Ever seen any place which makes you say, “To hell with everything, let’s live here forever!?” Never?
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Reshikhola, a paradise unexplored |
Well, then you should definitely visit Reshikhola – the beautiful valley resting on the bank of River Reshi near Kalimpong in the Darjeeling district of North East India. Apparently, the land earns its name from the river. ‘Khola,’ on the other hand, is a Nepali word for ‘stream.’
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By the River Reshi |
About the place:
The valley with the rock strewn river and its gurgling waters separates the state of West Bengal from Sikkim. It lies in the midst of dense forests, cold, calm, fresh, and serene. In fact, to reach the riverbanks you will need to trek your way through the forests downhill. Isn’t that thrilling?
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Setting step in a heaven, enjoying the beautiful Reshikhola |
Somehow, it reminds us in every way of a typical Yash Chopra movie location.
Activities:
It’s an ideal escape from the humdrum city, or in Thomas Hardy’s words, ‘far from the madding crowd.’ It’s where you can birdwatch, take a dip in the cool river waters, indulge in angling, try your hand at photography, enjoy a bonfire, relish barbecued meat, go hiking, set up a tent for a night’s stay, and do so many amazing things! The land is full of scope for fun lovers.
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Enjoying Camp Fire at Reshikhola |
Accommodation:
The biggest luxury is the series of cottages that are on the river banks. If you are wishing for the comfort of traditional hotels in Reshikhola, you better not visit it, because there is none.
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Savoring the Awesomeness of Reshikhola |
The accommodation facilities are all eco-resorts with basic amenities, but very cozy rooms. Dining spaces are available and the food is awesome.
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Reshi River Resort |
How to reach Reshikhola:
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Enjoying the Sun at Reshikhola |
The place is a four hour cab ride, both from New Jalpaiguri, the nearest railway station, and Bagdogra, the nearest airport. A few kilometers ahead lies the beautiful little village of Rongli, which is the heart of East Sikkim.
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The trek uphill |
From there, you can plan a visit to Dzuluk, view the Old Silk Route and then proceed to the snow-clad Gnathang Valley.
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Ready for the Dzuluk-Gnathang Trip |
Best time to visit:
Avoid visiting Reshikhola during the rainy season. Summers are the best time, and Winters are equally enjoyable.
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Finally our chauffeur has arrived. Off to Dzuluk now! |
Visit this mesmerizing heaven; discover Nature at its very raw!