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Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
+91 70017 24300
Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Gurdum is a scenic village located near the Singalila National Park at an altitude of 8000 feet from the sea level. You will be welcomed to this offbeat gem by the bright coloured Rhododendron, coniferous branches and their nutty smell. You can take some rest while on your Sandakphu trail and get rid of your weariness.
Altitude
7,000 feet
Region
Darjeeling
Min temp
2°C
Max temp
22–24°C
Gurdum is a scenic, offbeat getaway located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. It is an abode of 25 families in total, scattered along the valley of the Singalila National Park. You can reach this offbeat village only on foot. This place is mostly visited by the trekkers who are on the Sandakphu trek. The 150 residents residing in this place have converted their house into a kind of dormitory so that the weary travellers can get a place to rest after their tedious trek from or to Sandakphu.
You can expect breathtaking views, bird calls and pine forests from Gurdum. I visited Gurdum with my friends, where it felt like time had slowed down and we were surrounded by the silence of the forests and misty trails. The villagers were very warm-natured and were able to take a peaceful escape from the chaos of city life.
Gurdum is a hidden paradise for nature enthusiasts and trekkers situated in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India. Lying on the southern slopes of the Singalila National Park at an altitude of 8000 feet, it is an ideal location to enjoy a serene getaway. Nestled amidst the dense forest of Oak, Rhododendron and Pine, this peaceful hamlet acts as a major rest stop in the Sandakphu-Phalut trek route. Its charm is intensified by the small streams and rivers flowing throughout the village. The narrow trails, meadows and hilly terrains of Gurdum are ideal for nature walks and trekking.
Being located in the Singalila National Park makes this village an abode to many exotic Himalayan bird species and rare wildlife species such as the Red Pandas. This place offers a stunning view of the lush Rangit River Valley.
Gurdum has cold weather all year round, where the air remains crisp and the mornings are misty. Here is a season-wise breakdown of Gurdum’s weather-
| Season | Temperature | Weather | Best activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | 10°C – 18°C | blooming flowers, pleasant weather | photography, birdwatching, trekking |
| Monsoon (Jun–Sep) | 8°C – 16°C | frequent rain, cool | green getaway, nature walks |
| Autumn (Oct–Nov) | 8°C – 15°C | crisp air, clear sky | photography, mountain views, hiking |
| Winter (December to February) | 2°C – 10°C | occasional frost and cold | homestay experience, cosy stays, snow views |
Gurdum, being a traveller’s wonderland, can be visited all year round. However, it is recommended to avoid the monsoon season from June to September. You can pick any months from March to June and September to November for visiting this breathtaking hamlet.
During the Spring season from March- June, the temperature remains mild between 10°C - 20°C, making it the perfect time for trekking. The trails appear utterly attractive in the shades of pink and red, with blooming Rhododendrons appearing everywhere. You can witness magnificent Himalayan views during this time as the sky remains very clear. It is the best time for nature lovers to visit and enjoy photography or go on a Sandakphu trek.
The Autumn season, from September to November, offers clear and crisp mountain views of Everest and Kanchenjunga. You will experience a dry to mild temperature between 5°C and - 15°C. It is an ideal time for adventure lovers to visit and try out nature photography or the Sandakphu-Phalut trek.
I visited Gurdum in spring, which appeared like a paradise blooming with rhododendrons, which enhanced the beauty of the region.
| Months | Weather | Footfall | Category | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | Pleasant | Moderate | Peak Season | photography, birdwatching, trekking |
| Monsoon (June-August) | rainy and cool | Low | Off-Season | solitude getaway |
| Autumn (September-November) | crisp | High | Peak-season | hiking, clear mountain views |
| Winter (December-February) | Cold | Low to Moderate | Shoulder Season | cosy stays, snow views |
Gurdum, being a hidden hamlet nestled amidst the Himalayan trail, is a perfect blend of serene village life and adventure. Whether you are a nature enthusiast or a peace seeker, this quaint village has something special to offer you.
