Mountain lovers, we have great news for you! There’s a new viewpoint in Darjeeling to savour unparalleled views of Kanchenjunga. If you’ve visited Darjeeling, you’d be well aware of the iconic Tiger Hill. It’s eminently known amongst trekkers and tourists for offering splendid views of Mount Everest and Mount Kanchenjunga together during sunrise. On your next trip to the hill station in West Bengal, you can skip Tiger Hill for the newly opened Rachela Peak. Let’s tell you why.
Rachela Peak Viewpoint Offers Stunning View Of Kanchenjunga
As per a report by millennium post, the forest department has opened a new gem for tourists seeking unparalleled views of Kanchenjunga. Rachela Peak sitting at an altitude of 10,000 feet in Neora Valley National Park is a newly developed viewpoint now open for tourists. It promises a more serene and breathtaking view of Kanchenjunga than Tiger Hill.
This mountain peak is perched at the tri-junction of West Bengal, Sikkim and Bhutan. At Rachela Peak, tourists can view the famous ‘Sleeping Buddha’ an iconic formation of the Kanchenjunga, for which tourists travel from India and foreign lands. So, how can you reach this viewpoint? The journey to Rachela Peak begins at Lava, it’s a paved road that take you to the Neora North Range Office.
From there, visitors will travel down a 4 km-long forest path to the viewpoint. Make note that the access is currently limited to a trial basis. But with time, the forest department will formally inaugurate the new viewpoint. After the inauguration, tourists can soak in superior views of the Kanchenjunga as compared to the widely known Tiger Hill in Darjeeling. Day-visit tickets to the viewpoint are priced at ₹50 per person and charges for vehicles will be announced shortly.
Head To Neora Valley National Park In Darjeeling
Dwija Pratim Sen, Divisional Forest Officer of the Gorumara Wildlife Division revealed to millennium post about the impact of the opening of the new viewpoint on the ecosystem. He said that the Rachela viewpoint is developed outside the core area to make sure there is minimal impact on the ecosystem. Raja Routh, Jalpaiguri Science and Nature Club Secretary stressed the importance of balancing tourism and conservation. He said that Neora Valley houses diverse and rare flora and fauna. This includes the Royal Bengal Tigers.
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The best part about heading to Rachela Peak is exploring the region’s rich biodiversity. Visitors can travel across the safe wildlife corridors and spot Himalayan bears, tigers and elephants in the core areas. This is apart from soaking in the stunning view of Kanchenjunga.
So, when are you heading to Rachela Peak?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro (Picture used for representation)
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