Destination 1: Damsang valley
It is a small valley encompassed by a Military base and is nearly 20km from Kalimpong on the way to Arhitar. This valley is surrounded by tall pine trees, beautiful flowers, and green pasture. It is perfect for a leisurely vacation of one night and two days. We were welcomed by a shower of rain and the silence of woods.
It is preferable for one to make the trek to Damsang Fort early morning which is approximately 1hour of trekking from the valley. Other places for sightseeing are Ramitey viewpoint, Echhegaon, and Delo park.
Flowers of Damsang
Hotel recommendation: ‘Cocoon the silk route resort’ will definitely give you a very warm welcome despite the chilly weather. They provide you with beautiful wooden cottages and good nutritious food. They also have a beautiful garden with the facilities of bonfire so that tourists can enjoy their leisurely stay to the fullest. They gave us ‘Khada’(a traditional ceremonial scarf common in Tibetan and Mongolian culture)as a parting gift.
Fact: Damsang fort, also known as Damsang Gudi is a historical fort built in 1690 by Lepchas. The last Lepcha king Gyabo Achyok used to run his kingdom from this fort. The fort was mainly meant to defend against attacks from the Bhutanese. The fort was later used to defend against attacks from the British East India Company. Following the Anglo-Bhutan war in 1864, the fort was taken over by the British.
Now that we are all relaxed and our energy is still preserved let’s move on to our next destination which will be full of thrill and adventure.
Destination 2: Latpanchar
Latpanchar forms the highest part of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary with an altitude of 4,200 ft. Latpanchar is a small hamlet among the East Himalayan Range, only 13 kilometers from Kalijhora. This small village radiates happiness and simplicity as all the locals welcome you with a smile on their face.
I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the view from Latpanchar. It was a 360-degree aerial view of the East Himalayan Range including Tiger Hill, Kurseong Hill, Mongpu Hill, Darjeeling Hill, Chattakpur Hill, and other hills with the spread of river Teesta. Besides, as a backdrop, you can view the mighty Mt. Kanchenjunga. I bet all the mountain lovers can sit there for hours and wonder about the mysteries of life.
Latpanchar is like a paradise for bird watchers and photographers. 5:00 am to 6:00 am is the perfect time for bird watching suggested by the local guides. Latpanchar is home to over 240 species of birds. If you are lucky, then you might get the sight of Rufous-necked Hornbill that is found only in Latpanchar. I still remember how the local guide made us run at 6:30 am just as he got a call from his brother that three Rufous-necked Hornbill was found. I can’t describe the feeling in words when we saw the mighty birds after running for almost 4kms. The way the guides were making bird noises and calling out for birds was a fascinating view to watch. I am sure that I am going to revisit this place and I think you will too.
Rufous-necked Hornbill
Hotel recommendation: ‘Ashray Homestay’ is owned by an ex-military officer and he will surely provide you a safe and fun stay at his homestay with amazing home food. The view from Ahal Dara hilltop is worth investing in. The rooms are clean and cozy.
Facts: There are more than 240 species of birds and 36 types of animals found in Latpanchar. A sight-seeing spot known as Namthang Lake is famous for the sighting of a rare species known as the Himalayan Salamander.
I hope you all liked this short escapade. Keep on supporting and traveling with me. Like, share, and subscribe for more such content.
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