The Jaldhaka River and Valley

The Jaldhaka River originates in Eastern Sikkim, where several small streams in the Kupup and Nathang Valley area converge to form a slightly larger stream. If you have visited the Silk Route area of East Sikkim, you may have come across this river, though it is hardly noticeable there. As the stream progresses, it passes through the Neora Valley National Park and reaches Bindu, where one of India's first hydroelectric dams was constructed. From Bindu, the river forms the boundary between India and Bhutan.

The Jaldhaka Valley

The Jaldhaka Valley, stretching for about 10 kilometres until the river reaches the Dooars plains, has become a popular tourist destination. Villages along the valley, such as Bindu, Jhalong, Gairibans, Paren, Godak, and Todey, have all attracted tourists with their serene beauty and tranquil environment.

The Jaldhaka Valley is situated at an altitude of about 1,500 feet above sea level. It is an established tourist destination that has gained prominence in the recent past. Located in the hill section of Gorubathan under the Kalimpong Sub-division, it is cut off from the rest of the district by a mountain ridge descending southwest from Reche-la and is separated from Bhutan by the De-chu or Jaldhaka River.

Major Tourist Spots in Jaldhaka Valley

Jhalong

Jhalong is a relatively large settlement beside the Jaldhaka River, featuring shops and small-budget hotels. If you are entering the Jaldhaka Valley, Jhalong is the first major village you will come across. It serves as an ideal base for exploring the region and enjoying the scenic beauty of the valley. Jhalong is also popular for the forest cottages along the Jhalong River. The cottages managed by the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation are some of the best tourist accommodations in the area.

Paren

Paren is another small village located midway between Bindu and Jhalong. There are a large number of private tourist accommodations and homestays that have come up in the area in recent years. Paren's serene environment makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful retreat.

Bindu

Bindu, a picturesque village, is home to the historic Bindu Dam, the first dam built in Independent India over the Jaldhaka River. The village offers stunning views and a tranquil environment, making it a must-visit spot for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

Todey and Tangta

Todey and Tangta are small villages located beyond Bindu in the Neora Valley National Park area. Known for cardamom production, these villages are still developing their tourism infrastructure, offering limited accommodations. Visitors can explore Todey and Tangta from Bindu or Jhalong, with Todey being about an hour's drive through Paren. Todey features a monastery and a small market with about 30 households. The area is also known for its medicinal plants, with the Chamelidevi Ayurvedic Garden near the village being a notable attraction.

Getting There

Jaldhaka can be reached from Siliguri, located 90 kilometres away, and from Kalimpong, 135 kilometres away, after crossing the Coronation Bridge at Sevak and passing through Chalsa, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, Jhalong, and Gairibus. Besides the natural surroundings, the hydroelectric power project situated 5 kilometres from the bazaar is a central attraction. The forest rest house overlooking the scenic Jaldakha Valley and the Bhutan hills is beautifully located and offers a serene stay for tourists.

Nearby Attractions

Visiting the Jaldhaka Valley is a common activity for tourists staying in more popular destinations of Western Dooars, such as Gorumara and Samsing. These regions offer a variety of attractions and activities, making a trip to the Jaldhaka Valley a perfect complement to a broader exploration of the Dooars area.