TravelTrails
Escape to Jaldhaka: Nature, solitude, and adventure in the Dooars Region
This place is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts
This place is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts
Published
1 year agoon
By
Harshita Das
Set at 1,500 feet above sea level, the Jaldhaka River Valley is a serene destination nestled in the Dooars region of West Bengal, just 99 kilometers from Siliguri. Originating in East Sikkim and flowing through the Bhutan-Bengal border, the Jaldhaka River carves its way through the valley, creating an idyllic escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The valley, part of Kalimpong’s lush subdivision, is bordered by the breathtaking Neora Valley National Park and offers mesmerizing views of Bhutan’s mountain range.

Jaldhaka’s charm lies in its untouched beauty and peaceful environment. Unlike typical tourist spots bustling with commercial establishments, Jaldhaka lacks flashy restaurants and shopping hubs. Instead, it offers simple guesthouses and homestays, allowing visitors to connect deeply with nature. The scenic village of Jhallong, situated along the banks of the Jaldhaka River, adds to the valley’s allure with its sweeping landscapes, rich cardamom plantations, and a diverse population of hill birds, making it a paradise for bird watchers.
For the adventurous, Jaldhaka offers hiking and trekking trails that wind through dense forests and around the riverside, providing visitors with ample opportunities to experience the beauty of the Dooars landscape. Camping by the river offers an immersive experience, where the sounds of nature replace the hum of city life. Night skies here, unspoiled by urban lights, reveal an awe-inspiring blanket of stars.
Surrounding Jaldhaka are small, charming villages surrounded by dense forests and plant nurseries. This quaint region, rich in biodiversity and scenic views, offers tourists a perfect getaway from the hectic pace of modern life. Ideal for nature lovers and solitude seekers, the Jaldhaka River Valley promises an unforgettable retreat into the heart of the Dooars.
Harshita is Assistant Editor at Apeejay Newsroom. With experience in both the Media and Public Relations (PR) world, she has worked with Careers360, India Today and Value360 Communications. A learner by nature, she is a foodie, traveller and believes in having a healthy work-life balance.