You can enjoy forest hikes, birdwatching, and nature walks in Gurdum. I enjoyed trekking in the lush forest trails of Gurdum; it was just me and nature, which felt surreal, surrounded by crisp mountain air.
Pine and Rhododendron forests
The Rhododendron forest of Gurdum becomes lively during the Spring season from March to May. The entire terrain gets painted in colourful hues of pink, white and red. These vigorous flowers symbolise the Himalayan wilderness. The pine forests also create a foggy, serene, mystical ambience in the mornings of Gurdum. The earthy, fresh scents coming from these towering trees create a heavenly ambience perfect for some relaxing walks and meditation.
Sandakphu-Phalut travel route
It is one of the most adventurous and stunning treks in India. It offers exceptional views of some of the world’s highest peaks, such as Kanchenjunga, Mt. Everest, Makalu and Lhotse. Gurdum acts as an offbeat stop in the route of this trek, acting as a perfect getaway to explore, rest and also spend some serene time away from the crowded trekking trails. The total distance of this trek round from Manebhanjan to Phalut is 78 km in a round trip, with the highest point at Sandakphu.
Singalila National Park
This subalpine paradise, located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India, is known mainly for its rich biodiversity, pristine forests and stunning mountainous view. It is the abode of the famous Sandakphu-Phalut trek, where you can experience the exceptional wilderness. It is mainly famous for offering stunning Himalayan views, Rhododendron forests and exotic Red Pandas. The entry point of this national park lies at Manebhanjan, which is also the getaway for the Land Rover safaris and trekkers.
Sunrise and sunset viewpoint
Gurdum offers breathtaking views of the sunrise and sunset from the lower valleys of the Himalayas. You can get a panoramic view of Singalila Park and the Kanchenjunga from the nearby viewpoints.
Sandakphu
You can reach this highest point of West Bengal either by riding in a Land Rover or by trekking. You can get a panoramic view of the four highest peaks in the world- Lhotse, Kanchenjunga, Makalu and Everest. During the Spring season, the entire trek route appears vibrant with blooming Rhododendron forests. It is a perfect destination to try out adventurous activities like camping and trekking.
Srikhola
It is a harmonious riverside enclave, encompassed by verdant greens and wooden bridges. You can try out fishing, camping or simply relax by dipping your feet in the serene water of the Srikhola River. Some of the best spots to try out photography here include by the side of the turquoise river, wooden houses and misty forests. You can either do a leisurely trek or a short drive to reach Srikhola from Gurdum.
Rimbik Village
It is a picturesque hamlet which offers a scenic vista and is also a base point of many beautiful treks. It is the best spot for exploring local markets, Buddhist culture and small monasteries. You can try out delicious Nepalese and Tibetan cuisines here while staying at some local-run homestays by some friendly families of Tamang or Sherpas.
Tumbling
It is an enticing Himalayan village offering an astounding view of the majestic mountain Kanchenjunga. It is the best place to witness the magical Himalayan sunrise view by staying in a tranquil homestay. It is the entry point of the wildlife lover’s paradise, which is the Singalila National Park. This place is easily accessible by means of a Land Rover safari or through trekking.
Singalila National Park
This biorealm is the home to many exotic flora and fauna, where you can spot some rare species of birds, the Himalayan Black bear and the Red Pandas. During the spring season, which is from March to May, you can witness the vibrant Rhododendrons in full bloom. The entry point of this park is from Tumbling or Manebhanjan.
Phalut
This is the second-highest peak in the Singalila mountain range. You will get a sweeping view of five beautiful peaks, including Kanchenjunga and Mt. Everest. This is the best spot for the solitude seekers, trekkers and campers. It has many untouched landscapes and mountain ridges, making it a perfect hotspot for photographers.
