Places To Visit And Things To Do In Lepchajagat, A Hidden Gem Near Darjeeling| A Complete Guide
At an altitude of 2123 Meters, Lepchajagat is a quaint village near Darjeeling. It is the place where you will wake up to the chirps of the birds. Also, the winds playing through oaks and rhododendron trees will be music to your ears.
Lepchajagat is at a less-than-an-hour distance from Darjeeling. But this hidden gem near Darjeeling stands out for its serenity and natural abundance. Furthermore, here, you will feel the embrace of Mount Kanchenjunga.
With mother nature blossoming at its fullest, no wonder, over the years, this offbeat destination has become an important spot for West Bengal rural tourism.
Near home, this is the place I am yet to visit. Tagore has rightly said you travel the whole world but miss the best of nature two steps away from your home. Hopefully, very soon, I will be in this land of mist, mountains, rhododendrons, and peace.
Nevertheless, as I was doing my research on this beautiful, offbeat destination near Darjeeling, I thought of sharing all the details with you. Further, everything I write here is approved by my friend from Darjeeling, Priya, who, of course, knows Lepchajagat better than me.
| ‣ The name Lepchajagat is a combination of two words, Lepcha and Jagat. Lepcha refers to the local tribes, and Jagat means world. So, Lepchajagat roughly translates to the World of Lepchas. ‣ Lepchajagat has become a prominent tourist destination for honeymooners or explorers in the last 15 years or so. In fact, only the locals and regular tourists knew about Lepchajagat before 2007. ‣ In 2007, the Lepchajagat Nature Resort was renovated by the WBFDC or West Bengal Forest Development Corporation Ltd. It is a British-era bungalow transformed into a beautiful tourist accommodation. Taking a walk in the woods near the Bungalow itself is a delightful experience. ‣ Today, you will find two types of accommodation at this Lepchajagat Eco Tourism Centre. The Super Deluxe rooms are available at INR 2500, and the VIP or Premium rooms will cost you INR 3000. ‣ The Lepchajagat Eco Tourism Centre is located at Rishi Road in Ghoom Pahar Forest. For booking-related queries here, you can call at +91 760404479. You can even email at bookings@wbfdc.com. |
Where Is Lepchajagat Located? What Is The Lepchajagat To Darjeeling Distance?
Lepchajagat is the Darjeeling Himalayas and it looks straight out of a postcard. To be more specific, it is located on the Ghoom-Mirik road. Further, the distance between Lepchajagat and Darjeeling is 19 Kms.
Between Sukhiapokhri (Distance: 4.1 Kms) and Ghoom (Distance 8 Kms), you will find a meandering road. That will take you to Lepchajagat at a height of around 7000 feet.
Moreover, if you look at the Lepchajagat location in Darjeeling, you will find that it is very close to the Balason River’s main source.
It also has Hima Falls. So, from the humbling presence of Mount Kanchenjunga to the immersive fountains and rivers, you will find everything in Lepchajagat.
How to Reach Lepchajagat From NJP? A Complete Travel Guide
The railway station closest to Lepchajagat is New Jalpaiguri, or NJP. Book a car if you want to know how to go Lepchajagat from NJP easily. Shared cabs are available, but securing a seat for you will be difficult.
The distance between the NJP Railway Station and Lepchajagat is around 75 Kms. The route via Ghoom is more popular and easier. However, you can also take the route from NJP to Lepchajagat via Mirik. Mirik is around 30 Kms away from Lepchajagat.
Further, if you are traveling by air, you can reach the Bagdogra Airport, the closest to Lepchajagat. From there, you can take a cab. The distance to cover is around 72 Kms, and the journey will take you close to 3 hours.
Nevertheless, the cab charges to Lepchajagat from Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station will be something around INR 2200-4000. These are some of the cab services you can book for your travel to Lepchajagat from NJP or Bagdogra.
| Cabbazar: +91 7777 880 880 Himalayan Wheels: +91 95315 88700 North Bengal Explorer: +91 8597053454 |
Lepchajagat Weather And Best Time To Visit Lepchajagat
The best seasons to visit Lepchajagat are spring and autumn. During the spring months of March to May and the months of September to November, Lepchajagat temperature remains between 10-20 degrees Celsius.
Further, clear weather conditions offer the best view of Mount Kanchenjunga and Darjeeling in these months.
You can even visit Lepchajagat in the summer months of May to June. The average temperature in these months remains between 13-23 degrees Celsius. Monsoon is not the best time to visit Lepchajagat if you are traveling with family.
Heavy rainfall at a high altitude can cause road blockages and other natural calamities. However, if you are adventurous enough and want to soak in the quietness of Lepchajagat, choose the monsoon season from late June to August.
Furthermore, if you want the most romantic trip to Lepchajagat, plan it in December. The winter temperature here ranges between 2 to 9 degrees Celsius. However, in late December and January, the temperature sometimes drops to around 1 degree Celsius.
So, if you want to explore wilderness camping here, winter is not the ideal time for your visit.
