhatkhawa, one of the best offbeat places in West Bengal, you can even have some sudden encounters with wild animals. In fact, encountering herds of wild elephants crossing the roads is quite common here.

Gongoni

Did you know that West Bengal has a Grand Canyon of its own?

Yes, Gangoni, also known as Gongoni Khola or Gangani Danga, near Garbeta in Pashchim Medinipur district, is a natural canyon formed by the Shilabati River. The river meanders through a number of laterite cliffs present in the area. These cliffs have been formed by water and wind over a million years. If you visit the Gongoni Canyon, you can take the stairs developed by the local administration to go down the gorge, which is extremely deep.

Once you go down and look up at the walls of the gorge around you, it will be easier for you to appreciate its true elegance. You will see innumerable variants of yellow and brown on the soils that build the walls of the grand canyon of West Bengal.

Raiganj Wildlife Santuary

A lot of people visit bird sanctuaries every year as they love to watch different kinds of birds. Yes, watching birds in the wild is wonderful. That's why many people visit Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary in Rajasthan. However, there's one bird sanctuary in West Bengal, which is great as well. The Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as the Kulik Bird Sanctuary as it is situated on the banks of the river Kulik, is one of the best bird sanctuaries is Asia.

If you're looking to spend a few days watching some interesting resident as well as migratory birds, such as flycatchers, kites, openbill storks, night herons, and others, Raiganj Wildlife Sanctuary or the Kulik Bird Sanctuary can be a great destination.

Khuttimari Forest

There are several forests in North Bengal in the Dooars region. These include popular forests, such as the Gorumara National Park, Jaldapara National Park, Chapramari Wildlife Forest, and so on. However, if you're looking for some pristine forests that aren't much visited, visit Khuttimari Forest.

This forest offers you a chance to experience different kinds of wildlife. Besides, if you're visiting the Khuttimari Forest, ensure that you go to Panbari as well. It's the spot where three rivers - Jaldhaka, Murti, and Diana - meet. This spot of confluence offers some enchanting views.

Mausuni Island

When it comes to sea beaches in West Bengal, it's difficult to find any virgin one. However, if you're really looking for a less visited beach in West Bengal, you're in luck.

Not many people visit Mousuni Island, which is an island nestled close to Namkhana in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. This island is almost adjacent to the world's largest delta, the Sunderbans. Located close to the mouth of River Hoogly, you can have the opportunity to enjoy the soothing presence of a river bank close to the beach on the Bay of Bengal. No wonder, Mousuni Island is often listed as one of the best weekend destinations from Kolkata for travelers.

There are several lodging options in Mousuni Island, which include the Mousuni Island Sand Castles Beach Camp, Mousuni Island Skyler Nature Camp, Mousuni Island Teentara Adventure Camp, Winterfell Beach Camp, Hotel Nil Diganta, Olivia Camp Mousuni Island, Sonar Tori Resort, and so on. So, you won't have any problem to stay on the island for a couple of nights. However, it's always a good idea to book your stay before you go there.

Garh Panchkot

The district of Purulia in West Bengal has many stunning places to offer the tourists. Garh Panchkot is surely one of them. It's a fort that stands in a dilapidated condition inside the forests of Panchakot Hill. Nestled about 600 feet above sea level, this fort has many parts, most of which are in ruins.

Some of the most interesting parts of the fort include the Sigha Dwar or the Main Gate, the Adi Kalyaneshwari Temple or the other temples, the palace or Rani Mahal, and so on. In addition to this fort, the hills and forests of Garh Panchkot are also equally exciting. You can go up the hills and enjoy the sunrise and the sunset from there.

Baguran Jalpai

Digha and Mandarmani have been quite popular of all the sea beaches in West Bengal. However, these are extremely crowded. Therefore, if you want to spend a quiet time on a sea beach in West Bengal, it's always a good idea to avoid these. Instead, you can head to the Baguran Jalpai sea beach, which is a virgin beach located in the Purba Medinipur district of West Bengal.

The Baguran Jalpai sea beach is completely secluded and helps you have the time for yourself. The only other creatures you might have during your beach vacation in West Bengal at Baguran Jalpai are the crabs that come out in millions to color the beach red. If you're lucky enough, you might catch a glimpse of the sea turtles that frequent this beach too.

Chandraketugarh

Located beside river Bidyadhari at a distance of only about 35 kilometers from the state capital of Kolkata, Chandraketugarh is an archeological site of national importance. This place is about 2500 years old and was earlier known as Gangaridai.

The mention of Chandraketugarh can be traced back to ancient Roman and Greek writings. This place is linked to famous historical characters, such as mathematician and astrologer Varahamihira and a medieval astrologer and poet Khana. This site is also called Varahamihirer Dhipi or Khana Mihirer Dhipi, which means the mound of Varahamihir or Khana-Mihir.

Chandrakeugarh has a temple that belongs to the Pala period of Bengal. Not many were aware of the significance of this site even a few years ago. However, this has changed with time and a museum has also been set up. Chandraketugarh and the museum can be visited on a day trip from Kolkata.

Taki

Located on the banks of the Ichamati River on the India-Bangladesh border, Taki is one of the most popular spots for picnics during the weekends. It is also well known as a destination for one day trip near Kolkata. However, as the picnic parties return home during the afternoon, it mostly wears a deserted look after sunset. If you're looking for a weekend getway from Kolkata, you can visit Taki and halt for a couple of nights there.

In Taki, you can enjoy the sunrise and sunset while boating on the Ichamati River. You can also visit a few of the popular tourist places of Taki, such as Golpatar Jungle, the Roychowdhury Zaminder House or the Taki Rajbari, Juleshwari Kalibari, and so on.

When you're in Taki, you can hire a boat from the Taki Jetty to visit the Machranga Dwip or the Machranga Island. This island is located close to the meeting point of the two rivers - Vasa and Ichamati. The Machranga Island offers excellent opportunities for the bird watching and walking amidst nature. There's Mini Sunderban, a park where you can have a glimpse of the mangrove trees, which grow in the Sunderbans delta.

If you've time, you can also visit Hasnabad, another tourist spot, which is not very far from Taki.

Duarsini

The district of Purulia has a few hidden gems of West Bengal for the travel-thirsty souls. Duarsini is one such wonder. Located on the border of West Bengal and Jharkhand, Duarsini is a forested place. It's full of various kinds of trees, which include Sal, Teak, and others. Once you reach Duarsini, the lush green vegetation of the place will comfort your eyes strained from the sights of the grey cities.

Duarsini is inhabited mostly by the tribal people. You can visit their villages to watch their way of life. You can also have a look at the arts they create.

Duarsini forest is also known for its flora and fauna. You will surely see lots of birds and might even come across a few wild animals, such as wolves, bears, elephants, and so on. While planning your stay in Duarsini, you can book the wonderful cottages belonging to the West Bengal Forest Department.

Murguma

Located close to the more famous Ayodhya Hills, Muruguma is another outstanding but hidden tourist spot in Purulia district of West Bengal. Although the roads leading to this remote place are not in great condition, yet you can try to visit Muruguma. It's one of the best places for travel in West Bengal.

Murguma Lake or the Dam at Murguma is surrounded by the hills and dense forests. If you're looking for Murguma Purulia hotels, you can find quite a few of them. Some of the best Murguma Purulia hotels that you can visit during your trip to Murguma include Murguma Eco Hut, Bon Polashi Eco Hut, Palash Bitan Jungle Eco Huts, and Lal Pahari Eco Resort.

If you're planning to visit Murguma, remember that you just can't miss the sunrise and the sunset on the Murguma Dam. You must also visit various Murguma view points to get the best experience that you'll cherish throughout your life.

Jhilimili

Among the various forests and national parks in West Bengal, the Jhilimili forest range remains quite unexplored. Also known as the 'Baro Mile-er Jungle' or the 'Baro Miles Forest', the king-sized trees of this forest mostly belong to specii, such as Mahua, Shimul, or Sal.

The forest has varied landscapes that can attract your attention the moment you enter it. Before you visit Jhilimili, you should book a room at the Jhilimili Treehouse. It offers comfortable accommodation options and ensures that you have an experience to remember during your visit to Jhilimili.

Tabakoshi

You might have gone to the mountains a number of times.

But have you ever stayed at a tea village on the mountains?

It's almost completely different from your experience at the mountains, yet attractive in its own way.

Tabakoshi in West Bengal is one such tea village that offers tourists an experience to remember for a long time. Located close to Mirik in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, Tabakoshi is a quaint village on the banks of a rough, mountainous Rangbhang river. Tabakoshi gets its name from this river, as its color turns copper during monsoon. In the local Nepali language, river is called Koshi and copper is known as Tamba. The two words merge to form Tabakoshi.

The village of Tabakoshi is surrounded by tea gardens. While in Tabakoshi, you can visit those tea gardens or spend your time walking on the winding mountainous trails. Spending some time sitting on the boulders on the bed of the river can also be relaxing.

Ghaghor

The district of Bankura in West Bengal is known for many outstanding tourist places. These include Bishnupur, the town of terracotta temples, and Mukutmanipur. However, there's another unknown place where you can visit to view River Shilabati creating an interesting landscape. It's Ghaghor - also referred to as Ghaghar - the unexplored spot in Bankura.

In Ghaghor, River Shilabati flows through the undulating, rocky surfaces, creating cascades and mini waterfalls here and there. There's also a picnic spot in Ghaghor. You can visit the places to get the right view of the river ravishing through the place with all its charm.

Gour

If you're interested in history and want to travel to a tourist place in West Bengal that has historical importance, Gour is surely going to interest you. Also known as Gauda or Gaur, this is a historic city in the district of Malda. Almost always mentioned in the same breath as its twin city Pandua, Gour was the medieval capital of the state of Bengal. Located close to the city of Malda, Gour extends to present-day Bangladesh as well. This place was the centre of culture during the Buddhist period as well as the under the Hindu regin of the Palas and Senas. However, except the Ballal Bati or the house of Ballal Sen and Nandadirghi Vihar, most of the sites of this period are in ruins. The relics that remain in Gour are from the time of the Muslim sultans, under whom Gour flourished significantly.

Some of the places of interest in Gour include the Bara Sona Masjid or Baraduari, the Lottan Masjid, Chika Masjid, Adina Masjid, and the Tantipara Masjid.

A few darwazas or gates, such as the Dakhil Darwaza, Gumti Darwaza, or the Lukachuri Darwaza are also popular. Some of the other Gour attractions include Quadam Rasul Mosque, the Lukachuri Darwaza, and the Tomb of Fateh Khan.

The most famous architecture of Gour is the Firoz Minar, which is five-storeyed tower. It was built in 1489 by Firoz Shah II as a way to celebrate his victory over Barbak Shah. This tower, which stands on a high mound, has a spiral staircase with 73 steps. However, visitors are not allowed to visit the top of Firoz Minar. You can take a glimpse at it and be enthralled by this architectural wonder of Gour.

Deulti

A little over 60 kilometers by car from Kolkata is Deulti - a spot known among the tourists for its beauty and culture. Deulti is known for its temples. The Radha and Madangopal temple of the village is almost 370 years old. It was established by Mukundaprasad Roychoudhury, a zaminder, in 1651. The excellent terracotta decoration of temple attracts the attention of every visitor.

Close to Deulti is a small locality called Samtaber. It is famous for the house of Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay, one of the leading Bengali novelists of all time. This house served as the safe haven for a number of Indian freedom fighters, such as Rashbehari Bose, during India's freedom struggle against the British imperialists.

When you're in Deulti, you can visit the Leisure Park. One of the best ways of spending your time in Deulti is to sit on the banks of River Rupnarayan and relax. You can even enjoy the sunset on the river and be spell-bound by the charming scenery. You can hear the chirping of different types of birds and enjoy the silence of nature.

There are quite a few Deulti resorts where you can book your stay. These include the Deulti Prantik Resort, Nirala Resort Deulti, and so on. They will help to make your stay cozy and add to the entertainment quotient during your stay at Deulti.

Dhanyakuria

Don't have enough time to spend a night away from your home in Kolkata?

You can head to Dhanyakuria - a village of castles and mansions located at a distance of about 60 kilometers from Kolkata. This village was founded at around 1742 by clearing out the marshes and forests of the Sunderbans. Dhanyakuria, which can be visited on a day trip from Kolkata, was once a thriving community.

A number of rich families had built their palaces, mansions, and garden houses in this village. Those mansions are mostly deserted round the year these days. However, you can visit Dhanyakuria for a one-day trip near Kolkata and have a look at those mansions that speak of Dhanyakuria's glorious past.

West Bengal has some fascinating places for the travelers. That's why it has been visited by tourists from all over the world for a long time. However, if you search thoroughly, you can still find some wonderful places that you're surely going to like and which are unexplored and offbeat as well.

For travelers interested in coastal destinations, see our guide to the top 12 sea beaches in West Bengal.

Do you know of any other offbeat places in West Bengal?

Have you been to that offbeat tourist place in West Bengal?

Let us know about your experience in the comments.

Top 12 Sea Beaches in West Bengal

2021-06-11T12:49:00.006+05:30

Looking for the best beaches in West Bengal to plan your next vacation?

With the Bay of Bengal bordering its south, West Bengal surely boasts of a few amazing beaches that can help to turn your vacations into something that you'll remember for a long time. While Digha still is one of the most popular and one of the best beaches in West Bengal, there are also other amazing sea side destinations in the state. From the long, sandy shores of Mandarmani to the quieter beaches of Tajpur, Bakkhali, Shankarpur and more, West Bengal has various coastal destinations that can help you plan your weekend trips from Kolkata.

This blog provides you with all information about the most popular as well as offbeat beaches in West Bengal and helps you choose the best beaches in West Bengal for your vacation based on crowd, accessibility, and the type of trip you want.

Compare the best beaches in West Bengal
No.	Beach	Best for	Atmosphere	Stay planning
1	Digha	Families and first-time visitors	Busy and popular	Many accommodation choices; compare locations and reviews
2	Mandarmani	Resort holidays and couples	Resort-oriented	Compare beachfront and nearby resorts
3	Tajpur	Quiet getaways and couples	Generally quieter than major beach towns	Check facilities before booking
4	Shankarpur	A quieter coastal stay	Fishing-harbour surroundings	Check current availability
5	Bakkhali	Relaxed trips and nature	Laid-back seaside town	Compare stays in Bakkhali and nearby areas
6	Fraserganj	Fishing-harbour visits	Coastal and fishing activity	Consider staying in Bakkhali
7	Henry's Island	Nature and coastal scenery	Nature-focused	Verify access and accommodation rules
8	Bankiput	Offbeat travellers	Estuary and coastal scenery	Arrange lodging in advance
9	Haripur	Quiet coastal exploration	Less-developed destination	Confirm local facilities in advance
10	Baguran Jalpai	Quiet getaways	Casuarina-lined surroundings	Check local lodging options
11	Mousuni Island	Camping and island experiences	Relaxed and nature-oriented	Confirm camp facilities and access
12	Sagar Island	Pilgrimage and coastal visits	Religious and seasonal travel	Plan transport and peak-season stays early

Quick guide: Digha is a convenient choice for families and first-time visitors, while Mandarmani is well suited to resort-based beach holidays and is comparatively more expensive. Tajpur and Shankarpur are better options if you prefer a quieter atmosphere. Bakkhali, Fraserganj, and Henry's Island can be combined into a southern-coast weekend trip, while Bankiput, Haripur, Baguran Jalpai and Mousuni Island offer more offbeat experiences and mostly suited for day trips.

In this guide

Which beach is best for your trip?
1. Digha
2. Mandarmani
3. Tajpur
4. Shankarpur
5. Bakkhali
6. Fraserganj
7. Henry's Island
8. Bankiput
9. Haripur
10. Baguran Jalpai
11. Mousuni Island
12. Sagar Island
Best time to visit
How to reach the beaches
Weekend itineraries
Practical travel tips
Frequently asked questions

Which Beach in West Bengal Is the Best for Your Trip?

It's not easy to select the best beach in West Bengal. It varies from one person to another. The selection of the right beach primarily depends on your travel style, budget, available time, and preferred atmosphere. Here's a quick way to narrow down your options.

For a first beach holiday: Consider Digha for its established tourism facilities and range of accommodation.
For a resort holiday: Compare Mandarmani's resort options, room prices and location before booking.
For a quieter coastal escape: Consider Tajpur or Shankarpur, while checking current crowd levels and facilities.
For a southern-coast trip: Combine Bakkhali and Fraserganj, and consider Henry's Island if access is available.
For an offbeat getaway: Research Bankiput, Baguran Jalpai or Haripur, where accommodation and transport may need more advance planning.
For camping: Look into Mousuni Island and confirm camp availability, ferry or boat arrangements, and local conditions.
For a pilgrimage combined with a coastal visit: Consider Sagar Island and plan around Gangasagar Mela dates if applicable.

Before finalising your destination, check the weather forecast, transport availability, accommodation reviews and any local beach-access restrictions. A quieter beach may offer fewer facilities than a more established tourist town.

Here's a quick look at some of the most beautiful sea beaches in West Bengal.

1. Digha Sea Beach

When it comes to beaches in West Bengal, Digha surely rules the roost. It's not only one of the best sea beaches in West Bengal, but also one of its oldest. In fact, Digha was once the only renowned sea beach in the state. So, whenever people wanted a beach vacation close by thronged to this place.

Located in the district of Purba Medinipur, Digha surely is the most popular sea beach in West Bengal. A lot of people from different parts of the state visit this beach town during weekends.

There are a couple of popular beaches in Digha - the New Digha Sea Beach and the Old Digha Sea Beach. While there are boulders at some places of the beaches, these are mostly sandy beaches where people can enjoy to the fullest.