Gopaldhara Tea Estate
It is a paradise for tea lovers. Located in Mirik, it has a place among some of the highest tea gardens in the world. You can enjoy serene photography or simply take a walk around the tea garden here. You can also buy some authentic Darjeeling tea from this tea estate and take it as a souvenir. You can embark on a scenic drive amidst the lush tea plantation to reach this place.
Tabakoshi
It is a tranquil hamlet settled around lush tea gardens and the serene Rangbhang River. It is the best place to enjoy a peaceful riverside picnic, a serene nature walk or simply a tour around the tea estates. It is also the best spot for photography around the fog-covered hills and lush tea plantations.
Gurdum is not connected directly by any kind of railway or airline services. However, you can easily reach Gurdum by combining different types of transportation options.
I reached Gurdum from Manebhanjan in a winding car ride amid misty pine forest, which felt like unravelling the untouched beauty of the village.
By Air
Bagdogra airport is the nearest airport to Gurdu, which is located at a distance of 120 km only. From Bagdora, you can reach Manebhanjan (100 km) in a private or shared cab. You can either trek or take a Land Rover to reach Gurum from Manebhanjan via Sandakphu.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Gurdum is New Jalpaiguri station (125km), which is well-connected to some of the major cities such as Delhi, Guwahati, Kolkata and many more. If you are travelling in Darjeeling, you can also visit Gurdum from the Darjeeling railway station (45km). From the NJP station, you can take a shared or private taxi and reach Manebhanjan and then either hire a local cab or trek your way up to Gurdum.
From Siliguri
Gurdum can be easily reached by road from Manebhanjan, which is also Sandakphu trek’s base point. From Manebhanjan, you can reach Gurdum by hiring a Land Rover, or you can also trek 10 km downhill via Sandakphu.
From Darjeeling
You travel to Manebhanjan from Darjeeling which is at a distance of 45 km and will take you about 1.5-2 hours in a cab. From Manebhanjan you can reach Gurdum by trekking or by hiring a Land Rover.
The Gurdum cuisines are very flavourful yet simple, deeply influenced by the Tibetan, Bengali and Nepali flavours. The food items here are made using organic, locally grown ingredients, which exude an authentic, fresh Himalayan taste. Some of the popular dishes that you can try out in Gurdum are recommended below- Momo- This is a ball of fried or steamed dumplings filled with pork, chicken or vegetables and often served alongside clear soup and spicy chutney. Thukpa- This warm, soupy bowl is prepared using vegetables, meat and noodles with a topping of fresh garlic, local spices and herbs. Dal Bhat tarkari- It is a combination of rice, vegetable curry and lentils served alongside ghee and pickle for extra flavour. Sel Roti- It is a traditional ring-shaped Nepali bread which sweet, soft inside and crispy from inside. It is best enjoyed with fresh butter or milk tea. Gundruk- It is a tangy curry made using fermented leaves of spinach or mustard. Senki- It is similar to Gundruk and is prepared using fermented radish roots. Sha Phaley- It is a type of crispy Tibetan bread made using minced meat. It is often pan-fried or deep-fried and served with spicy chutney. Suja- This unique drink is also known as butter tea and is made using tea leaves, yak butter and salt. It has a rich, creamy texture, which will help you to keep warm during the cold weather. Gurdum is an idyllic Himalayan hamlet, abode to some peaceful communities such as the Bhutia, Sherpa, Tamang and Nepalis. You will get to immerse yourself in the vibrant life of the mountain here while experiencing the rich culture of the locals.
Local Homestay experience
If you are interested in knowing more about the local culture of Gurdum, then you have to stay in a homestay, where you will get to connect well with the local families and learn about their way of life, folklore and traditions. You will also get a chance to taste some delectable traditional foods such as milled-based dishes, thukpa and dal bhat and witness their traditional way of cooking on a wooden stove. The locals offer warm hospitality with bright smiles, along with their heartfelt stories.
