Hidden jewel tucked away in the Darjeeling hills, where time stands still and the magnificence of nature is king. Sittong, a small community nestled among lush greenery and rolling hills, greeted my family and me with open arms at the end of February. Our voyage to this exquisite resort was nothing short of spectacular, with breathtaking scenery, welcoming hospitality, and wonderful experiences.
Our journey started…
Good day, fellow travelers and adventurers! Today, I’m excited to tell you about the beautiful adventure my family and I took to the charming village of Sittong, hidden in the picturesque hills of Darjeeling. So sit back, relax, and allow me to transport you to Sittong – the Orange Valley, a citrus-scented heaven.
Our adventure began in mid-February, providing a much-needed break from the rush and bustle of daily life. With my examinations behind me, my parents and I enthusiastically left the bustling metropolis of Howrah, our hearts full of enthusiasm and expectation for the experiences that lay ahead.
As the sun set below the horizon, bathing the sky in orange and pink, we set out from Howrah for the tranquil refuge of Tista Torsha. By the time the first rays of dawn caressed the countryside, we had arrived at New Jalpaiguri, greeted by fresh morning air and the promise of new adventures.
Sittong
Our journey from New Jalpaiguri took us to the hidden treasure of Sittong, where we were greeted cordially by the Sherpa Homestay, our sanctuary between rolling hills and green valleys. The warmth shown to us was outstanding, and we felt quite at home in this serene setting. To our delight, a car greeted us, ready to transport us on our adventures.
As we traveled through Sittong’s twisting lanes, the countryside opened before us like a dream. Towering pine forests spoke ancient wisdom, while majestic hills stood watch over the valley below. But it was the brilliant orange orchards that actually stole our hearts, illuminating the countryside in golden sunlight.
Oh my goodness, the weather! It seemed as if nature had collaborated to provide the ideal setting for our journey. The fresh breeze carried the pleasant aroma of citrus, instilling serenity and joy in every moment.
Our visit in Sittong lasted two nights and three days, and every minute was filled with laughter, curiosity, and the basic delights of life. Whether it was eating freshly picked oranges, hiking through the verdant hills, or simply relishing in nature’s splendor, each event left an unforgettable impact on our hearts.
A Glimpse of Sittong’s Peaceful Ambience:
As soon as we reached Sittong, we felt an overwhelming sense of calm and relaxation that seems to be a part of the entire town. It’s like a breath of fresh air, allowing us to reconnect with nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle of our modern lives. It’s a wonderful place to unwind and recharge, don’t you think?
Explore Sittong’s Tea Gardens:
Let me share something interesting with you! Sittong is a beautiful place known for its vast tea fields. You can take a stroll among rows of vivid green tea bushes and inhale the revitalizing aroma of fresh tea leaves. It’s a perfect place to relax and unwind! You can even participate in tea plucking sessions to observe the delicate process of tea production firsthand. Wouldn’t that be amazing?
Beautiful Homestay Experiences:
Staying in traditional homestays allows you to experience Sittong’s welcoming hospitality. These comfortable accommodations provide a real peek into local life, along with wonderful homemade cuisine that tantalizes the taste senses while immersing you in Sittong’s rich cultural legacy.
Riverside retreat at Sittong-Khasmahal:
Sittong-Khasmahal, a calm riverside hideaway giving a tranquil respite, is a place to find consolation among the banks of the Riyang River. Whether you want a tranquil picnic, a moment of alone by the river, or simply to take in the calming atmosphere, this location provides restoration in nature’s embrace.
Trekking to Sittong Waterfalls:
For adventurers, Sittong’s surrounding woodlands are home to spectacular waterfalls waiting to be explored. Join a trekking adventure to discover secret cascades amidst lush flora, where the sight and sound of crystal-clear water tumbling over rocks will captivate you.
Witnessing Local Festivals and Culture:
Especially during Losar, the Lepcha New Year, immerse yourself in the lively culture of Sittong. Participate in exuberant festivities, traditional music, and colorful dances that highlight the region’s unique cultural tapestry and provide an insight into the community’s spirit and traditions.
Birdwatching in Sittong:
Sittong’s rich avian population is a birdwatcher’s dream. Grab your binoculars and set out on a birding adventure through lush forests, where rare and migratory birds dart among the trees, revealing glimpses of their bright plumage against the backdrop of tranquil surroundings.
