Lungthung

Lungthung, also known as Dhupidhara is a calm hamlet with a fascinating viewpoint on the eastern part of Sikkim. Perched on the lap of the Himalayan ranges at the height of 12,500 ft. this serene state is a must-visit place for the entire Old Silk Route region. The exotic view of the Mt. Kanchendzonga on one side and the dazzling sharp hairpin bend loops of Zuluk on the other have surrounded Lungthung. The hilltop abode is such a fantastic point to spend time which gives an astonishing view of the entire eastern Himalayas.

Sightseeing Places in and around Lungthung

The Laxmi Chowk near Lungthung offers panoramic views of Kalimpong, Pedong, Lava and Algarah along with sub-Himalayan ranges. Laxmi Chowk is like a garden filled with Rhododendrons along with mosses, lichens and ferns growing in abundance. The stunning waterfall of Quekhola is one of the most splendid and most visited spots of this region. The sweet flavoured view of the water falling from the rugged and cracked gigantic rocks from the green lush mountain above with the golden rays of the sun on the water is so poetic that tourists often takes a halt and spends sometime around here.

Padamchen is another small village surrounded by the dense forest of the Himalayan range along with the snow-capped mountains. It is a quite popular tourist attraction because of its pleasant weather condition and the splendid views of the Mt. Kanchendzonga and the other mountain ranges from Lungthung Viewpoint. Dzuluk or Zuluk is a well-known tourist attraction near Lungthung. The viewpoints like Ganek and Thambi viewpoint in Zuluk offers astonishing views of the heavenly scenes of the great Himalayas and its marvellous snowy peaks which blow one's mind instantly.

A brilliant spectacle to be witnessed near this village is Kupup Lake. It is considered as the holy lake by the locals. As the lake resembles an elephant, so it is also known as the Elephant Lake. The fascinating part of the Kupup Lake is the Yak Golf Course which is the highest golf course in the world. Nathang Valley is a piece of paradise. The amazing valley with its mind-blowing picturesque landscape is one of the major sightseeing places near the village.

How to reach Lungthung

The New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the nearest railway stations whereas Bagdogra Airport is the option for the flights. One can book a car that would lead one directly to Lungthung which is around 150 kilometres or hiring a cab from the station and the airport is also available. By a shared cab one needs to change it in Rongli on a local taxi which would lead to Lungthung.

Best time to visit Lungthung

If one wants to enjoy the snow, January to April is the best time to visit Lungthung. During this time, the village remains entirely snow-clad and the only colour prevailing would be white where from July to September, a variety of flowers blooms here which emanate in a colourful picturesque landscape. During May and June and some of July Lungthung has to face the rains and remains foggy.

Where to stay in the Village

Lungthung is a remote place where the best possible way for accommodation is homestays. These homestays are very clean and hygienic. It provides all kind facilities like cosy beddings with comfortable rooms, western bathrooms, heaters to keep the rooms warm and all the other basic needs.

As the homestays are family-run shelters foods are also made in a homely nature. It is quite delicious and best part is all the vegetation are organic. The homestays are so familiar that one won't feel a home away state as the humbleness and behaviour of the people are very gentle.

Lungthung is a best definition of solitude. The mesmerizing snow-capped mountains, the lush valleys and the natural components are so delighting that one will have a feeling of staying in a garden of paradise.