There are also a few places near the beach where you can sit and enjoy the beauty of the sea. You can even go to the Digha Mohana Fish Market, from where some amazing sea fishes are sold at a wholesale rate.

2. Mandarmani Sea Beach

When it comes to the speed at which its popularity rose, no other sea beach in West Bengal can compete with Mandarmani. Located close to Digha in the district of Purba Medinipur, this fast-developing beach resort has an amazing, long beach. Surely one of the cleanest beaches of the region, Mandarmani Sea Beach offers an amazing view of the sunrise.

Although driving on the beach was allowed earlier, it has been banned recently. However, you can always enjoy a long walk on this beautiful beach, which is 13 kilometers long.

The Mandarmani sea beach is home to red crabs that give a crimson hue to the beach when it's undisturbed. With its amazing beauty, Mandarmani is fast becoming one of the most visited weekend destinations from Kolkata.

3. Tajpur Sea Beach

Even a few years back, Tajpur wasn't considered to be an important destination on the map of West Bengal. With its immense popularity, Digha was getting extremely crowded with every passing day. So, the state's tourism industry needed to find other enchanting beaches. So, work was started to develop Mandarmani and Tajpur into beautiful sea beaches where tourists could spend some mesmerizing time.

Located at a distance of 175 Kilometers from Kolkata, it takes a little more than four hours to reach Tajpur. Even to this day, this beach isn't as frequented as Digha or Mandarmani.

So, it's still one of the most pristine beaches in West Bengal. There are quite a few beach shacks offering delicious seafood, such as crabs or fishes.

You can have them while feeling tired after a walk on the beach. Casuarina trees border the beach, making it a perfect spot for a short romantic trip.

4. Shankarpur Sea Beach

Why is Shankarpur not one of the most visited sea beaches of West Bengal yet?

Well, there's no answer to this question. However, the fact that it's not crowded and still pristine is surely great news for travel lovers.

If you want to spend an amazing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city close to a sea beach in West Bengal, Shankarpur can be one of the best destinations for you.

One of the plus points about this beach is that it's one of the cleanest beaches in West Bengal, thanks to the fact that it's less crowded. However, if you're looking for a sea beach in West Bengal that offers myriad activities, this isn't the right place for you. Instead, you can spend a lazy weekend on a tranquil beach in Shankarpur, West Bengal, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

5. Bakkhali Sea Beach

When it comes to the oldest beaches of West Bengal, Bakkhali can compete with Digha. This sea beach is located in the district of South 24 Parganas near Kakdwip. Although not considered to be one of the best beaches of the state, Bakkhali surely is one of the oldest.

It takes about 4 hours to reach Bakkhali from Kolkata. The road takes you through Namkhana to the banks of river Hatania-Doania. Earlier, even buses and cars were ferried across the river on a barge. However, a bridge has recently been constructed, which has helped to reduce the time taken to reach this beautiful sea beach in West Bengal.

Bakkhali beach is one of the rarest beaches in the world, which offers amazing views of both the sunrise as well as the sunset. Besides, it doesn't even take half an hour to visit the beaches at Fraserganj and Henry's Island from Bakkhali. So, these three are easily parts of well-planned weekend destinations from Kolkata for a large number of tourists.

6. Fraserganj Sea Beach

Located close to Bakkhali, the Fraserganj beach is often mentioned in the same breath as the former. This place, which is also a fishing harbor, offers almost the same beauty as the Bakkhali beach. Most of the people visiting this beach usually stay at Bakkhali and come here to enjoy the beach. The beach is mostly serene and less crowded. You might find you're the only tourist on this beautiful beach.

This crescent shape beach experiences gentle waves, but strong winds. The old, dilapidated houses close to the beach bear witness to these. There's also a jetty close by that serves the fishing harbor.

7. Henry's Island Beach

It takes only a few minutes by car from Bakkhali to reach Henry's Island. After getting down from the car, you need to walk a bit to reach a beach, which will surely surprise you with its beauty.

The beach at Henry's Island provides you with the opportunity to reach a spot where you'll find the sea on three sides. Enjoying the sunset and the sunrise from that spot is surely going to mesmerize you.

A little away from the beach is the Watch Tower. You can climb to its top and look around. It offers a glimpse of the Sunderbans, which aren't far away.

8. Bankiput Sea Beach

Located at a distance of only about 160 kilometers from Kolkata, Bankiput sea beach is one of the most unexplored ones of all West Bengal beaches. Although not the best of all the beaches of West Bengal, Bankiput surely has the potential to be a great weekend getaway.

Bankiput is primarily located by the side of an estuary. So, the beach is mostly muddy and the sea seems quite far away. However, the scenario changes drastically during high tide, when the sea comes calling and you can enjoy to the fullest.

If you're planning to halt for the night in Bankiput, you must book the lodging beforehand, as there aren't many standard lodging options there. While in Bankiput, you can even visit the Dariapur Lighthouse or spend your time fishing in the estuary.

9. Haripur Coastal Beach

Not many sea beaches in West Bengal are untouched and pristine. But Haripur is surely one such sea beach in West Bengal. Located close to Contai, this seaside town offers a perfect ambiance if you want to spend a peaceful vacation by the seaside.

Unlike beach towns, such as Digha or Mandarmani, the Haripur sea beach is not visited by lots of tourists. The rows of casuarine trees on the beach and the enchanting scenes help to make your beach vacation at Haripur memorable.

10. Baguran Jalpai Beach

One of the most pristine beaches in West Bengal, Baguran Jalpai can be the perfect destination if you're looking for some time away from the hustle and bustle of a busy life. This beach at Baguran Jalpai wasn't on the tourists' map even a few years ago. This is why the Baguran Jalpai sea beach is mostly unexplored.

The casuarina trees close to the beach make give the mostly deserted Baguran Jalpai sea beach a look of wilderness.

11. Mousuni Island Beach

The Mousuni Island, as the name suggests, is an island located close to the Bay of Bengal.It is one of the islands of the Ganges delta. As a result, the place is just outside the inland and hence, the Mousuni Island sea beach does not offer great waves.

However, the tranquil bay also has many things to offer. You can always enjoy your time at Mousuni Island by sitting on the beach of a calm bay.

12. Sagar Island (Gangasagar)

Sagar Island or Sagar Dwip is the spot where the River Ganges meets the Bay of Bengal. The Sagar Island sea beach is often referred to as Gangasagar sea beach as well.

As it is located close to the mouth of the river, the waves at this beach aren't too high. However, it's surely a great place to unwind if you're looking to spend some time near a tranquil sea beach in West Bengal.

Sagar Island is also famous as a religious site and millions of people throng this place during the month of January every year. If you're looking for a vacation away from the crowd, it's best to avoid this island during that time.

Which Beach in West Bengal Should You Visit?

With the Bay of Bengal situated just south of it, there are quite a few sea beaches in West Bengal. However, not all of them might give you the perfect experience as a tourist.

If you're looking for more unusual destinations in the state, explore our guide to the top offbeat tourist places in West Bengal.

Therefore, choose prudently from these beaches and spend an amazing vacation on one of the sea beaches in West Bengal.

Kerala Travel Guide: The Ultimate 7-Day Itinerary for Thiruvananthapuram, Alleppey, Kumily, & Munnar

2021-05-11T12:43:00.013+05:30

Planning a Kerala trip and finding it difficult to fit misty hill stations, wildlife and lazy backwaters into a single vacation? In this Kerala travel guide, we share our road-trip experience through Trivandrum, Alleppey (Alappuzha), Thekkady and Munnar.

We travelled to Kerala from Kolkata during the monsoon and explored tea-covered hills, scenic backwaters, wildlife, beaches and the traditional performing arts of the state. Instead of relying on a travel agent, we planned our own routes and arranged a car for the whole journey.

In this guide you'll find our 7-day Kerala itinerary, the places we visited, our accommodation experiences, sightseeing suggestions and practical points for planning a Kerala holiday. Please verify current transport schedules, hotel details, attraction timings and weather conditions before you travel.

Kerala Trip at a Glance

Trip duration: 7 days
Starting point: Kolkata
Travel style: Independent road trip by car
Destinations covered: Trivandrum, Alleppey, Kumily, Thekkady and Munnar
Season of our trip: Monsoon
Best suited to: Travellers interested in hill stations, backwaters, wildlife and scenic drives

This summary describes our past trip. It is not a guarantee of current travel times, attraction availability or conditions.

Planning Our Kerala Road Trip
7-Day Kerala Itinerary
Trivandrum and Poovar
Alleppey Backwaters
Thekkady and Kumily
Munnar Sightseeing
Returning from Munnar to Kolkata
How to Plan Transport and Accommodation
Best Time to Visit Kerala
Practical Kerala Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions

Planning Our Kerala Road Trip

Known as God's Own Country, Kerala is a popular destination for travellers. The state is famous for its lush green forests, beaches, mountains, backwaters and wildlife. Wayanad is another popular hill destination in Kerala, and Vythiri is a scenic spot known for its forested hills and peaceful surroundings.

We decided to travel to Kerala during the monsoon. At first we were unsure whether it was the right time to visit, but we were glad to experience the beauty of Kerala in the rain.

If you're looking for Kerala tour packages, you'll find plenty of options. However, we preferred to plan our own trip so that we could choose our destinations, accommodation and travel schedule according to our preferences.

With only a few days at our disposal, we had to choose just a few destinations, and that was not easy because Kerala has so many places worth visiting. Eventually we decided to include Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Alappuzha (Alleppey), Kumily and Thekkady, and Munnar.

So, which places could we include in our Kerala itinerary? We knew Kerala has lush green forests, mountains carpeted with tea plantations and serene sea beaches, and we wanted to see all of them. So we decided to touch upon Thiruvananthapuram, halting there for just one night, and then travel on to Alappuzha, Thekkady and Munnar.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Here's our 7-day Kerala roadtrip outline:

7-Day Kerala Itinerary: Trivandrum, Alleppey, Thekkady and Munnar

Day	Route	Suggested focus
Day 1	Kolkata to Trivandrum	Arrival, hotel check-in and rest
Day 2	Trivandrum and Poovar to Alleppey	Prioritise selected coastal attractions before travelling onward
Day 3	Alleppey	Backwater boat ride and local sightseeing
Day 4	Alleppey to Kumily	Scenic drive and evening cultural performance, if time permits
Day 5	Thekkady and Periyar	Wildlife activities and forest scenery
Day 6	Kumily to Munnar	Drive through the hills and explore Munnar town
Day 7	Munnar and onward journey	Sightseeing only if it fits your departure schedule

Planning note

This is a planning outline based on the destinations in our trip, not a verified hour-by-hour schedule. Our actual journey ended with an onward night bus from Munnar to Bengaluru and a flight to Kolkata. Allow enough time for transfers and check your confirmed transport timings before finalising your own 7-day Kerala itinerary.

Kerala offers several different holiday experiences within one state. On this trip we combined the coast around Trivandrum, the backwaters of Alleppey, the forests of Thekkady and the tea-covered hills of Munnar. If you have only a week, plan your transfers carefully rather than trying to visit every tourist attraction in each destination.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Trivandrum and Poovar: Starting Our Kerala Road Trip

Travelling by air from Kolkata, we had to change flights at Bengaluru. By the time we landed at Trivandrum International Airport, the sun had set and the weather was pleasant. We came out of the airport and boarded the car we had reserved for the entire trip. Yes, this was going to be a Kerala road trip by car.

The car took us to Hotel Venkateswara, where we had booked our stay in Trivandrum. We had dinner at a nearby restaurant, where we tasted local food, including Kerala dosa with an omelette, and then retired for the day.

The next morning we had a breakfast of idli and sambar at the hotel, and by 8:30 we were all set. The day's plan was the drive from Trivandrum to Alleppey, and on the way we decided to visit some of the tourist places around Thiruvananthapuram.

Some of the places we covered included:

Kovalam Beach
Vizhinjam Lighthouse
Hawa Beach
Poovar Island
Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple
Shanghumukham Beach
Varkala Beach

Kovalam Beach

Kovalam is one of the most popular beaches in Kerala, known for its seaside scenery and a lighthouse that adds to the attraction. During our monsoon visit, however, rough weather restricted our time on the beach. Before you visit, check local conditions and safety notices before entering the water.

Poovar Island

Poovar Island is known for its scenic backwaters, mangrove-lined waterways and the meeting point of the Neyyar River and the Arabian Sea. We enjoyed a boat ride to the island through the mangrove forests. Poovar Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that appears at low tide and is submerged at high tide. The people who set up shops there carry their belongings away at high tide and return when the golden beach reappears. During the boat ride we also came across Cross Rock and Elephant Rock.

Vizhinjam Lighthouse

The Vizhinjam Lighthouse is a rewarding stop in Trivandrum, and it is not often that you get the chance to go inside a lighthouse. When we checked, it was closed on Mondays and open from 10 AM to 12:30 PM and again from 2 PM to 5 PM on other days. Tickets for adult Indian citizens were roughly INR 10 to INR 20, INR 3 for children and INR 25 for foreign tourists. Carrying a still camera or a video camera inside cost INR 20 or INR 25 respectively. Timings and prices change, so please confirm them locally before you go.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is often described as one of the richest temples in the world. It is popular with visitors for its idol of Lord Vishnu in the Anantha Shayanam, or eternal yogic sleep, posture. Check the timings and dress code before you visit.

How much time should you allow?

On a 7-day road trip across several destinations in Kerala, it is hard to find time for everything. If you want to spend time close to nature, prioritise the coastal attractions that interest you most. Trying to fit too much into one day leaves little time to enjoy any of it.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Alleppey Backwaters: Shikara Rides and Scenic Waterways

After the tourist spots around Thiruvananthapuram, we started our journey towards Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, the town most often associated with the backwaters of Kerala. The backwaters attract travellers from across India and beyond, and Alleppey is one of the best-known places for exploring them by boat.

There are several accommodation options in Alleppey, ranging from lodges and hotels to hostels and houseboats. We stayed at Hotel Padipura Residency, a few blocks away from the ferry stop.

We reached Alleppey in the afternoon and spent some time at the hotel. In the evening we went out and tasted popular Kerala dishes, including dosa, appam with stew, and beef fry. The next morning we went to the ferry stop and booked a small boat, or shikara, for a trip through the Kerala backwaters.

It took us a little more than an hour to navigate the backwaters of Alleppey. The scenery on the banks changed as we moved from densely populated areas to stretches where only a few people lived. There were small islands here and there, and we saw people canoeing from one place to another. We visited the Kuttanad backwaters and stopped by Pathiramanal Island. We also had a look at the Alleppey Lighthouse before returning to the hotel.

Houseboat or Shikara: Choosing Your Backwater Experience

One of the decisions to make when planning an Alleppey trip is whether to book a traditional houseboat or take a smaller boat through the backwaters.

Shikara or small-boat ride

We did not book an overnight houseboat. Instead we hired a small boat for a backwater excursion. It was cosy and let us enjoy the scenery on the banks as it changed constantly, while we watched daily life along the waterways.

Houseboat stay

If you want to spend a lot of time on the backwaters, a houseboat may be the better choice. It is more expensive, but it suits travellers who want to experience the backwaters fully with an overnight stay on the water. Before booking, confirm the route, duration, meals, facilities, departure point and any additional charges.

Our experience

Although we skipped the houseboat, the shikara ride was enchanting. We saw people doing their chores in homes lined along the backwaters, rows of coconut trees, and local residents moving about in canoes. The surroundings became more tranquil as we moved away from the populated areas.

What to Know Before Booking an Alleppey Boat Ride

Confirm the departure point and the total duration of the ride.
Confirm the route and ask which waterways and stops are included.
Check the total price and whether waiting time or extra stops cost more.
Ask about safety equipment and arrangements for children, if applicable.
Check weather conditions and local operating restrictions before confirming.

Finally our shikara ride was over, and it was time to move on to the next destination of our trip: Kumily.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Thekkady and Kumily: Periyar Wildlife and Cultural Shows

Before visiting Kerala, I had done most of my research on popular destinations such as Trivandrum, Alleppey and Munnar. Kumily was meant to be just a stopover, a base from which to visit Periyar. However, Kumily surprised us with its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings.

We stayed at Hotel Woodlands Prime Castle on the Kumily Thekkady Road. The rooms were cosy, and the balcony offered an amazing view of the green hills close by and the deep forests in the distance.

Just opposite the hotel was Kadathanadan Kalari & Navarasa Kathakali in Thekkady (Periyar).

The first event of the evening was a Kathakali performance, the traditional classical dance-drama of Kerala. After that we watched a performance of Kalaripayattu, Kerala's traditional martial art.

After the night at the hotel, we headed to Periyar Tiger Reserve early the next morning. We took a jeep safari and came across several birds and animals. Kerala has other wildlife destinations too, such as Gavi, a forest destination known for its natural surroundings and wildlife.

If birdwatching interests you, read our guide to the top bird sanctuaries in India.

Then came an hour-long boat ride on Periyar Lake. It was an exciting experience, as we could see herds of Indian gaur and elephants along the banks.

The calm of the forest and the slow drift of the boat across tranquil water created the perfect setting to enjoy the scenery.

We spent another night in Kumily and started early the next morning for Munnar, a popular hill station in Kerala.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Munnar Sightseeing: Tea Gardens, Mattupetty Dam and More

In Munnar we had booked our stay at The Regency Hotel. The drive from Kumily took about three hours. After resting at the hotel, we went out for a walk around Munnar.

