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Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
+91 70017 24300Scan to chat
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Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
+91 70017 24300
Lepchakha is a serene hilltop village overlooking the Dooars, known for stunning views and peaceful nature stays.
Altitude
1,829 meters
Region
Dooars
Min temp
4°C
Max temp
26°C
A season-wise distribution of weather and temperature of Lepchakha is mentioned below
| Season | Temperature | Weather | Best activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | 14°C – 24°C | clear and pleasant | village walks and trekking to Buxa Fort |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 18°C – 27°C | mild showers with warm temperature | butterfly spotting and sunrise views |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 12°C – 22°C | clear skies and crisp air | nature hikes and birdwatching |
| Winter (December to February) | 6°C – 18°C | misty mornings and cold weather | campfire nights and cosy stays |
Lepchakha can be visited at any time of the year, as the climate of the region remains mostly pleasant, with each season hiding its unique charm. You can select your own kind of experiences and choose your best season. The best recommended seasons are spring and autumn as the skies appear their bluest with clear weather during these seasons, offering the best view of the Dooars plains.
My trip to Lepchakha was in October, the trails appeared dry with crisp mornings, and I enjoyed the breathtaking views from the Buxa hills.
| Months | Weather | Footfall | Category | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | breezy and pleasant | Moderate | Peak Season | village stays, cultural walks and trekking |
| Monsoon (June-August) | heavy rain and humid | Low | Off-Season | photography and lush travels |
| Autumn (September-November) | cool and clear | High | Peak-season | camping and trekking |
| Winter (December-February) | misty and cold | Low to Moderate | Shoulder Season | birdwatching, solitude and bonfire nights |
You can trek to Buxa Fort, wake up to breathtaking views of the Bhutan hills and enjoy a peaceful ambience in Lepchakha. I enjoyed misty walks around the Dooard plain, which felt magical. Some attractions to explore and activities to try out in Lepchakha include
Lepchakha Viewpoint
It is one of the main attractions of Lepchakha, offering a charming view of 12 beautiful rivers flowing peacefully along the plains of Dooars.
Buxa Fort
You can trek via Santalabari to reach this historic fort, exuding British-era charm, surrounded by lush forest.
Buxa Tiger Reserve trails
It is one of the most popular biodiversity zones of India, and its surrounding forests can be explored from Lepchakha.
Tribal village
You explore the village and get to know about the traditional lifestyle of the Dukpa tribe inhabiting the region, and explore their traditional houses.
Jayanti Riverbed & Forest
It is a serene location where you can enjoy birdwatching and peaceful riverside walks amidst the breathtaking landscape and rocky riverbed.
Chunabhatti Viewpoint
This is a lesser-known gem in proximity to Lepchakha, where you can enjoy some quick hikes amidst the lush forest and peaceful plains.
Rovers Point
You can enjoy breathtaking valley views and spot some wildlife amid the panoramic view of the location, which can be reached from Lepchakha with only a short hike.
Santalabari Base
It is the starting point of the trekking route leading to Buxa Fort and Lepchakha. The route is scenic and can be considered a separate attraction.
You can reach Lepchakha from Siliguri or Alipurduar, then, through a scenic drive from Santalbari, you will have to trek through the Buxa Tiger Reserve for about 3.5 km.
I enjoyed the short but scenic trek from Santalbari. I felt like stepping into a mystic world where I enjoyed the sweet chirping of birds while crossing the forest trails.
By Air
The nearest airport to Lepchakha is the Bagdogra airport, which is situated at a distance of 175 km. You can take a cab from the airport to reach Alipurduar and Santalabari, and then trek to Lepchakha.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Lepchakh is the Alipurduar junction, which is well connected with all the major cities. You can take local transport from here to reach Santalabari and then continue your journey up to Lepchakha.
From Siliguri
You can reach Santalabari from Siliguri by road and then trek your way up to Lepchakha. The distance is approximately 150 km and the route includes Siliguri → Hasimara → Kalchini → Santalabari. The total travel time will take you around 4.5-5.5 hours.
