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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
Gorkhey is a serene forest-side village near the Sikkim–West Bengal border, known for its pine forests, riverside charm, and peaceful stop on the Sandakphu–Phalut trek.
Altitude
2,200 meters
Region
Sikkim
Min temp
-5°C
Max temp
22°C
Gorkey is a favoured stopover between the trekkers of the Sandakphu-Phalut trek route. This is a serene hamlet surrounded by beautiful rivers and lush Pine forests. Although there is zero mobile network in this region, you will be mesmerised by the chirping birds, beautiful traditional homes and clear river water of the region. This Himalayan fairyland creates opportunities for digital detox, slow forest walks and relaxation.
My trip to Gorkhey felt like a dream. I spent the mornings sitting by the river and enjoyed sipping green tea while watching the mountain vista. The time here felt like it had paused, surrounded by peaceful ambience.
Gorkhey is a quaint hamlet perched peacefully in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas and is in proximity to the border of Sikkim and West Bengal. It is situated at an elevation of about 7500 feet above sea level. Gorkey is surrounded by the beautiful Gorkhey Khola river and the forests of Fir and Pine of the Singalila range. The mountain silhouette, terraced farms, wooden houses and lush meadows enhance the beauty of the region.
The weather and temperature of Gorkhey based on different seasons are mentioned below
| Season | Temperature | Weather | Best activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | 8 – 18 | blooming forest and pleasant | rhododendron trekking and village walks |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 12 – 22 | occassional rain and mild | short nature hikes and photography |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 6 – 17 | clear views and crisp air | stargazing and trekking to Samanden |
| Winter (December to February) | 0 – 10 | misty mornings and cold | offbeat travels, campfire |
Gorkey is an ideal destination for isolation seekers and nature enthusiasts, which can be visited at any time of the year due to its natural beauty. However, if you are looking forward to a trekking experience, then it is advised to travel during the Spring and Autumn seasons. Each season of Gorkhey has its unique beauty and magic. You can choose your best season according to your taste and the experience you are looking forward to.
I went on a trip to Gorkhey in the early spring, which felt magical; the rhododendrons were in full bloom, painting the valley in the hues of red and pink. Each frame felt picture-perfect with pine-smelling trails.
| Months | Weather | Footfall | Category | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | clear views, blooming and cool | Moderate | Peak Season | scenic treks, Rhododendron blooms |
| Monsoon (June-August) | foggy and wet | Low | Off-Season | lush greenery, offbeat travels |
| Autumn (September-November) | post-monsoon freshness, clear and crisp | High | Peak-season | village stays, photography |
| Winter (December-February) | occassional frost and cold | Low to Moderate | Shoulder Season | solitude vibe, snowy trails |
You can enjoy peaceful walks in the lush forest trails, riverside picnics and treks to Samanden in Gorkhey. I enjoyed sharing stories with the locals while sipping tea by the fire here. Some attractions and activities of Gorkhey are mentioned below-
Gorkhey Khola
It is a beautiful stream flowing around the village, ideal for meditation, relaxation, or simply dipping your feet in the crystal clear water.
Remote Monasteries & Shrines
There are some remote shrines and monasteries in the nearby forest areas where you can enjoy some spiritual exploration and quiet time.
Kanchenjunga Views
You can enjoy the beautiful sight of snow-covered peaks, including Kanchenjunga, from Gorkhey on clear days.
Birdwatching Hotspot
Various bird species visit the pristine riverbank and the lush forests of Gorkey, which you can enjoy especially during the bird season.
Rammam Village
You will need to go on a 4 km trek to reach this charming forest-side hamlet encompassed by traditional homes and green meadows.
Samanden Village
A mere 2 km walk from Gorkhey will take you to this breathtaking hamlet, which is also referred to as “ Switzerland of the East”. You will get beautiful picnic spots, grazing cattle and traditional wooden homes here.
Phalut
This charming ridge being situated at a distance of 15 km from Gorkhey, offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks such as Everest, Makalu and Kanchenjunga.
Srikhola
This serene hamlet near a river is situated at a distance of 12 km from Gorkhey, where you can witness birdwatching spots, quiet trails and a hanging bridge.
I reached Gorkhey by trekking from Srikhola via Rammam; the trekking trails were filled with hanging bridges and scenic forests. You can reach Gorkhey by the following means.
By Air
The nearest airport to Gorkhey is the Bagdogra airport, which is situated at a distance of 135 km. You can take a taxi from the airport to reach Manebhanjan or Rimnik and then reach Gorkhey through trekking via Srikhola or Sandakphu.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Gorkhey is the NJP station, which is at a distance of 130 km. You will have to reach Rimbik from the railway station first, and then you can trek up to Gorkhey via Phalut, Srikhola or the Rimbik route.
