Tonglu and Tungling

Tonglu: Situated at an altitude of 10,130 ft Tonglu is a small settlement on the way to Sandakphu from Manebhanjan in Darjeeling district. This is the favourite place for the trekkers en route Sandakphu to take their first night halt. Actually it is a peak of Singalila ridge earlier during 17th century known as Mt. Tonglo. You can come by a vehicle up to Meghma from there take an hour trek to cover 2 km distance to reach Tonglu. The uphill climb takes unusually extra time to walk as the last stretch of the trekking trail is quite steep. Though the next point Tumling 2 km away from Tonglu is a quick descend. During April-May you can spot Rhododendrons welcoming you on your way. The view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other snow-capped mountain of Eastern Himalayas is really breathtaking. Just look downwards and you may trace Koshi River on a clear day. The landscape will heal your pain to reach here for sure. From here during night lights of Darjeeling and Kurseong is visible.

Tumling: If you don't want to stay at night at Tonglu or else wants to avoid steep trekking Tumling is your perfect option. At 9,600ft altitude Tumling is small sleepy hamlet on the way to Sandakphu. From 13 km far Manebhanjan four wheel drive vehicles old land-rovers will take almost 2 hours to reach Tumling. At the centre of this hamlet the grand view point is situated. You will get breathtaking panoramic view of snow-capped landscape including Mt. Kanchenjunga and the peak of Sandakphu. 1 km away is the entry point of Singalila National Park. Tumling is basically part of Nepal though there is no restriction to visit this place. There are no clear demarcations of the border are present. The fluttering of Buddhist prayer flags adds another dimension in the ambience.