Lepchajagat is a quiet village surrounded by dense rhododendrons and oak forests. It sits at an altitude of 6,959 feet, 19 km from Darjeeling.
This hidden destination remains free from crowds, offering a peaceful retreat.
The village was originally home to the Lepcha tribes. The word “Jagat” means “world,” referring to their settlement.
Later, the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation (WBFDC) took over, and it is now a reserved forest.
Lepchajagat attracts visitors with its calm atmosphere and clear views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. It is a great choice for travelers looking for nature and relaxation near Darjeeling.
Lepchajagat Sightseeing and Things to Do
Lepchajagat is a quiet destination surrounded by dense forests, offering a peaceful escape from daily life.
This small village in the Darjeeling district has no large markets, making it a secluded spot for travelers seeking solitude.
Located on the road from Ghoom to Sukhiapokhari, it is easy to reach and provides stunning views of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains.
The sight of these towering peaks and lush green hills makes Lepchajagat a popular choice for nature lovers and botanists.
The area is known for its trekking trails that pass through thick forests of rhododendrons and oak trees. Walking along these trails, visitors can enjoy the diverse Himalayan plant life.
Birdwatching is another attraction, with the soothing sounds of chirping birds during the day and crickets at night adding to the calm atmosphere.
One of the most breathtaking experiences in Lepchajagat is watching the sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world.
As the sun rises, the sky shifts from deep blue to soft gold, casting an orange glow on the mountain peaks. This natural spectacle is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.
Lepchajagat also spelled as Lepcha Jagat is an ideal destination for travelers looking to relax in nature, away from city noise.
Its fresh air, diverse wildlife, and peaceful surroundings offer a perfect setting for spending quality time with loved ones.
Places to Visit Near Lepchajagat
Lepchajagat is close to several scenic spots worth visiting. Here are some key attractions:
1. Jorpokhri
Located about 5 km away, Jorpokhri is a small village at 7,400 feet above sea level. The name comes from “Jor” (two) and “Pokhri” (lake), referring to the twin lakes in the village.
It offers a peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty.
2. Ghum Monastery
About 10 km from Lepchajagat, Ghum Monastery, also called Yiga Choeling Monastery, is one of the oldest in Darjeeling.
Ghum Railway Station is another popular site nearby.
3. Pashupati Market
Situated at the Indo-Nepal border in Pashupati Nagar, this market is 15 km away. It is known for affordable foreign goods.
Entry is allowed only for Nepalese and Indian citizens with valid government ID proof.
4. Manebhanjan
Around 11 km from Lepchajagat, Manebhanjan is a small village that serves as the base camp for trekkers heading to Sandakphu.
How to Reach Lepchajagat
The closest railway station to this village is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), about 75 km away. The nearest airport is in Bagdogra, roughly 72 km from Lepchajagat.
You can rent a car from NJP, Bagdogra, or Siliguri for a comfortable trip to Lepchajagat. Shared jeeps are available from Siliguri or NJP to Ghoom.
Sumos heading to Darjeeling will also drop you at Ghoom. From there, you can take another shared jeep or hire a full vehicle.
Shared jeeps from Ghoom to Lepchajagat are hard to find. Darjeeling is about 13 km away. You can rent a car from the Darjeeling Chowk Bazar Taxi Stand.
If a direct shared vehicle to Lepchajagat is unavailable, take one to Ghoom and switch to another for Lepchajagat.
Best Time to Visit Lepchajagat
The best time to visit Lepchajagat is summer. When the plains become extremely hot, Lepchajagat stays cool and pleasant, making it a perfect retreat.
Winters are very cold due to the village’s high altitude, but they offer the best views of the Himalayan range.
During winter, temperatures range from 2.4°C to 9.6°C, so carrying warm clothes, hats, and socks is recommended.
Where to Stay in Lepchajagat
The best accommodation in Lepchajagat is the Government Lodge, managed by the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation (WBFDC).
This lodge was originally a British bungalow built in the 1800s and has been converted into a comfortable stay for tourists.
The lodge has six spacious rooms in a two-story building. Each room features wooden panels, large cupboards, and fireplaces.
The peaceful surroundings and a stunning view of Kanchenjunga make this lodge a popular choice for visitors.
Lepcha Jagat is a village with no hotels, but it has many homestays. Locals run these homestays and provide essential amenities for a comfortable stay.
Guests get clean, spacious rooms with attached Western-style toilets, room service, and 24-hour electricity.
Homestays also offer geysers and a clear view of the mountains. All meals are homemade, ensuring fresh and local food.
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