LAVA - LOLEGAON........THE ANOTHER WORLD

LAVA

LAVA is a small thorp situated 34 kilometres (21 miles) east of the town of Kalimpong in Darjeeling District of the state of West Bengal, India. Easiest way to reach there is to start journey from Siliguri by rented car. You can share the Treckers upto Kalimpong. There is only one airport in Bagdogra to reach Siliguri. In railway your station is New Jalpaiguri to reach Siliguri.

LOLEGAON (LOLEYGAON)

Lava is situated at an altitude of 7016 feet (2138 Mtrs). It is one of the few places in West Bengal to enjoy snow fall in winter. It is the entry point to te Neora Valley National Park from Kalimpong. The route to Lava is scenic with the change in vegetation from tropical deciduous to the wet alpine trees of Fir, Pine and Birch. The verdant forests are a popular spot for picnic, trecking and bird-watching. Lava has now become a favorite tourist destination and tourism has become the source of living for the inhabitants. It is also famous for it’s proximity to the Neora Valley National Park and its beautifull view of the Jelep la and Rechi la Passes. Common tourist place around lava include Ratnarishi Gumpha, Neora Lake, Silviculture Research centre and Chhangey Falls. Treks to the Neora valley starts from Lava. Apart from long treks across the valley, small treks are also possible in the region. Common treks include trek to Tiffin Dara, Aluabari etc. A spectacular view of the Himalayan Snow will take you to a different World. LOLEGAON (LOLEYGAON) offers panoramic view of the Kanchanjhanga. The tranquility of the surrounding area remains unfazed by the increase in tourist influx. Nearby places like Hilltop, Jhandi Dara offers beautifull views at sunrise.

KANCHANJUNGA VIEW FROM LAVA

Accomodation for tourists is available at both places in Forest Department Rest Houses. Many small Guest Houses and Lodges has been built including log houses or small huts built in the midst of the forest which you can rent to experience the Wildlife and a famous spot to view the sunrise. Another tourist destination near Lava is RISHYAP, just 4 kms walking pathway with a view of Himalayan Peaks. Wild animals such as the Himalayan Black Deer and Barking Deer are found in these parts. A Buddhist Monastery is present on one of the hills of Lava. Notable sites include Chhangey Waterfalls and Lava Jamgyong Kongtrul Monastery.

The ideal time to visit is anytime except the monsoons (July-August). Suggested clothing is light woolen clothes in summer and warm clothes in winter. A foldable handy Umbrella may be usefull.

So, welcome to Lava, Lolegaon (Loleygaon, at Dooars.