Munnar, known for its tea gardens and green mountain landscapes, mesmerised us with its beauty. The slopes are covered with carpets of green tea plants, and the black asphalt road meanders through the gardens as it winds in and out of town. We spent some time on the roads and did a bit of shopping at the market before returning to the hotel.

The next morning we set out to visit some of the major tourist attractions of Munnar:

The tea estates of Munnar
The Tea Museum
Mattupetty Dam
Kundala Lake
Blossom Park

It was the middle of the monsoon season, and we stopped at a couple of places just to enjoy the rain. Heavy showers falling across the green, tea-covered slopes created beautiful scenes.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Returning from Munnar to Kolkata

Our trip ended in Munnar, leaving many other beautiful places in Kerala unexplored. We promised ourselves that we would return someday. Our return flight was booked from Bengaluru to Kolkata, so we boarded a night bus from Munnar to Bengaluru and said goodbye to God's Own Country.

Kerala is just one of the many destinations covered on D's Travelogue. For more ideas, explore our A–Z guide to tourist places in India.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

How to Plan Transport and Accommodation

Here is how we handled the logistics on our Kerala road trip:

Getting there: We flew from Kolkata to Trivandrum with a change of flights at Bengaluru.
Getting around: We reserved a car for the entire trip, which gave us flexibility to stop at places along the way.
Where we stayed: Hotel Venkateswara (Trivandrum), Hotel Padipura Residency (Alleppey), Hotel Woodlands Prime Castle (Kumily) and The Regency Hotel (Munnar).
Getting back: A night bus from Munnar to Bengaluru, then a flight from Bengaluru to Kolkata.

These are the arrangements from our own trip. Prices, availability and schedules change, so confirm your flights, bus timings, car booking and hotel details before you finalise your plan.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Kerala

We travelled during the monsoon. We were unsure about the timing at first, but the rain-washed tea hills of Munnar and the lush forests were beautiful. The trade-off was that rough weather limited our time at Kovalam Beach, so check local conditions, especially if beaches and water activities are a priority for you.

Many travellers prefer the cooler, drier months of the year for sightseeing and boat rides, while the monsoon suits those who enjoy green landscapes and rain and are comfortable with some flexibility in their plans. Weather patterns vary from year to year, so check the current forecast before booking.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Practical Kerala Travel Tips

Plan your transfers carefully, and don't try to see every attraction in each destination.
Check local weather and safety notices before entering the water at beaches.
Confirm attraction timings, ticket prices and camera charges locally, as they can change.
Check temple timings and dress codes before visiting.
For boat rides, confirm the route, duration, total price and safety arrangements in advance.
Allow buffer time before onward flights, especially if you are travelling by night bus.
Try local food such as dosa, appam with stew and idli with sambar.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few questions that tourists going on a trip to Kerala usually ask:

Is 7 days enough for Kerala?

Seven days is enough to cover a focused route such as Trivandrum, Alleppey, Thekkady and Munnar if you plan transfers carefully. You won't see everything, so choose a few destinations rather than rushing through many.

Which places did we cover in this Kerala itinerary?

We covered Trivandrum and Poovar, the Alleppey backwaters, Kumily and Thekkady (including Periyar), and Munnar.

Is it better to book a houseboat or a shikara in Alleppey?

A shikara suits a shorter backwater excursion, while a houseboat suits travellers who want an overnight stay on the water. We took a shikara ride of a little over an hour.

Can you visit Kerala during the monsoon?

Yes, we did, and enjoyed the rain-soaked tea gardens and forests. Rough weather can limit beach time, so check local conditions before you go.

What can you do in Thekkady?

We watched Kathakali and Kalaripayattu performances, took a jeep safari in Periyar Tiger Reserve, and enjoyed a boat ride on Periyar Lake.

How did we travel between destinations?

We reserved a car for the whole trip, which made it a road trip across Kerala.

↑ Back to Table of Contents

Lodges and Hotels in Simultala for Accommodation

2021-03-31T15:13:00.015+05:30

Are you looking to spend a few days far from the madding crowd?

If you're tired of your busy life in the city and want to try out some time in a remote village, Simultala is the right place for you. Located in the district of Jamui, Bihar, Simultala helps you to isolate yourself from your daily worries. If you're visiting Simultala, you can book one of the hotels in Simultala, Simultala homestays or the Simultala lodges to spend an excellent time here.

If you're planning a trip to Simultala, read our Simultala travel guide for a weekend trip for information about the destination and things to do.

Even a few years back, the place did not have proper electricity or mobile connectivity. However, Simultala helps you spend your time close to nature in a place dotted with small hills and surrounded by forests. There might not be great hotels in Simultala, but the hotels in Simultala, Simultala homestay, and the lodges in Simultala ensure a cozy stay, which is a basic need for any tourist. Besides, the hotels in Simultala also provides you with the chance of planning your stay the way you wish. If you want, you can even cook your own food in the hotels in Simultala.

Where to Stay in Simultala?

There aren't many hotels in Simultala that can offer you luxury stay. However, the hotels in Simultala, Simultala homestay, and the Simultala lodges can assure you a proper stay with basic amenities. In addition to the Simultala hotels, you can also opt to go for one of the many lodges in Simultala.

What comes to your mind when you're looking for hotels in Simultala or lodges in Simultala?

Is it something with excellent amenities and a luxury stay?

If so, then you might have to be disheartened.

There aren't many hotels in Simultala. Some of the hotels are located closer to the adjacent town of Jasidih, from where it takes about half an hour to reach Simultala by train. However, there are a few Simultala homestays that offer you a comfortable vacation.

The lodges in Simultala are mostly old villas and mansions. Before and just after the independence of India from British rule, these villas were constructed by many of the wealthy families, most from Bengal and Bihar. These were treated as their garden houses in Simultala, where they would come for a weekend in Simultala or on a vacation.

These villas in Simultala have now been turned into lodges. These are now mostly looked after by caretakers appointed by the families. If you're planning a trip to Simultala, you can book one of these lodges in Simultala.

Hotels in Simultala

There is only one hotel in Simultala that offers 2-star accommodation. It's the Anya Resort.

Anya Resort, Simultala

Located at a distance of 1 Kilometers from the station, Anya Resort, Simultala, is one of the best lodging options in this hamlet in Bihar. It offers 2-star accommodation at a reasonable rate. If you inform them before you reach, the resort offers a transfer from the station to the hotel.

You can book either AC or Non-AC rooms in Anya Resort for your stay. Some of the amenities offered by Anya Resort include:

Wi-Fi
Conference Room
Swimming Pool
Luggage Storage
Wake-up call
Fax and PhotoCopy service

Anya Resort has a large lawn where you can relax or spend your time with your friends and family.

Lodges in Simultala

There are quite a few old villas in Simultala, which have been turned into lodges. You can book while planning your trip to Simultala and look for Simultala homestay or lodges. You can also look for a lodging option after reaching Simultala and book it on the spot. This will provide you with the opportunity of choosing among a Simultala hotel, Simultala homestay or a lodge in Simultala by checking the hotel, lodge, or homestay on the spot.

When you're traveling to Simultala, you can book a stay in one of these lodges or hotels to make your trip to Simultala comfortable. If you have a car at your disposal, you can also stay in various hotels in nearby places, such as Jhajha or Jasidin, from where you can visit Simultala.

Best Hotels in Pelling to Book Your Stay

2021-02-25T15:53:00.014+05:30

A lot of people love to visit the mountains. Pelling, Sikkim, is one of the most beautiful places in the Himalayas, the mountain range in India. If you're planning to visit Sikkim, booking a room in one of the hotels in Pelling can be a good idea. Before choosing your accommodation, you may want to read our Pelling travel guide for information about the destination and planning your trip.

Pelling, one of the most beautiful places in West Sikkim, is becoming increasingly popular among tourists from across the globe. The beauty of Pelling is different for every season. Therefore, tourists frequent this serene town in West Sikkim throughout the year. This is why a number of Pelling hotels have been established over the years. And a large number of tourists book hotels in Pelling before they visit this Sikkim tourist place.

Most of these Pelling hotels offer excellent accommodation. Based on the comfort each of them offers, the prices for booking the hotels range from low to high. Therefore, you can book one of the hotels in Pelling within your budget. You can book any of these hotels online or through a phone call. It is always recommended to book a Pelling hotel for your stay before you reach Pelling.

The Pelling hotels are located across various levels of the town. You can categorize the Pelling hotels in the following ways:

Hotels in Upper Pelling
Hotels in Middle Pelling
Hotels in Lower Pelling

While some Pelling hotels are located in Upper Pelling, you can also find other hotels in Pelling at Middle Pelling or Lower Pelling.

Here's a look at some of the popular Pelling hotels where you can stay when you are on your trip to Pelling.

Hotels in Upper Pelling

Upper Pelling is not the city center. In fact, it is a bit far from Pelling city center. However, it is considered to be the best place for tourists to stay. Not because it has any significant difference in weather from other levels of the city, but because of the clear view of the Himalayas, especially Mount Kanchenjunga, it offers.

There are quite a few hotels in Upper Pelling, which are loved by tourists who frequent this beautiful town. Here's a list of some of the best hotels in Upper Pelling.

Hotel Name	Address	Contact Number
The Pelling Resort	NEW, Helipad Rd, UPPER PELLING, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	075848 49469
Hotel Dewachen	West District SH-510, Pelling-Rimbi Rd, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	080014 24545
Bhaichung Palace Hotel	Upper Pelling, Old Helipad Ground, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	09331936683
Hotel Parodzong	Pelling-Rimbi Rd, Pelling City, Sikkim 737113	09051609992 09474929849 08337800645
Hotel Snow View on Cloud Nine	Pelling-Rimbi Rd, Geyzing, Sikkim 737113	098324 05669
Hotel Hungree Retreat	West District, SH-510, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	9434755529
Hotel Golden Sunrise & Spa	Lower Pelling, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	8373081621
Hotel Takura	SH-510, Pelling Rimbi Road, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	9832790281
Yangthang Dzimkha Resort	Upper Pelling, Pelling City, Sikkim 737113	097344 89362
The Ace Pine Valley	Upper Pelling, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	081720 32923
Pemaling Residency	Upper Pelling, Near Old Helipad, West Sikkim, Sikkim 737113	097330 77494
Hospitality Inn Pelling	Pelling Darap Road, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	9734943804
Norbu Ghang Retreat and Spa	Upper Pelling, West District SH-510, Legship-Gyalshing Rd, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	9635675562

Hotels Near Pelling Helipad

The Helipad is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Pelling. It is located at the top of the town. Most of the tourists look for hotels near Pelling helipad. Here's a list of some of the best hotels near Pelling helipad.

Hotel Name	Distance from Pelling Helipad	Address	Phone Number
Hotel Sikkim Aurora	14 meters	Helipad, Karki Dara, New, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	097322 58987
Snow Valley Resort	22 meters	Near, Helipad Rd, Upper, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	0124 398 6368
OYO 46601 Hotel Kanchanjangha	92 meters	West District SH-510, Pelling, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	0124 620 1325
Hotel Siniolchu Pelling	160 meters	New Helipad Road, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	094330 11734
Retreat Crassula Ovata	44 meters	Upper Pelling, Helipad, Sikkim 737113	095939 80537
Vantage Homestay	850 meters	Helipad Rd, Pelling City, Sikkim 737113	097331 08095
Hotel SIMVO	750 meters	Helipad Ground, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	097330 11761
Jain Group Hotel Sonamchen	750 meters	Upper Pelling, near Old helipad area, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	06295 685 224
Hotel View Point	700 meters	School Ground, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	094331 50918
Hotel Dubdi	450 meters	Upper Pelling, Near Old Helipad, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	098308 80999
Hotel Kabur	1.1 Kilometers	Upper Pelling, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	073194 78732
Hotel Pemasonam	1.5 Kilometers	West District, SH-510, Pelling Rimbi Road, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	095642 57387

Hotels in Middle Pelling

Middle Pelling is almost like the center of the town. It has some of the best hotels of Pelling. Besides, the market is also close to Middle Pelling. Besides, you can also get a clear view of Mount Kanchenjunga from Middle Pelling as well.

Here's a look at some of the hotels in Middle Pelling.

Hotel Name	Address	Contact Number
Hotel Norling Retreat	Middle Pelling, Pelling-Rimbi Rd, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	094323 24780
Hotel Pemasonam	West District, SH-510, Pelling Rimbi Road, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	9564257387
Delight the Touristo
Chumbi Mountain Retreat and Spa	Naku Chumbong, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	099331 26619
Daizzo De Regency	Pelling-Rimbi Rd, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	03592 206 535
Hotel King Ston	Middle Pelling

Hotels in Lower Pelling

Lower Pelling or the lowest tier of the town of Pelling also has quite a few hotels and homestays. This area includes the locality of Tikjuk and is also close to Geyzing Market. You can select one of the hotels or homestays in Lower Pelling.

Hotel Name	Address	Contact Number
The Aryan Regency	Lower, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	097178 07336
Dream Villa Retreat	Lower Pelling, Sikkim 737113	097346 50066
Summit Newa Regency	Near Old State Bank Of India, Lower, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	083888 77888
Sikkim Tourist Centre	Lower Pelling, West District, SH-510, Legship Gyalshing Road, Pelling, Pelling, Sikkim 737111
Hotel Tashi Gyaltsen	Pelling-Rimbi Rd, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	9434184438
Martam Farmhouse	Tikjuk, P.O. Pelling, West Sikkim, India, Pelling, Sikkim 737113	9474774448
Rufina Swagat	Lower Pelling, West Sikkim, Near old SBI building

Pelling is surely one of the most popular tourist places in Sikkim. The natural beauty of this place is gorgeous. This is why innumerable tourists visit Pelling every year. As a result, a number of hotels and homestays have been established in this beautiful town in Sikkim.

While planning your stay, don't miss our guide to 12 Pelling sightseeing spots you cannot afford to miss.

If you're planning to visit Sikkim, you must choose one of the best hotels in Pelling before visiting the place. It will help to make your stay comfortable.

12 Pelling Sightseeing Spots You Cannot Afford to Miss

2021-02-10T12:02:00.036+05:30

Pelling is one of the oldest places in Sikkim and also among the most beautiful ones. There are multiple amazing places that form a plethora of tourist attractions in Pelling, and they are among the most popular places for sightseeing in Pelling. We visited a couple of Pelling attractions while coming to Pelling from Kaluk. After reaching Pelling, we hired a cab to visit the remaining tourist attractions in Pelling.

If you are planning a complete trip, read our Pelling travel guide, which covers the destination, attractions and travel experience.

Pelling Sightseeing - Our Experience

We started early in the morning and went for sightseeing in Pelling. There are so many Pelling attractions that it takes a whole day to cover all of them. If you have the time, you can go for a Whole Day Pelling Sightseeing. Otherwise, you can opt for a Half Day Pelling Sightseeing, which is planned to help you see the most important tourist attractions in Pelling.

Almost all the tourist attractions in Pelling offer excellent views of the Himalayan mountain range, especially Mount Kanchenjunga, and help you spend time close to nature. This is why sightseeing in Pelling is such a favorite among tourists. There are also several places of historical interest, which form a great list of Pelling attractions that you can't afford to miss.

Here's a quick look at some of the best tourist attractions in Pelling:

Kanchenjunga Falls
Skywalk Pelling
Sang-Ngag Choling Monastery
Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park, Rabdentse
Rabdentse Ruins
Pemayangtse Monastery
Tashiding Monastery
Rimbi Waterfall
Rimbi Orange Garden
Khecheopalri Lake
Singshore Bridge
Geyzing Market

Kanchenjunga Falls, Pelling

A mesmerizing perennial waterfall is located on the way from Pelling to Yuksom, at a distance of 24 kilometers from Pelling. The melting snows of glaciers high up on Mount Kanchenjunga are considered to be the source of its waters, and it is named after the famous peak as Kanchenjunga Waterfall.

The Kanchenjunga Falls came into the limelight only in the 1990s. Before that, it remained hidden from human eyes and was not considered a tourist attraction in Pelling. As a result, it is still quite pristine, although tourists coming to Pelling or Yuksom pay a visit to this majestic waterfall.

How to reach Kanchenjunga Waterfall, Pelling

To reach Kanchenjunga Waterfall, we drove from Pelling toward Yuksom. It takes around an hour on the Pelling-Rimbi Road. On the way to Yuksom, we stopped at the side of the road and climbed a flight of about 50 stairs to reach the base of the waterfall. The waterfall remains hidden from the main road by a wall of mountains, but the magical sound of the thundering water told us that we were about to witness a breathtaking view.

Once we reached below the Kanchenjunga Waterfall, we saw the gushing waters taking a dip from a height of almost 100 feet. It has created a pool at the base. The sun rays fall on the sparkling waters to form spellbinding rainbows on the pool. We were mesmerized by this place of sightseeing in Pelling and spent a good amount of time appreciating its beauty.

Skywalk Pelling

Do you love thrill and want it to be a part of your tour to Pelling?

Pelling, the small town in Sikkim, has it in store for you in the form of the Sangacholi Skywalk, more popular as Skywalk Pelling.

The Pelling Skywalk, located just beside the Sang-Ngag Choling Monastery, is a glass-bottom bridge leading to the 137-feet tall Chenrezig statue. India's first skywalk, it gives a thrill just by walking on it.

We could view the gorge below us while walking on this glass Skywalk. It gives a feeling of free falling, and it's surely not for the faint-hearted.

Sang-Ngag Choling Monastery

When we visited the Sang-Ngag Choling Monastery, also spelled Sange Choeling Monastery, in Pelling, we were spellbound by the amazing history and the beauty of this place. Founded in 1697, this monastery in Sikkim still holds clay statues that date back to the 17th century.

Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park, Rabdentse

Rabdentse, one of the oldest places in Sikkim, is famous not only for its ruins but also for the Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park. Located on the way to the Rabdentse Ruins, this bird park has been named after Sidkeong Tulku, who was the 10th Chogyal of Sikkim.

We visited the Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park on our way to the Rabdentse Ruins. Both the ruins and the bird park share the same entry gate. The park has numerous types of birds, which include:

Oriental Turtle Dove
Long-tailed Shrike
Common Cuckoo
White-collared Blackbird
Mrs. Gould's Sunbird
Dark-breasted Rosefinch
Golden-breasted Fulvetta
Yellow-breasted Greenfinch
Blue Whistling Thrush
Grey Drongo
Green Imperial Pigeon
Whiskered Yuhina

In addition, the park has rich flora meant to attract birds of various kinds. Our visit was made beautiful by the songs of birds coming from the trees of the park. It's surely a great addition to your Pelling sightseeing list.

Rabdentse Ruins

The ancient capital of Sikkim now stands as ruins on the mountains at a distance of about 8 kilometers from Pelling. It took us only about 20 minutes to reach the gates of the Rabdentse Ruins. After visiting the bird park, we started hiking through the wild route to reach the ruins.

The hike of about 1.5 kilometers took us along a winding, narrow path through the forest. The moist soil was covered with layers of dry, dead leaves. It took us almost 30 minutes to reach the ruins from the gate.

The place really amazed us with its beauty and silence. The site wore an ancient look through the majestic pillars and age-old bricks of the rooms, stairs, and courtyard. Although the ruins have not stood the test of time in the best possible manner, they still appear pleasing and astounding against the backdrop of the mighty Himalayas.

If you don't visit the Rabdentse Ruins, your Pelling sightseeing will remain incomplete.

Pemayangtse Monastery

Located close to Pelling is the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the six major monasteries of Sikkim. Established in 1647, it has been one of the most important centers of Buddhism in the state. We entered the monastery and went through every level of it. The shrine of Guru Padmasambhava is on the first floor and there is a museum on the second floor. After spending some time there, we roamed around the courtyard before moving ahead to the next point of our Pelling sightseeing.

Tashiding Monastery

The Tashiding Monastery is popular among Buddhist pilgrims who want to spend time close to their revered deity. One of the most important monasteries in Sikkim, it sits on top of a hill at an altitude of 1465 meters. Tashiding Monastery is the venue for the annual Bumchu (Holy Water) festival, which occurs in February or March.

Rimbi Waterfall

The mountains around Sikkim are spotted with waterfalls. You can find water trickling down the mountains like a beautiful, narrow lace here and there. A few of them become wider and wilder to attract the attention of tourists. Rimbi Waterfall is one such waterfall, which has gained popularity for its enchanting beauty.

This beauty of nature offers an excellent view to tourists and has become an integral part of Pelling sightseeing in recent times.

Rimbi Orange Garden

On our way back from Rimbi Waterfall, we stopped at a gate located right by the road. It bore the sign "River Orange Garden". This spot is also popular as Rimbi Orange Garden.

A flight of stairs took us down from the main road to the Rimbi River. On the way, we came across a variety of well-maintained, colorful flowering plants, along with trees full of blooming oranges. The Rimbi River was flowing in full strength as a narrow brook here, jumping over the rocks and skidding through the slopes of the mountain.

There are also a few shops inside the Rimbi Orange Garden. You're also in luck if you want to stay in this beautiful place amid the gardens and just beside the river.

The Orange Village Homestay is located inside the Rimbi Orange Garden. This quaint little cottage is a beautiful Pelling homestay that you can book as a lodging option.

Together, the Rimbi Orange Garden, the Orange Village Homestay, and the nimble river flowing over the rocks have become one of the popular tourist attractions and a part of sightseeing in Pelling.

Khecheopalri Lake

The car took us to a certain spot and the driver asked us to start walking along a stone-paved road to reach Khecheopalri Lake.

This lake in Sikkim is considered sacred by both the Buddhist and Hindu communities. The silence of the forest, broken only by the chirping of birds, added to the beauty of the walk. When we halted on the shores of Khecheopalri Lake, its beauty took all the fatigue of the walk away. The vast lake lay there like a Buddhist monk in meditation.

Through its clear waters, we could see the large fish that lived in the still lake. The reflections of the surrounding forest added colors that made Khecheopalri Lake even more beautiful.

Singshore Bridge

Singshore Bridge, the second-highest bridge in Asia and the highest in Sikkim, is located 5 kilometers from Pelling, West Sikkim. Situated at a height of over 100 meters, this 240-meter-long bridge is one of the star attractions of sightseeing in Pelling. It offers almost a bird's-eye view of the valley between the surrounding mountains.

Standing on this magnificent bridge, we witnessed how the lush greenery of the gorge blended soothingly with the trees on the mountains around us. Then we sat in one of the cafes just beyond the bridge, enjoying piping hot momos and coffee.

The Singshore Bridge is open every day from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm. The road beyond the bridge leads to Uttarey, Sikkim, just 10 kilometers away. Uttarey is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sikkim these days, so the bridge experiences a good amount of traffic on a daily basis.

Geyzing Market

Once we were done with most of the tourist attractions and sightseeing in Pelling, we headed toward our homestay, the Martam Farmhouse. On our way, we visited Geyzing Market. It is a small market where you can buy a few souvenirs of your Pelling trip. It is a good idea to visit Geyzing Market during an evening walk in Pelling, instead of on the same day as your sightseeing plan.

Planning to stay overnight in Pelling? Explore our guide to the best hotels in Pelling.

Final Thoughts on Pelling Sightseeing

That was all for the day for us. We had planned to visit Yuksom, the first capital of Sikkim, but couldn't do it because of lack of time. It was already evening and we were quite tired when we reached Martam Farmhouse in Tikjuk, but the memories were fresh and pleasant. The next day, we left Pelling for Siliguri to catch our flight to Kolkata from Bagdogra Airport.

Pelling Travel Guide - a Glimpse at History through Nature

2021-01-19T12:57:00.047+05:30

Pelling, the serene little town in West Sikkim, was going to be the final one in our list of destinations for our short Sikkim trip. The altitude of this town, one of the oldest in the Indian state of Sikkim, is 2,150 meters or 7,200 feet. It is becoming increasingly popular among the tourists for the clear view of Kanchenjunga it offers. This town experiences the influx of a large number of tourists as the best time to visit Pelling ranges through the year round. So, people from nearby places plan Pelling vacations whenever they need a break or want a glimpse of the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga.

So, we had included Pelling travel in our short Sikkim tour itinerary along with Kaluk. As this beautiful town is one of the most visited places in West Sikkim, it's not difficult to find a great Pelling travel guide, which details the hotels, homestays, and places of attraction. We went through some of these Pelling Travel Guides on the internet and planned our trip based on them.

History of Pelling

The Pelling travel guides say this town and Yuksom, which is not far from here and is considered as one of the major attractions, are among the major historical places in Sikkim. Pelling was established during the British rule in India by a person named Freddie Pelling. Yuksom was established as the first capital of Sikkim in 1642. At that time, Pelling was considered the second capital of the state. The Rabdentse Ruins stand witness to the time when the royal family used to spend their time there. The Rabdentse Palace was used until 1814 A.D., until the Nepalese invasion.

From Kaluk to Pelling

We started from the quaint and quiet village of Kaluk early in the morning. The journey from Kaluk to Pelling is not a long one. Although Kaluk to Pelling distance is 43 kilometers, you have to drive cautiously along the meandering roads of the mountains. So, the time taken to cover this distance usually ranges from one and a half hours to two hours. On the way, we visited some of the tourist attractions, which include:

SDDPL Alpine Cheese Factory at Dentam
Changey Waterfalls

After staying in the SDDPL Alpine Cheese Factory at Dantam and at Changey Waterfalls for a while, we moved on with our journey.

Best Time to Visit Pelling

While some people consider summer as the best time to visit Pelling, to many it is winter. Spring is also quite beautiful in this town in West Sikkim and is one of the best times to visit Pelling. The time of the Khangchendzonga Festival is also the best time to visit Pelling. This festival is celebrated in the town with grandeur from 24th December to 26th December every year.

During this time, you can enjoy multiple adventure sports, such as rafting and kayaking on the Rimbi river. Rafting in Pelling is, in fact, quite popular and a number of adventure-loving tourists love the experience of rafting on Rimbi river. However, the weather in this town offers different types of enjoyment during various months of the year. Therefore, any time can be considered to be the best time to visit Pelling. However, only monsoon is not the best time to visit Pelling, as there are chances of landslides during that time.

Summer

Summer in Pelling starts in March and continues till May. It is also considered the best time to visit Pelling. If you're planning Pelling travel, the weather will be on your side. The temperature remains between 7 Degree Celsius and 25 Degree Celsius, enabling tourists to go sightseeing during their Pelling travel and enjoy a few adventure sports.

Winter

Another best time to visit Pelling is Winter, which lasts from November to February. These months here are chilly and the town experiences low temperatures. There are strong winds that add to the cold weather. However, the weather remains clear, ensuring that Kanchenjunga and the other peaks can be viewed without any problem. There is also occasional snowfall in Pelling during winter.

Monsoon

The town experiences heavy torrential rainfall between the months of July and September. It surely looks amazing to stare at the rains on the mountains from inside a room. However, the rains result in a few landslides. Besides, it's difficult to go around sightseeing while it's pouring heavily. Therefore, most Pelling travel guides will also ask you to avoid monsoon in these mountains.

How to Reach Pelling

While planning how to reach Pelling from Kaluk, we booked a cab and traveled to this mesmerizing town in West Sikkim. However, if you're planning Pelling travel, you have to know how to reach Pelling. You can visit this town in West Sikkim from various places. When you're planning how to reach Pelling, you can visit a few major places from where this place is well connected. You can consult a few Pelling travel guides to find out how to reach Pelling.

Some of the places from which visitors come to this place are Darjeeling, Siliguri, NJP Railway Station, and Gangtok. So, even if you're planning a short trip to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, you can always plan Pelling travel, if time permits.

How to Reach Pelling from Siliguri

Siliguri, the town in North Bengal, is one of the major points from where you can travel to different places in Sikkim.

Wondering how to reach Pelling from Siliguri?

It's not difficult at all. To reach this town from Siliguri, you have to hire a car either from outside Siliguri Bus Stand or outside the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station.

How to Reach Pelling from Gangtok

If you're looking for how to reach Pelling from Gangtok, you will find multiple options. Pelling is situated at a distance of 115 kilometers from the state capital of Gangtok. You can travel from Gangtok to Pelling by hiring a private taxi or a shared taxi from the taxi stand Gangtok. It takes around four hours to reach Pelling from Gangtok. It costs about INR 4000 to hire a taxi from Gangtok to Pelling. You can also get shared taxis from Gangtok to Pelling. These shared taxis from Gangtok carry 10 passengers and charge INR 350 from each of them.

How to Reach Pelling from Darjeeling

Darjeeling is another town in West Bengal from where you can plan your Pelling travel. Darjeeling to Pelling distance is a little more than 70 kilometers. If you are thinking how to reach Pelling from Darjeeling, you have only one option. You can hire a car from Darjeeling and drive through Jorethang and Legship. It takes about 3 hours to reach Pelling from Darjeeling.

Reaching Pelling

This town in West Sikkim is situated across three different levels:

Upper Pelling
Middle Pelling
Lower Pelling

These levels refer to the altitude through which the town is planned. Although Mount Kanchenjunga is visible from various parts of the town, the Upper level, of course, offers the best views. We drove from Kaluk and moved from Upper Pelling through the middle and lower levels of the town to reach the homestay we had booked.

Where to Stay

For lodging, there are multiple options. You can find various hotels as well as homestays where you can book your lodging. The prices at these hotels range from low, reasonable options to high. You can select one of these hotels according to your budget.

We had booked a homestay - Martam Luxury Farmhouse, an enchanting farmhouse offering a wide range of amenities and fresh food.

While booking a hotel is not difficult, you can do a bit of research beforehand. Most of the hotels have digital presence. Therefore, searching for the hotels online will help you find some information about them. It will be really helpful if you can check out a few pictures and also ensure that the hotel that you're booking offers excellent view of Kanchenjunga and other mountains from the room.

If you are planning an overnight stay, you can also explore our guide to the best hotels in Pelling.

Our Stay at Martam Luxury Farmhouse, Tikjuk

This spacious and delightful farmhouse is located at Tikjuk. The Martam Farmhouse offers a luxurious stay at an affordable cost. The hosts offer an extremely warm welcome.

The food offered at this homestay is derived from its own farm and hence, is extremely fresh and tasty. However, you won't be able to get a view of Kanchenjunga from the rooms of Martam Farmhouse. Nevertheless, if you're visiting this serene town in West Sikkim, booking Martam Luxury Farmhouse in Tikjuk for a cozy stay can be a great option.

Local Attractions

Pelling is one of the oldest places in Sikkim and also among the most beautiful ones. There is a plethora of tourist attractions here. We visited a couple of attractions while coming from Kaluk. After reaching, we hired a cab from there to visit the remaining tourist attractions.

We started early in the morning and went for local sightseeing. Almost all the places of tourist attractions in Pelling offer excellent views of the Himalayan mountain range and help you spend time close to nature. There are also several places of historical interest. Some of these include:

Kanchenjunga Falls: A beautiful waterfall hidden from the roads behind the large mountains almost gives the joy of discovering something amazing once you reach it from the road. We alighted a plight of stairs of about 50 steps to reach the spot from where we could see this stunning, double-pronged waterfall. The sun's rays on the water formed a beautiful rainbow right on the waterfall. No wonder this waterfall is considered the highlight of Pelling travel along with the view of Mount Kanchenjunga in most of the Pelling travel guides.

Changey Waterfalls: A smaller waterfall, which is almost equally beautiful, welcomed us after we had covered a really rough road.
SDDPL Alpine Cheese Factory: We visited this cheese factory, which offers insights into cheese processing and creation.
Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park: We had a quick look at this small park for bird lovers before going for the Rabdantse Ruins.
Rabdentse Ruins: The ruins of the second capital of the erstwhile Kingdom of Sikkim. This place remained as the capital of the Kingdom from 1670 to 1814, until it was destroyed by Gorkhas who invaded Rabdentse from Nepal. Winter is the best time to visit Pelling if you're looking to visit Rabdentse Ruins, as you have to walk a distance to reach this place. It took us over half an hour of strenuous hiking on a trodden path to reach these magnificent ruins of the ancient palace.

Sang-Ngag Choling Monastery: When we visited the Sang-Ngag Choling Monastery or the Sange Choeling Monastery, we were spellbound by the amazing history and the beauty of this place. Founded long back in 1697, this Monastery still holds the beautiful and enchanting clay statues that date back to the 17th Century.

Skywalk Pelling: Love thrill? Then the Sangacholi Skywalk, which is India's first skywalk, is the perfect place for you. The Pelling Skywalk, located just beside the Sang-Ngag Choling Monastery, is a glass-bottom bridge to go to the 137-feet tall Chenrezig statue. We could view the gorge below us while walking on this Skywalk made of glass. The ticket to the Skywalk costs INR 50 for each person.
Pemayangtse Monastery: We loved this monastery, which is one of the most important monasteries of the state, for the blend of history and natural beauty it offers.

Rimbi Waterfall: This is an enchanting waterfall formed by river Rimbi.
Rimbi Orange Garden: We had a great time in this orange garden located on the banks of River Rimbi, not far from the Rimbi Waterfall. There's also a small homestay, the Orange River Homestay, which can be booked to stay in this beautiful place.

Khecheopalri Lake: This lake, one of the most beautiful lakes of the region, is sacred for both the Hindu and the Buddhist communities. The beauty of this lake and the surrounding ambiance felt like a welcome breeze after walking for about 20 minutes on a rock-paved road through a silent forest.

Singshore Bridge: This bridge offers an amazing view of the deep gorge below it. This is Asia's second-highest bridge, located at a height of over 100 meters, on the way to Uttarey, Sikkim. We crossed the bridge on foot and enjoyed a plate of hot chicken momo and piping hot coffee in a shop on the other side, while enjoying the breeze and viewing the colorful mountain.

Geyzing Market: We ended our sightseeing tour with a bit of shopping at the Geyzing Market before heading back to Martam Farmhouse for our night stay.

For a more detailed list of attractions, see our guide to 12 Pelling sightseeing spots you cannot afford to miss.

Bidding Adieu!

Early next morning, it was time to say goodbye to Pelling. So, we hired a car for the airport. It took us about five hours to reach Bagdogra Airport to catch our flight back to Kolkata.

Kaluk Travel Guide - the Tourist Retreat at West Sikkim

2021-01-15T12:02:00.024+05:30

The first week of December was almost over. The temperature had just started to drop and the humidity was reducing. The weather was turning pleasant. We were already feeling that it was time to go for another tour once more. So, we decided to hit the road once more and include amazing places, such as Kaluk and Pelling.

Kaluk can be combined with Pelling when planning a trip through West Sikkim. See our Pelling travel guide for more information about the destination.

When you're living in Kolkata and planning a trip during winter, you can go almost anywhere! You can head for the sea beaches, forests, mountains - whichever place you wish. It's all about the destinations that actually beckon you at that moment. But we thought it was quite long since we had visited Sikkim - the state that offers alluring scenic beauty. So, the decision was unanimous - we wanted Sikkim travel. So, our next destination was going to be the land of the mighty Himalayas - it was going to be Sikkim.

