Suntaley Khola

Also known as Suntalekhola, it is a small hamlet that lies in the Darjeeling District of West Bengal. The village is a favourite tourist destination and makes it to most tour packages concerning Dooars. ‘Suntaley Khola’ is a Nepali term which means ‘orange stream.’ The place gets its name from the Suntaley Khola stream flowing nearby. This place rests 5 kilometres away from Samsing, another preferred tourist destination. The land is known for its amazing variety of fauna, especially birds and butterflies. Other than that, Suntaley Khola also presents itself as a great spot for the origin of several trekking routes. Most of these routes lead through the famous Neora Valley National Park. The village offers beautiful fairytale vistas of tea gardens, forests, and hills, all at the same time. Nestled in the backdrop of green landscapes and the azure sky, Suntaley Khola does offer an exhilarating travel experience to visitors.

How To Reach Suntaley Khola?

Your journey will begin from Siliguri; it is the gateway to this part of Dooars. The nearest bus bay lies here. The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railways Station and the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport. Suntaley Khola is 85 kilometres from Siliguri. You have to reach the destination via Samsing and the New Mal Junction. From the New Mal, you will get hired cars. You can also get down at Chalsa, which is 25 minutes from New Mal. From here, you get shared jeeps to reach Suntaley Khola.

What To See And Do In Suntaley Khola?

• Trek to Samsing.
• Stroll is the tea gardens of Chalsa.
• Visit the Rocky Island, Jhalong, and Mouchuki.
• Take a trip to the Bindu hydel project on River Jaldhaka.
• Visit the Gorumara National Park.

• Observe the flora and fauna of the land. Suntaley Khola is known for a variety of birds like Cuckoos, Mynas, Minivets, Pheasants, Flycatchers, Owls, Partridges, Parakeets, Orioles, Swifts, Swallows, Woodpeckers, Sunbirds, Eagles, Herons, Bulbuls, Pigeons, Drongos, Fantails, Magpies, and Thrushes.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Suntaley Khola?

All times are good times to visit Suntaley Khola. However, for your convenience, avoid the monsoons. Although the rain will make the land greener and grander, you might have to give the trek to Samsing a miss. In addition, visiting Jaldhaka, Rocky Island, Jhalong, and Murti could get difficult. The best seasons are springs, summers, and early or late winters.