Charkhole is a scenic village in West Bengal’s Kalimpong district. It sits at an altitude of about 5,500 feet, 27 km from Kalimpong town.
The village is known for its natural beauty and offers a clear view of the Kanchenjunga massif, making it a popular offbeat destination.
The sight of snow-covered Kanchenjunga from Charkhole is a memorable experience.
The village is surrounded by Pine, Oak, Shal, and Cypress trees. It lies next to the forests of Pemling, which extend to Loleygaon and Pabong. These forests are home to some rare butterfly species.
What to See and Do
Charkhole, located 27 km from Kalimpong, is a popular travel destination known for its breathtaking view of the snow-covered Kanchenjunga.
Surrounded by dense forests of Pine, Cypress, Oak, Shal, and Rhododendron, it offers a peaceful retreat with warm and welcoming hospitality.
Despite being a relatively new tourist spot, Charkhole has received several prestigious awards, including the title of “Most Promising Offbeat Destination,” due to its stunning natural beauty.
The valley’s calm atmosphere is enriched by the melodic chirping of birds such as the Blue Fronted Redstart, Indian Robin, Green Backed Tit, Pipit, Ashley Prinia, Verditer Flycatcher, and Himalayan Bulbul.
Bird watchers will find Charkhole to be an excellent spot for observing diverse species. Being close to Neora Valley National Park, visitors may also see some wildlife during their stay.
On clear days, the panoramic view of the Himalayan range from Charkhole captivates travelers.
Walking through the nearby forests, visitors can enjoy sunlight filtering through the trees, the vibrant colors of blooming flowers, and the cheerful sounds of birds.
The warmth and hospitality of the locals make the experience even more memorable. Charkhole is an ideal getaway for those seeking peace, natural beauty, and a break from city life.
How to Reach Charkhole
There are two ways to reach Charkhole: one through Kalimpong town and the other through Dooars. The best route depends on road conditions and your starting location.
If you are traveling from NJP station or Bagdogra airport, the Dooars route is a better option. The road is in good condition, and the distance is about 70 km from NJP.
First, drive to Bagrakot in Dooars. From there, take the only road leading uphill. This route includes 45 km of flat roads and 25 km of hilly terrain. You will reach Charkhole via Chuikhim.
If you are coming from Darjeeling, Kalimpong, or Sikkim, take the Kalimpong route. This route is about 75 km from NJP, but most of it goes through hilly terrain.
First, reach Kalimpong town, then drive to Relli Khola. After crossing Relli Khola, you will see a fork in the road. Take the right-side road for Charkhole. The drive from there takes about 30 minutes.
Best Time to Visit Charkhole
Charkhole offers a unique charm in every season, but winter is the best time to witness the beauty of snow-covered mountains. The white snow sparkles under the sunlight, creating a breathtaking view.
However, for those visiting specifically to see Kanchenjunga Peak, the ideal time is from April to May and October to November.
These months provide the clearest views, making the trip more memorable.
Where to Stay in this Village
The village does not have luxury hotels. Instead, you will find homestays and resorts. Resorts offer facilities such as an in-house restaurant, homemade food, clean and spacious rooms with wall-to-wall carpeting, a tea and coffee maker, a travel desk, laundry service, attached Western bathrooms, geysers, and a scenic view of Kanchenjunga.
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