#sittong

Lat Panchar (LP) in Sittong 3 is the farthest cluster among the hamlets that comprise the Sittong village. Known primarily for oranges, cinchona, and tea, it also offers breathtaking views of the eastern Himalayas and the Teesta river. It's also here that many birders visiting the Mahananda wildlife sanctuary set up camp. With reasonable proximity to Shivkhola, Rongtong, and Senchal, it's an ideal base for birders.

The nearest airport is Bagdogra. This airport sees heavy traffic but sparse maintenance. It appears run down with peeling paint and dirty walls, long queues at the toilets, and general frenzy all around as too many travellers find themselves trapped within its cramped confines. Outside, the situation is no better, with crazy unmanned traffic and long queues of cabs waiting at the manually controlled barrier of the parking exit. It's incredulous that the parking attendants and cab drivers deal in cash and loose change in the age of UPI and electronic payments. The highway from Bagdogra to LP is the only highway around — one that you can follow all the way to Sikkim, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh. The borders of 4 countries come to a common meeting point here, a sangam of sorts now but a well-known smuggling route in the past.

In the month of October, there's some rain in these parts, usually nothing to worry about. But the weather forecast for our trip had been terrible — 3 days of rain and 1 night of heavy rain. Before we board the cab at the airport, it starts drizzling. By the time we reach the Siliguri fork, the drizzle intensifies. It turns torrential at Sevoke forest. We slow down due to poor visibility and extreme conditions as brake lights from vehicles in front perform a mad disco on the windshield. Red splotches appear, expand, contort, and get erased by the wipers, only to form and get wiped again. Bad news awaits at Sevoke bazar. There's been a landslide. We add ourselves to the long queue of vehicles and fidget in our seats. With nothing to do, we look outside through foggy windows. Small grocery stores display long garlands of Kurkure, Lays, and Bingo. Competing with them are stout bottles of black, orange, and green liquids behind dirty glass panes. The shops are dingy and the walls are mossy. Wild shrubs and creepers run unchecked through wall cracks, electric poles, roofs, and hoardings. One can tell that rains rule this land.

Determined to make the most of this delay, we quit the queue to have lunch. The restaurant is every bit dirty inside as it's on the outside. The staff is having lunch, and it takes a long time before someone takes our order. Greasy noodles and fried rice appear on bright stained orange plates. We wipe the thin tin spoons with cheap tissues that resolutely stick to the metal. As usual, the miss and the missus deposit their portions on my plate after taking a few reluctant bites. We eat in silence, each of us questioning our decision to come here at this time of the year. This trip, much like most of our recent trips is unplanned. It was a spur of the moment thing, and we had checked the weather only after arrangements had been made and monies had been paid.

After a good 4-hour break (read delay), we are back on our way to LP. The rain has subsided by now and as we chug alongside the wild Teesta, heavy traffic gives way to greener sights and higher hills. As we take the sharp left from the highway towards Sittong, our departure from the madding crowd is complete. Tall tropical trees float past dreamily as clouds float in and out of the car. Through narrow roads, scary ascents, and a decrepit bridge, we reach LP.

Over the next couple of days, we click magical sunrises and colorful sunsets, the pregnant Teesta flowing into Bangladesh in the horizon, cloud-kissed mountains, the big yellow moon, and lots of birds. At this time of the year, there are no hides and while it's difficult to get good shots in the wild, it's also immensely satisfying when we do get one. The days are rainy and the nights are cold. But nothing is as bad as the last night at LP. It has been raining since early morning on the last day and as we depart from Senchal it's clear that a storm is on us. Many of us receive messages from the government advising us to stay indoors. Accuweather predicts that the storm would pass by 3 am and rain would stop by 6 am. By dinner, rain is pelting outside. By 9 pm, the thunders are ear splitting and the lightning flashes are long and frightening. Power goes out when we go to bed and the wind howls like a mad dog outside. By 11 pm, the situation is scary. Windows rattle and the tin roofs of the neighboring chalets beat against the rivets as the wind tries to pry them out of their bolts. Is this what the end of the world feels like?

