Offbeat Sittong, Simana & Dawaipani – Darjeeling, Mirik, Ahaldara

6-Day Offbeat Journey: Explore Sukhia Pokhari, Simana, Sittong & Dawaipani – Discover Darjeeling City, Mirik, Ahaldara & Many More. Trusted Guidance: Call 9883222335

For honest guidance and inquiries about any offbeat destination in the Darjeeling area, call 9883222335.

Embark on an unforgettable 6-day adventure through the hidden treasures of Darjeeling, Shittong, and surrounding areas. This offbeat journey takes you from scenic tea gardens to riverside picnics, village explorations, and serene sunrise views. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you explore this unique side of the Darjeeling hills.

Day 1: Pickup from Siliguri/NJP/Bagdogra to Simana or Sukhia Pokhari (via Mirik)

Pickup Location: Siliguri, NJP, or Bagdogra

Travel Distance: ~75 km

Estimated Travel Time: 3-4 hours (with stops)

On the Way Sightseeing:

Gopaldhara Tea Garden
As you head towards Sukhia Pokhari, your first stop is at Gopaldhara Tea Garden, where you can capture beautiful landscapes with the neatly aligned tea bushes stretching over rolling hills. This scenic spot is perfect for photography or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Mirik Lake
Mirik Lake offers a relaxing experience with the option of boating. Walk along the shore or sit by the lakeside to enjoy the cool breeze and serene setting. This picturesque lake, surrounded by pine trees, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Pashupati Market (Nepal Border)
A short stop at the Nepal border brings you to Pashupati Market. Here, you can browse local goods, from clothing to souvenirs, giving you a quick taste of Nepali culture.
Simana View Point
The Indo-Nepal border viewpoint provides stunning panoramic views of the valley below, with the mountains of Nepal in the background. Simana View Point is perfect for those looking to experience the Indo-Nepal border and capture some breathtaking shots.

Night Stay: Khaviyar Ashyana Homestay, Sukhia Pokhari or Any other Home Stay
Cost: 1,300 INR per head (includes lodging & food)

Day 2: Simana or Sukhia Pokhari to Dawaipani via Darjeeling Town

Travel Distance: ~40 km

Estimated Travel Time: 2-3 hours (with stops)

On the Way Sightseeing in Darjeeling:

Batasia Loop
This beautifully designed garden with a war memorial dedicated to Gorkha soldiers offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The spiral railway track adds a unique charm as it loops around the garden.
Ghoom Monastery
Ghoom Monastery, a peaceful place of worship, offers a chance to admire Tibetan Buddhist culture and see the beautiful 15-foot statue of Maitreya Buddha.
Darjeeling Zoo or Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre
Choose between a visit to Darjeeling Zoo, where you can spot Himalayan wildlife, or the Tibetan Refugee Self-Help Centre, known for its Tibetan handicrafts and cultural artifacts.
Darjeeling Mall Road
End your day by strolling along Darjeeling Mall Road, where you can shop for souvenirs or simply enjoy the street atmosphere.

Night Stay: Atithya Homestay, Lower Dawaipani or Any other Home Stay
Cost: 1,300 INR per head (includes lodging & food)

Day 3: Riverside Picnic and Village Tour

Activities:

River Rungdung
Start the day with a relaxing riverside picnic along the dry riverbed of River Rungdung. The sound of the flowing water and the surrounding greenery make it an ideal spot for unwinding and connecting with nature.
Hiking and Village Tour
Explore the village surroundings, learn about the local way of life, and interact with friendly villagers. The hike is relatively easy and provides a glimpse of traditional Himalayan culture.

Night Stay: Atithya Homestay, Lower Dawaipani or Any other Home Stay
Cost: 1,300 INR per head (includes lodging & food)

Day 4: Dawaipani to Sittong via Lamahatta

Travel Distance: ~25 km to Lamahatta, then 15 km to Shittong

Estimated Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours (with stops)

On the Way Sightseeing:

Lamahatta Eco Park
Lamahatta Eco Park, nestled amidst pine forests, offers a peaceful environment. You can hike up to the sacred pond, which provides scenic views of the mountains and valley. The park is dotted with colorful prayer flags, adding to the charm.

Night Stay: Titas Chhalamkyong Homestay or Anty Other Home Stay
Cost: 1,250 – 1,300 INR per head (includes lodging & food)

Day 5: Shittong Exploration with Ahaldara Sunrise

Activities:

Ahaldara Sunrise Viewpoint
Wake up early and head to Ahaldara Viewpoint for a breathtaking sunrise over the hills. As the sun rises, it illuminates the Himalayan range, creating an unforgettable view.
Orange Orchards
Shittong is known for its orange orchards, especially beautiful during the orange season. A visit to these orchards offers a refreshing experience, and you can even buy fresh, locally grown oranges if in season.
Sitong Church
Visit the quaint Sitong Church, located on a hilltop. This simple yet serene church is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful retreat.
Local Villages
Spend the rest of the day exploring Shittong’s local villages, where you can meet the locals, understand their way of life, and appreciate the stunning landscapes.

Night Stay: Titas Chhalamkyong Homestay or Anty Other Home Stay
Cost: 1,250 – 1,300 INR per head (includes lodging & food)

Day 6: Return to Siliguri via Kurseong

Travel Distance: ~65 km

Estimated Travel Time: 3-4 hours (with stops)

On the Way Sightseeing in Kurseong:

Makaibari Tea Estate
Tour the famous Makaibari Tea Estate, one of the oldest tea estates in the region, and learn about tea processing. This place is perfect for tea enthusiasts and those looking to purchase fresh Darjeeling tea.
Eagle’s Crag
Eagle’s Crag offers a spectacular view of the plains and hills. This viewpoint is ideal for some final photographs of the beautiful landscape before heading back.
Kurseong Church
Stop at Kurseong Church, a historical site with charming architecture, before ending your journey.