Nestled in the mesmerizing hills of West Bengal, Darjeeling is a popular destination known for its tea gardens, breathtaking views, and a rich cultural heritage. While Darjeeling itself offers a plethora of attractions, embarking on a one-day tour to the offbeat locations of Takdah, Tinchuley, Lopchu, and Lamahata provides a unique opportunity to uncover the hidden gems of the region. Join us as we embark on an unforgettable journey through these enchanting destinations.
In the blossoming month of April, we went on a trip to these beautiful villages in the hills. We pre-booked a local taxi and the friendly Heera Bhai as our driver, agreed to take us to less crowded places with lots of natural beauty. These villages used to be less known to tourists, but now they are becoming popular.
As the day dawned, we departed from Darjeeling and headed towards our first stop, Takdah. The journey itself is a feast for the eyes, with the scenic beauty of the rolling hills and mist-laden valleys captivating our senses. Mesmerized by the lush green trees that bordered the road to Takdah, we couldn’t resist stopping for a while to capture the enchanting scenery that surrounded us. The vibrant colors, gentle sunlight, and serene atmosphere created a picture-perfect moment worth cherishing forever. After our spontaneous photo session, we carried on with our trip to Takdah, a famous destination known for its lush tea gardens and awe-inspiring views of the mighty Himalayan mountains.
While there were popular tourist spots like the Takdah Orchid Centre, Takdah Monastery, and Rangli Ranglot Tea Garden, we yearned for a more serene experience away from the usual hustle and bustle. Instead of visiting the man-made orchid centre, we were drawn to the natural beauty of a charming village nestled on the hillside. Our driver took us to an offbeat location where a remarkable rock formation resembled an elephant. It was a marvel of nature, and we also discovered idols and photographs of deities, indicating that the villagers held this place in reverence.
We then arrived at the captivating Takdah Forest, where majestic pine trees adorned the landscape, creating a truly enchanting scene. We immersed ourselves in the serene ambiance, capturing the experience through photographs. Continuing our journey, we made a delightful pit stop at Takdah Heritage Bungalow No. 8, a charming property offering a refreshing break. The beautifully decorated bungalow boasts a unique garden crafted from empty glass bottles, adding a touch of creativity to the surroundings. Adjacent to the property, a serene tea garden awaited, providing us with a tranquil and crowd-free location to capture memorable photos and videos for our Instagram feed. For those seeking an overnight stay, this charming property is a delightful option, promising a comfortable and memorable experience.
We took a leisurely stroll through the tea estates, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of the surroundings and savoring the fragrant aroma of the freshly plucked tea leaves.
Leaving behind the beauty of Takdah and the Orchid Centre, we continued our expedition towards Tinchuley, a quaint village tucked away in the hills.
Along the way, we made a stop at the Local Monastery and Kanchenjunga View Point, where we were left awe-struck by the indescribable beauty that unfolded before our eyes.
Our next destination was the renowned Tinchuley Rai Cottage and Resort, which we had discovered through captivating YouTube videos. The property lived up to its online fame, resembling a picturesque paradise straight out of a picture-perfect postcard. We took the opportunity to capture some memorable moments while exploring various areas of the property.
At the highest point of the resort, a stunning garden awaited, occupying a significant space. It featured swings and comfortable seating areas, perfectly positioned to offer breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga. The elevated location provided a refreshing breeze, even during the daytime. We couldn’t resist taking numerous photographs against the backdrop of the awe-inspiring scenery, cherishing the magical experience forever.
This resort is known for another delightful reason: the presence of a friendly pet named Missi. Missi, a lovable German Shepherd, serves as a guard of the property. However, to our surprise, Missi was more than just a guard. She became our companion and guide, joyfully accompanying us as we explored every corner of the resort. Her friendly nature added an extra touch of warmth and made our visit even more memorable.
During our journey towards Lopchu, we made a stop at the mesmerizing Gumbadara Viewpoint. This picturesque spot provided the perfect opportunity to unwind amidst sprawling tea gardens and soak in the breathtaking view of the valley. If you gaze into the distance, you’ll notice the road winding in a zigzag pattern, adding to the charm of the place. On a clear day, lucky visitors might even catch a glimpse of the majestic Kanchenjunga. Don’t forget to bring your camera along, as this spot is a photographer’s paradise!
We embarked on the next leg of our journey towards Lopchu, a place renowned for its tea gardens. As we arrived at Lopchu Bazar, we stumbled upon a wonderful shop called “Darjeeling Fresh” that offered a delightful selection of refreshing juices, fruit squashes, and fruit jams. One absolute must-try is their special Lali Gurash Squash, made from the rhododendron flower, also known as Nepal’s national flower. Locally referred to as “Lali Guras” or “rose tree,” this unique juice is believed to be beneficial for heart health [*]. The best part is that since they have a factory in Lopchu Bazar, you can enjoy these delightful products at discounted prices.
As the day progressed, we made our way to the picturesque village of Lamahata. For a quick and delicious meal, we made a stop at Lamahatta Residency. We couldn’t resist trying their mouthwatering momos and flavorful chow. The food was incredibly tasty, and the prices were reasonable, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal. Lamahatta Residency not only serves delicious food but also provides clean and comfortable rooms for a delightful stay. The rooms offer stunning views, leaving you in awe. If you’re planning to spend some time in Lamahatta, this property is definitely worth considering for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
After enjoying the delicious meal, we headed to Lamahatta Eco Park, a truly picturesque destination and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Darjeeling. The entry ticket costs only Rs 10 per person, making it accessible for everyone. The park is incredibly well-maintained and filled with a variety of trees that create a magical, foggy atmosphere. As we explored further, we discovered stairs made of natural rocks that led us uphill through enchanting gardens and trees. It’s important to be cautious during rainy times as the stairs can get slippery.
After a 20- to 25- minute climb, we reached the top and were greeted by a serene and breathtaking sight. A beautiful lake surrounded by trees and adorned with colorful flags captivated our senses. It is believed that this lake has the power to fulfill wishes, adding a touch of magic to the experience. Further ahead, we discovered a perfect spot for a picnic, where we saw groups of people enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. There was also a large rock that offered a great backdrop for taking memorable photographs with nature as our stunning backdrop.
We took our time to savor the mesmerizing sunset view, before we headed back down. It’s important to note that the entry to the park closes at 5 pm, so make sure to plan your visit accordingly and return before it gets too dark. Inside the park, there is even a watchtower where you can climb up and enjoy a panoramic view of the surroundings.
With our hearts full of beautiful memories, we made our way back to our car, bidding farewell to these four magnificent villages. The road back to Darjeeling was dark, and due to the peak season, it took us approximately three hours to reach our destination.
The off-the-beaten-path locations and lesser-known attractions allowed us to escape the crowds and connect with the raw beauty of the surroundings. From the lush greenery lining the roads to the tranquil monasteries, charming villages, and stunning viewpoints, this one-day tour offered us a glimpse into the true beauty of the Darjeeling region.
We hope that our journey has inspired you to explore these hidden gems and embark on your own adventure through Takdah, Tinchuley, Lopchu, and Lamahatta. Each of these places has its own unique charm, offering a refreshing break from the bustling city life and a chance to reconnect with nature.
So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to embark on a day trip like no other. Discover the hidden gems of these picturesque hillside villages and make memories that will stay with you forever.
Remember, the world is waiting to be explored, and the magic of Darjeeling is just a journey away. Happy travels!
[* Disclaimer: Travel Tales Club does not endorse anything as a replacement for any medication or as a cure for any health condition. It’s always advisable to consult a healthcare provider for any health related concerns.]