We recall all the news reports we have ever read about cloudbursts in mountainous regions. What had seemed a distant affair for us folks living in the plains is now a direct unwilling experience at close quarters. It's our admonishment for daring to come to the mountains, romanticizing the hardships of locals, and leaving behind a trail of bad manners and refuse. At times it seems that the guest-house is sitting on a mountain slope that's about to slide off. A loud booming noise has become a constant refrain by now and we expect mud, soil, trees, and water to come crashing into us at any moment. On such a dreadful night, as we lay wide awake on the bed staring at the dirty ceiling, we wonder if it's better to be a believer. All reason and logic has left us, we are on our own with our fears, doubts, and a kind of submission that originates from resignation. We start praying. To a God we don't believe in, to a God we know doesn't exist, to a God that we now badly want to exist. It also occurs to us that praying to a single God might not be enough, or this God might not even be the right one to pray to. So we start praying to all the Gods we know since our childhood — Science not among them. All the rationalism that we have carefully cultivated over the years after getting out of our religious homes and conservative upbringing is discarded by 1 am when the wind gets stronger and the loud booming noise gets louder.

Man created God and proclaimed that God had created man. It was to provide a sense of reassurance that we were not alone, and that there was a higher power that we could turn to when we didn't have the answers or when we were hit by crises. This seems exactly like a moment which God was created for, an opportune moment for us to change our beliefs. We quiver in fear in the dark waiting for 3 am, for the storm to pass by. But to us it seems that time is passing slowly, much slower than it usually does. Somehow it has coagulated into a slow moving sludge that refuses to flow any faster. By 4 am, the wind is still howling and the tin roofs outside are beating violently against the restive walls, straining against their leashes to fly into the unknown and beyond. We realize that Accuweather is just another app that can have bad days.

We hear branches breaking and trees falling. The thunderclaps are so loud that we are reminded of the last 2 lines from Yeats's The Second Coming. By 5 am, the rain is still intense and we haven't slept a wink. By now, we have tired ourselves through constant anxiety and apprehension. It seems as if we would be stuck in LP for a few more days. Flights would definitely be cancelled from Bagdogra. In any case, how would we even reach the airport? The roads would have been swept away, the rickety bridge that we had crossed to come here would have collapsed by now, and landslides would have blocked the highway again. Are our final hours going to be spent in LP? Will we breathe our last here? Is our ordeal of being stuck in this cold damp room of the unkept guest-house without warm water, power, or network going to prolong?

At 6 am, it's still dark outside. The wind is still strong but has stopped howling. The raucous tin roofs have fallen silent. We still hear the rain though. At 6:30 am, the skies are still heavily overcast, but the rain has become a drizzle. We can't see the burgeoning Teesta any more through the mist and drizzle, dark ominous clouds blanket the surrounding mountains. All around are remains of flowers crushed by the unrelenting rain, branches hanging limp from stubborn trees, and roads inundated with boulders and soil.

Phone networks are still down, power isn't back. We have no way to reach our driver. Our only hope is that he shows up, and somehow gets us to Bagdogra by 1 pm, just in time for the flight. We check with the guest-house owners. They are every bit as shaken as us, they haven't witnessed such a night before. They can't establish contact with anyone either. They go out to enquire if there's been any damage to the village. No news is forthcoming. At 7:30 am, much to our relief, our cabbie shows up. He's unsure if the roads are unblocked. We take the narrower roads out of LP. On the way we witness heavy damage to vegetation. The roads are awash with stones, gravel, and sand. Loose soil from the slopes is suspended in mid-slide. We drive in silence, aware of the precarious situation we find ourselves in. Few people are up and about. Taxi drivers provide bits of information when we pass them by. After 30 mins we get to know that the road ahead is blocked due to a landslide. We have no option but to retrace our path. This sets us back by an hour.