Attractions And Sightseeing In Lepchajagat: A Nature Haven And Romantic Destination Near Darjeeling
Always winning the laurel of best offbeat place to visit near Darjeeling, Lepchajagat is a melting pot of many things. As you enter this quaint hamlet, you will feel the clouds kissing your forehead and the air here spreading the fragrance of nature.
Further, with the British-era WBFDC Bungalow on Rishi Road, the colonial charm here is prominent. Also, as you wake up in the morning and open the windows, you will see the snow-capped mountains.
Now, you can take a relaxed walk through the surrounding woods to reach a popular viewpoint called Hawa Ghar.
Natural Beauty And Landscapes Of Lepchajagat
If you missed the Kanchenjunga sunrise the other day and were happy to see the mountain peaks from your hotel room windows, you can reach Sunrise Point Lepchajagat early.
⁍ Kanchenjunga Sunrise From The Sunrise Point Lepchajagat
From the Sunrise Point Lepchajagat, you can see the first rays of the Sun kissing Mount Kanchenjunga and other surrounding mountains.
This viewpoint is in the Ghoom Pahar Forest. The visuals created with warm red, golden, and orange lights in those moments are transformative.
⁍ Mystery And Beauty Of The Woods
Then, as the sun’s rays cut through the dense mist and everything becomes clearly visible, you can plan a walk through the woods. Here, you will see pines, oaks, and rhododendron trees. Seasonal wildflowers make these woods all the more beautiful.
Further, as you take a walk through the Ghoom Pahar Forest, you will notice butterflies fluttering above the bushes. This is the most vivacious thing you will see.
Moreover, if you are lucky enough, you will encounter Rufous Sibia, stripe-throated Yuhina, Red-tailed Minla, Fire-tailed Sunbirds, and many other Himalayan birds during your walk.
⁍ Beauty Of The Nearby Lepcha Village
Your trip to Lepchajagat will be incomplete without knowing the local people. So, ask your local tourist guide or the homestay owner to show you the way to the local Lepcha Village.
From there, take a walk of around 1.5 Km and reach the Ghum Rock viewpoint to enjoy a panoramic view of the Balason Valley. After spending one to two hours in the village and at the viewpoint, return to your homestay or hotel.
⁍ Bonfire In The Evening
Evenings in Lepchajagat are quiet and meant for spending time with your partner or family. So, enjoy the bonfire and snacks. Of course, the best Darjeeling tea will be the highlight of your evening.
And if you are traveling solo, you can listen to your favorite blues song or read a thrilling murder mystery while sipping on the best hot chocolate or Darjeeling tea. You will have the sound of crickets as your company.
Popular Tourist Spots In Lepchajagat
Despite being a small hamlet, Lepchajagat has many tourist spots. These spots offer the most amazing views of the Himalayas, valleys, and surrounding landscapes.
You can also click the best photos here.
1. Ghoom Rock
I have already mentioned Ghoom Rock, a popular viewpoint a little far from the nearby Lepcha Village. You will get the best views of Mount Kanchenjunga from here.
2. Hawa Ghar
Hawa Ghar is just 1 KM away from the WBFDC lodge. You can take the staircase to the Ghoom Forest and reach Hawa Ghar.
Hawa Ghar, also, is a viewpoint. On clear days, you can see all five peaks of Kanchenjunga from here.
3. Batasia Loop
Batasia Loop, in Ghoom, is just 8 Km away from Lepchajagat. A part of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, it is a place that shows architectural excellence, creating a form of infinity.
Here, you will find the iconic Toy Train of Darjeeling. Also, Batasia Loop has a war memorial remembering the Gurkha soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the motherland.
4. Hima Falls
Hima Falls on Bijanbari Road in the Ghoom Pahar Forest is a tourist hotspot in Lepchajagat. The fall here indeed looks like a water curtain.
Moreover, many localities and tourists have seen Himalayan leopards roaming near the waterfall.
5. Lepchajagat View Points
So far, I have already introduced the Ghoom Pahar Rock, Hawa Ghar, and Sunrise View Point to you. Further, Lepchajagat also has some other viewpoints, like:
- Lepchajagat Pine View
- Lepchajagat View
- Darjeeling View Point
- Kanchenjunga View Point
6. Chatai Dhura
Chatai Dhura in Sukhia Pokhri is one of the main attractions close to Lepchajagat. Trekking through the wilderness amidst the pine and oak trees is a mesmerizing experience here. Despite having a colonial history, this place is a new tourist destination.
As you take a walk for a few kilometers, you reach another beautiful place called Dupin Dhura. It means Binocular Stone in English.
During colonial times, the British used to come to this spot on horseback and enjoy the view of the surrounding mountain ranges with binoculars or Durbin.
Be a little careful while walking through the thick forest at Chatai Dhura. Wild boars are frequently seen there.
Things To Do In Lepchajagat: Exploring Lepchajagat Like A Local
To explore Lepchajagat like a local, you have to trek or go for nature walks. In many places, you will find steps leading to dense forests. If you have a local guide, just follow those random trails or visit the local villages.
