Okhrey Sikkim

In the Indian State of Sikkim, Okhrey is one of the fascinating offbeat destinations situated at an altitude of 7200 feet. A village consists of just a few households of Sherpas and Bhutias, all it offers are intense serenity, natural beauties, and vibrant floras as well a thrilling view of the mighty Himalayan range. Known as the gateway of Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, it is located 110 km away from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim and about 145 km away from the main town of Siliguri. Besides being a paradise for bird watchers, let's see what Okhrey in West Sikkim has to offer to its delighted visitors.

Attractions in and around Okhrey Sikkim

Being far from the clutch of urbanisation and the tourist rush, Okhrey is a sleepy hamlet amidst the lush green vegetation. The tourist attractions you will get to see here are as follows.

• Okhrey is the base of Hilley and Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. You will have a magnificent view of the Mount Kanchenjunga while touring Hilley from Okhrey.
• There is another scenic hamlet just a little above the hilly terrain of Okhrey named Latitar.
• Placed at the hilltop of the village, Ugen Thon Meon Ling monastery is one of the major attractions here. There is also a school and both of them is run by a Tibetan Monastery.
• Adjacent tourist attractions and sightseeing places like Sai Temple in Daramdin which is 28 km away from Okhrey, Jureli Dara View Point, Anden Olong Monastery, etc. can be visited.
• The blooming rhododendrons covering most of the village during the months of March to May.

Things to Do in and around Okhrey

Trekking, Birding, nature walking etc are the major activities to do in and around Okhrey. Visitors usually drive 10 km to Hilley from Okhrey to start their thrilling Hilley - Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary trek through the 4 km long trekking trails.

Bird watching is the activity Bird Enthusiasts would certainly love. The luxuriant forest surrounding the village host vibrant Himalayan Birds that can be seen flying in the sky. Strolling around the village to get to know the lifestyles and tradition of the villagers is a worth doing activity. However, just reading your favourite novel and having a cup of tea in the homestay while enjoying the serenity of nature is going to be a memorable activity too.

How to Reach Okhrey Sikkim

Okhrey, being an offbeat destination can only be accessible by road. Cars are available to hire from Siliguri, NJP, Bagdogra as well as Gangtok. NJP is about 130 km distance away. Hence, board a train to NJP and have 5 hours journey to Okhrey after hiring a taxi from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. The route from Bagdogra Airport or NJP is beside River Teesta till Teesta Bazar next to Jorethang and Sombaria. After crossing Teesta Bazar, the route will be along the River Rangeet.

Staying Options in the Village

Only Homestays can be availed for a comfortable night stay here at the village. All these homestays provide all the basic amenities a traveller usually seeks. They are equipped with attached western bathrooms, room heaters and even geysers.

Idle time to Visit Okhrey in Sikkim

Even though Okhrey can be visited at any time of the year, October to January is considered to be the best time to visit the hamlet as the magnificent views of Mt. Kanchenjungha can be seen with its full glory. However, to relish the beauty of the blooming rhododendrons, March to April is the best time.