We now have to take the same road that we had arrived by. We are apprehensive. The small broken road that was just a ledge propped up by bamboo poles and loose soil is the key. We wait with bated breath as we turn the corner. Up ahead, the ledge still stands. But will it hold? We idle for a bit. Another car arrives. The driver shares that he has confirmed reports that others have used this road earlier in the day. We aren't sure. He decides to test it out. As their car gingerly moves ahead, we pray for the occupants - an elderly man and a middle-aged woman. They arrive safely on the other side. It's our turn now. We move slowly, bits of gravel crunching beneath the tires. Loose soil falls off on either side from the weight of the vehicle. We feel the strain on the ledge. Is it groaning? It holds but just about. We lunge foward and reach solid ground. The other car is nowhere in sight, they have raced away. Slush and mud has covered much of the highway. Every one is trying to make it beyond the Sevoke forest check point before authorities close the highway due to safety concerns. We make it to the airport in time, thanks to our driver's diligence and our incredible luck. At Bagdogra, we receive unconfirmed reports that 10 people have lost their lives due to landslides, entire families buried in the rubble of their homes. Our tryst with LP has been eventful.

In North Bengal's scenic hills, Sittong is quickly turning into a tourist haven, considered one of the best offbeat places in Darjeeling. This charming hamlet, which is known as the "Orange Village" because of its enormous orange orchards, provides the ideal fusion of soul-satisfying beauty, cultural diversity, and friendly locals.

Sittongcan be the best place to go if you want to get away from crowded places. If you are planning to stay, then booking a homestay is essential to fully enjoy its ardour. You can experience the village's charm, meet residents, and get a flavor of their way of life by booking a room at the top homestay in Sittong.

We will provide you with advice in this blog on how to pick the right homestay in Sittong so that your trip is relaxing, fulfilling, and unforgettable.

What Makes Sittong Homestays Special

Homestays in Sittong provide you with a chance to get a taste of the local way of life. These homestays offer you individualized care and hospitality, in contrast to hotels that prioritize conventional services. For the following reasons, a homestay is the best choice:

Cultural Exposure: Staying with a local family allows you to gain an understanding of their customs. Isn’t it? You’ll also get to know about their food preferences and way of life. You may take part in regional celebrations, appreciate traditional meals prepared with organic ingredients, and listen to folktales by a bonfire.

Scenic Beauty: Orange orchards, tea gardens, and wooded areas are common locations for homestays. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to awaken to the sound of songbirds and breathtaking vistas of Sittong's dawn.

Warm Hospitality: Sittong residents are renowned for their friendliness and kindness. As a visitor or guest, you will be regarded as a member of the family, which makes their stay cozier and more pleasant.

Budget-Friendly Stays: Homestays are, many times, more cost-effective than hotels. With home-cooked meals, guided excursions, and individualized care, they provide good value for the money.

What You Needto Consider When Choosing a Homestay in Sittong

Even though Sittong has a lot of homestay choices now, not all of them are suitable for your trip. The following are some crucial considerations that will guide you:

Accessibility and Location

Upper Sittong, Middle Sittong, and Lower Sittong are the three parts of Sittong. Every locationand sight of Sittong has its own splendour. It is possible to get to Lower Sittong from nearby places like Kurseong and Mungpoo.

The Middle Sittong is among the orange orchards, while Upper Sittong boasts exotic views of the mountains. Before making a reservation, think about the homestay's accessibility by car and how distant it is from the sights you want to see.

Type of Experience You Want

Consider what you hope to get out of your Sittong visit. Do you desire a tranquil haven in the middle of nature? Or would you like to be nearer to the village so you can socialize with the residents?

While some homestays promote connection between guests through cultural events, others provide a more private setting.

Amenities and Comfort

Basic facilities like clean rooms, hot water, cozy bedding, in-room service, and power backup are necessary even if homestays are less complicated than hotels.

Some could also have Wi-Fi, although, because of the steep terrain, connectivity may be restricted. Thus, you should consider reviews or speak with the hosts directly to find out about the amenities offered.

Food Options

The delectable home-cooked meals are among the nicest aspects of staying at a homestay. Traditional recipes, regional herbs, and organic veggies are typically included in meals.

