Sittong: A Complete Travel Guide
Nestled in the Darjeeling district, Sittong is more than just a single village; it’s a cluster of villages spread across a large area. Situated at an average altitude of about 4,000 feet, Sittong offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Despite its growing popularity in tourism, Sittong has managed to retain its untouched charm, primarily due to its pristine natural beauty.
Accommodations and Amenities:
Don’t expect luxurious accommodations in Sittong. Instead, you’ll find comfortable homestays that offer basic amenities, perfect for nature lovers. There are no shopping opportunities or fancy eateries here. For a taste of city life, you’ll have to travel to Kurseong Town, which is about 24 kilometres away.
The Charm of Chota Mangwa:
Chota Mangwa is a relatively new destination located on a ridge at the top of the Mangwa hill in Darjeeling district. The village boasts panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga and the meandering river Teesta on a clear day. The area is surrounded by the tall coniferous Cryptomaria trees, locally known as Dhupi, adding to the charm of the place.
Natural Beauty of Sittong:
Sittong is blessed with some of the best natural landscapes in Darjeeling. You can enjoy stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, including the majestic Kanchenjunga, and the Teesta River flowing through the plains. The area boasts sprawling tea gardens, picturesque waterfalls, and numerous forested trails ideal for light treks. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the variety of bird species found here, making it a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Orchards and Plantations:
Sittong is known as the main hub of oranges in the Darjeeling district. The region is dotted with picturesque orange orchards that blossom during the winters. You can take a tour of these orchards, taste fresh oranges, and learn about orange cultivation. Additionally, you’ll find wide-scale Cinchona Plantations in Mangpu, where quinine, used for malaria treatment, is extracted.
Exploring Sittong:
Sittong is divided into three Gram Panchayats, each comprising several villages. Sittong-I, also known as Sittong Khasmahal-I, is the core of Sittong and offers breathtaking views of mountain peaks, tea gardens, and forests. Sittong-II, although not part of Upper Sittong, boasts the highest altitude in Sittong, reaching up to 6,000 feet in the village of Mahaldiram. Sittong-III includes villages such as Latpanchar, ideal for trekking, wildlife watching, and birdwatching.
Attractions in Sittong:
- Orange Orchards: Visit the Shelphu area to explore numerous orange gardens.
- Ahaldara Viewpoint: Enjoy panoramic views of the hills, Kanchenjunga, and the Teesta River.
- Namthing Lake: A beautiful lake surrounded by pine trees, known for spotting Salamanders.
- Sittong Lepcha Monastery: A 350-year-old monastery with historical significance.
- Mahaldiram Tea Garden: Witness tea plucking and enjoy the greenery of the tea bushes.
- Waterfalls: Explore the Jogikhola Rock Climbing Spot and Lepcha Falls for scenic waterfalls.
Where to Stay:
Homestays are the best accommodation option in Sittong, offering a cozy stay amidst nature. Most homestays provide comfortable rooms and home-cooked meals at budget prices. Be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak season.
Best Sittong Homestay
How to Reach Chota Mangwa:
How to Reach Sittong
Sittong, a picturesque village in the Darjeeling district, is well-connected by road, rail, and air. Here’s how you can reach this serene destination:
By Air: The nearest airport to Sittong is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 45 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Sittong, which will take approximately 2 to 3 hours.
By Train: The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), situated around 40 kilometers from Sittong. From NJP, you can take a taxi or a shared jeep to reach Sittong. The journey by road from NJP to Sittong takes about 2 to 3 hours.
By Road:
Sittong is well-connected by road and can be reached via several routes:
From Siliguri:
- Distance: Approximately 35 kilometers.
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours.
- Route: Siliguri → Sevoke → Kalijhora → Sittong.
From Darjeeling:
- Distance: Approximately 40 kilometers.
- Travel Time: Around 2 hours.
- Route: Darjeeling → Jorebunglow → 3rd Mile → Sittong.
From Kalimpong:
- Distance: Approximately 50 kilometers.
- Travel Time: Around 2.5 hours.
- Route: Kalimpong → Teesta Bazaar → Mungpoo → Sittong.
From Gangtok:
- Distance: Approximately 95 kilometers.
- Travel Time: Around 4 hours.
- Route: Gangtok → Ranipool → Melli → Teesta Bazaar → Mungpoo → Sittong.
Local Transport:
Once you arrive at any of the nearby towns or stations, you can hire a taxi or use shared jeeps to reach Sittong. Renting a car for a comfortable journey through the scenic routes is also an excellent option.
Enjoy your trip to Sittong, and take in the breathtaking views, lush orchards, and the tranquil atmosphere of this hidden gem in Darjeeling!
Convenient Car Rental Services: Siliguri to Chota Mangwa and Chota Mangwa to Siliguri
Effortless Travel with Our Car Rental Services
Planning a trip from Siliguri to Sittong or vice versa? Enjoy a seamless journey with our top-rated car rental services. Whether you’re heading to the serene village of Sittong or returning to the bustling city of Siliguri, our reliable and comfortable car rentals ensure a smooth and pleasant ride.
Our services include:
Why Choose Our Car Rental Services?
- Comfort and Convenience: Enjoy a smooth ride in well-maintained vehicles equipped with modern amenities.
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- Flexible Options: Choose from a variety of vehicles to match your needs, from compact cars to spacious SUVs.
Service Highlights:
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Experience the ultimate convenience in travel with our car rental services from Siliguri to Sittong and back. Book your ride today and make your journey memorable!
Sittong Tour Package: Discover the Hidden Gem of Darjeeling
Escape to the serene mountain village of Sittong with our all-inclusive tour package. Nestled in the tranquil hills of Darjeeling, Sittong offers breathtaking landscapes, lush orchards, and a peaceful ambiance perfect for a rejuvenating getaway.
Tour Highlights:
- Scenic Orchards: Wander through expansive orange orchards, savoring the fresh mountain air and learning about local fruit cultivation.
- Village Walks: Explore the charming village, interact with locals, and experience the traditional lifestyle of Sittong.
- Trekking and Nature Walks: Embark on guided treks and nature walks, capturing the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas.
- Local Cuisine: Indulge in authentic local cuisine, with meals prepared from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
- Riverside Picnics: Enjoy a relaxing picnic by the river, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage with the local community and participate in traditional activities and festivals.
Package Includes:
- Accommodation: Comfortable stays in well-appointed hotels or homestays with modern amenities.
- Transportation: Convenient transportation options for sightseeing and travel between Siliguri and Sittong.
- Meals: Delicious meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, featuring local and continental cuisine.
- Guided Tours: Expert guides to enhance your experience with insightful information about Sittong and its surroundings.
- Activities: All entry fees, permits, and guided activities mentioned in the tour highlights.
Embark on a memorable journey to Sittong and uncover the hidden treasures of Darjeeling with our expertly curated tour package. Book now and create unforgettable memories!
Best Time to Visit Sittong:
You can visit Sittong throughout the year, but the best time is during the spring (March to April), summer (May to June), and autumn (October to November) for clear skies and pleasant weather. For orange blossoms, visit between November and January.
Where to Stay: Homestays are the best accommodation option in Sittong, offering a cozy stay amidst nature. Most homestays provide comfortable rooms and home-cooked meals at budget prices. Be sure to book in advance, especially during the peak season.
Conclusion:
Sittong is a haven for nature lovers, offering a peaceful retreat in the lap of nature. Whether you’re seeking stunning views, tranquil walks, or a glimpse into rural life, Sittong has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and explore the hidden gem of Sittong on your next trip to Darjeeling.
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