Reshikhola

Reshikhola or Rishikhola is located at the foothills of the Himalayan mountain range of the Kalimpong sub-division of Darjeeling district. It is just 35 k.m. away from Kalimpong town and has become one of the most favoured places among the travellers. It's an off-beat spot where nature truly plays as it is the home of it. Travel enthusiasts are often keenly interested in a riverside camping as it has some discrepant essence. Camping in the bank of a river which is situated at the height of 2000 ft. above the sea level is like day dreaming for many avid travellers.

In Nepali language "Khola" means a small stream. The abode Reshi is enriched by the river and named after it. Reshikhola divides the two states Sikkim and West Bengal topographically so it has a quite good significance geographically too. The river is surrounded by the large lush green Himalayan forest range and mountains.

Places to Visit in Reshikhola

As Reshikhola is situated at the border of both the states it has to offer the views of the Himalayan valleys, snow-capped mountain ranges, pine forest and many more countless tourist places nearby. They are mentioned below.

• Aritar: Aritar is a small peaceful hamlet which is famous for the possession of the well-known Aritar Lake or Lampokhari Lake. One can have a little fun by boating on it. Apart from the lake, there are more places to visit like Lingsay Monastery and the Old British bungalow.
• Pedong Monastery: Pedong in Kalimpong is one of the oldest towns in Old Silk Route circuit. The Pedong Monastery is a divine place for the monks. The carved paintings of the monastery are simply wondrous. The monastery is a Buddhist origin. Built in the year 1837 the monastery is located near the well-known Damsang Fort.
• Sillery Gaon: Just a couple of kilometres or an hour drive will lead towards an amazing eco-village Sillery Gaon. Mesmerizing views of the snow-clad mountain, beautiful valleys will blow one's mind. The unorthodox village located just 8 k.m. away from Pedong. The place has been tagged as New Darjeeling by the avid tourists for its untouched beauty. The hamlet has some mesmerizing viewpoints like Ramitey Dara and Tinchuley point and from both the point the splendid view of Mt. Kanchendzonga will dazzle your eyes.

Activities to Do in and around Reshikhola

Having a tremendous environment of picnic, camping promotes this place a lot. One can have camping with a bonfire and the sizzling moment with barb-e-Que. Trekkers are intended to have a short trek at Reshikhola. Pitch the tent near the bank of the river and get bewildered by the streak of the beauty of nature.

The enriched forest has something very precious to offer to the travellers, various types of birds are sighted here. Himalayan Bulbul, White Capped Water Red Start, Green Magpie, Great Barbet and lot more varieties of birds can be sighted here. This has caused an increment of temptation among bird enthusiasts.

How to reach the Village

From New Jalpaiguri Railway Station to Reshikhola is about 105 k.m. and from Bagdogra, it is 120 k.m. approximately. One can hire a cab directly towards Reshikhola through the tour planner on prior booking. First to reach Kalimpong and from there few kilometres downward will lead to the destination.

Where to Stay in this Village

There are many resorts available over there in Reshikhola. Presently few farmhouses, retreats and cottages are also settling up due to its high demand among the tourist community. These resorts or home stays are pretty good to accommodate oneself. It's hygienic and clean and provides all sort of basic needs like modern bathrooms, electricity, comfortable bedrooms and home-made delicious food.

Best Time to Visit Reshikhola

Visiting Rishikhola on summer will be the wise decision. The heavenly blooming Rhododendron will fascinate one who can appreciate it. It's the ideal time to visit in Reshikhola. Winter remains quite cold as because the altitude is high in nature. In winter it is more of a paradise for off-beat wanders. But to avoid monsoon will be a good idea.