It's crucial to know whether the homestay can accommodate dietary requirements, whether they are vegan, vegetarian, or non-vegetarian. A few of the local specialties are millet, bamboo shoots, and freshly picked oranges. Enjoy them.

Hygiene and Safety

Make sure the homestay complies with fundamental hygienic guidelines. Sanitized kitchens, pest-free surroundings, and spotless toilets are essential. Another consideration is safety; find out if the homestay is in a secure area and if the hosts are accommodating to visitors' demands.

Activities and Experiences

In Sittong, a lot of homestays provide outdoor activities including cultural nights, birdwatching, guided nature hikes, and trips to orange orchards in Sittong. Some homestays may also set up quick hikes, camping, or trips to neighboring sites like Kurseong, Mungpoo, and Latpanchar if you're an adventurer.

Reviews and Recommendations

Definitely, a good way to know what to expect is to read guest evaluations. Look for feedback on cleanliness, hospitality, food quality, and overall experience. Personal recommendations from friends or travel communities can also be valuable.

Best Time to Visit or Plan for Sittong

Think about the dates of your vacation before deciding on your homestay in Sittong. October through March is the ideal time of year to visit Sittong and other parts of Darjeeling, especially during the winter orange harvest season.

It is quite enchanting to see the village sprinkled with vibrant oranges. While the rainy season (July to September) makes the roads slick and less accessible, the summer months (April to June) are lovely.

Things to Do While Staying in a Homestay

There will be a lot to do in Sittong if you select the ideal guesthouse. Here are a few well-liked pastimes:

Discover Orange Orchards: Come in the winter to see the orchards at their prime.

Bird Watching: Sittong and the neighboring town of Latpanchar are birdwatchers' dream come true.

Village Walks: Get a close-up look at country life, engage with people, and stroll along meandering trails.

Visit Tea Gardens: Enjoy the verdant surroundings by making a quick journey to neighbouring tea farms.

Day Trip to Kurseong:Visit neighbouring hill stations for a variety of activities on day trips to Kurseong and Darjeeling.

Cultural Evenings: Take in local storytelling sessions led by villagers, as well as traditional dance and music.

The secret to discovering Sittong's genuine appeal very much relies on choosing the right homestay there. It's not only about finding a place to spend your holidays but also about adopting local customs, forming deep friendships, and eating organic food.

Ocation and Accessibility Sittong is located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. Sixty-one percent of the people in the Darjeeling Sadar subdivision reside in rural areas, and thirty-nine percent live in urban areas. In the Kurseong subdivision, 41.59% of people reside in urban areas and 58.41% of people live in rural areas.The area is home to 78 tea gardens that produce and export a substantial amount of Darjeeling tea. Tourist Attractions in Sittong Sittong boasts a variety of tourist attractions that showcase the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From lush tea gardens to scenic viewpoints, there is no shortage of places to explore. Notable attractions include [Ahaldara View Point, Latpanchar, Namthin Pokhri,Orange Garden, Mangpu Rabindra Museum, riyang river.]

Rishaan cottages in Sittong, a village in the Kurseong division of Darjeeling district, is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique homestay experience. This quaint hillside village offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and lush green valleys. The cottages are nestled among tea gardens and offer visitors a peaceful, serene atmosphere to enjoy their holiday. The Rishaan Cottages have all the modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, cable TV and hot water showers while keeping its traditional charm intact.

Book Rishaan Cottages With Bengal Tour Plans

Rishaan Homestay is situated in a tranquil and picturesque setting, only minutes away from all of the attractions and amenities that Sittong has to offer. The homestay provides an intimate atmosphere, where guests can find peace and relaxation while also enjoying the local culture. For those wishing to book their stay at Rishaan Homestay, we recommend that you contact our travel agency, Bengal Tour Plans who can help arrange accommodations according to your needs and budget.

Company: Bengal Tour Plans

Phone: 8420361281

Website: https://bengaltourplans.com/

Address: 50/8D Harish Mukherjee Road, Ground Floor, Annapurna Bari, Kolkata-700025

Email: [email protected]

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFrbsy3C_Tx8_TVd_QSxpLg