When we think about North Bengal, most of us imagine the popular hill stations like Darjeeling or Kalimpong. But beyond these famous destinations, there lies another world—peaceful villages, unexplored valleys, tea gardens, riversides, and hidden forests. These offbeat places in North Bengal are perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowd and experience nature in its purest form.
Whether you are looking for a short 2 night 3 days tour in North Bengal or planning a longer vacation, the region has plenty of offbeat destinations waiting to be explored. Let’s dive into some of the best hidden gems that will give you an unforgettable travel experience.
Traveling to offbeat destinations is not just about avoiding tourist crowds—it’s about discovering the soul of a place. In North Bengal, the offbeat trails offer:
*Now, let’s explore some of the most beautiful and offbeat tourist places in North Bengal.
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If you’re looking for a calm village away from the hustle of Darjeeling, Tinchuley is the answer. Surrounded by tea gardens, forests, and orange orchards, this small eco-village offers panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga.
Highlights: Tea garden walks, sunrise view points, and homestay experiences.
Best for: Nature lovers and family trips.
Stay duration: Perfect for a 2 night 3 days tour in North Bengal.
Located in the Kurseong subdivision, Sittong has recently become one of the most popular North Bengal offbeat places. Known as the “Orange Village,” it’s surrounded by orange orchards that bloom beautifully in winter.
Highlights: Orange gardens, beautiful viewpoints, and riverside picnics.
Best for: Photography enthusiasts and couples.
Best time to visit: November to January for the orange harvest season.
Part of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, Latpanchar is a dream destination for bird lovers. It is especially famous for the endangered Rufous-necked Hornbill.
Highlights: Birdwatching, jungle walks, and stunning views of Teesta River.
Best for: Wildlife and nature lovers.
Stay tip: Stay in homestays to enjoy local hospitality and fresh organic meals.
Just 19 km from Darjeeling, Lepchajagat is a small village surrounded by dense oak and rhododendron forests. The charm of this place lies in its silence and the mesmerizing sunrise over Kanchenjunga.
Highlights: Forest trails, romantic atmosphere, and mountain views.
Best for: Honeymooners and peace seekers.
Stay duration: Ideal for weekend trips.
If you love riverside stays, Tabakoshi is one of the best places to visit in North Bengal. This quaint village is located by the Rangbhang River and is surrounded by tea gardens.
Highlights: Riverside camping, fishing, and village walks.
Best for: Families and adventure seekers.
Unique experience: Staying in cottages right beside the river.
Tucked away near the Neora Valley National Park, Kolakham is an offbeat gem surrounded by forests and wildlife. The area is rich in biodiversity, making it ideal for eco-tourism.
Highlights: Trekking, birdwatching, and exploring Neora Valley.
Best for: Trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bonus: On clear days, you can see Mt. Kanchenjunga from here.
Rishop is a small village near Lava that offers a 360-degree view of the Himalayan range. Far from commercial tourism, it’s one of the best offbeat tourist places in North Bengal for those who love mountains.
Highlights: Sunrise views, forest walks, and peaceful stays.
Best for: Couples, families, and solo travelers.
Must-visit: The viewpoint at Tiffindara for breathtaking Himalayan views.
Located between Gorubathan and Lava, Jhandi is known for its scenic landscapes, tea gardens, and mountain views. It’s a great alternative to the more crowded destinations nearby.
Highlights: Sunrise over Kanchenjunga, tea gardens, and pine forests.
Best for: Family trips and weekend tours.
Travel tip: Combine Jhandi with Lava and Loleygaon for a short North Bengal tour package.
If you’re planning to explore Dooars, don’t miss Bindu and Jhalong. These small villages along the Jaldhaka River offer stunning landscapes and a chance to connect with local culture.
Highlights: Hydel project at Bindu, riverside camping, and trekking trails.
Best for: Offbeat adventure seekers.
Stay tip: Choose homestays to experience the local lifestyle.
For wildlife lovers, Raimatang is one of the most unexplored offbeat north Bengal destinations. Located in the Buxa Tiger Reserve, this place offers lush greenery, wildlife, and complete peace.
Highlights: Jungle safaris, birdwatching, and camping.
Best for: Adventure travelers and wildlife photographers.
Travel note: Entry requires permits since it’s inside a protected forest area.
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Summer (March–June): Perfect for escaping the heat, enjoying pleasant weather.
Monsoon (July–September): Lush greenery, though some areas may face landslides.
Winter (October–February): Crisp air, clear mountain views, and orange orchards in bloom.
If you have limited time, here’s a quick itinerary idea:
Day 1: Arrival at NJP/Bagdogra → Transfer to Sittong (explore orange orchards, village stay).
Day 2: Visit Latpanchar for birdwatching and nature walks → Overnight at Latpanchar.
Day 3: Morning sunrise → Return journey.
This short trip gives you a perfect taste of offbeat places in North Bengal without rushing.
Choose homestays – They offer better experiences than hotels.
Carry cash – Many villages don’t have ATMs or card facilities.
Pack warm clothes – Even in summer, nights can be chilly.
Respect local culture – Be mindful of traditions and environment.
Travel light – Roads in offbeat areas are often narrow and hilly.
North Bengal is not just about Darjeeling and Dooars—it’s also about the hidden villages, forest trails, and riversides that remain untouched by mass tourism. From orange orchards in Sittong to the serene forests of Lepchajagat, these offbeat places in North Bengal promise a refreshing travel experience.
So, the next time you plan a holiday, skip the crowded spots and explore these lesser-known gems. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a 2 night 3 days tour in North Bengal, or a longer trip, these destinations will give you memories for a lifetime.
*Let's check out our Full 9 Night 10 Days Northeast Tour Plan
Some of the top 10 offbeat places in North Bengal include Sittong, Latpanchar, Lepchajagat, Tinchuley, Tabakoshi, Kolakham, Rishop, Jhandi, Bindu–Jhalong, and Raimatang. Each of these destinations offers a unique blend of nature, peace, and cultural experiences.
If you’re exploring Kalimpong, you can extend your trip to nearby offbeat spots like Rishop, Lava, Loleygaon, and Kolakham. These places are just a short drive away and are perfect for enjoying serene landscapes without the rush of city life.
For weekend travelers, offbeat places in North Bengal for weekend getaways include Lepchajagat, Jhandi, Sittong, and Latpanchar. These destinations are easily accessible from Siliguri, NJP, or Bagdogra and are ideal for a short 2 night 3 days tour in North Bengal.
Apart from the bustling town of Darjeeling, there are several offbeat places near Darjeeling like Tinchuley, Lamahatta, Lepchajagat, and Takdah. These destinations provide the same Himalayan charm but with fewer tourists and more tranquility.
Yes, many villages and scenic destinations are perfect for families. Some of the best offbeat places in North Bengal for family trips are Sittong (Orange Village), Tabakoshi (Riverside Retreat), and Jhandi. These places are safe, peaceful, and full of nature-friendly activities.
Near Kurseong, you can explore beautiful offbeat spots like Sittong, Bagora, Chimney, and Tinchuley. These places are located amidst tea gardens and hills, making them ideal for those who prefer quiet holidays close to nature.
Couples looking for a romantic getaway can choose destinations like Lepchajagat, Kolakham, and Lamahatta. These offbeat places in North Bengal for couples are known for their cozy homestays, mountain views, and peaceful vibes, making them perfect honeymoon spots too.
If you’re short on time, there are several offbeat places near Siliguri for one day trip. You can visit Latpanchar, Rohini, Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, or Mirik. These destinations are within a few hours’ drive and make excellent short escapes from city life.
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