Discover Dhotrey: An offbeat weekend getaway near Darjeeling, perfect for nature lovers. Immerse yourself in serene landscapes, savor delicious local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the villagers. Enjoy a peaceful hike through pine and rhododendron forests. Plan your perfect weekend escape to Dhotrey now!

About Dhotrey

If you’re looking to escape the daily hustle and connect with serene nature and inner peace, Dhotrey is the perfect weekend getaway. Nestled at an altitude of approximately 8,500 ft within the buffer zone of Singalila National Park, this small village is just 44 km from Darjeeling and about 105 km from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) and Bagdogra Airport (IXB). The village is easily accessible by road.

The famous Urdu poet Syed Shakeel Desnavi once wrote:

            “Banjar hain pathrile hain;

             Aur Kahin barfile hain.

             Dilkash hain Shadab bhi hain;

             Khud me samite khvab bhi hain.”

These lines, meaning “barren, stony, sometimes snowy, yet captivating and lush, holding dreams within,” perfectly capture the essence of Dhotrey.

With limited commercial accommodations, Dhotrey retains its natural charm. The few homestays available must be pre-booked, ensuring a tranquil experience. On a clear day, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Kanchenjunga and the Sleeping Buddha from the village.

A 5-6 km trek to Tonglu (elevation 3,075 m) through a pine forest trail is a must-do experience. As you walk the trail, the sound of birds chirping, the echoing valleys, and the clouds drifting past will rejuvenate your spirit.

Don’t miss the 2.5 km hike to Ramiteydunga View Point, best taken early in the morning to witness a stunning 270-degree view of the Mt. Kanchenjunga range, Sikkim, Bhutan, and a spectacular sunrise. If you visit between March and April, you’ll also see the vibrant blossoms of Rhododendrons, Magnolias, and Orchids.

While in Dhotrey, visit the local Kagyu sect monastery and savor the organic and delicious meals provided by the homestays. Don’t leave without trying the momos and tea at the local market—they come highly recommended.

Explore Dhotrey for a peaceful and rejuvenating experience in the lap of nature.

Dhotrey can be visited year-round, but the best time to experience its beauty is from October to February. During this period, you’ll have the highest chances of clear views and might even witness snowfall in January and February. If you visit in March or April, you’ll be treated to the stunning blossoms of Rhododendron and Magnolia flowers.

Best Time to Visit Dhotrey

Anytime throughout the year but October – February can be the best time to visit Dhotrey to get the high chances of best view and also with the chances of snowfall during January-February. While in the month of March- April you can witness Rhododendron & Magnolia flowers.

Activities:

• Jungle trekking to Ramiteydunga view point
• Sightseeing to Srikhola, Momokhola etc.
• Dhotrey to Tonglu trek
• Dhotrey Delight Hiking
• 🍱 Bonfire in evening
• Trek to Tumling (Nepali villages)
• Know more about nepali culture.
• Try nepali local delicious dishes.
• Sandakphu Trek, Sandakphu-Phalut trek or Sabargram-Phalut Trek.

How to Reach Dhotrey?

Dhotrey is well-connected by road and can be reached within 4-5 hours from the nearest railway stations and airport. The closest railway stations are New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP) and Siliguri Junction, while Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest airport.

Shared cabs are conveniently available from Siliguri (Darjeeling More), just 15-20 minutes away from NJP, Siliguri Junction, or Bagdogra Airport. These cabs depart at 6:30 am and 10:30 am, heading directly to Dhotrey. For your return journey, shared cabs leave Dhotrey at 7:30 am and 1:30 pm. The fare is ₹600 per person.

To book your seat in advance, you can contact Sourav Joshi at +91-8436207859 (10:30 am at Darjeeling More) or Avishek at +91-7602097471 (6:30 am at Darjeeling More).

If you prefer a reserved car, the cost is approximately ₹5,000 – ₹5,500, depending on the season. You can book a reserved car by contacting +91-9875595674.

In case you miss the direct shared cab, you can also reach Dhotrey via Sukhia Pokhri or Maneybhanjan. While shared cabs from Maneybhanjan to Dhotrey are not always available, you might get lucky.

For any query:

About the Author:

I am Prabhakar Kumar, a software engineer by profession and a banzara by heart. Infected with life and traveling is my medicine. Don’t go by the names, sometimes a place you have never heard of before, can give you a lifetime experience. Take the risk, get out of your comfort zone, feel the adrenaline rush. I am here to share my stories and you can find some really helpful information.

Note: Travel with responsibility and respect for nature and local cultures. Leave only footprints, not plastic waste, in the hills. Let’s protect nature, wildlife, and our planet together. Step beyond your comfort zone, embark on new adventures, and embody the spirit of #banzaras.

Upcoming Treks

Phokteydara Trek

INR 10,500/- *

Bajredara Trek

INR 8,599/-*

Sandakphu Trek

INR 8,499/-*

Lost Valley Hiking

INR 4,999/-*

Dhotrey Delight Hiking

INR 4499/-*