Are you ready to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Eastern Himalayas? Darjeeling, Tonglu, and Sandakphu should be on your bucket list if you enjoy trekking and exploring serene hill stations. Nestled in India’s West Bengal, these destinations offer stunning panoramic views, rich culture, and thrilling trekking routes. For travelers from Bangladesh, this guide will provide everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to these amazing destinations.
Darjeeling
Location
Darjeeling, known as the "Queen of the Hills," is located in West Bengal, India, at an altitude of about 2,045 meters (6,709 feet). It is famous for its tea plantations, colonial-era architecture, and majestic views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Journey/ Path/ Route
The most convenient way to reach Darjeeling from Bangladesh is through the Burimari border. You can take an overnight bus from Dhaka to the Burimari border (8 hours). Complete immigration formalities at the border, then take a bus to Siliguri (3-4 hours). From Siliguri, catch a shared jeep to Darjeeling (3 hours), which will cost 150 INR each. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of hills and tea gardens.
What to see there or on the way
On the way to Darjeeling, you will pass through picturesque tea gardens, small hill towns, and lush green forests. Once in Darjeeling, start with a sunrise at Tiger Hill, offering stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga and Everest. Visit Ghoom Monastery and its 15-foot Buddha statue.
Explore the Darjeeling Zoo to see rare animals like the red panda and snow leopard. Discover local wildlife at the Bengal Natural History Museum and tour the historic Happy Valley Tea Estate. Do not miss the spiritual tranquility of the Japanese Peace Pagoda and the adventure-filled Himalayan Mountaineering Institute.
Interesting activities to do
- Ride the Toy Train through the hills for scenic views and a unique experience.
- Take a cable car ride on the Darjeeling Ropeway for aerial views of tea gardens.
- Climb Tenzing Rock for some amateur rock climbing.
- Visit the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre to explore Tibetan culture.
- Stroll through Rock Garden & Ganga Maya Park for a peaceful retreat.
- Trek and river raft in Singalila National Park and Teesta River.
Tonglu
Location
Tonglu is a small, picturesque hamlet located at an altitude of about 3,036 meters (9,960 feet) on the Singalila Ridge. It is a popular stopover for trekkers heading to Sandakphu.
Journey/ Path/ Route
To reach Tonglu, you need to start by traveling to Manebhanjan, accessible from Siliguri, NJP, or Bagdogra by rental car (3,000-4,000 INR) or shared cab (around 500 INR). Another way is from Darjeeling, which is a 25 km drive by shared or private cab. Once you reach Manebhanjan, book a Land Rover or Jeep to Meghma, then complete the journey to Tonglu with a scenic 2 km trek.
What to see there or on the way
On the journey to Tonglu, enjoy panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas, especially the majestic Kanchenjunga, often called the "Sleeping Buddha." On clear days, you can even spot Mount Everest in the distance. The route from Dhotrey winds through dense rhododendron and magnolia forests that bloom in vibrant colors during spring.
As you climb, the forest opens up to sweeping highlands and valleys, revealing views of distant villages, the Koshi River on clear days, and the picturesque Singalila Ridge. The tranquil night sky, often illuminated by countless stars, is a stunning sight upon arrival.
Interesting activities to do
- Enjoy the stunning sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range.
- Explore nearby trails, including the forested path to the local monastery.
- Capture views of snow-capped peaks, forests, and "Sleeping Buddha."
- Spot rare animals in the Singalila National Park.
Sandakphu
Location
Sandakphu, standing at 3,636 meters (11,930 feet), is the highest point in West Bengal and offers unparalleled views of four of the world’s five highest peaks—Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu.
Journey/ Path/ Route
From Tonglu, the trek to Sandakphu is a challenging 24-kilometer trail, which can take about 8-9 hours. Alternatively, if you are not up for trekking, you can hire a jeep from Manebhanjan to reach Sandakphu. At Manebhanjan, take a classic Land Rover or Bolero (2,500 INR per person, round trip) as required. The 32-km route to Sandakphu takes 2.5-3 hours with tea breaks. The route passes through the scenic Singalila National Park.
