|  Loleygaon
/ Lolegaon
One of the least trodden hamlets in the hidden
Kalimpong hill Lolegaon is a stunning
offbeat tourist destination. If you are looking for a break
from the modernized travel destinations and want to spend few
leisurely days in the vast natural canvas thrown open before
you, Lolegaon is the best bet. Nestled atop of a flat hill on
a forested ridge at an altitude of 5500ft Loleygaon / Lolegaon
is a place of ethereal wilderness and tranquility.
Basically a small Lepcha village
also known as Kafer, Lolegaon is a recent inclusion in tourism
map of West Bengal for its magnificent view of Greater Himalayan
snow ranges over the entire horizon. Viewing sunrise over the
snow peaks from Jhandidara - a wooded hilltop - is perhaps the
most treasured memory of being at Loleygaon. In a clear day
all major peaks of Kanchenjunga massif can be seen from Jhandidara.
Even the glorious Mt Everest can be seen from Jhandi Dara (Jhandi
= Flag, Dara = Top) as your eyes sweep across the layers of
mountains and valleys and reach at the distant corner, where
the highest peak in the world is touched by the first rays of
the Sun.
 Loleygaon
is a fabulous destination for the lovers of wildlife in their
natural habitat. The age-old forest of towering pine, cypress
and oaks with their mossy trunk is an ideal place for watching
endangered Himalayan species like black bear and mountain goats,
numerous colourful birds and butterflies and rare orchids. The
Heritage Forest at 10 minutes walking distance is the place
to feel the exquisite wealth that nature has showered here.
The recently built wooden hanging foot bridge over the canopy
of the huge trees is a special attraction. Popularly known as
'The Canopy Walk' it offers an unforgettable experience, which
allows you to get close to the trees.
Lolegaon offers some exciting short treks
in the remote kalimpong hills. A day trek to Samthar or Relly
in the unseen lower Himalayas can be a real opportunity to know
the different aspects of lives in Indian countryside.
 Accessibility:
Loleygaon can be reached from Siliguri
with a 4 hrs drive covering 124kms via Kalimpong and Lava.
Kalimpong, the nearest town, is
55kms from Loleygaon. One can also visit lava, Rishap, kalimpong
based in here.
Hotel accommodation in Loleygaon
Being a small place there is not much option of good hotels
in Loleygaon. However the government
run Wilderness Resort spread over a hill slope overlooking
the snow peaks is the best place offering cozy and comfortable
stay. |