Sikkim has so many wonderful places that it's quite difficult to zero in on a certain spot when you're planning Sikkim travel. However, we had our priorities set - we wanted a lazy trip during which we will just relax and stare at the elegance of the Himalayas. Kaluk, one of the best places to visit in Sikkim, is a perfect location to do that. Situated at a height of 5600 feet, Kaluk is one of the most charming locations in West Sikkim.

How to Reach Kaluk

There are quite a few ways to reach Kaluk. You can take a flight to Bagdogra Airport and take a cab from there to this serene hamlet on the Himalayas. You can also take a train to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, Siliguri. Cabs are easily available for hire outside the station. You can book one of them and head to Kaluk.

Booking the Cab

It was almost ten in the morning when the Darjeeling Mail entered the New Jalpaiguri Station (NJP), Siliguri - almost a couple of hours late. Unlike our other trips, we had not booked any car beforehand. We knew we won't be facing any problem getting a car from the stand right outside the railway station. After much bargaining, we booked an Indigo car for INR 4300. It was supposed to drop us at our hotel in Kaluk, Sikkim.

The first view

It was the beginning of winter and the weather was extremely clear. But even then, we didn't expect to have such a view! Mount Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world became visible right after we started from the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, Siliguri. And thankfully, it stayed with us for a long time.

Close to 11 AM and we were already hungry. So, we stopped at a roadside restaurant, stuffed ourselves with steaming hot chicken momo, and started for Kaluk once again.

The Untimely Stop

The road to Kaluk is like almost any other mountainous road in the Himalayas. It's narrow and steep. Yet, several large vehicles also have to ply on these roads. The trucks need to carry food and other amenities from the plains to the small hamlets and villages nestled on the lap of the mountains. We started our journey toward Kaluk. However, about 3 Kilometers from the hamlet, close to Rinchenpong, we had to come to a sudden stop.

A truck coming down from Kaluk had slipped a few feet down the slopes of the mountain through orchids full of orange trees. Efforts were on to pull the truck up. So, the road was blocked.

We had to wait for a couple of hours till the road was cleared. In between, we just enjoyed the views of orange trees bowing down with the burden of fresh fruits and wild flowers of various colors brightening the mossy slopes of the mountains.

Reaching Kaluk

After the road was cleared, it took us around 20 minutes to reach Kaluk. Our car dropped us at the Pine Village Retreat, Kaluk. We had booked a room at Pine Village Retreat, a renowned hotel in Kaluk. This hotel is just above the more popular Ghonday Resort, Kaluk, is a little below the level of the main road.

We received a warm welcome and a few souvenirs from the Kaluk hotel staff as we reached the Pine Village Retreat, Kaluk. After that the staff guided us to our room, which offered a sumptuous view of Kangchenjunga from Kaluk.

The room at Pine Village Retreat, the hotel in Kaluk, was spacious with an attached balcony that offered a clear view of the Himalayan range. There were glass windows across one side of the room. The moment we entered the room, we looked right through the window at the majestic Mount Kangchenjungha. And decked in the golden colors of the sun, the grand peak smiled back at us.

Where to Stay in Kaluk

We had an excellent experience staying at the Pine Village Retreat in Kaluk. In addition, there are several hotels in Kaluk. You can also find hotels in Rinchenpong, the nearby village. These include:

Ghonday Village Resort, Kaluk
The B's (A Boutique Hotel) in Kaluk
Kanchan Valley Tourist Lodge, Kaluk
Green Hill Resort Kaluk
Mandarin Village Resort, Kaluk
Reesum Resort, Rinchenpong
Orchid Villa

There are also quite a few homestays that provide cozy lodging options in this hamlet. Some of these are:

Astha Homestay
Shalom Villa
Presum Homestay, Kaluk
Nervilla Residency

Exploring Kaluk

The temperature at Kaluk was below ten degree Celsius. So, we decided to have a quick stroll around the village and return to the hotel by evening. We climbed up the steep slope from Pine Village Retreat, Kaluk, to the main road and walked toward the center of the town.

Well, calling Kaluk a town is exaggerating it significantly. All you need is a stroll of about 10 minutes to cover the whole of the hamlet. Kangchenjunga from clearly is visible from the main road of Kaluk.

There's a small Police Assistant Booth at the intersection point of Kaluk-Rinchenpong Road, Kaluk-Bermiok Road, and Nanda Kumar Gurung Soreng-Kaluk Road. We approached the police personnel who was seated there and asked him what is the best place to visit in Kaluk. The friendly police welcomed us with a broad smile on his face and told that there's absolutely nothing in this little Himalayan hamlet. There's a bazar with only a few dozen shops. We got a few souvenirs from one of the shops and headed toward our Kaluk hotel.

The Charm of Kaluk, Sikkim

At first glance, Kaluk is just like any other small Sikkim village nestled on the slope of the Himalayan range.

Then why is it so popular among the tourists?

Why do people love to go to Kaluk, Sikkim, and nature lovers flock there on a regular basis?

If it's such a small hamlet with almost nowhere to go, then why is Kaluk travel so popular among the tourists?

There's only one reason for it.

The view of Kangchenjunga from Kaluk is really outstanding.

It does not matter whether you're taking a stroll on the Kaluk road or relaxing on your couch inside the hotel room, the Kangchenjunga is always visible - unless you're unlucky and thick clouds arrive from some unknown place and cover its face.

Things to Do in Kaluk

Kaluk, the little village in the Himalayas, is becoming an increasingly popular tourist spot for the sheer natural beauty it offers. You can just sit back on a couch in your hotel room and enjoy the view of Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. We did just that. Later, we booked a cab and went to visit some of the places to see in Kaluk.

Kaluk can be a great place if you want to walk along the roads in a place that lets you stay close to nature. If you're visiting during spring, you can also visit the Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, which is about 30 kilometers away from Kaluk, and enjoy a walk there to experience the Rhododendron plans in full bloom.

Places to Visit from Kaluk

The next morning dawned with the view of Kangchenjunga and its range from the room of our Kaluk hotel. The rays of the rising sun had changed the white, snowy peak of the mountain golden. We gulped the view down with a delicious breakfast of chicken sandwich and coffee before going out to visit some places to see in Kaluk.

Azing's Model Farm

Have you ever tried any organic wine?

They are not extremely intoxicating; yet they taste delicious. And if you're a connoisseur of wines, you'll surely not like to give Azing's Model Farm a miss.

It is a family-owned farm, which produces organic fruit wine. This place offers a detailed view of the ways in which the plants are managed, fruits are harvested, and wines are made at the farm from the fruits there.

Some of the organic wines available at the Azing's Model Farm, Kaluk, include:

Grapes Wine
Guava Wine
Banana Wine
Peach Wine
Ginger Wine
Orange Wine
Pineapple Wine

There are a number of plants in the grounds around Azing's Model Farm with fresh fruits.

Different types of fruit wines are sold at the Azing's Model Farm, Kaluk. We bought a couple of wine bottles to bring them back to Kolkata with us.

Azing's Model Farm is surely one of the best places of attraction near Kaluk for wine lovers. However, if you have any heart ailment, it's better to avoid it. You have to go down a flight of 270 steep stairs on the slopes of the mountain. You might not find that too exhausting. However, climbing up those stairs to return to the road is surely difficult.

Rinchenpong Monastery

While retuning from Azing's Model Farm, we stopped at Rinchen Chholing Monastery at Meghi-Dara. More popular as the Rinchenpong Monastery, this monastery is located at an altitude of 5500 feet above sea level. It dates back to the 18th Century and was established by Ngadakpa Lama way back in 1730. This enchanting monastery stands tall to this day with the mesmerizing view of the Kangchenjunga as its majestic backdrop.

The Rinchenpong Monastery, the third oldest monastery in Sikkim, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kaluk. It houses a blue colored statue of Adi-Buddha or the Primordial Buddha.

The statue is in the Yab-Yum position, which depicts the male Buddha in union with his female counterpart. It represents the union of male skill and compassion with the female insight.

Other Places of Interest in Kaluk

There are several other places of tourist attraction in Kaluk. These include the Hee Bermiok, the cluster of villages that are extremely serene and beautiful. You can also visit the SDDPL Cheese Factory at Dentam or the even Kanchenjunga Falls. However, most of these places are closer to Pelling and are considered as the places of tourist attraction that are visited from that town.

If Pelling is part of your itinerary, you can also explore these 12 Pelling sightseeing spots.

Moving Along

We returned from the Rinchenpong Monastery and had an early lunch at the hotel in Kaluk. Soon we were ready to start. Our final destination on the trip was going to be Pelling, the town in West Sikkim with a magical view of the mountains.

Dhanyakuria - Day Trip to the Village of Castles in Bengal

2021-01-05T21:50:00.069+05:30

Dhanyakuria, the village of castles and mansions in North 24 Parganas of West Bengal, blends history with magical beauty of a Disney-sque look to give you an experience of a Gothic, English countryside. And it's extremely popular among the tourists for Dhanyakuria Rajbari and other mansions. Dhanyakuria is an unusual destination even for travelers interested in exploring the offbeat tourist places of West Bengal.

You might have come across villages and towns with many temples, but hardly any village of mansions as Dhanyakuria, which is known mainly for the Dhanyakuria Rajbari. For example, Bishnupur in the district of Bankura, West Bengal, is famous for its multiple terracotta temples that are located within a short radius. However, there's almost no village except one which has multiple castles - that is, no other except the Village of Castles and Mansions of West Bengal - Dhanyakuria, which boasts of the famous Dhanyakuria Rajbari and the Castle at Dhanyakuria.

Located in the district of North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, Dhanyakura, with the magnificent Dhanyakuria Rajbari, is the perfect spot for a weekend trip from Kolkata. It is about 55 kilometers from the heart of the city. A two-hour drive from the city can take you to a serene village, where history speaks through the large palatial mansions of Dhanyakuria, which were once lively and teeming from dawn to dusk, but remain mostly deserted these days.

Planning a Trip to Dhanyakuria

Winter had set in. The temperatures were already dipping. It was the perfect time for a trip. However, because of some constraint, we could not think of going on a long tour. Instead, we were searching for destinations that we could visit on a day trip from Kolkata. This is when we learnt about Dhanyakuria and the famous Dhanyakuria Rajbari.

We were keen to visit Chandraketugarh, an archeological site in North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, dating back to almost 3rd Century B.C. While researching on Chandraketugarh, we came across the name of the village of Dhanyakuria. This tourist spot located at a distance of only 10 kilometers from the Chandraketugarh Museum and with a plethora of castles or palaces, such as Gaine Rajbari, also popular as Dhanyakuria Rajbari, Gaine Castle, or Ballav Bari seemed interesting almost immediately.

Are you looking for a Dhanyakuria Travel Guide to explore interesting tourist places in the village and find sightseeing tours?

You're surely going to be disappointed because no such thing is available, which lists the things to see in Dhanyakuria.

We found only a few good articles and writeups on the internet and planned our trip based on them. And we are glad we did, as this place is an amazing tourist location.

Although there aren't many things to see in Dhanyakuria, a glimpse at the history of this otherwise unknown village through the outstanding palaces, mansions, and marvelous castle make it a place to visit. That's why tourists plan their visit to Dhanyakuria these days.

So, we decided not to wait and immediately planned our trip to this village of castles and mansions in West Bengal and visited the place to find the things to see in Dhanyakuria.

Best Time to Visit

Dhanyakuria is not very far from Kolkata and the weather there isn't extremely different from West Bengal's capital city as well. Therefore, it is a good decision to visit this village of castles near Kolkata during winter. Therefore, if you want to visit this village, plan it between November and February, when the weather is pleasant. As you need to go around the place to view the mansions, it is good to avoid the summer and monsoon months.

How to Reach Dhanyakuria

If you're traveling from Kolkata, reaching this village of castles and mansions is not difficult. It's just a two-hour drive from Kolkata. However, if you're looking at how to reach Dhanyakuria, you can find various ways.

You can also take a local train from Sealdah Station to reach Basirhat Station and take an auto or rickshaw from there for sightseeing. You can also get down at Kankra Mirzanagar Railway Station, which is close to this village of palaces and mansions.

It's not difficult to reach Barasat from Kolkata. From there you can board a bus and get down at the Basirhat bus stop. Autos and rickshaws are available from there as well. You can book an auto for the whole day to see various mansions, including the Dhanyakuria Rajbari.

They can take you through the lanes of this amazing town decked with palaces and castles that seem to pop out of books of European Fairy Tales.

Our Journey Starts

We started early in the morning in our car after completing our breakfast at the famous sweet shop Maharani near Deshapriya Park. Then we headed toward Science City. We drove through Rajarhat to cross Kharibari and took a right turn at Taki Road near Deganga. We drove past Chandraketugarh near the Berachampa Crossing and took a left turn at Nehalpur to reach this village of castle and mansions in West Bengal.

A Glimpse at the History of the Village

Even 300 years ago, this place was a part of the Sunderbans. Thick forests covered the area and there were quite a few meandering creeks of saline water. However, a person called Jagannath Das cleared the forests away and converted the forests into a land fit for living. He settled down in this village with his family in 1742. After that, several families came and settled here. These included families, such as Ballavs, Gaines, Mandals, and Sawoos. Many of them had become rich by trading in rice and sugarcane. They built grand mansions as garden retreats or baganbari in the village. Many of these large houses or mansions here have been constructed following medieval European architecture, which makes them stand out even today.

Many of the families who settled here played an important role in the development of the area. For example, Upendranath Sawoo and Mahendranath Gaine were instrumental in establishing the first English-medium school in the village in 1885. Sawoo also played an important role in building a charitable hospital, the Dhanyakuria Rural Hospital, as well as a girls' school in the area in 1893.

The Village of Castles

At first glance, Dhanyakuria appears like any other small village of West Bengal. The narrow road that entered the village from the main road meandered through a number of small houses. They were dotted here and there with an odd pond. There was also a large field where young people from the village had gathered to spend their time playing cricket on a sunny winter morning.

What sets this village apart is the glimpse of more than a few mansions that clearly have touches of European architecture. At first look, they seem like many other buildings of Kolkata, which were built by The first castle was built there by the Dutta family. However, it's the almost dilapidated Gaine Bagan Bari or the Gaine Castle, which is surely the gem in the crown of this place. However, there are also a few other mansions that attracted our attention. These include:

Gaine Rajbari or the Gaine Palace
Sawoo Mansion (Sahoo Mansion or Sau Bari)
Ballav Bari or the Ballav Mansion

Among these, the Gaine Rajbari is extremely well maintained, while most of the others are deserted. In fact, Gaine Rajbari is also known to be at its festive best during the time of Durga Puja. Some of the castles are maintained by caretakers and the owners, who live away in the cities, visit them once or twice a year. The Gaine Castle, although the most outstanding of all in terms of architectural grandeur and probably even better than the Gaine Rajbari, is almost in its ruins. The local High School and a few other buildings also follow the fusion architectural styles and stand out.

Gaine Castle or Gaine Baganbari

While driving through the Kolkata-Basirhat Road, don't be surprised if you feel a castle from an old European town has been transfered to the rustic lanscape of West Bengal. The Gaine Castle, also known as Gaine Baganbari or the Garden House of the Gaines, is difficult to differentiate from a gothic English castle.

We were surprised to find such a Castle of astounding beauty located right on the Kolkata-Basirhat Road. The gate of the Gaine Castle mostly remains closed for the public these days. There's police posted at the gate of the Gaine Castle or Gaine Baganbari and it's not easy to convince him to enter the premises. To enter the Gaine Castle, you have to seek written permission from the local police station. We didn't have permission. So, all we could do was stare in astonishment from outside.

The Gaine family was one of the major industrialists of the region and owned a number of jute mills. This castle, which was the garden retreat of the family, was built over a century ago by Gobinda Chandra Gaine. The construction continued over the years and his son Mahendranath Gaine also became involved in supervising it.

There's a huge gate guarding the Gaine Castle that spans over an area of 30 acres. The gate itself is a perfect example of European architectural influence. The gate of the Gaine Castle has a couple of towers on two sides for the sentries to protect the premises. There are also balconies in these towers where the sentries to stand while guarding the Gaine Castle. The two towers are connected by an arch, which has an intricate sculpture depicting two Europeans fighting a lion in bare hands.

The portico of the Gaine Castle or the Gaine Baganbari, on the right side of the gate, is constructed following European architectural styles. There are human figures constructed on the roof of the portico. This building is completely dilapidated now and we felt that it might not be the right decision to enter it.

A gravel road, which leads to the Gaine Castle, is now mostly covered in outgrown grasses from the lawns around it. There's also a water body right in front of the castle. The reflection of the castle in the waters is a scene to marvel at.

There are several instances of the coat of arms of the Gaine family on the exterior walls of the castle along the entrance doors as well as the arches on the balcony. You can also find sculptures of European heads on the wall.

Gaine Rajbari

The Gaine Palace or the Gaine Rajbari of this village was built in the mid-19th Century. It is also known as Dhanyakuria Rajbari. Its construction was also started under the supervision of Gobinda Chandra Gaine and continued under his son Mahendranath Gaine. Their residential mansion or the Gaine Rajbari is one of the best examples of fusion architecture of the area and is popularly known as Dhanyakuria Rajbari.

The Gaine Rajbari consists of a domed tower with three stories supported by gigantic pillars. It is known as the Nazar Minar. The arches in the first two stories of the building offer a glimpse of Islamic architectural influence. These add to the beauty of the Gaine Rajbari.

European architecture has also played a major role in shaping this magnificent mansion called Gaine Rajbari that would look almost out of place in any other village of West Bengal but this one.

Adjacent to the palace is the Gaine Mandir or the temple of the Gaine Family. This temple follows the Hindu architectural style.

