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Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
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Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
+91 70017 24300
This is a sleepy settlement with its pristine beauty and is a great option for a weekend getaway to an offbeat location. Dhotrey is located within the buffer zone of the popular Singalila National Park of the Darjeeling district and belongs to the Eastern part of the Himalayas. The popularity of this village increased with the increasing number of trekkers to Tonglu, Phalut and Sandakphu trek.
Altitude
8,550 feet
Region
Darjeeling
Min temp
10°C
Max temp
25°C
Dhotrey is one of the best destinations to plan a weekend hiking trip. This is also an offbeat location amidst the popular and scintillatingly beautiful Singalila National Park, which is best known for catching glimpses of the Sleeping Buddha, and you can also stay close to nature. Also, you can expect the scenic beauty of the landscapes, the old-day charm of the wooden houses, warm hospitality of the locals, besides the tranquillity of nature with the chirping of the birds, splendid views of the mountains and cultural insights with architectural geniuses of the local monastery. Dhotrey is indeed an unforgettable journey amidst nature’s unparalleled, exquisite beauty.
You can expect postcard-perfect landscapes from Dhotrey. I enjoyed the calm and serene sound of prayer flags fluttering in the wind during my trip to Dhotrey.
Dhotrey is a quaint and scenic hamlet located closer to Darjeeling and in the buffer zone of Singalila National Park, within the Darjeeling district. This scenic hamlet is situated at an altitude of 8550 ft, is just about 44 km from Darjeeling, and is surrounded by beautiful pine forests, with an amazing view of the panoramic Himalayan range. This hamlet is a great option for tourists looking to experience a hidden gem, with lesser crowd. This is also a great place to start your trekking expeditions. Do give it a try!
Dhotrey is an ideal getaway place for most tourists because of its pleasant weather throughout the year. Here is a clear seasonal breakdown for you about the weather conditions and temperature in Dhotrey to help you plan your trip to Dhotrey better!
| Season | Temperature | Weather | Best activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | Day: 10-20°C, Night: 2-10°C | blooming wildflowers, rhododendrons, clear views, pleasant weather | birdwatching, trekking, nature walks |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Day: 10-20°C, Night: 12-18°C | lush greenery, cool nights, possibility of rain in late summer, moderate days | tea garden walks, exploring Tumling, Tonglu, nature walks, trekking |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | Day: 20-25°C, Night: 10-13°C | post-monsoon greenery, clear sky, cool and comfortable, Kanchenjunga views, pleasant | experiencing local culture, photography, Kanchenjunga views |
| Winter (December to February) | Day: 2-15°C, Night: Below 0°C | clear views, occassional snowfall, cold | cosy stays, snow trekking |
Dhotrey is a fantastic destination which is open for visits throughout the year. However, there's still a certain time of the year which is considered ideal or best for tourists. So, if we go by this, then October to December is considered the best time to visit Dhotrey, as, during this period, you can completely take delight in going and experience hiking with a clear azure blue sky in the backdrop. The marvellous site of the Sleeping Buddha is simply magical! Along with the sunrise and sunset views. One might also love to experience the exquisite sight of vibrant rhododendrons, magnolia and spruce blossoms, which are visible between March and early April when the region gets covered in the alluring floral fragrance.
I went on a trip to Dhotrey in November, where I witnessed crystal clear views of the Himalayas and was surrounded by crisp air.
| Months | Weather | Footfall | Category | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | blooming orchid, magnolias, rhododendrons, pleasant | Moderate | Peak Season | trekking, flower viewing |
| Monsoon (June-August) | misty views, heavy rainfall | Low | Off-Season | budget travels, avoiding crowds, lush greenery |
| Autumn (September-November) | best Kanchenjunga views, crisp air, clear skies | High | Peak-season | trekking, festival immersion, Kanchenjunga views |
| Winter (December-February) | clear views, occasional snowfall, cold | Low to Moderate | Shoulder Season | cosy stays, snowfalls |
Dhotrey is a great place to become your next favourite tourist destination for a small and refreshing getaway, especially for souls longing for treks. With its untouched beauty, here is what you can see and do when in this tiny Himalayan village, Dhotrey, with a postcard view of the scenery. Check the list here!
