Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary

Location
The Versey or Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is situated in Western Sikkim in Singalila Range forming a natural border with Nepal in The West. The sanctuary also borders the State West Bengal from Sikkim in the south by Rambong Khola stream. The entire sanctuary is spread over 104 sq. km, across the Singalila Range. The Varsey Sanctuary can be reached from three points, Hilley, Dentam and Soreng. The most popular entry is Hilley since it is approachable by road and Varsey is only 4 Kms trek from this point through the beautifully laid gravel path shaded by different species of rhododendron.

Attraction and landscape:
Situated at the elevation between 6300 ft and 12000ft the sanctuary is a home to several species of Rhododendron, Primula, Magnolia, oaks and pine. The entire region is covered with dense primitive forest and most of the part is still unexplored. The sanctuary is also famous for rare Himalayan species like Red Panda and Black Bear. The Varsey sanctuary is a popular offbeat trekking destination in Sikkim. The nearest road head is Hilley from where it is only 1hr trek through the beautiful rhododendron forests. From Varsey one can take an adventurous trek route to Phalut in Darjeeling via Gorkhey.

Accommodation:
The only accommodation in Varsey is available in a beautiful Trekker's hut ' Guras Koonge'. Nestled at the top of an oval shaped hill amidst the Rhododendron forests at 10,000 feet, the Trekkers' hut commands a magnificent panorama of the snow peaks of Singalila Range. The great Kunchenjungha peak beyond the waves of lush virgin rhododendron forest forms an unforgettable landscape. The hut provides dormitory facility with bedding for trekkers. Cooked food is also available.

Climate:
Varsey sanctuary having an altitude of over 10,000ft witnesses a prevailing wet and cold climate in most of the year. This climate favors the growth of alpine forest predominantly oaks, magnolia and rhododendron. The wettest month is July. The sanctuary receives an annual precipitation of 250 cm. The upper ridges in the sanctuary receive regular snowfall during winter between December and February. The best time to visit the sanctuary is between November and May when the skies remains clear with best mountains view. April and May sees the sanctuary blooming with rhododendron flowers.

Forests
Buxa TR
Chilapata
Gorumara NP
Jaldapara NP
Mahananda WLS
Neora NP

Places in Dooars
Alipurduar
Bindu
Coochbehar
Jalpaiguri
Mongpong
Rongo
Samsing

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