Bagdogra, the entry point to the rolling hills, tea estates, and rich culture of North Bengal, is full of popular spots like Darjeeling and Kalimpong around it. To explore these places, a rental car is the best option, as no other means of transport will be able to take you to these places due to the rugged terrain of these areas. Hire a car from any Bagdogra car rental service to explore these regions with ease. Here are five offbeat hill stations near Bagdogra worth a visit.
Lepchajagat
Hidden away mere 19 km from Darjeeling lies Lepchajagat, a peaceful village at 6,956 ft. ‘Lepchajagat’ literally translates to ‘the world of Lepchas’, the native inhabitants of this place. This tiny village is surrounded by pine forests dating back centuries, rhododendron blooms in full glory, and unbroken sight of the mighty Kanchenjunga.
There are no large hotels here, just rustic forest bungalows and homestays that make your stay intimate and close to nature. With walking trails through pine and oak groves, Lepchajagat is ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, and anyone looking for soulful solitude. This place will win your heart as it’s unlike all other hill stations.
Lamahatta
Less visited but just 23 km away from Darjeeling, Lamahatta is all about peace. The village is situated at 5,700 ft and is renowned for its immaculately groomed Lamahatta Eco Park with a watchtower and meandering trails through pine woods.
The term ‘Lamahatta’ is ‘monk’s hermitage’, and the serene atmosphere does justice to the name. Couples tend to travel to Lamahatta for its romantic forest strolls and serene picnic areas. The village is spread with homestays with views of the Kanchenjunga range. This offbeat location near Bagdogra is a perfect location for spending a day out with loved ones.
Kaffer Gaon (Kafer Village)
Moving on to Kalimpong district, you’ll find Kaffer Gaon, an under-rated location about 45 km from Kalimpong town, situated at around 5,500 ft. This offbeat village treats the eyes to stunning views of Neora Valley National Park and far-off snow peaks.
Kaffer Gaon is a perfect destination for nature and mountain lovers. You share your stay with loving local families in traditional homestays, taste fresh organic food, and witness the rising sun over rolling peaks. The peace is unbroken, no traffic jams, no people, just the rustle of bamboo and birdsong.
Pedong
Only 20 km from Kalimpong is the underrated hill station of Pedong, where history, culture, and nature all seamlessly blend together. The beautiful village was an important stop on the ancient Silk Route that linked India to Tibet.
Pedong has many heritage sites such as the 300-year-old Damsang Fort and the Cross Hill, a holy site with panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas. The village is surrounded by pine forests and agricultural land and has a laid-back atmosphere that encourages you to linger. You can hike to the surrounding villages, such as Sillery Gaon, for a full offbeat experience.
A Secret Paradise Awaits Near Bagdogra
Next time you take a flight to Bagdogra, try going to these off-the-beaten-path hill stations instead of the popular tourist spots. Get a cab from a trusted Bagdogra car rental service provider From Darjeeling’s foggy villages such as Lepchajagat, Tinchuley, and Lamahatta to Kalimpong’s secluded hideaways such as Kaffer Gaon and Pedong, each of them holds out the promise of peace, warm local hospitality, and the pleasure of exploring nature on your own terms. So, plan your trip to these wonderful hill stations today!
