Namthing Pokhari – Darjeeling offbeat places
Namthing Pokhari – Tourist attraction in Selpu Khasmahal, West Bengal – Hidden gems near Darjeeling – Escape the Crowd: Offbeat Destinations Around Darjeeling.
Here’s a guide to Namthing Pokhari (also spelled Namthing Pokhri or Pokhari), an enchanting offbeat destination near Darjeeling in the Shelpu (Latpanchar) area of Kurseong:
📍 What & Where
- 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.
🌿 Why Visit
- 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
📸 Highlights & Nearby Spots
- Ahaldara Viewpoint: Just up the hill—offers panoramic sunrise views over Kanchenjunga and surrounding valleys.
- Latpanchar region: Includes Latkothi (a colonial-era bungalow), cinchona plantations, and bird trails
- Sitong & Sarsari Dara: Nearby orange orchards and viewpoints accessible via short drives.
🛤️ How to Get There
- By road: About 2 hrs from Siliguri/NJP via Kalijhora–Sitong–Latpanchar; the route passes through wildlife sanctuary forests
- By vehicle: Reachable via private taxi, shared jeep, or a rented bike—curvy but scenic roads .
- On foot: Some prefer a morning trek from Latpanchar village (Selpu) to the lake.
🕰️ Best Time to Visit
- Monsoon to early autumn (Jul–Oct): Lake is fullest; greenery and wildlife at their peak .
- Winter to spring (Nov–Mar): Lake may dry, but misty beauty and birdlife still draw visitors .
🌞 Sample Itinerary
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| Morning | Depart Darjeeling/Siliguri → Midway stop at Sitong orchards |
| Mid-morning | Arrive Latpanchar → Ascend to Ahaldara Viewpoint → Lake walk |
| Afternoon | Picnic by the lake, watch birds & salamanders, nature stroll |
| Late noon | Explore cinchona trail → Return via Latkothi or Mahananda Sanctuary zone |
📝 Travel Tips
- Permits: No fee, but avoid disturbing salamanders—no swimming or bathing
- Footwear: Wear sturdy trekking shoes—trail can get muddy or uneven
- Guidance: Hire a local guide to enhance bird-watching/preservation awareness and avoid protected zones.
- Stay nearby: Latpanchar or Sitong offers basic homestays, forest cottages, and camping sites—ideal for early arrival.
✅ Why You Should Go
Namthing Pokhari offers a blissful escape—complete with quiet forests, an ecological marvel, rare wildlife sightings, and untouched Himalayan charm. It’s a perfect day trip (or overnight trek) for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those looking to unplug from mainstream tourism.
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