Indulge in Local Delicacies
Without indulging in some of Sittong’s delicious food, a trip there is not complete. Savor the distinctive flavors and spices of traditional Lepcha dishes like momos, thukpa, and sel-roti, which all showcase the region’s culinary legacy.
Places to visit in sittong
- Ahaldara Viewpoint
- Namthing Pokhri (Lake)
- Jogighat Bridge
- Orange Garden
- Sittong Monastery
- Kiwi Garden and Chinchona Plantations
Ahaldara Viewpoint
The best spot to witness a magnificent dawn over the Himalayan ranges is from Ahaldara Viewpoint. At the top of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, it is located close to Latpanchar.
This location provides a broad perspective of the verdant valleys of green tea gardens and dense, thick pine forests. In between the valleys, you can also observe the Teesta River running. A 360-degree vista of the hills surrounding Gangtok to Kalimpong is also available from Ahaldara. From here, the magnificent Mt. Kanchenjunga is also visible.
Namthing Pokhri (Lake)
Namthing Pokhri is a tranquil lake close to Latpanchar, tucked away in the Shelpu hills. At 4,500 feet in elevation, it is a must-see location close to Sittong.
Misty clouds and pine forests envelop this location, lending it a mysterious aura. Several kinds of birds, butterflies, and plants can be seen around the lake. The habitat of the uncommon and endangered Himalayan salamanders is Namthing Pokhri’s most distinctive characteristic, though.
Jogighat Bridge
The 74-meter-long steel Jogighat Bridge, which links the villages of Mungpoo and Sittong, is located close to the Jogighat settlement. It crosses the Riyang Khola, a mountain stream that tumbles down the rugged landscape.
The bridge is made more beautiful and meaningful by the vibrant Buddhist flags that adorn it. 2015 saw the well-known yoga guru Baba Ramdev open it.
Orange Garden
Sittong’s orange groves are another attraction that draws visitors in on the sightseeing trip. This Sittong, sometimes called the Orange Village, gets its name from its many orange groves. Although the oranges you obtain here are smaller in size, they taste sweeter.
The combination of vibrant colors in the countryside makes it look pretty fascinating and is the ideal setting for appreciating the beauty and abundance of nature.
Sittong Monastery
Mostly constructed of mud and bamboo, Sittong Monastery dates back 350 years. Its plain appearance belies its rich history, and it is situated in Upper Ghalaytar (Sittong-I). Mana Monastery and Upper Ghaletar Longho Lepcha Buddhist Monastery are some more names for it.
It appears to be just a little cabin from the outside, but once entering, you will find exquisite interior decoration. A little idol of Lord Buddha is present together with idols of Buddhist deities. With roses, incense sticks, and prayers, the ambiance is serene and pleasant.
You can explore the interior of the monastery after leaving your shoes outside. From the area next to the monastery, you may also enjoy a breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga range.
You may get a taste of Sittong’s local way of life and spirituality at Sittong Monastery.
Kiwi Garden and Chinchona Plantations
Sittong is home to kiwi and cinchona plants in addition to orange farms.
Row cultivation and good upkeep are used to grow kiwi plants. Purple and blue hydrangeas embellish the plantation, adding to its natural charm. Views of a greenhouse with a variety of aerial and ground orchid species may be had within the plantation. It will be easy for you to learn about them because all of the names are given there. The lovely surroundings are palpable as you stroll around.
Consisting of several plantations, the Government Cinchona Plantation (GCP) near Sittong is well-known for its medicinal qualities. Their bark is used to make antimalarial quinine, one of the many therapeutic preparations that they are utilized for. Seeing the dense forest of trees with their vibrant green and scarlet leaves is quite amazing.
These are a few fascinating sites in Sittong worth visiting. If you are someone who enjoys being in nature, this is the place for you. You can find all the colors of the woods here.
In the end..
With its calm atmosphere, tea gardens, waterfalls, and diversity of cultures, Sittong provides the ideal escape from the bustle of the big metropolis. Sittong guarantees to make a lasting impression on your heart, regardless of your preferences for peace, adventure, or a cultural immersion. Arrange a trip to this undiscovered gem in Darjeeling and discover the reasons behind its serene charm.
As we bid farewell to Sittong, our souls were rejuvenated, our spirits uplifted, and our minds filled with memories to last a lifetime. Until we meet again, dear Sittong, may your orange orchards continue to bloom, and may your hills echo with the laughter of travelers from near and far.