You can experience some of the most stunning and hidden gems while exploring Dhotrey, which is surrounded by fabulous pine forests and mountains. Check out these nearby attractions and places, which are worth visiting to spend an amazing vacation!
I enjoyed witnessing sunrise over the Kanchenjunga from Dhotrey, which felt magical and surrealand the sky appeared vibrant during my trek, and I enjoyed birdwatching on the route as well.
Singalila National Park
While exploring Singalila National Park, you can spot a wide variety of species. It is also considered a paradise for bird watchers. This park is home to red pandas and is considered a biodiversity treasure for tourists.
Tumling
Tumling is a small yet wonderful hamlet on the Indo-Nepal border, which is popular among tourists for the breathtaking panoramic views of the mountain peaks, capped with snow.
Tonglu
This is a quaint hamlet located very close to Dhotrey, which offers tourists surreal views of the mountains and pine forests and the majestic Kanchenjunga range. This place is perfect for photographers to capture sunrise and sunset views.
Chitrey Monastery
A Buddhist monastery that puts forth spellbinding shows commemorating the Buddha Purnima. The monastery has a heritage of being established by the sect of Maitreya Buddha.
Lepchajagat
This place is wrapped in quietness and dense rhododendron forests, with scintillating views of snow-dusted Kanchenjunga. This hamlet is a great travel option for solitude seekers for its serene escape and misty trails.
Dawaipani
This is a tranquil village located near Darjeeling and is popular only among a few tourists so far for the organic homestays, scintillating mountain vistas and freshness in the forest air. You can connect with nature at its best.
After reaching Siliguri via flight, train, or road across India, you can opt for either of the three ways to reach Dhotrey.
I trekked to Tumling from Manebhanjan, where each turn surprised me with different magical views.
By Air
The nearest airport to Dhotrey is Bagdogra Airport, about 101 km away. It takes approximately 3 hr 30 minutes to reach this quaint village near Darjeeling via Matigara-Kurseong Rd, depending on the road conditions. Bagdogra is well-connected by flight to almost all major cities.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Dhotrey is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), which is about 105 km away. It takes about 4 hours to reach the destination via Matigara-Kurseong Rd. NJP is a major railway station hub that is very well-connected to almost all rail stations. After reaching NJP, you can either hire a vehicle or take a shared cab to Dhotrey.
By Road
From Siliguri, the distance covered to Dhotrey is about 94 km, which takes approximately. 3 and a half hours to reach the destination, via NH 110 and Matigara-Kurseong Rd. You can reserve a cab or get on a shared vehicle from Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus in Siliguri. The distance between Darjeeling and Dhotrey is just 44 km, and a shared or reserved cab takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes to travel via Rishi Rd. Taxis/cabs through Rishi Rd are readily available from Chowk Bazaar. You will reach Dhotrey via Rohini, Kurseong, Ghoom, Sukhia Pokhri and Manebhanjan.
You are sure to be served with simple local dishes, yet they are surprisingly delicious and packed with authentic hill flavours! You will not regret trying them out when in Dhotey. The piping hot Momo, steamy hot Thukpa and Sel Roti, besides the staple food Dal-Bhaat and brewing butter tea, are just delicious. These are perfect foods to enjoy and relish in the chilly evenings. You cannot miss out on tasting Gundruk and Sinki, which are often offered as a side dish and are full of unique flavours of the fermented leafy vegetables. These are their comfort food, which are all infused with the authenticity of the flavours of the hill. These hill cuisines will remain a memorable moment in your culinary experience. Dive into the rich local traditions and culture, and the amazing local way of life when in Dhotrey. Get to know the stories of the mountains, traditions and culture by diving into these experiences. Check these cultural experiences here!
Stay with the local families
While getting a complete experience of the overall place, interacting with the local lecha and Nepali families is a guaranteed way to improve the quality of stay that one experiences.
Traditional Music and dance
The traditional festivities and dance are a delight to experience for the travellers. During seasons, the fun and frolic are high among the community with traditional Nepali dances like Maruni or Tamang Selo.