The Gaine Rajbari has a large courtyard or the thakurdalan where the family's ancestral Durga Puja festival is held every year. Several scenes from various old Bengali movies were shot in this mansion. It is still used for shooting Bengali movies and television series.

The Gaine Palace or Gaine Rajbari is one of the few grand mansions of the village which some of the owners still use as their residence. This is why it is one of the most well-maintained mansions.

Sawoo Mansion

The Sawoo Mansion is another large house that still stands as a witness to the glorious past of this village. It was built almost a couple of centuries ago by Patit Chandra Sawoo. However, right now this mansion mostly remains closed, as the owners live in Kolkata. We also found the gates of the Sawoo Mansion locked. However, we could peep into the mansion and get a glimpse of the interior too.

Just outside the gate of the mansion is an Indian Bael tree, which also seems as old as the building.

The Sawoo Mansion is decorated with Corinthian pillars that make it magnificent. Besides, over the window arches, there's stucco to make them more attractive.

Close to the Sawoo Mansion is the Sawoo Garden House or the Sawoo Baganbari. Although it is not as grand as the main residential house of the Sawoos, it also stands testimony to the history of the place.

Ballav Mansion

Just around the corner from the Sawoo Mansion lies another famous palatial house, which is almost as popular as the Gaine Rajbari. It's the Mansion of the Ballavs or the Ballav Bari. Built by Shyamacharan Ballav, a member of the renowned Ballav family over 150 years ago, this house also has an extensive lawn in front of it. However, the long blades of grasses stand witness to the fact that this house is also not maintained properly any more. There are a few benches on the lawns where you can sit and rest. There's also a pond inside the boundaries of the Ballav Mansion, which is used by the local people these days.

The feature of the Ballav Mansion that makes it stand out is the presence of a few human structures at the top of the house. And these human figures surely appear as large dolls. Some of these figures are those of Royal people, while there are others of Indian guards. There's a design of a peacock right in the middle of the wall guarding the roof. These dolls on the roof have made the house well known among the locals as Putul Bari or the House of Dolls.

There are a couple of outhouses, which were used by the guards to keep an eye on the gates of the Ballav Mansion and stop intruders from entering the premises. Those structures are completely dilapidated these days.

Back to Kolkata

The time we spent at Dhanyakuria was worth remembering. We had enjoyed all the things to see in Dhanyakuria. The wonderful history of this amazing village had seeped into our minds. The mansions and the castle for which this place is famous had found a place in our hearts as well. After a day well spent at this village of castles and mansions in West Bengal, we took Basanti Highway and navigated through Basanti and Minakhan to trace our way back home.

You can plan your visit to Dhanyakuria to immerse yourself in the world of castles and go back in time to a period when zamindars were thriving in Bengal. If you want to extend your West Bengal trip with some time by the sea, explore our guide to the top 12 sea beaches in West Bengal.

McCluskieganj - the Little England of India

2020-03-19T12:04:00.020+05:30

McCluskieganj, Jharkhand, is one of the very few destinations in India, which were planned for the Anglo-Indian population. When the British left India, many of the Anglo-Indian people decided to stay back. However, they were not always cordially accepted in the society. That's why they decided to created a new land for themselves - a town amid the forests and hills of Jharkhand. And McCluskieganj was established.

McCluskieganj can be combined with Netarhat, Maromar and Betla National Park on a longer Jharkhand road trip. See our Jharkhand road trip guide for an itinerary covering these destinations.

Our Journey Continues

We were at the last phase of our Jharkhand trip, which included the hill resort of Netarhat, pristine forests of Maromar as well as the palace ruins and national park at Betla. The next stop was supposed to be McCluskieganj, often dubbed as Little England or the Mini London of India.

Although McCluskieganj tourism isn't extremely popular these days, it was once a favorite among the tourists, mostly from other parts of Jharkhand and neighboring Bihar and West Bengal.

We started our journey from Van Vihar, Betla, after having our breakfast. And on the way, we touched upon Kechki Sangam, a tourist spot in Jharkhand.

Kechki Sangam - the Confluence

Kechki Sangam is the confluence spot of two local rivers - Koel and Orga. The spot is located at a distance of about 10 kilometers from Betla and took us around 20 minutes to reach.

We were traveling during winter when most of the rivers in Jharkhand had all but dried up. So, at Kechki Sangam, we witnessed the dry and sandy river beds that seemed to stretch to the horizon. A bridge was being constructed over it. People were walking across the river bed at Kechki Sangam to cross the dried-up river. However, water was available at some spots on the river beds. Local people, most women with earthen pots, were flocking there to get some water.

Though there was almost no water in the river during winter, the scene of the vast river bed stretching to the horizon was amazing. And we could imagine how majestic the confluence of the two rivers would appear when there would be heavy rains during the monsoon.

Toward McCluskieganj

Beyond Kechki, the road continued in the same way. What changed was the landscape around it. The fields started to grow greener. Our car took a turn and left the highway to move on to a road that runs through those fields. On both sides of the roads, there were forests of high. We drove on a small bridge over the local river - Dega degi. The river hardly had any water, but looked quite great. It is regarded as one of the most popular picnic spots in McCluskieganj.

The road was broken and bumpy - not as good as the highway. But as we took the turn, the condition of the road seemed to match perfectly with the changing landscape. There were small houses whose architecture matched the English architectural styles. The appearance of the place made us understand why McCluskieganj is known as the Little England of India. However, it's surely past the heydays and most of the houses are either in ruins or appear dilapidated because of lack of maintenance. In short, McCluskieganj is almost synonymous with a failed promise.

History of McCluskieganj

It was the British period when, in 1932, Ernest Timothy McCluskie, decided to establish a town, especially for the Anglo-Indians. He leased land across nine villages on the Chotonagpur belt in Bihar, which were not inhabited by the locals. McCluskie summoned almost 200,000 Anglo-Indians from different parts of India and asked them to settle down there. The objective was to help them, especially the older people, spend their last days in the lap of nature.

McCluskieganj was established by the Colonisation Society of India way back in 1933. The objective was to build a place only for the Anglo-Indian communities of India. It was a cooperative society where the Anglo-Indian families could purchase lands and settle down. The initiative was initially successful. Almost 300 Anglo-Indian families arrived in McCluskieganj to settle down there. However, the plans shattered during the Second World War, as most of the inhabitants left India. These days, only about 20 Anglo-Indian families remain.

Where to Stay in McCluskieganj

When you're in McCluskieganj, you can't expect great McCluskieganj hotels for staying. Instead, you can have even better experience of staying in McCluskieganj bungalows.

Yes, no matter how fascinating and far-fetched it may sound, but you can actually book rooms in heritage bungalows of McCluskieganj to enjoy your stay.

If you are planning an overnight stay, explore our guide to where to stay in McCluskieganj, including bungalows, guest houses and homestays.

Many of these heritage McCluskieganj bungalows were constructed by Anglo-Indian families who came here to stay, but had to leave. However, there are quite a few other McCluskieganj bungalows that are owned by other families. These families came later and settled down because they fell in love with the place. Many such families rent out their homes as McCluskieganj homestay offering amazing lodging and foods for tourists.

Reaching Rana's Country Cottage

We drove directly to the guest house we had booked - Rana's Country Cottage. It turned out to be a beautiful house of the Ranas with a separate section for the guests. We were welcomed by the owners Mr.Deepak Rana and Mrs.Rana. We stayed in a room on the ground floor, right in front of a beautiful seating area.

Within a few minutes, Mrs.Rana arranged for a sumptuous lunch of pulao and vegetable curry. It was followed by a stroll across the huge courtyard of Rana's Country Cottage, McCluskieganj. Rana Family's homestay has several amenities. There's a playroom on the first floor. You can also ask for a barbecue to be arranged in the courtyard in the evening.

McCluskieganj Tourist Spots

We took some rest after lunch and then went to the Duli village nearby, where there's an area called Sarbadharmasthal - which means the place of all religions. It's a small walled area where there's a temple, a mosque, and a Gurudwara standing adjacent to each other. And there's also an area kept aside for a church.

We also visited Jagriti Vihar, which was established in 1975 as a rural development center and orphanage. While returning home, we went to the banks of the Dugadugi river, which isn't far away from Rana's Country Cottage.

In the evening, we took a stroll in the courtyard of the cottage and spent our time sitting on the benches in the garden. As the evening descended, McCluskieganj started putting on its cloak of darkness. The sky was adorned with glittering stars - unlike what we see these days in the cities stifled with pollution. And as the darkness started becoming pitch black, we had an early dinner and bade farewell to the tiring but beautiful day.

We had planned to visit McCluskieganj at the end of our Jharkhand tour for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it had a direct train to our home town of Kolkata. And more importantly, we wanted to spend the end of the trip relaxing amid nature.

The last day of the trip

The next morning, we woke up early and went for a stroll along the road outside Rana's Country Cottage, Mccluskieganj. After some time, we realized, as we were strolling down the road, a fox was strolling parallel to us through the bushes on the roadside. And as we stopped, it stopped to give us a long stare and then vanished in the deeper part of the jungle.

We continued our stroll during the morning in the garden of Rana's Country Cottage. It was winter and the flowers were in full bloom. And they had some beautiful guests. Butterflies that came in all shades had thronged the flowers to suck nectar. We spent an amazing time watching butterflies.

Bidding Adieu

Time was running out. We had to catch our train in the afternoon. So, we had a quick chat with Mr.Deepak Rana's mother, the nonagenarian young lady, Kanchan Prava Devi. She hails from the royal family of Tripura and is a cousin to the famous Indian music director, Late R.D.Burman. She enlightened us with the history of McCluskieganj and how the place has evolved over the years.

The Final Thrill

We started for the station at around 3 PM to catch the Shaktipoonj Express from McCluskieganj Railway Station. It took us only about 10 minutes by car through the dusty roads of McCluskieganj to reach the small yet beautiful McCluskieganj station, which still has a colonial charm to it.

However, we realized that the platform at the McCluskieganj Railway Station is too short when the Shaktipoonj Express arrived. The compartment where our seats were reserved was outside the platform. So, we started running toward it with all our luggage. However, we knew that the train halts at the McCluskieganj Railway Station for only a couple of minutes. So, we boarded a random compartment from McCluskieganj Station and started moving through the train to reach the seat reserved for us. So, that was the beginning of the end of our Jharkhand Trip, which seemed too good to be true.

The Music of McCluskieganj Lingers on

What's the best thing about McCluskieganj?

If you ask me this question, it will be quite difficult for me to answer.

The silence on the dusty roads, the beautiful DugaDugi river, the warmth of the Rana Family, and the beautiful butterflies on the flowers in a mesmerizing garden - all of these kept on haunting us for a long time even after we had reached our home and started planning the next trip.

Betla National Park, Jharkhand: Safari, How to Reach & Wildlife Guide

2020-03-12T17:35:00.018+05:30

Betla National Park is a dense, hilly forest located in Jharkhand's Palamau region. Situated at the heart of the Palamau Tiger Reserve, it is one of the most popular forest destinations in India.

Planning a trip to the Betla forest?

This guide covers how to reach Betla, what wildlife you can expect there, how to get the jeep safari, and what our own visit was really like.

Betla is also close to the historic Palamau Forts, so history lovers can combine both in one trip. You can also fit Betla into a longer Jharkhand road trip covering Netarhat, Maromar, and McCluskieganj.

Quick Facts: Betla National Park

Location: Palamau region, Jharkhand (part of Palamau Tiger Reserve)
Nearest airport: Ranchi, about 179 km (a little over 4 hours by car)
Nearest railway stations: Barwadih (about 13 km) and Daltonganj (about 23 km)
Safari type: Jeep safari (elephant safari was offered when we visited)
Safari timings when we visited: first safari 9 AM, last safari 5 PM
Where we stayed: Hotel Van Vihar, Betla, right across the road from the park gate

About Betla National Park

Betla is one of the oldest reserve forests in India. Spread across the hilly terrain of the Palamau region and forming a part of the Palamau Tiger Reserve, the forest is home to numerous birds and animals. For official visitor information, see the Jharkhand Tourism page for Betla National Park.

We included a Betla forest tour to watch beautiful birds and wild animals in their natural habitat. Here is how it went.

Betla Forest Map

How to Reach Betla National Park

We reached the jungle town of Betla during our tour that started from Ranchi Railway Station, travelling from Maromar to Betla after visiting Netarhat. You can also plan a direct trip to Betla by train or flight and then continue by car.

By Air

Ranchi is the nearest airport to Betla National Park, about 179 km away. It takes a little more than four hours by car.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Barwadih, only about 13 km from the park. You can also take a train to Daltonganj and take a cab for the remaining 23 km. Taking the route past the Kairahi Watch Tower gives you a chance to ride through the forest on the way.

Flora and Fauna at Betla National Park

The terrain of the Betla forest ranges from high hills to plains, and the Koel River flows through it. This variety supports many kinds of trees, and in turn many birds and animals.

Common Trees

Mahua
Red kamala (kumkum)
Sal
Acacia
Coromandel ebony

Birds You Can Spot

Quail
Crested Serpent Eagle
Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Pied Hornbill
Comb Duck
Red Jungle Fowl
Black Ibis
Black Partridge
Common Teal
Papeeha
White-necked Stork

Animals in Betla National Park

If you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a few rare animals. The most common ones are:

Langurs at Betla

Deer
Langurs
Monkeys
Elephants
Foxes
Jackals
Wild cats
Tigers
Indian Gaur (Indian bison)

Safari at Betla National Park

The first safari starts at 9 AM and the last at 5 PM, so we could choose our time. We left Hotel Van Vihar, Betla, at 4 PM and walked across the road to the park gate. Just inside is a one-storey wooden building for booking the safari, with the ticket counter on the first floor.

You can take either an elephant safari or a jeep safari inside Betla National Park. The elephant boarding area is opposite the ticket counter, where the mahout brings the elephant close so tourists can climb onto the howdah (seat). We skipped the elephant safari and booked a jeep.

Our Jeep Safari Experience

The jeep moved along the undulating forest terrain, following two tyre lines worn into the grass by regular safaris. Soon the driver stopped suddenly. Herds of deer were grazing barely twenty yards away and showed no panic, since regular safaris have made them used to people. When our jeep inched closer, they gave us an alert look and bounded into the deeper forest.

Going deeper, we saw different types of langurs and monkeys, with many birds flying and chirping in the trees. After a while the jeep stopped again, and right across the road stood a herd of Indian Gaur, also called the Indian bison.

Indian Bison or Gaur at Betla

Can You See Tigers in Betla?

The name Palamau Tiger Reserve makes you hope for big cats, and we hoped too. But we were not lucky. Even though Betla National Park is part of the tiger reserve, spotting a tiger is very difficult. A driver returning from deeper inside told us he had seen a couple of elephants, and ours rushed to the spot, but we found none. We saw a few birds, deer, monkeys and a small wild cat.

Final Thoughts

Anyone who has been on a safari or bird-watching trip knows you cannot be lucky every day. We still came away with memories of animals and birds, and then got ready for the last phase of our Jharkhand trip. After Netarhat, Maromar and Betla, our final stop was McCluskieganj.

Plan More of Jharkhand

Palamau Forts - the Forgotten Kingdom of Betla

2020-03-01T11:49:00.017+05:30

Palamau Fort is a pair of ruined forts hidden in the forests of Betla in the district of Latehar in Jharkhand. Built in the era of the Chero dynasty, these forts are among the most wonderful of the Latehar tourist places. However, these somehow remain extremely overlooked. Most of the tourists who visit Betla go only for the tiger reserve.

This is the story of our visit to the Palamu Fort at Betla, along with the history of the forts, the lotus pond known as Kamal Dah, and answers to the questions travelers ask most.

Our road trip across Jharkhand, which had started from the Ranchi station, had already taken us to the mesmerizing rail station of Netarhat and the forest hinterlands of Maromar. The next stop was one of the most popular destinations in Jharkhand - that part of the Palamau Tiger Reserve, which is more well known to tourists as Betla National Park or simply as Betla.

If you don't visit the Palamau Forts during your trip to Betla, you're surely going to miss out on something really amazing.

Here are a few quick facts about Palamau Fort that most travelers ask.

Palamu Fort at a Glance

Quick Facts: Palamu Fort (Palamau Fort), Betla

Location: Forests of Betla, Palamau Tiger Reserve, Latehar district, Jharkhand, India
Distance from Betla National Park: about 3 km, according to the Latehar district website
River: Auranga
What it is: Two ruined forts, the Old Fort (Purana Quila) and the New Fort (Naya Quila)
Associated dynasties: Raksel dynasty (older fort, per several sources) and Chero dynasty
Key ruler: Raja Medini Ray, who ruled from 1658 to 1674
Map coordinates: 23.894884, 84.229702 (Latehar district tourism website)
Present state: Ruins inside a tiger reserve, with a restoration plan announced

According to the information shared in the Government of Jharkhand's website:

Betla was the first forest in the world where the first-ever tiger census was performed using pugmark counting method in 1932. It was conducted by J.W.Nicholson, the Divisional Forest Officer.
The forest became one of India's fist nine tiger reserves in 1974. This was done in line with the efforts being undertaken for Project Tiger.
In 1986, the forests in Jharkhand's Latehar and Palamau districts were formally named Betla National Park.

Planning a road trip across Jharkhand? Our article on the road trip across Jharkhand can help you plan the trip perfectly.

Betla, Jharkhand, is primarily known for its national park. However, it also has several other attractions that can turn out to be really interesting for travelers looking for diverse places of interest during their tour. One of these places of attraction near Betla is surely the ruins of the Palamau Forts, often called Palamu Forts, lying deep in the National Park.

