August 30th, 2010
Barsey Trek: Explore the Hidden Treasure of North East India (Part II)
Trekking in this region is simply unforgettable. Barsey trek is all about forgetting worldly troubles and enjoying the spectacular landscape. The scenic trail passing through the forests of rhododendron has captivated the trekkers from all over the world. It is the spiritual joy that one finds alluring and it is this pleasure that has made them keep coming back to Barsey, North East India.
The route from Hilley to Barsey is through the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. You need to get entry permit from the wild life check post located just at the entry point of the sanctuary. The rates are as follow:
Indians – Rs. 25/- per head
Foreigners – Rs. 50/- per head
Porter or guide – Rs. 10/-
Tent pitching – Rs. 25/-
Still camera – Rs. 10/-
Video camera – Rs. 500/-
Movie camera – Rs. 2000/-
The Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary spans over the Singalila Range. The 2 hour journey through the sanctuary will be a wonderful memory to cherish for time to come. If you want to see the riot of colors the month of March and April will be ideal for you. This is the season when the Rhododendrons are in full bloom. On your way you may come to see unknown colorful birds. The silence of the forest evokes a sense of eerie and serenity and the same time.
At the end of the 4km trek you can take shelter in Gorus Kunj, the only trekker’s hut situated at Barsey. Nestled amidst of the forest, overlooking Mt. Kanchenjunga the trekker’s hut offers comfortable accommodation. The peaceful ambiance, the lush greenery around and the magnificent view of Kanchenjunga are reason enough to stay in Barsey for a couple of days.
You can come down to Hilley from Barsey or follow a separate descending route to Soreng, a small town in West Sikkim. The way to Soreng is through dense forest. You will also come across a small picturesque village named Buriakhop.
From Soreng you can hire a car and come directly to NJP or Bagdogra. Many people also prefer staying at Jorethang (a popular town of West Sikkim) for a day and do a little shopping and catch their train or flight the next day.
Barsey trek with all its sweet memories will be a life time experience.




