10 Offbeat Places Near Darjeeling You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Scenic but lesser-known best offbeat places near Darjeeling
Skip the crowds and dive into the hidden corners of the Eastern Himalayas. These offbeat places near Darjeeling promise serene landscapes, local charm, and soulful experiences that mainstream spots can’t match.
1. Tinchuley
A quiet village just 32 km from Darjeeling, Tinchuley is all about orange orchards, tea gardens, and stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Stay in a homestay and soak in the peace.
Why Visit: Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.
2. Lamahatta
This eco-village is just 23 km from Darjeeling and is known for its manicured pine forests and meditation points with panoramic views.
Highlight: The Lamahatta Eco Park and romantic walking trails.
3. Takdah
Once a British cantonment, Takdah offers colonial-era charm, misty forests, and untouched tea estates.
Tip: Don’t miss the 100-year-old orchid center.
4. Bara Mangwa
Perched above the Teesta River, this tiny hamlet offers terraced farms, riverside views, and organic village life.
Best For: Agro-tourism and cultural immersion.
5. Tabakoshi
Hamlet & Tea Village: Nestled in the Rangbhang Valley at ~1,064 m (3,500 ft), Tabakoshi lies within the Gopaldhara Tea Estate and is surrounded by eight gardens like Gopaldhara, Siyok, Turzum, and Chamong.
Origin of Name: Derived from Nepali—“taba” (copper) + “koshi” (river)—named after the copper-brown Rangbhang River
Here’s a refined guide to Tabakoshi, a hidden offbeat gem near Darjeeling
6. Bijanbari
A sleepy riverside village about 30 km from Darjeeling, known for its lush valleys and untouched forests.
Ideal For: Camping, angling, and short treks.
7. Namthing Pokhari
Unique wildlife: One of the rare natural habitats for the Himalayan salamander (Tylototriton verrucosus)—a global conservation priority.
Serene beauty: Encircled by pine and cinchona forests, the mirror-like lake reflects lush greenery and misty hills—ideal for nature lovers.
Birding & biodiversity: Over 200 species of birds, including hornbills and many butterflies, thrive here
What it is: A small seasonal high-altitude lake at ~4,250–4,500 ft above sea level, known as a breeding ground for the endangered Himalayan salamander and a haven for varied bird species.
Location: Approximately 44 km from Siliguri and 40–45 km from Darjeeling, nestled in Shelpu Hills within the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary
8. Rimbik
Closer to the Singalila National Park, Rimbik is a trekker’s delight. It’s a gateway to Sandakphu but also great for staying put.
Don’t Miss: Local cuisine and river trails.
9. Srikhola
A tiny village on the banks of the Srikhola river, perfect for digital detox and nature therapy.
Pro Tip: Ideal stopover for Sandakphu trekkers looking for an off-route rest.
10. Bunkulung
A lesser-known village near Mirik, offering rural tourism with organic farming and scenic countryside.
Experience: Stay in a traditional farmhouse and enjoy slow-living.
🌿 Final Thoughts
These offbeat places near Darjeeling are perfect if you’re looking to skip the tourist traps and explore North Bengal at your own pace. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, these destinations offer a refreshing twist to the usual hill station holiday.
Contact below Expert Travel Agencies -any information about Cab booking and homestay booking.
Contact – DBS TRAVELS
www.siliguritravels.com
Email- travelsdbs@gmail.com
Call- +919434086128 / +919933435779
Tea village Tabakoshi offbeat home stay in Darjeeling overview reviews
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