Maromar to Betla

After the enthralling night at the Maromar Tree House, we started early the next morning. We had our breakfast at a roadside stall in a small village called Garu with Dhuska, a special cuisine of Jharkhand. As we proceeded toward our destination, the forest traveled with us - from the wilderness of Maromar to the National Park of Betla. We traveled along the road that ran through the forest and by the time we reached Van Vihar, Betla, it was almost noon.

Sight Seeing at Betla

We hadn't done enough homework before visiting Betla. So, the only thing we had in our mind when it came to Betla sightseeing was the National Park. During our stay at Betla, we were planning to take a safari in the National Park during the afternoon. But Betla, Jharkhand, had more to offer than the forest and national park it is famous for.

History peeks from behind the forest

In this world that's longing for more greenery, Betla is a great exception. Green forests, which extend from the hills of Maromar, surround this small town in Jharkhand. In fact, Betla is one of the first national parks in India, which is preserved since the British Raj. The forests of Betla are full of flora and fauna. However, there's more to Betla than its famous forests.

What most of the tourists don't know about Betla is that it conceals a rich history inside the dense forests. And a closer look at the place promises to help you ride the time machine to move back to the time when Betla was a kingdom of the local kings. Their palaces still exist, although in ruins. And nature has silently crept in to recapture what was once rightfully her own space.

Ruins of the Palamau Fort

Palaces of the Chero Kings - the Palamau Forts

If you want to know about the history of Betla, books might not be helpful. Instead, taking a trip to the heart of the erstwhile Chero kingdom might come in handy. Betla used to be the seat of the Chero kingdom during the beginning of the 16th Century. The forts, which are in ruins these days, were a busy center of activity during their rule. These Palamau Forts, however, were built before the Chero dynasty came to power.

One of the Gates at the Fort

The ruins of the two forts are located deep inside the forests of Betla. We started from the hotel in a car. The driver helped us find a guide who went along with us. The car went along the road for some time and then took a sharp turn to enter the jungles. No paved road could be seen anymore and the undulating landscape ensured a rough ride. But we found the silent sounds of the forest interesting and enjoyable. After some time, we could see one of the forts deep inside the forest. Time and nature have already started devouring it and our guide advised us not to go there, as it's infested with snakes and wild animals. After a little while, we reached in front of the gate of one of the other fort.

Steep Stairs Leading to the Roof of the Fort

These forts were built by the rulers of the Rakshel Rajput dynasty. The new fort was constructed by ruler Medini Roy. Their architectural style has clear Islamic influence due to the conquest of the fort by Daud Khan, the Mughal Commander. While the rulers and the artisans have vanished in the realms of time, their creations, although in their ruins, still stay on to tell their stories. We climbed up the steep stairs to the top of the fort. The views were exciting, as there were different shades of forest all around. The other fort could also be seen clearly from the top of this fort.

In the fort, there was also a deep well. Our guide told us that the well hides the entrance to a tunnel, which was constructed for evacuation in case of an external attack.

The Road that leads to the Tunnel

Kamal Dah - the Lotus Pond

Just beyond the fort is a large pond, known locally as the Kamal Dah. In the local language, Kamal means lotus and Dah means pond. It is said that the pond used to be filled with Lotus leaves and flowers. This is the pond where the queens of the Chero dynasty would come for daily ablutions. These days, however, the pond just stands as a shadow of its earlier self and you can vouch for the fact that it's hardly visited by any person these days. Although humans have forgotten the golden past of the place, nature hasn't. The pond is still covered with lotus plants. And these plants surely bloom, creating an ethereal scene.

Kamal Dah

The Palamau Forts are closely associated with the Betla region and can be visited as part of a trip to Betla National Park. For more information about the wildlife destination, see our Betla National Park travel guide.

The trip to the Palamau Forts ended with a view of Kamal Dah. And we headed back toward Van Vihar, Betla. We needed to get ready for the Betla Jungle Safari.

The Silence of Wilderness at Maromar

2018-12-27T12:30:00.009+05:30

During our journey in the Chhotanagpur region of Jharkhand, after spending a day at the popular tourist destination of Netarhat, we decided to take the next night halt at a relatively unknown place - Maromar.

Maromar, Jharkhand, isn't a place everyone visits too often. That's because it's still quite unknown to most people - quite befitting of a place, which offers the silence of unspoiled nature as its greatest treasure. Even our car's driver who visits most of the places in the area quite often, said that he had never spent a night there. He clearly said that the Maromar forest was one of the most affected areas during the Maoist movements. Well, that was frightening enough.

But the fear vanished the moment we entered the boundary of the guest house. There it was - the Maromar Tree House - an excellently constructed building, standing on stilts, looking outside the boundary - right into the forest.

Where to stay at Maromar

If you want to spend the night in a luxury hotel or resort, then Maromar, Jharkhand, isn't the place for you. The treehouses constructed by the government is currently the only lodging option in Maromar forest, Jharkhand. Although great in terms of appearance, the amenities are extremely limited. However, if you're looking to spend a night amidst unspoilt wilderness, you must go for the Maromar forest resthouse booking online, as there's no option available for on-spot booking.

How to reach Maromar

We had started from Netarhat at around noon for Maromar, Jharkhand, and halted at Mahuadar for lunch. We had also visited the Lodh Falls and Mirchiya Falls on the way and had navigated through Garu. There, we had stopped for some afternoon tea and refreshments in the form of a local Jharkhand dish called dhuska. So, it was almost late afternoon by the time we entered the Maromar forest rest house.

Maromar, Jharkhand, is also close to both Daltonganj and Burwadih railway stations. If you want to travel from Daltonganj to Maromar or from Burwadih to Maromar, you can book a train to Daltonganj or Burwadih and then take a cab from the station to reach the Maromar Treehouse.

Night stay at Maromar

While suggesting a night stay at Maromar, my tour planner had already told me a simple thing: "The silence there is frightening - and mesmerizing."

Yes, Maromar travel is all about the way you enjoy your time close to nature. Whether you enjoy your time at the Maromar Treehouse, Jharkhand, or spend the time there in a frightened state of mind, depends on how cozy you feel when you're too close to nature.

Once, tourists to Jharkhand avoided Maromar as it was infested with Maoists or the Naxalites. However, it's really quite safe these days. So, you can easily include Maromar, Jharkhand, in your list of destinations during your Jharkhand travel.

Treating your taste buds at Maromar

Looking for some lavish dining options for dinner?

Then Maromar surely isn't the place for you. You need to bring your own ration to Maromar for dinner. The caretaker at the treehouse can cook for you. But there's no shop or bazar nearby. If you don't want to spend the night starving, collect your stuff for dinner from Mahuadanr Jharkhand.

So, that's what we did. On our way from Netarhat, we stopped at Mahuadanr for lunch and bought the necessary stuff for dinner - rice, oil, spices, and a full chicken of local origin, which is popular as Desi Chicken and costs thrice that of a broiler chicken. It took us almost an hour to reach Maromar from Mahuadanr by car.

Unknown Forest Life

Sitting on the balcony of the treehouse and waiting for our food, we realized how deep we had ventured inside the forest. This forest life was completely unknown to us.

The darkness descended and the moon was yet to rise. The trees, which were right in front of our eyes, vanished in pitch-black shrouds of darkness. The chirping of the birds stopped. And suddenly there was an eerie silence - as if the world outside had ceased to exist.

The silence was often being interrupted by some strange noise coming not from far away.

"What is it!", I asked myself and found that I didn't have any answer.

So, I waded my way to the kitchen through that darkness and asked the caretaker what that sound was.

"That's nothing", he said. "This is the time when the paddy ripens and its smell drags the elephants down from the hills. People are making sounds to ward them off. I'll also be leaving after serving your dinner. We burst crackers to drive the elephants away and ensure that they don't destroy our crops."

"Do elephants come into the boundary of this treehouse too?" I asked

"No! There's no paddy here. But yes, sometimes they forage right outside these fences - don't know why."

He pointed toward something, which he termed as 'fences'. What I saw were a few poles and long barbed wire - it won't take an elephant a moment to uproot them. And once they've done that, they might come and knock on the door of our Treehouse - well, if they felt like.

I came back silently and sat on the balcony.

Revealing Darkness

Not every day you get to experience blind darkness. Even the barbed wire fences, a mere 20 feet away, were not visible. And there was something that made me smile - the sky was dotted with millions of stars - a view we can't experience in the polluted skies of the cities.

I went back into the room and took some time to get this situation to sink into myself - we were at a place where there's no sound and nothing to see.

But I was so wrong.

By the time I went out again, the moon was already peeping through the branches of the trees. The landscape was flooded with the soothing, silvery moonlight. Everything had turned silver. Even the hills were now visible in the distance.

Pregnant Silence

Let me tell you - nature is never silent. It has its own voice with which it speaks only to people who listen. And that voice is created by the sound made by insects, birds, animals (including men who are close to nature), and even the blowing wind. And probably, the earth has her own voice too with which she hums her own untold tales to herself.

I could now hear the drum beats from the nearby villages - people trying to shoo away the elephants at Maromar that had come down from the hills to feast on the paddy. And all night long, I heard the elephants' trumpets. The eternal fight over food between human beings and animals was still on - far away from our city life. And now and again there was the hooting of the owl or the whispering of the blowing wind.

Moving on

As a magical dawn made its way through the enchanting darkness, we bade goodbye to Maromar for Betla - thanking it for letting us know how a night in the wilderness might look like - and moved on to our next destination.

Maromar can be combined with Netarhat and other destinations on a Jharkhand road trip. See our Jharkhand road trip guide covering Netarhat, Maromar, Betla and McCluskieganj for the broader itinerary.

Magnolia Sunset Point, Netarhat - Offering an Ethereal Experience

2018-12-24T12:34:00.010+05:30

At first look, Netarhat, often dubbed as the Queen of Chhotanagpur, won't look any different from an average hill station. Like any other hill station, winding roads through forests where tall trees touch the sky and barrel of monkeys and langurs on the roadside are all you can see on your way to Netarhat. Even when you reach your destination, you might not be as enchanted as you'd have been while watching snow-capped peaks or the cloud-covered mountain ranges. Apart from the pine forests or Koel View Point, there's almost no other major tourist attraction within the town of Netarhat.

Look deeper. You'll find something more mesmerizing than many other destinations. Believe me, when you're traveling Jharkhand, expect the most beautiful sunset you've experienced in your life. And for that, you need to visit Netarhat.

A Bit of Rush

When we reached Netarhat, it was almost afternoon. After getting refreshed at Hotel Prabhat Vihar, where we had our stay booked, we rushed for Netarhat sightseeing. The Koel View Point was exciting and so were the pine forests of Netarhat. The Netarhat Awasiya Vidyalaya or the Netarhat Residential School was good too. However, we noticed that Sonu, our driver, was asking us almost to rush while at these places. And so, after spending some time at the other places, we rushed to the famous Magnolia Sunset Point, Netarhat.

The Sunset Point at Netarhat has a properly constructed stand to watch the setting sun. Besides, the trees there have witty writings on them. Each of these writings is an intelligent message that discourages deforestation and encourages people to plant more and more trees.

History of Magnolia Sunset Point

Magnolia Sunset Point, Netarhat has a strange history attached to it, which seems to come right out of a movie. It tells the lore of a British lady, Magnolia, who jumped to her death with her horse from this point after failing to unite with her lover, a local shepherd. Every time the sun sets on the rows of hills beyond the Magnolia Sunset Point, nature seems to sing its tune of eternal love for Magnolia and her shepherd lover.

Waiting for the Sunset

We had heard that Netarhat offers one of the best sunset views in India. So, we were waiting eagerly.

The sun was still pretty high in the sky when we reached the properly constructed stands at Magnolia Sunset Point. However, by the time we were there, a number of tourists had already gathered at the stand and almost no seat was left. So, we decided to stand and experience the ethereal view. We found a proper place for ourselves from where we could watch the sun go down beyond the horizon. We waited for some time before the lower portion of the bright sky started turning purple and then, gradually became reddish grey in color.

And He Starts Going Down

As the sun started going down, the reddish-grey area gradually started turning black. It created a blanked of darkness just below the dimming brightness. As if it was too tired for the day, the sun gradually covered itself with that blanket and vanished.

We stayed back for some time and experienced the magic of colors on the evening sky even after the sunset. Then the sky gradually turned black and the Magnolia Sunset Point was engulfed in complete darkness. Only the battery-lit lamp of the tea seller and the pakora seller reminded us of the presence of humans nearby.

Magnolia Sunset Point is one of the highlights of a trip to Netarhat. For more information about the destination, see our complete Netarhat travel guide.

The serene ambiance and the beauty of the setting sun, along with the history of the Magnolia Sunset Point, leaves a feeling in our mind that stayed in our heart long after we left the spot.

As we started our way back to the hotel after witnessing one of the best sunset views of our lives, we remained silent - trying to think about the magnificence of the scene we just witnessed. We were sure, it had become a part of our lives and would appear in our 'inward eyes' during our solitude.

Netarhat Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit, Hotels, Sunset Point & Complete Itinerary

2018-12-19T12:20:00.023+05:30

Known as the Queen of Chhotanagpur Plateau, Netarhat is the most beautiful hill station in Jharkhand and one of eastern India's most travel destinations in Jharkhand. Surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, waterfalls, pine trees, and breathtaking sunrise and sunset viewpoints, Netarhat offers the perfect escape for nature lovers, photographers, couples, families, and road-trip enthusiasts.

Located in the Latehar district of Jharkhand, around 156 km from Ranchi, Netarhat is famous for its pleasant weather throughout the year, scenic mountain roads, Magnolia Sunset Point, Koel View Point, Lodh Falls, Ghaghri Waterfalls, and peaceful surroundings. Unlike crowded hill stations, Netarhat still retains its untouched charm, making it one of the best offbeat destinations in India.

If you're planning a Jharkhand tour, this complete Netarhat travel guide covers everything you need to know, including:

How to reach Netarhat
Ranchi to Netarhat road trip
Best time to visit Netarhat
Places to visit in Netarhat
Netarhat sightseeing itinerary
Hotels and resorts
Sunrise and sunset viewpoints
Local food
Travel tips
Budget for a Netarhat trip

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway from Ranchi or a longer Jharkhand itinerary, Netarhat deserves a place at the top of your travel list.

How to Reach Netarhat

Netarhat is well connected by road from Ranchi and is one of the most scenic road trips in Jharkhand.

Ranchi to Netarhat Distance: Approximately 156 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours by road
Nearest Airport: Ranchi (Birsa Munda Airport)
Nearest Railway Station: Ranchi Junction

After reaching Ranchi by train or flight, you can hire a taxi or self-drive to Netarhat. The journey itself is one of the highlights of the trip, passing through forests, winding mountain roads, villages, and spectacular viewpoints.

Our Netarhat journey began from Kolkata aboard the Kriya Yoga Express from Howrah. After reaching Ranchi early the next morning, we hired a car and started our scenic drive towards Netarhat. Along the way, lush forests, small villages, and picturesque landscapes made the drive every bit as memorable as the destination itself.

One of the first landmarks welcoming visitors is the Netarhat Gate, situated amidst dense forests. It marks the beginning of an unforgettable experience in one of the finest hill stations of eastern India.

Where to Stay in Netarhat

Netarhat, one of the most serene hill stations in Jharkhand, India, offers a range of lodging options. There are quite a few Netarhat hotels, which can be booked over the internet. If you're engaging in Netarhat hotel booking, you can find them in a wide range of prices. While there might not be any luxury hotel in Netarhat hill station, the few options available there are quite decent. Besides, you can also opt for staying in tents in Netarhat.

For more accommodation options, see our guide to hotels and lodges in Netarhat.

We had completed our Netarhat hotel booking from Kolkata. Our stay was booked our stay at a Netarhat hotel - Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat. Hotel Prabhat Vihar, a Government undertaken lodging option, is one of the oldest and most renowned hotels of Netarhat. Netarhat Hotel Prabhat Vihar is suely one of the best hotels in the town. Even if you can't book a room there, you don't need to struggle for Netarhat hotel booking. There are quite a few Netarhat hotels available for tourists. Along with traditional rooms for lodging, they also offer options to stay in luxury tents in Netarhat. In addition, there are several other options, including Arunoday Guest House, Hotel Valley View, Lake View Resort, Naturehat Resort, and others.

You can find a number of Netarhat private hotels while visiting this hamlet on the Chhotanagpur Plateau. You can choose one of them or can book a Netarhat guest house to have a cozy stay.

At Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat, you can choose from cozy air-conditioned or non-airconditioned rooms. You can also have the option of choosing rooms that face the mountains and it's always a good idea to go for those rooms.

There's a restaurant in Hotel Prabhat Vihar, which serves simple but delicious food. After having lunch at the restaurant in Prabhat Vihar, we started for local Netarhat sightseeing.

Things to See in Netarhat

While Netarhat is known for its soothing climate, it's hard to find specific Netarhat tourist attractions that can be pointed out as the pick of the tour of Netarhat sightseeing. The travel itself is worth mentioning, as the beauty of nature is scattered in every corner of Netarhat, Jharkhand.

Our driver first took us to one of the mos famous Netarhat tourist attractions - Koel View Point. We stood on the edge of the plateau and saw the Koel river, flowing by in its own rhythm about a few hundred feet below us. It appeared as a narrow thread shining in the lights of the afternoon sun.

Just by the side of the Koel View Point was the pine forest of Netarhat.

Want to listen to Nature's speeches?

Visit the pine forests of Netarhat. The wind passing through the pine leaves and the pine fruits create a murmuring sound. We were also lucky to find the pine trees in full bloom.