From Siliguri
You can take a cab from Siliguri and cover the route of Manebhanjan → Rimbik/Srikhola. It will take you about 7-8 hours via road, and then you will have to complete a trek of about 15 km from Phalut or a 10-12 km trek from Srikhiola to reach Gorkhey.
From Darjeeling
You can take a cab from Darjeeling and cover the route of Darjeeling → Ghoom → Sukhiapokhri → Rimbik → Srikhola, which will take you around 6 km, then start your trek up to Gorkhey, which will take you about 3-5 hours.
The local cuisine of Gorkey is simple and is prepared using materials which are mostly grown by the locals in their backyard gardens. The flavours of Gorkey cuisines are inspired by the traditional blend of Gorkha and Nepali communities. Some of the must-try foods of Gorkhey include- Dal-Bhat-Tarkari, Momo, Thukpa, Aloo-Tama and Gundruk. You can try out the following experiences in Gorkhey
Enjoying the daily lifestyle of the locals
You can interact with the friendly locals and get an idea about their day-to-day routine, such as tending to livestock, harvesting crops, collecting firewood and weaving.
Folk songs and stories
The elders are enthused about sharing their folk stories, which you can enjoy by sitting near a warm bonfire and listening to some hill songs to make your evenings even more interesting.
Traditions and blended faiths
Gorkhey enjoys a blended belief of Buddhist and Hindu practices, which are reflected in the prayer flags and spiritual altars of the region.
Organic and handcrafted products
You can buy some handmade souvenirs from the region, such as delicious pickles, bamboo baskets, teas and woollen caps.
Although there are no luxury resorts or hotels in Gorkhey, you will find some really good, simple and warm homestays in the region. These accommodations are mostly traditional homes of the locals, which are wooden cottages and are family-run. You will be offered heartfelt hospitality and all the basic amenities. The rooms are very clean with attached bathrooms and wood-fire kitchens. You will also be provided warm blankets and delicious home-cooked meals.
On my trip to Gorkhey, I stayed at a stunning and peaceful wooden riverside homestay, where I woke up to the sweet chirping of birds every morning and took a walk in the misty forest trails nearby.
| Category | Best stay | Price range | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget Homestay | Gorkhey Forest Homestay | ₹800 – ₹1,200 | wooden cottages, cosy rooms | budget travellers |
| Mid-Range Stay | New Gorkhey Homestay | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 | garden views, attached bath | solo travellers |
| Rustic Eco-Stay | Samanden Village Camp (nearby) | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 | traditional ambiance | nature lovers |
| Trekker Lodge | Gorkhey Guest House | ₹700 – ₹1,000 | shared bathrooms, basic amenities, trek-friendly location | Sandakphu/Phalut trekkers |
Homestays
The homestays of Gorkey are run by the locals residing in the region. You will be provided with clean rooms, an attached bathroom, home-cooked meals, a bonfire and local guidance with a packed lunch for trekking. Some of the best recommended homestays of Gorkhey include
Gorkhey is an ideal destination to reconnect with nature and enjoy a digital detox away from the crowds. You can enjoy a soul-soothing experience amidst the simplicity and stillness of Gorkhey in the beautiful landscape of the region, surrounded by serenely flowing rivers and pine forests.
Where is Gorkhey located?
Gorkhey is situated near the end of the Phalut-Sandakphu trek on the border of West Bengal and Sikkim.
How to reach Gorkhey?
You can reach Gorkhey from Rammam or Phalut via Ribdi or Srikhola.
Can a non-trekker enjoy a trip to Gorkhey?
Yes, a non-trekker who is a slow nature traveller can enjoy a trip here; however, you are required to walk some kilometres every day.
Can I find good accomodations near Gorkhey?
You can find some good homestays with basic amenities and delicious home-cooked meals in Gorkhey.
Is Gorkhey safe for solo travelling?
Yes, Gorkhey is perfect for a solo travelling experience as the locals here are very friendly with a peaceful ambience.
When is the best time for a trip to Gorkhey?
October to November and March to May are the best times for pleasant weather, fresh greenery and clear skies.
How is the internet and the mobile network in Gorkhey?
Mobile network is limited in Gorkhey with no signal in many areas. It is advisable to let family members and friends know in advance.
What are the major attractions of Gorkhey?
River Gorkhey, sunrise views, camping and pine trails.