Most people may be inclined to consider the classic hill station of Darjeeling, the vast tea plantations or the abundant wildlife in the Dooars when considering North Bengal. These are both worth visiting, of course, but North Bengal presents a trove of obscure, offbeat destinations, which provide much more quirky experiences away from the tourists. Secluded amid the eastern Himalayas, and the green Terai and Dooars, these untraveled destinations are ideal to visit when one is in need of sheer natural beauty, serenity and the culture.

These are the 5 most offbeat places in North Bengal that you need to add to your travel list:

Tinchuley (North Bengal) – A Serene Hamlet Overlooking the Teesta Valley

Tinchuley is a sleepy green hamlet that literally has not felt the wrath of commercial tourism and is a mere 32 miles away (approximately one hour) to Darjeeling. The hamlet is located at an altitude of 5,800 feet and boasts of magnificent displays of Kanchenjunga, exotic woodlands and river vales.
Tinchuley is named after the local terms tin (three) and chuley (chulha or oven), because the three hilltops around the village look like an oven.

Why Visit Tinchuley (North Bengal)

At a glance: In comparison to congested Darjeeling, you can have breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, without any obstruction.
Orange Orchards: Tinchuley is renowned as an organic producer especially oranges. You can also visit the surrounding farms and even stay in a family with homestay opportunities.
Nature Walks and Bird Watching: Tinchuley has forests around that are biodiverse. Stroll through the pine and rhododendron forests or stay put just to see the flying colors in Himalayan birds.

It is an ideal place to visit by people who seek quiet relaxing trips, nature adventures, and village activities.

Lepchajagat (North Bengal) – A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers

Lepchajagat is a small village located just 19km away Darjeeling nestled deep in the dark oak, pine and rhododendron forest. It is a peaceful, undisturbed getaway in spite of its being so near the popular hill station.
It is a location placed at approximately 6,956 feet above sea level and thus provides panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range and a tranquil setting that is ideal to make a weekend stay.

Why Visit Lepchajagat (North Bengal)

Thick forest walkways: Nature lovers who enjoy such walks will love this place. The routes encircling Lepchajagat are dreamlike and are frequently covered with mist.
Birdwatching Haven: A number of bird species of the Himalaya can be found in the forest, such as flycatchers and thrushes.
Stargazing: The Lepchajagat is a good location to stargaze on clear skies because of low light pollution.

There are very few tourists, so you can turn around to find yourself alone surrounded by the birds and rustling leaves.

Rongo (North Bengal) – The flower valley of Kalimpong

Rongo or Rango is a lovely village in Kalimpong district about 35km past the town of Kalimpong. It is a site where the Relli and Ghish rivers merge and was formerly a medicinal plants plantation hub under British dominion.
Rongo is one of the most picturesque offbeat places in North Bengal, vibrant flower gardens, lush forests, and Lepcha culture make it a stunning location to visit this time.

Why Visit Rongo (North Bengal)

Floral diversity: Rongo is botanical paradise. The landscape blazes color with orchids and wild herbs.
Lepcha Culture: Meet the native Khasi people and enjoy some of their most ancient traditions, music, and local dishes.
Trekking and Hiking: Rongo has many beautiful walking trails that both avid and amateur trekkers can enjoy.

Live on a homestay and wake up to lush views of the sunrise.

Bindu (North Bengal) – Where the Hills Meet the Rivers

Bindu is one of the prettiest and tranquil villages in the Dooars region nestled close to the Indo-Bhutan border. About 107 km east (by road) of Siliguri, it is a confluence of the Jaldhaka, Dudh Pokhri and Bindu Khola rivers.
It is commonly known as the last village on the Indian side in that region and has found favour amongst the individuals who want to associate with nature.

Why Visit Bindu (North Bengal)

Scenic River Valleys: The Bindu Dam and the adjoining river valleys form an idyllic picnic or photography set up.
Cardamom and Orange Plantations: The region abounds in spice farming, and it is possible to trek on farms or breathe spices.
Gateway to Neora Valley National Park: The village is one of the gateways to the pristine Neora Valley National Park which acts as a bio-hotspot and one of the least disturbed forests in the Eastern Himalayas.

Ideal place to stay with friends, families, and other small groups of individuals tired of meeting the grind of the city.

Mongpu (North Bengal) – Rabindranath Tagore’s Summer Retreat

Mongpu (or Mungpoo/Mangpu) is a small village in Darjeeling district, home to cinchona plantations and notable in its association with Rabindranath Tagore. Mongpu, a comfortable 20 km drive from Darjeeling town, is perched 3,700 ft above sea level.
The literary and historical heritage is what makes Mongpu special; Tagore came here repeatedly, and his summer home has already been converted into a museum.

Why Visit Mongpu (North Bengal)

Tagore Museum: See where Tagore used to stay now preserved as a bungalow with his furniture, paintings and writings. A treat to any book lover.
Cinchona Plantations: Take a tour around the plantations and gain insights on how quinine was produced in India.
Panoramic Views: The route to Mongpu also presents an array of panoramic views of the river valleys as well as tea gardens and waterfalls.

It is a cultural diversion off the standard touristic path, being a soothing, thoughtful place with literary appeal.

Final Thoughts to visit North Bengal

There is much more to North Bengal than tea plantations and tiger parks. And there is more to these strange spots than merely that means to sit down and smoke the mountain air, and tell you legends not written in books but which you may hear in the laughter of the local people and feel in the thrill of the forest growth. Therefore, whether you are alone or with a companion on a retreat, or a family that wants to adventure on a different sort of break, the sunken treasures of North Bengal are profitably waiting to be discovered by your feet.