The next destination was the Netarhat pear garden or the famous Nashpati garden of Netarhat, which wasn't as attractive in winter as it would be during spring, when in full blossom.

Then we moved forward toward the Lodh Falls. Located around 60 Kilometers away from Netarhat, this is one of the highest waterfalls in Jharkhand. The car took us to a certain point. After that, we had to climb the steep steps that are created right on the body of the hills. It was a climb of around 350 steps till we reached the waterfall. The climb surely was exhausting, but we felt refreshed the moment we came across the beautiful Lodh Falls with its gushing waters creating enchanting music.

Although a few locals were climbing up the hill to reach as closer to the mouth as possible, it's not always recommended for the tourists. Besides, this waterfall is located in an area that was the hotbed of Maoist activities even a few years back. So, before you start your journey for Netarhat sightseeing, check from the locals whether you should include the Lodh Falls, Netarhat, in your Netarhat sightseeing list or not.

The Netarhat Residential School is one of the primary tourist attractions of the town. The school compound is decorated with some artistic sculptures. However, we didn't spend a lot of time there, as we had to proceed to the next point on our list.

I've been witness to numerous sunsets and many of them from renowned sunset points. However, it won't be an exaggeration to say that the sunset at Netarhat is probably the most beautiful of all that I've experienced.

We took our time to be ready to experience the Netarhat sunset from an excellent position. We reached the Magnolia Sunset Point, the best position in the town to experience sunset, at around 4-30 PM. And from around 4-50 PM, the magic started. The sky, from its natural colors, displayed hues of yellow, orange, and red, before becoming completely dark. By 5-15 PM, the sun dropped beyond the horizon, but still keeping a few hues in the sky for us to stare at and appreciate.

You can also read our detailed guide to Magnolia Sunset Point in Netarhat.

The Upper Ghaghri and the Lower Ghaghri waterfalls are usually amazing during the monsoons. However, lack of water had worn them down during winter when we visited them.

We spent the night in Hotel Prabhat Vihar. During the evening, there was an arrangement of tribal dance for the boarders to enjoy. We enjoyed snacks and swayed to the beats of the tribal drums and their songs. The full moon and the music together added a surreal feeling to the ambiance.

Early in the next morning, we went to the terrace of the hotel to experience the Netarhat sunrise. If you're in Netarhat, it's a must-watch. Sunrise in Netarhat from Hotel Prabhat Vihar, which is considered to be the Netarhat sunrise point, attracts a lot of attention from the tourists. People who cannot book a room in Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat, usually come and stand at the edge of the road above Hotel Prabhat Vihar and use it as the Netarhat sunrise point.

Though not as enchanting as the sunset, the sunrise at Netarhat was nonetheless beautiful enough to inspire us to move ahead in our journey with the spirit of the rising sun in our hearts.

Netarhat can also be included in a wider Jharkhand road trip covering Netarhat, Maromar, Betla and McCluskieganj.

The next stop in our journey was supposed to be the treehouse located in the heart of the unexplored and virgin forest of Maromar.

On Road Across Jharkhand - Netarhat, Maromar, Betla, and McCluskieganj

2018-12-13T15:24:00.046+05:30

The plan was simple – after a long time without any leave, we wanted to spend some quality time away from the hustle and bustle of the city life. There were multiple options. Planning to start our trip from Kolkata, we could’ve gone almost anywhere – to North Bengal and Dooars, Sikkim, the Sunderbans, and a lot more. We don’t know why we chose unexplored Jharkhand. We wanted to visit a few relatively unknown destinations in Jharkhand – probably because we expected the Jharkhand travel to be an offbeat trip – but I’m glad that we did. We booked the tickets and reserved the Jharkhand hotels and homestays months before we started. And this Jharkhand road trip turned out to be an amazing one.

It would be an offence not to give due credits to Mr.Rajesh of LittleWings, who had planned the Jharkhand travel for us. He had become almost like a Jharkhand travel guide for me. Whenever he called me up before the trip, he described the Jharkhand travel destinations with amazing details to make me look forward to the journey. And he planned every detail of the trip to perfection.

Our trip started on a Friday night. We boarded the KriyaYoga Express, formerly known as the Ranchi-Hatia Express, at 10:10 PM and reached Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, at 7:10 AM the next morning. The car was waiting for us outside the station. We had our breakfast at a dhaba close to Ranchi Railway Station and started on our way from Ranchi to Netarhat.

Netarhat - the Queen of Chhotanagpur

A number of hairpin bends, a sudden dip in the temperature, a few barrel of monkeys and langurs by the roadside, some gushing streams - and we reached Netarhat. On our Netarhat travel, the gate to Netarhat welcomed us to this amazing hamlet - often dubbed as Queen of Chhotanagpur.

We had booked our rooms at Hotel Prabhat Vihar, Netarhat. This Netarhat hotel is one of the oldest and most renowned lodging options in Netarhat, from the Jharkhand tourism website.

After taking a bit of rest, we started Netarhat sightseeing with the Koel View Point, which is located beside the hotel, and its adjacent Netarhat Pine Forests. We visited the Netarhat Residential School, also popular as the Netarhat Awasiya Vidyalaya, and moved forward to the Magnolia Sunset Point. Netarhat can undoubtedly boast of one of the best sunset views in India.

For a more detailed look at the destination, read our Netarhat travel guide.

A Day on the Road - Toward Maromar

The next morning, we started from Netarhat at around 9. Our next destination was Maromar, a small village deep inside the forests. We had plans of visiting the Lodh Falls on the way. Our driver Sonu warned us that although the Naxalite movements in Jharkhand had faded away significantly over the last few years, the area around Lodh Falls is still known for insurgent activities. However, we still decided to have look at this amazing waterfall, which is the highest in the state of Jharkhand. Although the amount of water in the falls had dipped during winter, the view was still scintillating. We also visited the Suga Bandh, where we spent some time listening to the amazing sound of the flowing water.

After having lunch at Mahuadanr and collecting our ration for the night from there (as nothing was supposed to be available at Maromar), we moved forward. The Maromar Forest Treehouse welcomed us amid the chirping of the birds, with the setting sun spreading its magical rays in the backdrop.

It's a cozy treehouse in the midst of a forest that still retains its virginity. We spent the night there doing almost nothing - just listening to the sounds of the Maromar forest and experiencing nature from close proximity.

You can also read our detailed account of Maromar and its wilderness.

Early Morning Journey - Maromar to Betla

Starting early enough next morning, we visited a small waterfall, the Mirchaiya Falls, and reached Betla with enough time in hand to have our breakfast at Van Vihar Betla. We had tried to book the Betla Forest Resort and the Betla Treehouse, but couldn't book any room there. So, we were staying at Van Vihar. After around an hour, we started for the Palamau Forts. Of the two Palamau Forts, we chose to visit only the Old Palamau Fort, as we were short of time. Besides, the other fort is too dilapidated to visit and is being claimed back by nature. We listened to the history of the place from our guide and then went to the Kamaldah Talab, a pond filled with lotus flowers where the queen used to bathe.

We returned to the main town to enter the Betla National Park.

Well, in terms of catching a glimpse of the wild animals, the safari was almost a disaster. We just saw a number of monkeys and gray langurs, herds of deer, a wild cat, and a herd of Indian Gaurs. However, the ambiance at the Betla forest was amazing, as we experienced the nightfall at the forest and our jeep navigated its way through the shadows of the trees.

For more information, see our guide to Betla National Park.

On Road Again - to McCluskieganj

The next morning, we started for McCluskieganj. We didn't have the plan of staying at any McCluskieganj hotel. Instead, we had our stay booked at Rana's Country Cottage McCluskieganj. On the way, we visited Kechki Sangam, where the rivers Koel and Orga meet.

We reached McCluskieganj, Jharkhand at around 1:30 PM where we received a warm welcome from the owners of Rana's Country Cottage, Mr.Deepak Rana and his wife, Mrs.Rana. By the time we had refreshed ourselves, the delicious lunch in the form of Pulao and vegetable curry was ready.

We had planned to take some rest at McCluskieganj before returning to our daily routine. We spent the whole afternoon roaming around inside the premises of Rana's Country Cottage, McCluskieganj watching the colorful butterflies that thronged the flowers there. The McCluskieganj road just outside the Cottage was great to have a stroll during the afternoon.

The next morning, we went to see the McCluskieganj tourist attractions - the Dugadugi River, St.John's Cathedral, and the amazing place where a temple and a mosque stand inside the same compound.

We also have a separate guide to McCluskieganj, including its history and attractions.

We had the opportunity to spend a quality time with Mr.Rana's mother, the nonagenarian young lady, Smt. KanchanPrabha Devi, who hails from the Royal Family of Agartala, Tripura. She told us about the history of McCluskieganj, its early inhibitors, and about its fading glory.

Back Home

For us, the roads from McCluskieganj led to home. So, we boarded the Shaktipoonj Express from the McCluskieganj Station at around 4 PM and returned to Kolkata the next morning with sweet memories and loads of pictures.

Pondicherry – a Blissful Holiday by the Sea

2013-02-20T16:28:00.038+05:30

Blue seas, sandy beaches, quietness, picturesque houses reminiscent of the erstwhile colonial rule and restaurants delivering delicious dishes – do these seem interesting to you?

If yes, then Pondicherry, India, located in the state of Tamilnadu, might already be calling you.

There are quite a few sea beaches in India. Among them, Pondicherry, India, is surely special because of its colonial history. One of the top tourist destinations in India, this beach city, which is a part of the Pondicherry Union Territory in South India, was under French rule for a long time. The town still offers an essence of that colonial era through its streets and buildings. A Pondicherry vacation provides you with the chance of spending a refreshing vacation away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Wondering why you must visit Puducherry?

Its quiet ambiance and historic setting that reminds of the French colonial rule in Pondicherry, India, is a perfect recipe for a trip to a classical seaside town. You can plan a great Pondicherry vacation with your friends and family to enjoy one of the most outstanding vacations of your life.

French Influence in Pondicherry

Also known as Puducherry, Pondicherry, India, offers a cosmopolitan ambiance, which blends local Tamil culture with colonial French heritage. The grid of clean and straight streets located close to the sea and the buildings constructed in the European architectural style can take you back to the period when the administration of the town used to be under French rule. The town is divided into two quarters - one where the French colonists used to reside and the Indian quarter for the local people.

The French influence is quite clear throughout the city and it's not surprising at all, as the transfer of power from French to Indians happened in Puducherry in 1954 - almost seven years after the rest of India achieved independence. Many of the streets in Pondicherry, especially those in the French quarter of Pondicherry, still have French names. Some of these include Rue Dumas, Rue Suffren, Rue Romain Rolland, and Rue La Bourdonnais - the roads located in the French Quarter of Pondicherry.

How to Reach Pondicherry

Puducherry is quite well connected with different parts of the country. However, most of the people travel from Chennai to Pondicherry. The Chennai to Pondicherry distance is 151 kilometers and it takes about three hours to reach Pondicherry from Chennai. You can also travel from Bangalore to Pondicherry.

Chennai to Pondicherry

If you're looking to go from Chennai to Pondicherry, you can board buses for Pondicherry from Chennai. Buses from Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT) to Pondicherry are also available throughout the day. If you're planning to take a bus from CMBT to Pondicherry after going to Chennai, you can take a cab from the Chennai Airport or the Chennai Railway Station to CMBT.

You can also take a taxi from the Chennai Airport and go straight to Pondicherry.

Trains are also available for tourists planning to travel from Chennai to Pondicherry.

Bangalore to Pondicherry

Pondicherry can be one of the best weekend destinations from Bangalore. Although Bangalore to Pondicherry distance is about 360 kilometers, you can cover that distance overnight. You can book buses from Bangalore to Pondicherry. The Bangalore to Pondicherry buses can be booked online. You can also enquire about the buses to Pondicherry at the bus terminuses and book tickets to travel to Pondicherry from Bangalore.

Where to Stay in Pondicherry

There are quite a few hotels in Pondicherry. These Pondicherry hotels are available at a wide range of rates. You can choose the one that comes within your budget. These offer extremely cozy ambiance.

There are also quite a few guest houses that offer excellent lodging options in Pondicherry.

The Pondicherry resorts can also be a great option for staying in this beautiful sea resort.

Some of the best hotels in Pondicherry include:

The Residency Towers Puducherry
The Promenade
Villa Shanti
Le Royal Park Puducherry
Annamalai International Hotel
Palais De Mahe
Le Pondy
Le Dupleix
Hotel Coramandal Heritage
Le Chateau
La Closerie Bay of Bengal
K Resort
Gratitude at Pondicherry
The Residency Towers Puducherry

You book a room in any of these hotels before visiting Pondicherry, India, to have the best time in this serene seaside town.

What to Eat in Pondicherry

Pondicherry is a delightful place for the foodies. There are numerous restaurants in Pondicherry. Besides, you can find different cafes by the sea to enjoy beverages and snacks. The foods offered in these Pondicherry restaurants and cafes are of a completely cosmopolitan nature. While you will find the local Tamil cuisines, such as dosa, idly, and others, you can also go for the French dishes that bear witness to the French influence still present in this erstwhile French colony in the South Indian state of Tamilnadu.

If you want to spend some excellent time in some restaurant in Pondicherry, you can go to a seaside Pondicherry restaurant and spend some time there. No matter what kind of food you love, you are likely to find some amazing options in the restaurants in Pondicherry. There are quite a few restaurants in Pondicherry that you must try to visit to enjoy the amazing food they serve. Some of the best restaurants in Pondicherry include:

Cafe Xtasi
Les Chefs
La Villa
Coromandel Cafe
New Farm Fresh
Spice Route Resto Pub
The Smoothie Bar
Hotel Karai Restaurant
La Casita
PY Cafe
Auro Pizza

If you're planning a trip to Pondicherry, you can enjoy your food in one or many of these restaurants in Pondicherry.

Pondicherry Attractions

There are quite a few places of tourist interest in Puducherry. Among them, the Aurobindo Ashram is surely the most important. It is visited by tourists from across the globe on a regular basis. Besides, there are a few sea beaches in Pondicherry. In addition, there are also quite a few Pondicherry attractions that do justice to this seaside town's French roots.

Aurobindo Ashram Pondicherry

Aurobindo Ghosh, one of the most important leaders of Indian freedom struggle, had decided to emancipate the life of a revolutionary in 1910 and left for Pondicherry, which was a French Colony. There he started leading a spiritual life as Sri Aurobindo or Rishi Aurobindo in Pondicherry.

There are various places in the town that bear his memories. The Aurobindo Ashram, established in 1926, is probably the most important among them. The Ashram has long been working for the spiritual enhancement of people from around the world.

There is also a place for meditation at Auroville, Pondicherry, where you can spend your time for enjoying mental bliss.

Matrimandir, Pondicherry, the temple dedicated to The Mother or Mirra Alfassa, can be a great place to spend some time. There's a Matrimandir Viewing Point inside Auroville from where you can view this wonderful temple. However, ensure that you book the tickets online before visiting Auroville, Pondicherry.

Chunnambar Boat House

Located at a distance of about 8 kilometers from the city center of Pondicherry, Chunnambar Boat House, Pondicherry, offers one of the best boating services in this serene colonial town. As the name suggests, Chunnambar Boat House is a boat house or a large boat with all amenities that you want in a house. If you want to spend a lazy day boating in Pondicherry, you can go for Chunnambar Boat House. You can even set up a night camping by sailing downstream. In addition, the Chunnambar Boat House also helps you participate in several beach sports. It also provides you with a cruise ride to and from the Paradise Beach, Pondicherry.

Paradise Beach

Pondicherry beach is one of the best beaches in India. In addition there's the Paradise Beach, Pondicherry, also known as Plage Paradiso. This beautiful beach lives up to its name with the blue and foamy waves and the serene beach. Located at a distance of about 8 kilometers from the main bus stand of Pondicherry, this beach can be accessed only by riding a boat. If you're looking to reach the Paradise Beach, Pondicherry, you have to take a ferry from the Chunnambar Boat House, Pondicherry. It takes around 10 to 15 minutes of ferry ride to this serene beach.

Pondicherry University Beach

Looking for a clean and beautiful beach that's away from the hustle and bustle of the town?

You need to go to the Pondicherry University Beach.

This secluded beach is located in Kalapet and is closest to Auroville. You can take an auto rickshaw or a cab to go to the beach and enjoy some time there.

Seaside Promenade

Are you planning to spend a lazy Pondicherry vacation?

Then a walk down the Seaside Promenade Pondicherry is something you can't miss.

The Promenade, also known as the White Town Promenade, Pondicherry, is a sidewalk along the beach. The Promenade, Pondicherry, offers you the experience of enjoying the cool sea breeze mixed with the smell of brewing coffee from the lines of cafes located there. If you feel tired, you can just enter one of those cafes and sip on a cup of coffee to feel rejuvenated.

Manakula Vinayagar Temple

Although a major part of Pondicherry displays French influence in its constructions, there are other places offering the taste of local architecture as well. The Manakula Vinayagar Temple, also known as the Arulmigu Manakula Vinayagar Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, is one of them. Located at a walking distance from the Seaside Promenade, the Manakula Vinayagar Temple is over 500 years old and is one of the most popular places of worship of the Hindus residing in Southern India.

Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pondicherry

This Basilica or church in Pondicherry was established first in 1895 and then the construction was completed in 1902. This Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pondicherry, offers a view of Oriental Gothic architecture at Pondicherry. The church has a number of rare stained glass panels, which have paintings of events from the life of Jesus Christ and other Saints of the Catholic Church.

Winding it up

Taking a trip to the beautiful sea resort of Pondicherry can help you feel rejuvenated and refreshed within a couple of days.