Discover Srikhola – A Scenic Hamlet on the Sandakphu Trek

The peaceful atmosphere of Srkhola is enhanced by the serene Srikhola River flowing through the valley. The wooden hanging bridge located over the River is quite popular amongst nature photographers, where you can enjoy some stunning views. You can spend some relaxing time near the river dipping your feet in the calm and cool water.

Being surrounded by lush Magnolia and Rhododendron forests makes Srikhola a paradise for trekkers, photographers and nature lovers. The flowers are in full glory during the spring season, adding vibrant colour to the landscape. You can witness the hills of Srikhola filled with blooming Magnolias and Rhododendrons if you visit the place during March and April. The air of this quaint hamlet is filled with pleasant aromas during this season. Some of the best spots to witness these forests in Srikhola include-

Trekking trails of Rimbik and from Srikhola to Gurdum.

Singalila National Park

Trekking route of Phalut and Sandakphu

Srikhola River

Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Srikhola has quite a few fun activities to offer to its visitors aside from its striking natural beauty. Some of such fun activities are mentioned below-

You can go for a serene short trek through hills and forests around the village. Srikhola acts as a popular stopover for the Phalut and Sandakphu trek. You can also go for a trek to the nearby peaceful offbeat location at Gurdum village. You will be greeted with a stunning view of the diverse Himalayan Flora and Fauna on your trek.

You can get the opportunity to spot some rare exotic Himalayan bird species from Srikhola, such as the Himalayan Monal, Laughing Thrush and Scarlet Minivet. You can also get a chance to witness the rare red panda species from the Singalila National Park situated nearby.

You can spend an unforgettable time in Srikhola by setting up a tent near the Srikhola River and spending your time peacefully listening to the soothing sound of the flowing river under the star-lit sky.

If you are a nature photographer, then Srikhola is the right place for you, offering majestic landscapes, a serene river bridge, a peaceful community of people and a soothing Srikhola river for you to capture with your lenses.

You can try out fun activities like fishing in the Srikhola River, where small fish are available and can be easily caught with a fishing rod or net.

You can take some leisurely walks around this peaceful and quaint village to learn more about the culture of the peaceful community of people residing here, such as the Rai, Tamang and Sherpas. You can also try out their local delicacies such as the momo, thukpa and other organic vegetables while staying at one of the homestays.

Singalila National Park

Singalila National Park is the highest National Park in West Bengal, located at an altitude of 7000 feet above sea level. Declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1986 and an Indian National Park in 1992, it is located near two of the highest peaks of West Bengal- Phalut and Sandakphu. Situated at a distance of 10 km from Srikhola, it is a must-visit place for nature enthusiasts. You can witness some of the rare bird species and wildlife from here, such as barking deer, Himalayan black bear and the red pandas.

Srikhola acts as a base for the trekkers who are ascending or descending from the Sandakphu and Phalut treks. If you are not comfortable with long treks, you can also opt for some short treks around the Srikhola village. The Sandakphu-Phalut trek, being the highest in West Bengal, passes through quaint, remote villages, Rhododendron valleys and dense forests. This trek starts in Mannebhanja, reaching the highest point- Sandakphu and ends at Rimbik or Srikhola.

This quaint Himalayan village also acts as a major stopover for the Phalut-Sandakphu trek. Located at a distance of just 6 km from Srikhola, this village is surrounded by tea gardens, the Singalila mountain range and lush green forests. The pictorial landscape, serene atmosphere and friendly nature of the locals residing in this village will captivate you. You can visit the Rimbik Bazaar and the Rimbik monastery to spend some leisurely time.

It is a scenic hamlet nestled around the trails of Sandakphu. This picturesque offbeat location offers a stunning view of the mountains and is a peaceful getaway for tourists between the Singalila Hills. Situated at an altitude of 9,600 feet and a distance of 30 km by road from Srikhola, Tumbling is an abode of many exotic Himalayan birds as well, where you can also spot some Himalayan black bears and red pandas at times, making your trip even more memorable.