Lava is a stunning hill station in West Bengal, situated about 34 kilometers away from Kalimpong. If you are looking for a serene and picturesque getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, then Lava Kalimpong might be the perfect choice for you. It is surrounded by alpine floras and interrupted by sailing white clouds, and echoes of monastery bells and chants.
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There are many locations in this town which will give fill your heart with tranquility. It is also one of the rare places in West Bengal where you can witness snowfall during winter.
Lava also offers many opportunities for you to discover its diverse flora and fauna, as well as its rich cultural heritage.
In this article, you will get to know the following points about Lava Kalimpong,
Let’s see each of these points in detail.
How to reach Lava (Kalimpong)
Lava is well-connected to all the major cities in the region.
From Siliguri: You can take the road via Kalimpong (67.3 km) or via Dooars and Damdim (97 km) to reach Lava. Both these routes take about 3 hours by car. Local transport is also available that will take you there at a fraction of the cost.
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From Darjeeling: Lava is about 80 kilometers from Darjeeling. You can take the road via Kalimpong which takes about 3.5 hours by car.
From NJP: You can take a road via Kalimpong and Algara (105 km) or via Dooars and Damdim (97 km). Both routes take about 3.5 hours by car.
The natural beauty of Lava
Enwrapped with towering pine trees, Lava is a nature’s paradise. This place is the residence of clouds and mists. Roads wind around the hills forming snakelike patterns. Trees dot the way; flowers form soft colorful sheaths on the grassy beds.
The warm sun peeks through the soaring pines and other conifers giving rise to magic in the atmosphere. As you discover more, the layer of mountains discloses more along with beautiful valleys and woodlands. Woody-floral-misty fragrance inebriates the air in this region which is more than potent to make one tipsy with a love for nature.
The place is remarkable in every season; be it the rain, sun, or snow, lava is impressive all through the year. The natural beauty here is feral and virgin.
Places to visit in Lava (Kalimpong)
There are a lot of places that you can visit in Lava. Some of them are,
1. Changey Waterfall
Changey waterfall is a beautiful waterfall cascading from a height of 150 feet amidst the thick greeneries. The water of this majestic waterfall is crystal clear.
The sound of chirping Himalayan Birds and the flowing water is very soothing. You have to trek 900 m to reach the waterfall from the last motorable point.
2. Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery
Kagyu Thekchen Ling Monastery, also known as Lava Monastery, is a religious site in the picturesque village of Lava. It was built in 1987 by Karma Lodro Chokyi. Today it houses more than 100 monks and you can see their indulgence in meditation and various religious rites.
The architecture of the monastery is impressive. You can see beautiful panoramic views of nature from this place.
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3. Tiffin Dara View Point
Located 4 km from Lava, Tiffin Dara View Point is situated in Rishop and is one of the famous vantage points in West Bengal. The viewpoint offers a scenic 360 view of Kanchenjunga, Jelep La pass, and Nathu La Pass.
You can take a 4 km walk uphill from Lava through the forests of orchids, rhododendrons, and pines to reach this point.
4. Nature Interpretation Centre
Lava Tourism is incomplete without a visit to the Nature Interpretation Centre. It is situated at the entrance of Neora Valley National Park and is a haven for nature lovers.
You can explore vivid wildlife in this place. There are enchanting displays of orchids and dioramas, photographs, models, stuffed birds, and animals.
5. Lava View Point
Lava View Point is a breathtaking viewpoint from where you can see majestic Himalayan peaks, dense forests of pine and spruce, and tiny hamlets scattered around the region.
Early mornings are ideal for observing sunrise and sunset. When fog surrounds the area the place looks more mystical.
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Things to do in Lava (Kalimpong)
Lava, as stunning as it is, there are several things to do at this place. Some of them are as follows:
- When you enter Lava, the first thing that is to be done is to admire the blanket of pine trees that covers the area.
- Next, go out on a stroll to enjoy the mesmerizing locality.
- Walk through the alpine woodland for a thrilling experience. The sudden cloud covers create a mystery-filled environment.
- Visit the Kagyu Thekchen Monastery or the Lava Monastery. It is serene with an air of positivity floating in the atmosphere.
- Try hiking through the famous hiking trail, Rachela Pass. This is a must-do if you are in Lava. The picture-perfect setting of nature waits to be seen after a good walk.
- Stop by the wilderness to breathe in the pure mountain air.
- If you are among those who cherish knowing the locality, then visit the Nature Interpretation Centre. It displays the details of flora and fauna together with the landscape of Lava.
- Relish a cup of hot tea in the cool weather standing by the hills. From any nook, the views are utterly perfect.
- Neora Valley National Park is yet another destination to be at. This Himalayan national park is an abode of a diversity of wildlife including the Red Pandas. The flora cover is worth the praise.
- Up next, is the staggering Tiffin Dara View Point. It is a spot that gives an incredible overlook of the surrounding areas.
- Make a target to look at the sunrise and sunset. These are simply magical. The transitions are such that they are to be witnessed at least once.
- Placed amidst the lush hills, is the Changey Waterfall. This is a site that is not to be skipped. It showcases a unique beauty amid the wild.
- Photograph the charming terrain of Lava.
- Bird watching is something you may indulge in while soaking in the sun. Be patient, you may encounter rare ones.
- Speak to the locals to learn about the town and the surrounding areas.
The best time to visit Lava Kalimpong
You can visit Lava at any time of the year. Each season displays the place in different colors and unique weather. The best time to visit Lava is during the winter and spring, i.e, from November to March.
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During this time you can experience more beautiful weather, mist-covered tea gardens, sparkling mountain peaks, and many more. You can explore the sprawling lush green meadows, and colorful blossoms, and gaze at the clear skies during the spring. A perfect escapade to spend your vacation.
Places to stay in Lava (Kalimpong)
There are many hotels and guesthouses where you can stay in Lava. These accommodations provide a cozy ambiance and have all modern amenities.
Some recommended hotels, homestays, and guesthouses in Lava (Kalimpong) are Suvarna Homestay, WBFDC Resort, and Jhandi Eco Hut.
These are some points you must know about Lava (Kalimpong). You can spend a peaceful weekend with your friends or family here and rejuvenate.
Most people merge the tour of Lava with Lolegaon and have a wonderful vacation amidst nature.
Other places to visit in West Bengal
- Ramdhura (Kalimpong) – 5 Points You Must Know About
- Daragaon, Burmaik (Kalimpong) – 5 Points You Must Know About
- Ghurni – Exploring Krishnanagar’s Hidden Gem And Its Clay Dolls
- Mim Tea Garden (Darjeeling) – 5 Points You Must Know About
- Bandel Church (Hooghly) | The Basilica of the Holy Rosary
- Bethuadahari Wildlife Sanctuary (West Bengal) – 5 Things To Know
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