KALUK, SIKKIM – 99 KMS. FROM SILIGURI

• Weekend Tour

The village of Kaluk is located amidst the mountains of West Sikkim, at an altitude of 5600 feet. This little village offers magnificent views of Mt. Kanchenjungha. It is basically the buffer zone area of the renowned Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. The area abounds in natural resources. Kaluk is surrounded by the villages of Lepchas, Rais and Gurungs who are successful in preserving their tradition, culture and life-style.

Places to see at Kaluk: The major tourist attraction of Kaluk is the panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjungha. A very famous place to look out in Rinchenpong is the pond – Poison Pokhri. Opposite to it are stone staircases that lead to a forest trail that takes you to the Rinchenpong Monastery that was built in 1717 and has a very unique idol of Ati Buddha in Yub-Yum position. The trail further leads you to Reesum Monastery. A marble plaque with verses from Rabindranath Tagore’s Gitanjali is also placed here. This is known as Rabindra Smriti Van and Rabindranath Tagore stayed here for some days. There is also a 100 year old British Bungalow covered in forests in the upper regions of Rinchenpong.

Nearby attractions of Kaluk: One of the largest prayer wheels powered by water at Hee Water Garden is only 12 kms. fom Kaluk. The famous Chaaya Taal Lake is also nearby and so is the Dentam Valley, Singshore Bridge (India’s highest hanging bridge) and Uttarey Valley. Day trips can be availed to places like Geysing, Hilley, Ravangla, Temi Tea Garden, Namchi, Uttarey and Pelling.

Things to do in Kaluk: You can opt for a variety of activities in here. You can enjoy the pristine beauty of nature and the breathtaking views of sunset and sunrise on Mt. Kanchenjunga from here. In fact, Kaluk is one of the places that offer 180 degree view of Kanchenjunga and its neighboring ranges. You can also explore the Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary in late March to see the Rhododendron bloom. The villages and surrounding forests of this village offer tremendous opportunities for trekking, hiking, bird watching and butterfly spotting.

How to reach Kaluk: The nearest major railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) around 125 kms. away. The nearest inter state bus terminus is located at Siliguri (around 115 kms. away). You can hire cars from Siliguri to Kaluk and the journey by road takes around 05 hours. The nearest airport is at Bagdogra (IXB).

Best time to visit Kaluk: You can visit any time of the year. The monsoons bring in the clouds and greenery whereas the winters offer sparkling weather and panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas.

Lodging and dining facilities at Kaluk: Our hotel offers 09 fabulous rooms with balconies and all modern amenities like attached western bathrooms, hot water geysers, parking area, comfy king – size beds, couches and more. There are 02 triple occupancy deluxe view rooms, 04 double occupancy deluxe view rooms and 03 standard double occupancy rooms. We can also arrange for transport, trekking guides and even barbeque in the evenings for guests. Food is essentially Indian cuisine and is served in the Dining Hall.