Kolakham is a small village inside the Neora Valley National Park. It is about 9 km northeast of Lava in the Kalimpong district. Kolakham, Rishyap, and Lava form a triangle and are all popular tourist spots. Visitors love these places for their stunning mountain views, peaceful village atmosphere, lush forests, and the chance to enjoy nature and birdwatching.
Kolakham is a paradise for nature lovers. Located 6,500 feet above sea level, it has become one of the most stunning and less-crowded travel spots in West Bengal. Nestled in the lush greenery of Neora Valley National Park, the village offers breathtaking views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks. With its rolling hills, deep valleys, drifting mist, and serene wilderness, Kolakham feels like a dream come true for anyone looking to experience untouched natural beauty. The village is perfect for a peaceful and relaxing getaway.
Nearby Attractions
Kolakham is home to some amazing spots worth exploring. Here are a few you shouldn’t miss:
Changey Waterfall
Just a short 3-kilometer jeep ride and a 1.5-kilometer walk from Kolakham village, Changey Waterfall is a must-visit. The cascading waterfall, set amidst the hills of Darjeeling, creates a serene and picturesque environment. It’s an ideal spot to relax in nature’s lap and take stunning photos.
Neora Valley National Park
One of India’s oldest forest reserves, Neora Valley National Park was established in 1986. It spans an impressive area of 88 square kilometers, making it one of the richest biodiversity zones in the Eastern Himalayas.
The park’s altitude ranges from 183 to 3,200 meters, offering a natural habitat for endangered animals like the Indian Leopard, Red Panda, Asiatic Black Bear, Barking Deer, Sambar Deer, Clouded Leopard, and more.
The forest is also home to diverse plant species, including rhododendrons, bamboo, oak, and orchids. A safari through Neora Valley provides an adventurous journey through dense trails, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Lava
Known for its breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga peak, Lava is also famous for the beautiful Lava Monastery, showcasing Tibetan architecture and artifacts.
Rishop
This tranquil village offers mesmerizing views of lush greenery and panoramic vistas of snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Kabroo, Pandim, and Rathung.
Best Time to Visit Kolakham
Kolakham has nice weather throughout the year, so you can visit anytime. However, the best time to go is in October and November. During these months, the temperature is between 5°C and 15°C, the weather is very pleasant, and the mountain views are clear. Winter can get quite cold, with temperatures dropping to 0°C.
