Looking for a serene getaway in Bengal? Head to Lolegaon, a tiny hamlet that lies an hour away from Kalimpong and Lava. Also known as Kaffer, this peaceful village offers magnificent views of the Greater Himalayan snow ranges that spread over the entire horizon.
Lolegaon is pure bliss for tired eyes and the soul. Jhandi Dara, a view point, offers a panoramic view of the Himalayan range. Stand there gazing at the sun-kissed slopes, drinking in the serenity and beauty of the place. Sunset will turn the snow-capped pinnacles to molten gold, a view so beautiful that it is impossible to capture in words. On a clear day all major peaks of Kanchenjunga massif can be seen from here. If the weather permits, you can even see the glorious Mt Everest from Jhandi Dara.
Lovers of wildlife, rejoice! The Heritage Forest at Lolegaon with its age-old towering pines, cypress and oaks is an ideal cover for watching endangered Himalayan wildlife (such as black bear, mountain goats), and numerous migratory birds. The hanging foot bridge over the canopy of tall trees is a special attraction here. Popularly known as 'The Canopy Walk', these hanging bridges will help you get from one tree to another offering stunning views of the forests below from a height. Be warned, you might feel dizzy because of the height and the fact that the bridge keeps swinging.
Lolegaon also offers some exciting short treks in the remote Kalimpong hills of West Bengal. Trek up to the VIP Bungalow View Point early in the morning to enjoy amazing views of Kanchenjunga snow peaks as the Sun rises. A day trek to Samthar or Relly in the unseen lower Himalayas can be a real opportunity to know about the lives of people living in the countryside.