What to see there or on the way
On the route to Sandakphu, trekkers are treated to mesmerizing views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. Trails wind through the Singalila National Park, showcasing rhododendrons, magnolias, and fir forests.
Scenic stops like Chitrey, Tumling, and Tonglu offer unique glimpses into rural life, while Kalipokhri’s serene black lake and panoramic vistas of “Sleeping Buddha” add magic to the journey. This scenic trek immerses visitors in unforgettable mountain landscapes.
Interesting activities to do
- Trek through Singalila National Park and explore its unique flora and fauna.
- Capture photographs of the stunning “Sleeping Buddha” view.
- Visit Tonglu and Tumling villages to experience local culture.
- Enjoy sunrise and sunset views over the Kanchenjunga and Everest ranges.
- Birdwatch for migratory species, including rare Himalayan birds.
How to get an Indian travel visa from Bangladesh
To obtain an Indian visa from Bangladesh, applicants should complete the three-step process: submit an online application, deliver the required documents, and collect their passport with the visa. After completing the online form, applicants must print, sign, and submit it along with essential documents such as citizenship proof, utility bill, and employment verification at any Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or Indian Mission.
Cost ideas
Darjeeling
Traveling from Dhaka to Siliguri by bus costs around 900 INR (approximately 1,200 BDT) per person. Rooms for 6 people are available for 1,500 INR per night, with an additional charge of 300 INR for online booking or a room heater. For a group of 4-5 days, the estimated cost is around 15,000-18,000 BDT per person, covering travel, food, and accommodation.
For sightseeing, you need to hire a jeep to Tiger Hill which costs approximately 1700 INR, or you may take a full-day tour across Darjeeling’s main sights typically costing 2,000-2,500 INR.
Tonglu
To reach Tonglu from Manebhanjan, you can rent a Land Rover to Meghma for around 1,400 INR. For accommodation in Tonglu, night stays cost 700 INR for the first night, with a rate of 1,000 INR for additional nights. Alternatively, budget-friendly accommodations are available at the Trekker’s Hut, where beds are rented for 150 INR per person.
Sandakphu
Entry into Singalila National Park requires a daily fee of 120 INR per person and 500 INR per day for foreign visitors. Kalipokhri village requests a 50 INR entry fee per person for Nepal. Digital camera and vehicle entry fees are 100 INR and 400 INR, respectively.
Cautionary Facts
Pack warm clothing for the cold mountain weather, especially if visiting between December and February, as temperatures can drop below freezing.
Take time to acclimatize, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activity initially to prevent altitude sickness, particularly around Sandakphu.
The trails are steep and challenging in areas like Sandakphu and Tonglu. Consider hiring a guide or using jeep transport if untrained.
Entry to Singalila National Park requires a daily fee, and additional permits may be needed, such as for Kalipokhri. Keep extra cash ready for these fees.
Pack light, focusing on essentials like medications, first aid, and snacks. Use a sturdy backpack and avoid heavy luggage on steep paths.
Keep valuables safe, especially in budget accommodations. Carry only necessary cash, secure your passport, and use a money belt.
Minimize waste, avoid plastic, and use reusable items to help protect the pristine environment.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Darjeeling is from April to June and October to December, with spring (March-April) and autumn (September-November) offering clear skies and mild weather for sightseeing. For Sandakphu, each season brings a unique charm: spring fills trails with vibrant rhododendron blooms, while autumn provides the clearest views of Kanchenjunga.
Winter (December-January) blankets Sandakphu in snow, adding a magical feel to the trek. Tonglu, too, is ideal from October to April, providing stunning panoramas in cool, crisp weather.
Closing lines
Visiting Darjeeling, Tonglu, and Sandakphu from Bangladesh offers an unforgettable adventure filled with scenic beauty, rich culture, and thrilling treks. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventurer, or just seeking a peaceful retreat, these destinations promise the experience of a lifetime. Be mindful of the challenges, but rest assured, the rewards are more than worth it!
Source:UNB
Bd-pratidin English/ Afia
