Srikhola
Srikhola – Travel and Stay
Srikhola is a quaint little village in the district of Darjeeling. Trekking routes from Sadakphu and Phalutare there, pass through Srikhola leading towards Manebhanjan. You can also come here by road from Darjeeling or NJP/Siliguri. From Sandakphu, the trek route is 16 km to Srikhola via Gurdum. From Phalut, you can reach Srikhola via Gorkey and Rammam covering a 36 km distance through vegetation and fauna of magnolia, oaks, chestnuts and rhododendrons, orchids, and many more. Many trekkers on the way from Sandakphu or Phalut prefer to stay overnight at Srikhola for a break.
Quick Overview
The village is surrounded by lush green forests and is situated on the banks of the Srikhola River. Srikhola is known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere and is a popular tourist destination for those seeking to escape the chaos of city life.
Tourists visit Srikhola to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayan Mountains and the natural beauty that the region has to offer. The area around Srikhola is ideal for trekking and hiking, and there are many trails that lead to the nearby villages and nearby scenic spots. The Srikhola River also provides ample opportunities for fishing and river rafting.
In addition to outdoor activities, Srikhola is also known for its diverse culture and traditions. The local communities are primarily made up of the Lepcha and Bhutia tribes, and visitors can learn about their unique customs and traditions by interacting with the local people.
Overall, Srikhola is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating vacation surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions
Srikhola, located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India, is known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. If you are planning a visit to Srikhola, here are some must-visit attractions:
1. Srikhola River:
This river runs through the village and is a popular spot for fishing and river rafting. The river is surrounded by lush green forests and provides a peaceful environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area. The clear waters of the river and the surrounding mountains make for a picturesque view. Visitors can also take a dip in the river or go for a swim to cool off on a hot day.
2. Trekking trails:
The area around Srikhola is ideal for trekking, and there are many trails that lead to nearby scenic spots. The trails are well-maintained and offer a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the natural beauty of the region. Trekkers can choose from a range of trails, ranging from easy to difficult, depending on their skill level and fitness.
3. Bikalpadhara Park:
This park offers a peaceful environment for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills and forests. The park has a well-manicured lawn, benches and picnic tables, making it a perfect spot for picnicking and enjoying a relaxing day. Visitors can also take a walk along the trails that run through the park to enjoy the scenic views.
4. Manabhanjyang:
This small town located near Srikhola is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for tourists. The town has several trekking trails, scenic spots and cultural sites, making it a must-visit for those exploring the region. Visitors can also enjoy the local cuisine and shop for souvenirs at the local markets.
5. Local markets:
Srikhola has several local markets where you can buy locally-made products and souvenirs. The markets offer a unique shopping experience and provide an opportunity for visitors to interact with the local people and learn about their culture and traditions. Visitors can purchase a range of products, including locally-made textiles, handicrafts, and spices.
6. Local villages:
Visitors can also explore nearby villages to learn about the culture and traditions of the local communities. The villages are home to the Lepcha and Bhutia tribes and are known for their unique customs and traditions. Visitors can visit the local homes, meet the villagers, and learn about their way of life.
7. Kalimpong:
This hill station located nearby Srikhola is known for its scenic beauty and colonial architecture. Kalimpong is famous for its scenic views of the Himalayan Mountains and has a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the local markets, visit cultural sites, and take in scenic views from the hills.
8. Rishyap:
This small hill town is located near Srikhola and is known for its scenic beauty and serene atmosphere. Rishyap is surrounded by lush green forests and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a stroll through the town and explore the local markets and cultural sites.
9. Samthar Plateau:
This high-altitude plateau is located near Srikhola and is known for its scenic beauty and rich wildlife. The plateau is surrounded by lush green forests and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the area on foot, go bird-watching, or take a scenic drive to enjoy the views. The Samthar Plateau is a popular destination for trekkers and nature lovers.
10. Rimbick:
This small hill town is located near Srikhola and is known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage. Rimbick has several trekking trails that lead to nearby scenic spots and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the local markets, visit cultural sites, and take in scenic views from the hills. Rimbick is also known for its delicious local cuisine and is a great place to sample traditional dishes.
How to reach
Srikhola is located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India, and there are several ways to reach the area:
- By air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located about 85 km away. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or a shared cab to reach Srikhola.
- By train: The nearest railway station to Srikhola is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located about 92 km away. From the railway station, visitors can take a taxi or a shared cab to reach Srikhola.
- By road: Srikhola is well-connected by road and is easily accessible by car or taxi from nearby towns and cities. Visitors can also take a shared cab or a local bus to reach Srikhola.
It is recommended to reach Srikhola during the day as the roads can be dark and challenging to navigate at night. It is also advisable to plan your trip in advance and book your transportation and accommodations accordingly.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Srikhola is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, with clear skies, warm days, and cool nights. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as trekking, fishing, and river rafting.
The monsoon season, from July to September, is not recommended for visiting Srikhola as the area experiences heavy rainfall, which can make it difficult to travel and engage in outdoor activities. Winter, from December to February, can be chilly and is not the best time to visit Srikhola if you are not prepared for the cold weather.
It is advisable to check the weather conditions and plan your trip accordingly, as the area can experience sudden changes in weather conditions. Visitors should also carry appropriate clothing and gear, such as warm clothing for cooler months, and rain gear for the monsoon season.
Stay here in Hotel
Here several options for accommodations, including hotels, resorts, and homestays. Here are a few popular options for stays in Srikhola:
- Srikhola River Camp: This eco-friendly resort offers stunning views of the Srikhola River and is located in the heart of the scenic Srikhola Valley. The resort offers comfortable tents and rooms with all modern amenities.
- Green Valley Homestay: This cozy homestay offers a unique cultural experience, with a traditional Nepali-style design and comfortable rooms. The homestay is surrounded by lush green forests and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- Srikhola Mountain Resort: This resort is located in the heart of the Srikhola Valley and offers comfortable rooms with all modern amenities. The resort is surrounded by scenic hills and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
These are just a few of the many options available in Srikhola. Visitors can choose to stay in a hotel, resort or homestay based on their budget and preferences. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season, as the area can become crowded and accommodations can be difficult to find.