Experiencing traditional dance and folk music of the hills
The traditional dance and music of Gurdum is influenced deeply by the Tibetan, Tamang and Nepali communities. You can inquire about the festivals and local gatherings from your homestay owner to witness the following such as Maruni Dance- This is a traditional Nepali folk dance which is performed mainly by the locals at the time of Tihar and Dashain. Tamang Selo- It is a type of lively musical performance which is performed mainly by the Tamangs with flutes and drums. They perform these folk songs with stories of nature, love and their daily lives. Sherpa and Bhutia chanting- These peaceful monastic chants performed along with chants and prayer bells create a tranquil ambience.
Gurdum is a quaint Himalayan hamlet with limited accommodation options, which are very homely and simple and are located among the friendly local people. The amenities provided in these accommodations are simple but very comfortable, giving you a perfect taste of mountain life. Being a very remote location, hotels or any kind of resorts are not available here. The accommodation options here are divided into 3 types of categories- Lodges and trekker’s hut- It is a basic dormitory option perfect for people who are looking for a comfortable budget stay in Gurdum. Homestays- These accommodation options are run by the local Tamang and Nepali families, where you can experience authentic village life and warm Himalayan hospitality while enjoying home-cooked organic food.
I stayed at a beautiful, cosy Gurdum homestay, which felt like living inside a postcard, where the hosts were very warm, and I enjoyed the quiet evenings being surrounded by the sounds of the forest.
| Category | Best stay | Price range | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Gurdum Village Homestay | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 | basic rooms, warm hospitality, local meals | budget travellers |
| Mid-Range | Sherpa View Homestay | ₹1,800 – ₹2,500 | hot water, organic food, mountain views | small groups, families |
| Eco-Stay | Gurdum Nature Retreat | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 | birdwatching, guided treks, wooden cottages | eco-tourists, nature lovers |
| Premium Stay | Kanchenjunga View Homestay | ₹3,000 – ₹4,500 | bonfire options, attached baths, panoramic views | photography enthusiasts |
Homestays
You will be able to experience nature and local culture in the homestays of Gurdum.
If you are looking forward to a cosy, Himalayan homely adventure, then Gurdum is the right answer for you. Cosied up to the Sandakphu trek, this offbeat gem is a heaven for nature enthusiasts, peace seekers and trekkers. Encircled by the dense Rhododendron and Pine forests, this lush beauty will help you reconnect with nature.
Where is Gurdum located?
Gurdum is situated near the foothills of Singalila Sanctuary near Manebhanjan.
What is the altitude of Gurdum?
Gurdum is situated at an elevation of around 8,000 feet.
Why is Gurdum a popular destination?
Gurdum is known for its picturesque setting, trekking base, scenic beauty, local culture and tranquillity.
What are the activities that can be enjoyed in Gurdum?
You can enjoy several activities in Gurdum, such as trekking, village walks, nature walks, birdwatching, stargazing and organic farming.
When is the best time for a Gurdum trip?
Gurdum can be visited all year round, especially during the spring and autumn seasons, for pleasant weather and blooming flowers such as rhododendrons.
How can I reach Gurdum?
You can trek to Gurdum from Manebhanjan, which is at a distance of 5 km. You can also hire a cab from Darjeeling, Siliguri/NJP to reach Gurdum by road.
What are the accomodation options available in Gurdum?
Accommodations are mostly in the form of homestays, and simple backpackers camp in Gurdum, where you will be offered clean rooms and basic comfort.
Is Gurdum a safe destination for the tourists?
Yes, Gurdum is safe for tourists with friendly and helpful locals.
Is Gurdum situated near the Singalila National Park?
Gurdum is situated near Manebhanjan on the slopes of the Singalila ridge. It is an important stop during the trek in Singalila Sanctuary.
Do I need to trek to reach Gurdum?
No, you can take a cab to reach Gurdum. However, trekking offers scenic vistas of the village.