Introduction
Sittong, also known as Sitong, is a scenic "KhasMahal" nestled within the Kurseong division of Darjeeling district. It comprises a cluster of villages enveloped in the charm of nature, making it a sought-after destination for travelers. While renowned for its orange orchards, Sittong offers much more than its citrus bounty. Its untouched natural beauty and serene ambiance make it a haven for nature enthusiasts, far from the hustle and bustle of modern tourism.
Villages in Sittong
Sittong encompasses a vast geographical area and is divided into three Gram Panchayats, each comprising numerous grams or villages. These Panchayats are known as Sittong-I, Sittong-II, and Sittong-III.
Sittong-I (Sittong Khasmahal-I):
- Sittong-I serves as the core of Sittong and predominantly encompasses the upper regions. It includes Ghalaytar, Upper Ghalaytar, Tham, Mana, Panch Pokhri, and more. Many popular homestays in Sittong-I offer panoramic views of mountain peaks, tea gardens, and forests. With a geographical area of 628 hectares, Sittong-I is home to about 605 households and a resident population exceeding 3,100.
- Sittong-II comprises villages like Lower Mamring and Mahaldiram. While not part of Upper Sittong, Mahaldiram village boasts the highest altitude in the Sittong region, reaching up to 6,000 feet.
- Sittong-III includes Latpanchar, Barasit Tong Khasmahal, Lonku Khasmahal, Mangpu, Rolak Khasmahal, and Sittong Forest. Latpanchar, situated at an average altitude of 4,200 feet, is ideal for those interested in trekking forested trails, wildlife watching, and birdwatching. Mangpu, known for its wide-scale Cinchona Plantation and Rabindra Museum, offers insights into quinine production and the historical significance of poet Rabindranath Tagore's visits.
Regardless of where you stay in Sittong, the villages within the area are easily accessible. Hiring a car from your homestay allows you to explore other towns and attractions within Sittong. However, given Sittong's vastness and diverse offerings, allocating several days to fully experience and appreciate the region is recommended. Alternatively, making separate visits to each of the main places within Sittong ensures a comprehensive understanding of its entirety.
In subsequent sections, whenever "Sittong" is mentioned, it refers to Sittong Khasmahal-I or Sittong-I, the primary area of Sittong.
Getting There:
Upon arrival at NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport, reaching Sittong is convenient, and several transportation options are available.
If arriving at Bagdogra Airport, Sevoke Road is the main access route to Sittong. Taxis or pickup vehicles typically take the Rohini Road to connect with the Hill Cart Road (NH-110) near Kurseong Town. From Kurseong, follow NH-110 for approximately 10 kilometers until reaching Dilaram. Upon reaching Dilaram, make a sharp right turn uphill onto Bagora Road, which leads to Sittong-I and other neighboring villages such as Latpanchar in Sittong-III. The total road distance from Bagdogra Airport to Sittong is 64 kilometers, taking approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes by car.
From NJP Railway Station:
From NJP Railway Station, travelers can opt for the Hill Cart Road (NH-110) route through Siliguri. Follow NH-110 uphill through Siliguri, Kurseong, and Dilaram to reach Sittong. The total distance from NJP to Sittong via Hill Cart Road is 64 kilometers, with a travel time of around 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Alternatively, travelers from NJP can choose the Sevoke Road route to reach Sittong. From NJP, take Sevoke Road and proceed towards Kalijhora. At Kalijhora, take the uphill road to the left, passing through Latpanchar and Ahaldara before reaching Sittong-I and II villages. This route spans approximately 55 kilometers from NJP to Sittong and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Other Sevoke Road Options:
Further along Sevoke Road, travelers can explore additional routes to Sittong. From Kalijhora, travelers can take the uphill road to the left towards Birik Dara, identifying the turn by flower stalls. This route passes through Ahaldara and meets the earlier road from Kalijhora. Another option is to proceed to Rambi Bazaar, where an uphill road to the left leads to Sittong via Mangpu and Jogighat Bridge.
From Darjeeling or Kalimpong:
Travelers from Darjeeling can take Peshok Road at Jorebungalow, turning right at 3rd Mile. This route passes through Mangpu, Jogighat Bridge, and forested areas before reaching Sittong. From Kalimpong, the route to Sittong via Rambi Bazaar on Sevoke Road spans approximately 51 kilometers and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes by car.
Taxi Fares to Sittong
Updated as of August 2024 (Please note that fares may significantly increase during peak tourist seasons).
- Reserved taxis to Sittong are available from NJP Station. A small taxi like a Swift Dezire or WagonR typically costs around Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 3,500, depending on demand and season. Shared taxis directly to Sittong are not available from NJP or Siliguri. However, you can take a shared taxi bound for Darjeeling and alight at Dilaram, costing approximately Rs. 200 to Rs. 250 per person. From Dilaram, you can hire a private taxi to Sittong, which may cost between Rs. 800 to Rs. 1,000 for a small taxi, depending on your destination within Sittong.