Taking part in local traditions
Even the visitors can put on the local traditional wear and partake in the festivities that are welcomed by the locals. The visitors can learn about the culture and daily life in the local communities whilst tending to handicrafts.
Learning to cook local dishes
The homestays around these places are focused towards providing an authentic dining experience, and the hosts are often gracious in providing an insight into their farm-to-table mentality in the food being prepared. The visitors can help in the preparation of some of these dishes, such as momo and thukpa.
You can get a range of accommodation facilities in Dhotrey, but be careful to book them well in advance to ensure you get standard and hassle-free accommodations, especially during the peak seasons.
Check out these options here for a tension-free booking. Accommodation options in Dhotrey range from Private accommodations like Tumsong Tea Resort with superior amenities. You also have other options, like Bara Hatta Homestay. You also have the option of staying in guesthouses, which, however, have basic amenities. However, you can experience the rustic charm of village life while staying in these guesthouses in Dhotrey. However, it is important to pre-book accommodations to avoid any unforeseen situations, especially during the peak seasons!
I stayed at Sherpa Homestay in Dhotrey, where I woke up to stunning Kanchenjunga views from the window of my homestay and enjoyed sipping hot tea while having a chat with the hosts, which made the village slowly come to life for me through their thrilling stories.
| Category | Best stay | Price range | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homestay | Zambala homestay dhotrey, Kanchan View Homestay,Padma Homestay, Sunrise Homestay Dhotrey | ₹1200 - ₹1550 (often includes meals) | Kanchenjunga views from some rooms/balconies, hot water, local hospitality, attached bath, spacious rooms, cosy beds | budget travellers, trekkers, families, nature lovers |
| Trekkers' Hut (GTA) | (Located near Dhotrey, e.g., Tonglu Trekkers' Hut) | ₹400 (per bed) + extra for food | restaurant facilities, location with Kanchenjunga views, dormitory style, basic amenities | Budget trekkers, large groups |
Homestays
Dhotry offers stunning homestays where you can enjoy a local experience surrounded by breathtaking Himalayan views.
Dhotrey is an amazing village with magnificent scenic beauty, with its peaceful pause, away from city life. Whether you want to experience trekking, or soak in the beauty of the mountains or sip the brewing tea, this hidden little gem in the Himalayas will soothe your soul. So, get ready to explore Dhotrey with us!
Where is Dhotrey located?
Dhotrey is situated in the foothills of Singalila National Park, in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal.
What is the altitude of Dhotrey?
Dhotrey is situated at an elevation of around 8,500 feet.
Why is Dhotrey popular?
Dhotrey is known for its trek routes, mountain views, birdwatching and nature and tranquillity.
What are the things to do in Dhotrey?
You can enjoy activities such as trekking, exploring Singalila National Park, birdwatching, photography, nature walks, visiting organic farms, stargazing, exploring local monasteries and visiting a watchtower.
How to reach Dhotrey?
You can reach Dhotrey from NJP/Siliguri or Darjeeling in a shared jeep or taxi.
When is the best time for a trip to Dhotrey?
Based on the kind of experience you want in Dhotrey, you can choose the best time. January-February or October-November are best known for offering clear mountain views. March to April offers rhododendron views. Spring and Autumn are known for mild weather.
Can I find good accomodation options in Dhotrey?
Accommodations are mainly in the form of Trekkers' Hut and locally run homestays offering home-cooked meals and basic amenities.
What is the distance between Dhotrey and Sandakphu?
Dhotrey is situated around 21 km from Sandakphu.
What are the things that you should pack for a trip to Dhotrey?
You should pack warm clothes, rain gear, basic medicine, and power banks.
Can I find any bank or ATM in Dhotrey?
There are no ATMs in Dhotrey; it is advised to carry sufficient cash.
Can I find mobile connectivity in Dhotrey?
Yes, you can find a mobile network here, which is mostly unreliable or limited.
What source of drinking water can I find during my Dhotrey Tonglu Chitrey trek?
The water sources are natural in these trek routes, such as rivers and falls, and the water is mostly safe to drink.
Does it snow in Dhotrey?
Yes, there is a possibility of snow in Dhotrey, especially in January and February.