Sittong Homestay and Sightseeing Darjeeling Tourism
Sittong Homestay: Greetings everyone! Today, I’m thrilled to provide comprehensive insight into the picturesque region of Sittong.
Spread over a vast geographical expanse, Sittong attracts explorers to indulge in innumerable attractions – be it lush green tea plantations, vibrant orange groves, serene monasteries, cascading waterfalls, panoramic views, bird-watching sites, picturesque Be it cinchona gardens, submerged rural areas. experiences, scenic nature trails, or exploring top destinations like Mungpoo and Latpanchar.
To truly savor the richness of Sittong’s offerings, plan for a few days, ensuring that your visit will do justice to the abundance of experiences that await you.
Sittong is also known as the ‘Orange Village’, Sittong stands as a unique gem near Darjeeling, offering an array of unique attractions to visit throughout your stay.
Embark on a journey with me as we uncover Sittong’s inner beauty, immersing ourselves in the fascinating places that make this destination extraordinary. Let’s delve deeper into its charm:
Ahaldara Viewpoint
Ahaldara Viewpoint is the best vantage point to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise casting its golden glow over the majestic Himalayan peaks. Located near Latpanchar, it proudly claims to be the title of the highest viewpoint within the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary.
From this elevated position, visitors enjoy a mesmerizing view, with dense pine forests spread on one side and lush green valleys of tea plantations on the other. The winding Teesta river flows beautifully through the valleys, which adds to the picturesque tableau. Ahaldara, uniquely situated, offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the undulating hills stretching from Gangtok to Kalimpong. In particular, the majestic Mount Kanchenjunga graces the skyline displaying its majestic silhouette.
Widely regarded as one of the hidden gems in the Darjeeling district, Ahaldara Viewpoint is known to be an offbeat destination, making it a mandatory stop on any comprehensive Sittong sightseeing tour. Surrounded by peace and natural splendor, this viewpoint promises an unforgettable experience, inviting visitors to enjoy the grandeur of the Eastern Himalayas.
Namthing Pokhri (Lake)
Nestled in the serene Shelpu hills near Latpanchar, Namthing Pokhari is situated at an altitude of 4,500 feet, offering a must-see experience near Sitong. Surrounded by pine forests and misty clouds, this mysterious lake is home to various birds, butterflies, and the rare Himalayan salamander.
Protected by wire fencing, these endangered creatures thrive in this seasonal lake, laying eggs on the grassy lake bottom when the lake dries up after the monsoon months. Immerse yourself in the amazing beauty enhanced by the Buddhist flags adorning the surroundings. Don’t miss the nearby Shiva temple and Cinchona plantation.
The best time to visit is October to March when the weather is pleasant.
Jogighat Bridge
A 74-meter-long steel bridge near Jogighat village, which connects Mungpu and Sitong, Jogighat Bridge offers a picturesque view over the Reang Khola mountain stream. Decorated with vibrant Buddhist flags, the bridge was inaugurated by renowned yoga mentor Baba Ramdev in 2015.
A popular picnic spot, visitors can enjoy the natural greenery, stroll along the stream bank, and listen to the soothing sound of the monsoon-activated waterfall.
Orange Garden
Sitong, also known as the Orange Village, has lush orange orchards that mesmerize tourists, especially from November to February. During this period, the valley turns into a vibrant orange carpet against the backdrop of green leaves and blue sky, filling the air with citrus aromas. Explore the orchards, pick and taste fresh oranges, and discover a paradise for bird watchers attracted by the fruit.
Sittong Monastery
The 350-year-old Sittong Monastery, or the Upper Galetar Longho Lepcha Buddhist Monastery, offers a serene experience. Located in the upper Ghalyatar, the bamboo and mud structure bears a simple appearance but boasts a rich history and spiritual atmosphere.
Discover beautifully decorated prayer areas with statues of Buddhist deities, creating an atmosphere of peace and joy. Take off your shoes, explore the interior, and enjoy a spectacular view of the Kangchenjunga range from the grounds next to the monastery.
Kiwi Garden and Chinchona Plantations
Traversing Sitong’s breathtaking landscapes, the attractions extend beyond the famous orangeries to the kiwi and cinchona plantations. Kiwi plants grown carefully in rows demonstrate precision and care.
The garden is decorated with a vibrant palette of blue and purple hydrangeas, which adds to its scenic beauty. Wander through the plantings to discover a greenhouse containing a range of ground and aerial orchids, each carefully labeled for easy identification.
Medicinal Oasis of Cinchona:
The cinchona plantations of Sittong are an integral part of the Government Cinchona Plantation (GCP), celebrated for their medicinal properties. These plantations contribute to various medicinal preparations, including anti-malarial quinine obtained from the bark of cinchona trees.
Immerse yourself in the picturesque view of the dense forest, where the trees flutter with vibrant green and red leaves creating a visual sight. These plantations stand as a testament to Sittong’s rich biodiversity, offering a delightful diversion from the ubiquitous orange groves. If you enjoy the beauty of nature, Sitong is your ideal place.
Join us in uncovering the intricate details of each of these captivating locations, where the vivid colors of the forest paint a mesmerizing picture. Embark on a journey with us to discover the intricacies of Sittong’s natural treasures.
Related Article: Jhilli Pakhiralay Gopiballavpur Jhargram Tourist Spot
