Rishikhola, also known as Reshi Khola, is a quiet destination near the Sikkim border in Kalimpong, West Bengal. It sits along the banks of a flowing river, about 36 km from Kalimpong.
Camping by the riverside is a popular activity here. The area is surrounded by lush green forests on rolling hills, making it an excellent starting point for treks.
Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk or an adventurous hike, making Rishikhola a great spot for both relaxation and exploration.
Rishikhola Sightseeing Attractions
Rishikhola’s location allows visitors to explore both Sikkim’s natural beauty and Kalimpong’s heritage sites.
Aritar, just 14 km away, features Lampokhari Lake, a boot-shaped water body where tourists can enjoy boating.
Day trips from Rishikhola can include places like Jelep La Pass, Kupup Lake, Baba Mandir, and Changu Lake.
Visitors can also explore Kalimpong, which offers scenic and historical sites such as Pedong Monastery, Ramitey Dara, and Rikisum.
Activities in Rishikhola
Rishikhola is rich in wildlife and greenery, offering visitors a break from city life. Camping beside the Reshi River is a favorite activity for adventurers and nature lovers.
The forests around Rishikhola host many Himalayan bird species, including the Himalayan Bulbul, White-Capped Water Redstart, Plumbeous Water Redstart, Tricolour Shrike, Green Magpie, and Great Barbet, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
Visitors can also swim in the cool river water or try fishing. The unique location of Rishikhola makes it a perfect getaway for those who enjoy nature.
Accommodation in Rishikhola
There are several places to stay in Rishikhola, including resorts, farmhouses, and cottages. Options like Rishi Nature Camp and Rishi River Retreat offer basic amenities and are situated close to the river.
How to Reach Rishikhola
By Train: New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP) is about 125 km from Rishikhola. Travelers can take a train to NJP, and then hire a private vehicle from outside the station to reach the village.
By Air: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport, located 110 km from Rishikhola via NH 10. The journey takes around 4 hours, and rental cars are available outside the airport.
By Road: Rishikhola is well connected by road. From Siliguri, travelers can reach the village via Rhenak in Sikkim within 5 hours. Siliguri to Rishikhola distance is around 98 kilometers. The village is also accessible from Kalimpong via Pedong.
Best Time to Visit Rishikhola
April and May are the best months for spotting migratory birds in Rishikhola. Summer is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C.
The clear sky offers an unobstructed view of the surroundings, and vibrant flowers bloom in April, May, and June.
Winter, from December to February, is also a great time to visit, with temperatures between 8°C and 15°C. The monsoon season, from July to August, brings frequent landslides, making travel challenging.
Why Visit Rishikhola?
Spending time at Rishikhola means camping by the lively Reshi River, listening to the calls of Himalayan birds, and breathing in the crisp mountain air.
It is a perfect place to relax, refresh, and escape the fast pace of city life while enjoying unspoiled nature.
If you are looking for a peaceful retreat, Rishikhola promises a memorable experience in the lap of nature.
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