Sidrapong and Its Hydel Power Station - Complete Travel Guide

Merely 12 km driving distance away from the main town of Darjeeling and nestled on the foothills of Arya Tea Estate, Sidrapong is a place known for its Hydro-Electric Power Station. Built-in the year 1897, Sidrapong Hydel Power Station or Sidrapong Hydroelectric Power Station is the oldest in India as well as among the oldest in entire Asia. Surrounded by the hills covered with lush greenery, Sidrapong is a village all about tranquility and the natural beauty.

Sidrapong has a rich history to tell. The British was the first who discovered the potential of a Hydel Power Project here. However, they had to obtain permission from the Maharaja of Bardhaman, who owned the tea garden in Sidrapong at the time before builing the power plant. The British negotiated with the Maharaja and were eventually granted permission to build the power plant.

At first, the capacity of the power plant was 130 kW but due to the heightened demands in the follwoing years, the total capacity of the station raised from 130 kW to 1000 kW. When the West Bengal State Electricity Board (WBSEB) took over the Darjeeling Electric Supply Undertaking on January 30, 1978, it took over Sidrapong Hydel Power Station too. The power plant had been functioning successfully until the early 1990s, when it was proposed that the aged power station be transformed into a heritage site.

Residents of Sidrapong, Risheehat, Arya, and Bloomfield formed a committee in 2003 to try to resurrect the power plant. In 2014, the Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA) was awarded Rs 8 crore by the central government for the restoration of this historic site. Out of the three turbines of this power plant that have been erected, only one is currently producing power.

What to See in and around Sidrapong

Sidrapong Hydel Power Station or Sidrapong Hydroelectric Power Station is the major attraction here. The century old wooden bridge adds more charm to this place. Along with visiting Sidrapong, you can explore all the major attractions in Darjeeling as it is merely 12 km driving distance away. The notable sightseeing attractions you will get to see in Darjeeling are Tiger Hill, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Batasia Loop, Peace Pagoda, and more.

How to Reach Sidrapong

By Air: Bagogra Aiport is the only nearby airport of Sidrapong. So, you have to first board a flight to Bagdogra Airport and upon landing, rented car is the only option to reach there.

By Road: Sidrapong may be reached via two distinct ways from Darjeeling via the Arya Tea Estate, which requires a drive up to the tea estate which is 6 kilometres from Darjeeling and then a three-kilometer hike to the Sidrapong. Another option is to go through the Bloomfield tea factory, which is 11 kilometres away, and then walk through a gravelled path to Sidrapong.

By Train: New Jalpaiguri Junction is the major nearby railway station to Sidrapong. Board a train to this railway stationa nd once you reach, all you have to do is rent a car.

However, if you opt for North Bengal Tourism's Darjeeling Tour Package including Sidrapong, you will be getting all the required amenities such as pick-up, drop, sightseeing and accommodation for a memorable holiday.

Best Time to Visit Sidrapong Hydel Power Station

Apart from the season of Monsoon, due to the frequent landslide and muddy roads, one can safely visit Sidrapong Hydel Power Station at any time of the year. The lush greenery and the serene ambiance will welcome you no matter when you visit this splendid heritage site. Don't wait! Call now to let us plan a great Sidrapong tour itinerary for you.