August 23rd, 2010
Barsey Trek: Explore the Hidden Treasure of North East India (Part I)
“If India was the Jewel in the Crown of the British Empire, the remote North East of that country is its Hidden Jewel”. – Tony Howard
North East India, the land of the Blue Mountains with Snow Caped Peaks and Green Valleys has delighted tourists from all over the world down the ages. Nested in the Himalayas, the Indian state of Sikkim is abundant in natural wonders and flora and fauna. Surrounded by Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet, Sikkim has been a melting pot of various cultures. Sikkim is not a haven for nature lovers but also for mountaineers and trekkers as this state has got various interesting trekking destinations and Barsey is one of them.
Barsey is located in the west district of Sikkim which offers the ultimate in adventure. The main attraction of Barsey trekking is the magnificent view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and thick Rhododendron forests. It is an easy trek and two to three days are enough for Barsey Trek.
If you are interested in exploring the natural beauty of West Sikkim while enjoying a little bit of adventure, Barsey trek will be ideal for you. Go through the quick facts below before you head out for the trip.
Quick Facts:
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra, West Bengal
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November
Days required: 2 days (up & down)
The starting point for Barsey trek is a small picturesque place called Hilley. The journey from NJP to Hilley or Bagdogra to Hilley itself will be a wonderful experience. You can hire a car from NJP or Bagdogra and reach Hilley the same day. On your way to Hilley you will come across the meeting point of the rivers Teesta and Rangeet. If you have enough time in hand you can go for river rafting.
Staying at Hilley will be a unique experience as you won’t find any hotel or even trekker’s hut here. But you are always welcome to stay in the houses of the local people and enjoy the delicious local cuisine. Those who wish to stay in a hotel can stay at Okhrey or Sombaria.
You can take rest at Hilley while enjoying the amazing view of the lush forests of fir, pine and rhododendron. If the sky is clear you can also get a glimpse of some virgin peaks of Himalaya. You can start your trek to Barsey the next day.
Wait for our next post to get further details about Barsey Trek.