- Pre-paid taxis directly to Sittong are not available at the airport counter. However, you can find local taxis outside the airport, past the car park. Alternatively, booking a pickup car through a Siliguri-based travel operator is recommended. Your homestay/lodge in Sittong can also arrange for a pickup. The fare for a small private vehicle from Bagdogra airport to Sittong typically ranges from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 3,500.
- The fare for a small private car from Darjeeling to Sittong usually ranges from Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 3,500.
Please note that while there are occasional shared taxi services between certain villages in Sittong and nearby areas like Bagora, Dilaram, and Kurseong, these services are limited (once or twice a day) and primarily used by local villagers. They may need to be more convenient for tourists.
What to See & Do in Sittong
- Sittong is renowned as the 'Land of Oranges', boasting numerous orange orchards, particularly in the Shelphu area. Each orchard, owned by different individuals, offers a unique experience. November and January are the best time to witness the oranges in full bloom. Visitors can take guided tours of the orchards, taste fresh oranges, and learn about orange cultivation for a nominal entry fee.
- Situated atop the Shelpu Hills, the Ahaldara Viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views. A short uphill walk approximately 150 meters from the designated parking area leads to this viewpoint. During clear days, tourists can relish a panoramic 360-degree vista encompassing the Kanchenjunga Snow Peaks, Tagore Rock formation, Teesta River, Darjeeling Hills, Mongpu Hills, Kurseong Hills, and even Takdah and Tinchuley. Adjacent to the viewpoint are privately managed tea gardens and Cinchona Plantations, offering a glimpse into quinine extraction used for malaria treatment.
- Located approximately 1km from Ahaldara base, Namthing Lake is surrounded by picturesque pine trees, offering a serene ambiance. Visitors can explore a scenic walking trail through the adjacent pine forests. Notably, Namthing Lake is one of the rare places globally where Salamanders, nearly extinct creatures, can be spotted.
Sittong Lepcha Monastery:
- Situated in Upper Ghalaytar near Tham, the Sittong Lepcha Monastery boasts a history of over 350 years. Once serving as the palace of the Lepcha Queen, this monastery, primarily constructed of mud and bamboo, offers insight into early Lepcha culture. Visitors can interact with the resident lama, explore the prayer room, and discover artifacts from the Lepcha era.
- Located in the village of Mahaldiram, the Mahaldiram Tea Garden offers a captivating experience amidst lush greenery. Visitors can witness tea plucking during the harvest seasons, stroll through the tea bushes, and capture scenic photographs. Notably, tea leaves from Mahaldiram Garden are renowned for their quality and have fetched record prices in auctions.
Waterfalls and Jogighat Bridge:
- Sittong features several picturesque waterfalls, including Jogikhola Rock Climbing Spot and Lepcha Falls, which offer tranquil, relaxing settings. Visitors can also explore Jogighat Bridge, spanning the Riyang River, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
- Mangpu is famed for its expansive Cinchona Plantations and Cinchona Factories, extracting Quinine from these plants. Additionally, Mangpu is home to Rabindra Bhavan, now a museum, where poet Rabindranath Tagore resided during his visits between 1938 and 1940. The museum showcases furniture and articles used by the poet, along with his literary works.
These are just a few highlights of what Sittong has to offer. Exploring these sites in detail promises an enriching experience, providing insights into the region's cultural, natural, and historical significance.
Best Time to Visit Sittong
Sittong welcomes visitors throughout the year, offering pleasant and moderate temperatures most of the time. However, for optimal views of the majestic Kanchenjunga and enjoyable weather, the following seasons are recommended:
- Experience clear skies and pleasant spring weather, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor pursuits.
- Enjoy mild temperatures and favorable weather conditions for exploring Sittong's natural beauty. Summer offers an excellent opportunity for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.
Autumn (October to November):
- Revel in clear skies and comfortable temperatures during the autumn months, providing optimal conditions for admiring panoramic views and engaging in outdoor pursuits.
While Sittong is charming throughout the year, visitors can also embrace the unique experience of the monsoon season (June end to September end). During this time, Sittong is enveloped in clouds and rain, offering a tranquil atmosphere with fewer tourists. However, to witness the enchanting blossoms of orange orchards in their full splendor, visiting between November and January is recommended.
Accommodation:
While Sittong's tourism infrastructure is relatively new, it offers a range of accommodations, primarily homestays. Whether you prefer more extensive, hotel-like facilities or intimate family-run homestays, Sittong caters to various preferences. The village's diverse landscapes provide options for warmer climates along the riverside or more relaxed mountain views from hilltop accommodations.
In conclusion, Sittong beckons travelers seeking solace in nature's embrace and authentic cultural experiences. Plan your visit to this hidden gem and explore amidst the pristine beauty of Darjeeling's countryside.
