Sumbuk

Sumbuk is one of the most unexplored destinations of Sikkim with astounding flora and fauna located in the Southern district of Sikkim. Close to Namchi Sumbuk is divided into two parts. Lower Sumbuk with an altitude of 1,500 ft is covered with temperate forest and is a good place for watching birds like peacocks, hornbills etc. Upper Sumbuk is located at an altitude of 7,000 ft and is rich with endless stretches of pine forests and firs. Together Sumbuk became a paradise-like destination with Pine forests, Gladiolas farms, Monasteries, almost 200 species of birds, countless butterflies and the Greater Rangit River.

Attractions and Activities to Do in the Village

Your first destination should be the peacock breeding forest at Lower Sumbuk. Pay a visit to Sumbuk Shivalaya (Temple of lord Shiva) while visiting Kolomple Rocky Mountain. The viewpoint offers you many overlooking parts of West Bengal and Sikkim. From there now is a time to move towards Upper Sumbuk driving for an hour. To witness varieties of Rhododendron, Wild Orchids, Pines, and Wild Strawberries visit Mungram village also popularly known as Phool Dnara (The hilltop of flowers) situated at an altitude of 7,000 ft. Numerous Gladiolas farms, a few age-old temples and the bank of river Rangit make this place uniquely different from other spots.

Above Phool Dnara is located Tamley Chaur, the place is covered with pines, ferns, rhododendrons, cinnamons and wild strawberries and also offers you breathtaking scenic views. A lake named Tamley Pokhri is another attraction of this place. Mt. Kanchenjungha with its majestic style is visible from the natural viewpoint of Upper Sumbuk. Sikkim's only designated Bird sanctuary Kitam Bird Sanctuary is located in the adjacent area of Lower Sumbuk. Guided Bird-watching trips are available. Enjoy the forest ambience and spot the birds with the help of the guide.

Don't forget to visit the nearby village Sadam famous for its geological wonder. A 1,000 ft long ridge known as Tarey Bhir with an abrupt drop of 3,500 ft is situated here. You can walk along the ridge by brushing your sight on Rangit, Teesta, Darjeeling, Tendong Hill, Nathula or Kanchenjungha.

Accommodation Facilities in Sumbuk

Being an offbeat destination, visitors will only get one type of accommodation option, which is homestay. The homestays here run by the locals offer a homely atmosphere and serve delicious foods made from locally sourced vegetables and chickens. Every kind of basic amenities is there such as attached western bathrooms, comfortable beds, electricity, etc. A tour package including Sumbuk offered by North Bengal Tourism will always come with neat and clean accommodation.

How to Reach the Village

By Flight- The nearest airport to this village is located at Bagdogra named Bagdogra International Airport (IXB). The approximate distance between them is 77 kilometres via NH 10.

By Train- This village's nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP). You can easily board a train to this railway station anywhere from India as it is one of the most connected railway stations in West Bengal. The approximate distance between them is 68 kilometres.

By Road- One can easily reach Sumbuk from Namchi as it is just 25 kilometres driving distance away. Siliguri is also just a 100-kilometre away that takes around 3 hours to cover. A rented car can be hired anywhere from NJP, Bagdogra, Siliguri or even Namchi to reach the village.

Best Time to Visit Sumbuk

Even though Sumbuk can be visited at any time of the year, it is ideal for visiting the village from March to May when the gorgeous rhododendrons are in full bloom and the weather is serene and comfortable. During these months, you will also be able to witness a plethora of migratory birds. So, don't wait, plan your Sumbuk Tour Now.