The Eastern Himalayas - Simply Out Of This World
A land of infinite charm with breathtaking views of Kangchenjunga, bewildering
variety of flora and fauna, colourful festivals, lush green tea gardens, exciting
adventure sports, daunting trekking routes, perfect solitude. All this make
the East Himalayas your chosen destination.
Trekking In Darjeeling :
The East Himalayas present perhaps the best trekking routes in the whole of
India. Low altitude treks in the lower regions of Darjeeling are quiet easy
and are particularly recommended for those tourists who like to take up a
stroll at a leisurely pace. The Kalimpong-Relli trek through golden paddy
fields, the Kurseong-Namsu trail through tea gardens and the Kurseong-Mirik
trek are the main trails through low altitude areas.
Darjeeling-Batast-Tonglo-Sandakphu-Return :
This is a 6/7 days moderate trekking from Maneshanjang, which is 26-km by
road from Darjeeling and ideal for views along a standard trail. A popular
trekking route from Darjeeling, this trek takes one to Sandakphu and Phalut
from where one can have breakthtaking views of Kanchenjunga and Mt. Everest.
Singalila Treks :
Treks in the eastern Himalayan region are organized through both high and
low altitude areas. The most popular of treks is the one through high altitude
areas across the Singalila range in Darjeeling, which starts from Maneybhanjang,
goes to Meghma, Toughu, Gairibas, Sandakphu, and Phalut.The fourth and last
day is the return trek to Darjeeling, which may be taken along the same route
or via Ramman, Rimbick and Bijanbari.
Kalimpong Treks :
Another adventurous high altitude trek done in Darjeeling is in the Kalimpong
region from Relli, Pankhasari, and Neora to the highest point in the areas,
Rochella at 3,400m. From here it is a steady descent to Tangta, Jhalang along
the foothills to Samsing. Trekkers can enjoy the natural panorama of exotic
varieties of Himalayan flora, bird, and wildlife that can be seen along this
route.
Trekking In Sikkim :
Each season in Sikkim is distinct. The periods for outdoor excursions are
several. March to May are best season for flowers, which is also ideal for
trekking in this state. However you should be prepared for inclement weather,
as snow storms at higher altitudes can develop rapidly in both the pre and
post-monsoon seasons.
Darjeeling/Gangatok-Pemanyangtse-Yoksum-Dzongri:
The most popular trek in Sikkim is from Yuksom to Dzongri and Goccha La for
superb views of Kanchenjunga. Two peaks in Dzongri area of West Sikkim, Thingchen
Khang and Jopunob, have been declared 'Trekking Peaks', which means they are
free of royalty payment.
Trek To Tendong Hill :
Above Damthang, overlooking south district headquarters town Namchi, there
is a flat stretch of land, at an altitude of 8,530ft, surrounded by a lush
green forest known as Tendong Hill. Trek From Tendong from Damthang bazaar,
the nearest roadhead, is just about two-hours of casual walk. But one can
also proceed to Namchi by trekking via Tendong Hill following the traditional
route used in the old days. Trekking over here also is possible throughout
the year, except in the monsoons.
Trek To Menam Hill :
Menam hill towers the Tandong hill on the other side overlooking the Ravangla
Bazaar settlement, at an altitute of 10,300 ft. The trek from Menam to Ravangla
takes about 4 hrs and from Menam hilltop trekkers has the option to take the
gentle trek to Borong village or follow the more challenging trail, down to
Yangang village.
Namchi Or Damthang To Tendong-Ravangla-Menam-Borong:
The trek trail from Namchi or Damthang to Tendong-Ravangla-Menam-Borong is
a 5 to 6 days trek and is one of the most interesting trails sacling all the
hilltops along the route. The trek can continue to Tashiding or terminate
at Borong and drive back to Ravangli.
Versery :
Versey lies at an elevation of 10,000 ft and has motorable road to access
uto Hilley. An easy 4-kms trek from there takes a trekker upto the Versey
Rhododendron Sanctaury. One can also trek from Soreng or Dentam in West Sikkim.
Trekking Permits For Sikkim :
Foreigners have to obtain permits for trekking on most routes in Sikkim. Permits
can be obtained from any of the following places: Delhi, Kolkatta, Siliguri.
Permit restrictions mean that trekkers can only follow well-beaten trails and
within a limited period of time. If you are coming from Darjeeling and have
arranged permits and itineraries in advance, you could enter Sikkim at Jorethang
and go directly to Pelling or Yoksum saving precious permi