From Darjeeling
The distance between Darjeeling and Santalabari is approximately 217 km, which you can cover by taking a cab, and then you will have to trek up to Lepchakha. The travel route includes Darjeeling → Siliguri → Hasimara → Santalabari, and the total travel time by road will be 6-7 hours.
The food of Lepchakha is hearty, simple and deeply rooted in the local traditions. The meals are prepared using fresh seasonal ingredients and are mostly served in the homestays. Some of the must-try dishes of Lepchakha include Rice with Dal or Sabzi, Aloo Dum & Saag, Bamboo Shoot Curry, Local Chicken or Pork Curry, Chutneys & Pickles, Rotis or Millet Breads and Tea & Butter Tea. You can try out the following experiences in Lepchakha
Traditional Homestay Experience
You can stay in the traditionally built bamboo houses with handwoven bedding and a firewood kitchen to enjoy the tribal hospitality and get to know more about their kind nature and local lifestyle.
Enjoying the Local Cuisine
To understand the food culture of the region, you will have to taste the local cuisines here, which are prepared using fresh organic ingredients such as bamboo shoots, rice, wild greens and pulses.
Folklore and Storytelling
You can interact with the locals and get to know about the folklore related to ancient legends and forest spirits that have been prevailing in the region for generations.
Architecture and Tribal Crafts
The locals are excellent at craftsmanship. You can explore the region and admire their simple bamboo craftsmanship in the daily tools, fences and homes.
The accommodations of Lepchakha are simple yet charming, filled with warm hospitality and generosity of the kind-hearted Dukpa tribe residing in the region. You will be provided with clean rooms in the traditional bamboo-style homestays, where you can enjoy basic comfort, delicious meals such as rice, vegetables, dal and traditional curries prepared using fresh ingredients. You might have to share the bathrooms in these homestays and adjust to limited electricity, but a peaceful ambience and scenic views are guaranteed.
I stayed at a charming homestay run by a kind-hearted Drukpa family, where I was offered heartfelt hospitality and enjoyed the silence and scenic charm of Leopopchakha right from my homestay.
| Category | Best stay | Price range | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Homestays by Dukpas | ₹800 – ₹1,200 | valley views, basic rooms | Budget travellers and backpackers. |
| Mid-Range | Buxa Jungle Retreat (nearby) | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 | forest-setting and eco-huts | Solo travellers and nature lovers |
| Premium | Hilltop Cottage (limited availability) | ₹2,800 – ₹3,500 | guided treks, attached baths and scenic decks | offbeat kuxury seekers |
Homestays
You will get to enjoy an immersive experience in the scenic, soulful and simple bamboo homestays of Lepchakha. Most of these homestays are situated in a location where you can enjoy the view of the plains of Dooars and a breathtaking sunrise view rising above the hills. The hosts of the homestays are very friendly and will serve hot, delicious home-cooked meals.
Where is Lepchakha located?
Lepchakha is located in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal near the Buxa Tiger Reserve.
How to reach Lepchakha?
You can reach Lepchakha through a 3-4 km uphill trek from Buxa Fort after reaching Jayanti or Alipurduar by train or road.
What is Lepchakha known for?
Lepchakha offers breathtaking views of the Buxa forest range and serene 12 rivers.
Is the trek to reach Lepchakha difficult?
The trek from the Buxa Fort is moderate, which you can cover in 1.5-2 hours amid stone steps and scenic jungle trails.
Can I find good accomodation optins in Lepchakha?
Yes, you can find beautiful homestays here run by the Drukpa community, where you will be offered delicious food and warm hospitality along with basic facilities.
When is the best time for a trip to Lepchakha?
October to March is the best time when you can enjoy pleasant weather and the best views.
Is mobile network available in Lepchakha?
You can expect a digital detox here, as the mobile coverage is limited, and BSNL works fine in some areas.
What foods can I enjoy in Lepchakha?
You can enjoy simple but delicious home-cooked meals here, such as rice, dal, chicken and vegetables.
Can I enjoy a family trip in Lepchakha?
Yes, you can enjoy a peaceful family vacation here; however, you will have to be prepared to use basic amenities and for the trek.
Will I need a permit to visit the place?
Yes, you will need a permit from the Forest Department at the Buxa entry gate.