Simana , Tumling & Sandakphu

Simana village, nestled amidst the serene hills of Darjeeling district, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling tourist hubs. Its name, meaning “border” in Nepali, aptly reflects its location along the Indo-Nepal border, providing stunning, unobstructed views of the Kanchenjunga range. This remote village, often overlooked by mainstream tourism, retains an authentic Himalayan charm, characterized by its simple lifestyle and close-knit community. The residents, primarily of Nepali origin, engage in traditional agricultural practices, cultivating terraced fields that cascade down the slopes. The air is crisp and clean, and the silence is broken only by the gentle sounds of nature and the occasional chime of prayer flags fluttering in the breeze.

Tumling, a small, picturesque village nestled within the Singalila National Park on the Indo-Nepal border, offers a tranquil and breathtaking Himalayan experience. Situated at an altitude of approximately 9,600 feet, it serves as a popular stopover for trekkers embarking on the Sandakphu trek, providing a serene haven amidst the rugged terrain. The village’s charm lies in its panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range, which stretches majestically across the horizon, painting a stunning backdrop to the simple village life.

Sandakphu, perched at an altitude of 11,941 feet, is the highest peak in West Bengal, India, and a trekker’s paradise. Its fame rests on the unparalleled panoramic views it offers of some of the world’s tallest mountains. From this vantage point, one can witness a breathtaking 180-degree vista, including four of the five highest peaks: Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu, collectively known as the “Sleeping Buddha” due to their resemblance to a reclining deity. The trek to Sandakphu is an adventure through the Singalila National Park, a biodiversity hotspot teeming with rare flora and fauna, including the elusive red panda.