Lepchajagat – An offbeat alternative to Darjeeling

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In the lap of a verdant oak, pine, rhododendron and species unknown are a small borough, Lepchajagat. A little hamlet lavishly adorned by nature is a facsimile of Paradise that dazzles visitors. The Lepcha are an indigenous tribe from Northeast Bengal, and this land is their origin. A glance of nirvana, just 19 km apart from the Queen of Hills Darjeeling, Lepchajagat. A place is renowned for its serenity and peace. A land where Kanchenjunga is the pinnacle of grandeur and where a mellow sunset signifies harmony. This tiny hamlet bows his head to embrace travellers on a journey of nature’s adobe. The West Bengal Forest Development Corporation has taken over this wonderful location and is now a reserved forest region. 

Image by Hotfridaytalks

Lepchajagat, a hill village, is probably the only place that offers a view of all the five peaks of the Kanchenjunga.

During the day, mingle with nature in full bloom and as the light fades, you sit by the hearth and spend time with a book, reminiscing the riots of justices from the girding woods- the only sound whispering into the ears, or you unwind while lashing a cup of Darjeeling tea. No stores or other escapist lodestones to disrupt the long-sought serenity. 

Through the dense timber, a staircase descends from the timber shanty. A nature trail that connects to Hawa Ghar, a destination worth exploring. This place provides breathtaking views of the summits. If fortunate enough, you can adore the five peaks of the Kanchenjunga massif.

Image from hellotravel

A scenic view of lush green woods from Ghum rock, the vistas will compel you to come back.

Ghum Rock is yet another site for the terrific vistas. And you’ll stumble across a colossal boulder with a stunning view of the Balsan canyon. Ghum Rock, also renowned as the daylight point, visit early morning to behold how the milky whites begin to glimmer in the fading light.  Moreover, the sky gradually turns turquoise and gives way to Kanchenjunga’s frothy snow-capped summits. 

If you’re a raspberry aficionado, you’ll love the rich raspberry life in Lepchajagat. There are countless species of catcalls in the timbers, including Sibia, Sunbird, and much more. 

Image by Biswarup Sarkar, Flickr

Jorpokhri, the adobe of peace, you can spend hours over these concreted benches to absorb the tranquility as much as possible.

On a hilltop near LepchajagatJorpokhri is situated at an altitude of 7400ft. Dazzling rich bushes of juniper and pine trees engulf the area. This is a part of Senchal wildlife sanctuary. The term Jorpokhri denotes to twin ponds or lakes. The rims of lakes are concreted and adorned with benches. White swans swimming in the water would force you to occupy the seats longer. In the middle of the lake, you can appreciate a replica of a colossal snake, and even a fountain. The spectacular view of the snow-capped Himalayas, notably Mt. Kanchenjunga, from the northern side of the lake will mesmerize you. From the other side the landscape of Darjeeling will leave you speechless.

Image by Debasish Bhadra, Flickr

the greatest reason to visit Mirik is its scenic views with the central attraction being the 1.25kms long lovely lake, Sumendu Lake, surrounded by Dhupi trees on its western bank and a vast park land with flowering plantations on the eastern bank. Mirik is a tranquil laid back hill station.

Nestled in the tranquil hills around 27 kms away from Lepchajagat, the town, Mirik, is popularly known for its lakes and mountains but is often marked by the idyllic and picturesque beauty it offers to its visitors. Its term originates from the Lepcha word “Mir-Yok,” which means “fire-burned place.” 

This place is perfect for a quick getaway out from hustle and bustle of city life. The gorgeous vistas of this hill town, and its straightforward connectivity, has made it one of North Bengal’s best known tourist destinations. However, unless you visit throughout peak season, you must not assume this site to be swamped. 

Along with these exquisite retreats, Lepchajagat might just be the finest opportunity for birdwatchers to admire the extensive birds. The forests here are home to a multitude of chirpers, including the Sibia, Sunbird, and many others. As the sun rises you will find yourself humming with the chirpings all around and accompanied by crickets as the light fades. Lepchajagat ensures you a perfect getaway.