Shivkhola, a serene tourist spot located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, is a destination that pays homage to Lord Shiva. It offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and accessibility, nestled in the lap of nature without being too remote. The Shivkhola Adventure Camp is a paradise for nature lovers who seek to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The village is adorned with a small stream that adds to its charm, and an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated on the riverbank. The town is located in a lush green valley, just 1 km away from the temple, making it an ideal place to experience the tranquility of nature.
Attractions and Activities
Located a mere 14 km away from Shivkhola, the Mahaldiram Sunrise View Point offers a breathtaking view of the mighty Kanchunjhangha. Visitors are sure to be mesmerized by the stunning reflection of the sun on the mountain, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Shivkhola is a haven for bird watchers and wildlife photographers, thanks to its diverse range of wild birds. In addition, Shivkhola Adventure Camp is a popular attraction that offers many adventure activities, including trekking and bird-watching. The camp is also ideal for travelers seeking a serene and relaxing getaway by the river, perfect for a day or two of unwinding amidst nature’s beauty.
Shivkhola, nestled amidst the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, offers a unique opportunity to witness a variety of wild animals and birds. The area is particularly renowned for its diverse bird population, with a plethora of species to be spotted.
Some of the birds that can be seen in Shivkhola include the majestic Great Hornbill, colorful Peafowls, the striking Black Baza, the intelligent Magpie, the powerful Black Eagle, the Eurasian Sparrowhawk, the Jerdon’s Baza, the Steppe Eagle, the Green Billed Malkoha, the Asian Barred Owlet, the Common Hoopoe, the Pied Kingfisher, the Himalayan Bulbul, and many more.
Most of the people also come here in Shivkhola to take bath in the river. The river makes a small waterfall here where you can take bath and enjoy the breathtaking view. The surrounding will make you fall in love with Shivkhola again and again.
Ways to Reach
Shivkhola, a beautiful village surrounded by tea gardens, is located approximately 27 km away from Siliguri. The journey to Shivkhola takes around 2.5-3 hours by car, with a brief encounter with city traffic before entering the stunning forest in Sukna. Sukna, located just 15 minutes away from Siliguri, marks the beginning of the journey towards Shivkhola.
After passing Sukna Railway Station, travelers enter the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and continue on towards Rongtong, which is approximately 18 km from Siliguri. The road between Sukna and Rongtong is one of the most picturesque roads in the country, offering a feast for the eyes and a perfect opportunity to unwind.
It takes around 45 minutes to reach Rongtong, where the road towards Shivkhola takes a sharp U-turn. The uphill road toward Shivkhola is around 7 kilometers long, followed by a steep downhill stretch that leads to a popular temple. According to mythological beliefs, this temple was created by Lord Shiva, and the name “Shivkhola” is derived from Lord Shiva and the small stream that flows through the valley.
