If you are in search of a lonely picturesque hilltop, then your search comes to an end. Ahaldara is a beautiful hilltop far away from today's busy life. If you want to heal your mind and soul you must visit Ahaldara.
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| Ahaldara Homestay |
Ahaldara is now one of the most highly rated places for Darjeeling sightseeing. On a clear sunny day the location offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Dooars and Terrain plains on one hand, and Kalimpong, Darjeeling, and Sikkim mountains.
It is situated just at a distance of 43 km from Siliguri. It can be reached via national highway 10. From Kalijhora, take left and Ahaldara is just 13.6 km away from there.
Places to Explore in Ahaldara
1. Sunrise Point
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| Sunrise point |
Do not miss the spectacular sunrise view from the hilltop of Ahaldara. It will heal all your sufferings. You will be at the top of the world. This point also offers a mesmerizing view of the Kanchenjunga. The doors and Teesta river are also clearly visible from here. The beautiful morning with a cup of Darjeeling tea is heaven. The wind kept blowing and sounds like a whistle. There is no obstruction in view well as no sound pollution is there.
2. Cinchona Growing area
Just opposite the sunrise point, you can watch Cinchona gardens. These Cinchona gardens are used for the production of quinine medicine. This is a key factor in the agro-industrial growth of this area. You can calmly sit on the benches and practice Yoga while staying in the homestays.
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| Cinchona field |
3. Namthing Pokhri
Namthing Pokhri, a seasonal Lake situated just 1 kilometer away from Ahaldara. Namthing Pokhri is a natural Lake in Latpanchar, Selpu Khasmahal. The Lake is home to Himalayan Salamander (Newt) which is a rare reptile species. You can take a morning walk to this lake after watching the sunrise.
How to Go to Ahaldara
Ahaldara is connected by road with Siliguri by NH 10. The road condition is not up to the mark. The distance between Ahaldara and Siliguri is 43 km and it will take 2 hours. Siliguri is the heart of North Bengal. It is connected by road, rail, and air to the other parts of India.
By Air: Siliguri has an airport named Bagdogra. Hire a cab from the airport itself to move to Ahaldara. It will cost nearly Rs. 2000.
By Rail: New Jalpaiguri is the major rail station near Siliguri which connects all parts of India. You can easily get a train to NJP as it is easily reachable from almost every part. Hire a cab just from outside and try to bargain to get the best deal.
Nearby Tourist Places in Ahaldara
You can visit Ahaldara, Latpanchar, Sittong, and Mungpoo in a single day. The distance from Ahaldara to sitting is only 31km. While the Latpanchar is just 5 km away from ahaldara. But to get the true essence of the place and for a peaceful tour, I will recommend staying in Ahaldara for one night. A night stay in a tent will be brilliant.
1. Sittong
Sittong is one such beautiful hamlet known as the "orange valley". Sittong situated at the bank of Riyang river is an Offbeat Destination in Darjeeling for travelers. The picturesque village is more scenic in winter due to the fire orange color in the orchards. This is the most orange-producing area of Darjeeling. You can visit Sittong from Ahaldara as both are very closely spaced. The Yogighat is also a beautiful place to explore.
2. Latpanchar
The name Latpanchar is also a Lepcha word meaning land where Cane grows. It is just 5 km away from Ahaldara. It is the highest Pick of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Latpanchar. This place is a famous birding hot spot and other best sightseeing places around Sittong are - famous Bamboo Church, a very old historical church and a Monastery, made mostly of bamboo and mud.
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| Mungpoo |
3. Mungpoo
On the way coming back to Siliguri you can explore the Famous poet Tagore's place in Mungpoo. The beautiful bungalow offers a beautiful view of the valley also. It was the summer retreat of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. I will highly rate this place for its serenity.
Where to Stay:
Few lovely homestays are there in Ahaldara. Ahaldara Charming homestay and Humro home are famous of them.
It will cost nearly Rs 1500 to 1750 per person including food. They offer lunch to breakfast for a day. Book before going there. They have cottages with all the modern equipment.
Best Time to Visit Ahaldara:
September to February is the best season to explore Ahaldara. The clear sky will help to see the Kanchenjunga. Avoid rainy season as landslide is a common issue. December is best as it is the harvesting time for oranges.
I hope this article was helpful to plan your trip to Ahaldara. Best wishes for your pleasant time in Ahaldara. If you have time in hand you can explore tourist places of dooars.
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