A visit to the local villages will help you unearth the lesser-known history of the place and its people.
Moreover, you will find many hiking trails, like the ones leading to Hawa Ghar or Ghoom Rock. So, you have to be on your feet (literally) to visit Lepchajagat like a local.
Lepchajagat Homestay And Accommodation Options
The WBFDC Bungalow is the best place to stay at Lepchajagat. However, with thriving tourism, the small hamlet now also has many homestays and lodges.
You can find your accommodation at any of the homestays mentioned in the table below.
| Lepchajagat Homestay | Address | Contact Number |
| Green Valley Homestay | Lepcha Jagat, Sukhia | 098328 34365 |
| Lakshya Homestay | Lepcha Jagat, Sukhia | 099334 96122 |
Relish The Best Local Cuisine And Dining At Lepchajagat
Lepchajagat is a small village and it is still evolving as a tourist destination. So, the food variety here will be limited. If you are staying at a homestay, you can try Bhutia food items like okra fry, fermented spinach soup, Gundruk, or a veg dish made with onion leaves.
Otherwise, you can have amazing momos, thukpa and Bengali cuisine here.
Furthermore, if you want to try food served at local restaurants, you can explore places like Santa Banta Dhaba at West Point (095933 00477) or Misty Mountain Restaurant (070636 61085).
Dream And Travel Tips For Your Lepchajagat Trip Memorable (From A Local Expert)
Lepchajagat is a peaceful and unperturbed place. So, your stay here will be hassle-free. However, keeping the following things in mind will make your experience even better.
- Do not roam around after sunset. In many spots, you may come across wildlife like Himalayan leopards and wild boar.
- Always keep your ID with you. If you are especially visiting Pashupati Market, you will need to show your valid ID proof.
- It is a small place. So, be respectful to the local tribes.
Lepchajagat Nearby Attractions: Traveling The Extra Miles
Four to five days are enough if you want to plan a trip to Lepchajagat. The day you reach is ideal for taking a walk in the woods (if there is daylight) and relaxing at the hotel, enjoying the scenic view from the windows.
On the second day, you can go for nature walks and explore the hotspots like Ghum Rock, Hawa Mahal, etc.
Further, for the next two days, you can visit the nearby attractions I am going to discuss shortly.
Finally, on the 5th day, you can plan a return to Bagdogra or NJP or even proceed toward Darjeeling.
1. Manebhanjan
Manebhanjan is around 11 Kms away from Lepchajagat. It is the place from where the Sandakphu Trek starts. It is also famous for its vintage Land Rover safaris.
2. Mirik
Mirik is 26 Km away from Lepchajagat. A beautiful hill station, Mirik is famous for its orchids and orange orchards. Further, it has hotspots like Bokar Monastery and Sumendu Lake.
3. Darjeeling
Darjeeling is 13 Km away from Lepchajagat. It is home to Tiger Hills and known as the Queen of Hill Stations in India with the most amazing view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
4. Ghoom Monastery Or Yiga Choeling Monastery
At a distance of 8.7 Km from Lepchajagat stands Ghoom Monastery or Yiga Choeling Monastery. It is home to Maitreya Buddha and 108 volumes of Kangyuror the spoken words of Lord Buddha.
Moreover, every corner of the monastery is a brilliant example of Tibetan Art.
5. Pashupati Market
If you are at Lepchajagat and want to do some shopping, you can visit the Pashupati Market at the Indo-Nepal border. You will have to travel for around 15 Kms.
Here, you can bargain a lot for local and foreign goods and strike the best deal.
6. Sukhia Pokhri
Sukhia Pokhri is the place from where you can see the Balason and Rangeet rivers in their full glory. It is at a distance of 4.1 Km away from Sukhia Pokhri.
7. Jorpokhri
Jorpokhri is at a 5.5 Km distance from Lepchajagat. The highlights of Jorpokhri are the Jorpokhri Wildlife Sanctuary, Khorikhola, and Jorpokhri lake.
Lamahatta Or Lepchajagat Which Is Better? Best Offbeat Locations Near Darjeeling
Lamahatta and Lepchajagat are both beautiful offbeat destinations near Darjeeling. Both places are serene and perfect as idyllic retreats.
However, there are some differences between the two places. Much of Lepchajagat is still wilderness, while most parks and gardens in Lamahatta are well-manicured today. So, if you are seeking a company of pristine nature, Lepchajagat will be a better place.
Further, if you want to see rhododendrons, Lepchajagat should be your go-to destination. On the other hand, Lamahatta has beautiful orchids, which you will not find in Lepchajagat.
Moreover, Lamahatta promises a more culturally rich experience than Lepchajagat. Lamahatta is home to many tribes, including Yalmos, Bhutias, Sherpas, and Tamangs.
Nevertheless, both places are beautiful and promise mesmerizing views of Mount Kanchenjunga. So, it is hard to pick one as the better or the best.
