TENDRABONG
Tendrabong is a small hamlet or village in Mayrong Forest of Kalimpong sub division of Kalimpong district in the Indian state of West Bengal. Tendrabong is also known by the name of Fatima Gaon. River Mundung Khola (Khola means stream) flows through Tendrabong. On a clear day Tendrabong offers clear view of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges of Mt. Kanchenjunga through the dense Alpine meadows of Mayrong Forest. Tendrabong falls under Saikyong Gram Panchayat of Kalimpong block II. Tendrabong is a Lepcha inhabited village and it comprises of about 165 households. Most of the local inhabitants of Tendrabong are involved in farming to sustain their livelihood among which large cardamoms is the main produce apart from that these local villagers of Tendrabong also cultivates other crops like potatoes, maize, onion and others. For the past few years with the growth of offbeat tourism in these remote locations, some of the families of Tendrabong started homestay facilities to accommodate tourists. As tourist enters the village of Tendrabong, one will be greeted by fresh air, lush green agricultural fields, buzzing bees, chirping symphony of birds and a strong and pleasant smell of large cardamoms all over. Tendrabong is a fascination escape for those seeking absolute calm and tranquil ambience.
Activities and attractions in and around Tendrabong:
The small hamlet of Tendrabong offers tourists with numerous local activities to try and nearby local attractions and nearby places to visit.
- Enjoy Panoramic Views: The most popular attraction of Tendrabong is the panoramic view of the surrounding area. As Tendrabong offers stunning view of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges along with Rehnok, Pedong and surrounding villages.
- Explore Birds and Butterflies: For Bird photographers Tendrabong is an ideal location as the village is home to several bird species to name but a few are Scarlet Minivet, Lesser Whistling Thrush, Paradise Flycatcher, Verditer Flycatcher and many others. Apart from bird photography one can also spot their lenses and search for the colourful butterflies in and around the wilderness of Tendrabong.
- Explore the Flowers: The village of Tendrabong is also home to wide species of flowers namely Orchids, Primula and others. Tourists can go searching for these colourful flowers around the village of Tendrabong.
- Explore Mayrong Forest: While at Tendrabong, tourists can explore the dense wilderness of Mayrong Forest and unfold the diverse flora and fauna hidden in the forest.
- Dukka Falls: Dukka Falls is a popular attraction of Tendrabong located at 1.6 km away from the main village. Dukka Falls offers stunning scenic beauty which is worth enjoying.
- Explore Local Life: While at Tendrabong tourists can opt for a village walk by the narrow trails and explore the local village life, meet the villagers to get deep insight of their daily lifestyle.
- Indulge in Haathey Kar: Haathey Kar is a local sport in Tendrabong and tourists visiting Tendrabong can opt to indulge themselves in this local spot.
- Explore Cardamom Farms: As Tendrabong is popular for its huge production of large cardamoms and tourists visiting Tendrabong can also opt for a visit to these nearby cardamom farms and explore the process of growing these large cardamoms.
- Visit nearby Places: From Tendrabong in a day trip tourists can opt for a visit to the nearby places like Kalimpong (18 km), Deolo (25 km), Pedong (11 km), Rikkisum (7.2 km), Neora Valley National Park (23.7 km), Rishyap (15.3 km), Lava (19.6 km), Kolakham (29 km), Changay Falls (32 km), Lolegaon (36.3 km), Kaffergon (38.2 km), Lingsey (42.3 km), Ramdhura (13.8 km), Sillery Gaon (12.2 km), Icchey Gaon (16.1 km), Rishikhola (32.6 km), Phurung Gaon (17 km) and others.
- Explore the local cuisines: While at Tendrabong tourists can enjoy the local cuisines which are prepared by the local villagers. These local delicacies are prepared from the products which are grown organically in the farmlands of the homestay backyards and are worth tasting.
- Explore the local Customs: At Tendrabong tourists can witness and experience the local customs, traditions and heritage of the local inhabitants of Tendrabong village. One can also indulge in playing musical instruments along with the local villagers with the rhythm of the local folk songs.
- Explore Mundung River: Mundung Khola or Mundung River flows through Tendrabong village and tourists can opt for a day out near the river bank for camping and relaxing.
- Explore Step farming/ terrace farming: As hills are known for step cultivating farmlands and Tendrabong is a no exception. Here at Tendrabong also tourists can witness the traditional process of step cultivation also known as terraced farming.
- Trekking: From Tendrabong in a day trip tourists can opt for trekking to the nearby tourist places which is worth enjoying.
How to Reach:
By Air: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest airport to Tendrabong located at 100 km away via NH 10. Bagdogra Airport is well connected by regular flights with Kolkata, Guwahati and Delhi. From Bagdogra Airport by hired vehicles one can reach Tendrabong. Or one can also opt to avail shared vehicle service from Bagdogra Airport upto Kalimpong or Pedong (which ever will be available) and from there by another reserved vehicle one can reach Tendrabong.
By Train: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) is the nearest rail head to Tendrabong located at 96 km away. NJP railway station is well connected by regular train services with Kolkata and other major cities of India. From NJP railway station by hired vehicle service tourist can reach Tendrabong. Or one can also opt to avail shared vehicle service from NJP or Siliguri upto Kalimpong or Pedong (which ever will be available) and from there by another reserved vehicle one can reach Tendrabong.
By Road: The small village or hamlet of Tendrabong is well connected by good motor-able roads with Bagdogra Airport (3.5 hours), NJP railway station (3.5 hours), Siliguri (3.5 hours) junction and Kalimpong. Apart from that Tendrabong can also be reached from the other nearby tourist places by hired vehicles. From some of the places tourists can also opt to hike to reach Tendrabong.
Best time to visit: Though Tendrabong can be visited throughout the year, but it is advisable to avoid the monsoon season due to messy road condition. Summer (March to June) is the best for outdoor activities and the climate remains pleasant. Summers are also the time when numerous flowers bloom in full throughout the village of Tendrabong. Winter (October to February) is the ideal time to witness the snow-capped Himalayan ranges in full due to clear climate. Winter is also the best time to witness maximum bird activity in and around Tendrabong. In winters the local villagers also arranges for camping and picnic near the river banks which are also quiet enjoying.
ORCARD HOMESTAY
Orcard Homestay at Tendrabong is ensconced within the dense forest of Mayrong forest is an ideal homestay accommodation for tourists seeking a perfect gateway amidst peaceful and serene environment. Orcard Homestay at Tendrabong is known for its serene atmosphere, excellent hospitality and delicious home cooked meals for tourists. Orcard Homestay at Tendrabong is surrounded by lush greenery with a view of the snow-capped mountain ranges at the backdrop. Orcard Homestay has well-appointed rooms which are well decorated with wooden finish and are equipped with basic modern amenities. Orcard Homestay is a perfect staying option for both families and couples. The warm hospitality and friendly staffs of Orcard Homestay are always keen on offering the best possible services to their guests. Here at Orchard Homestay tourists will get a chance to connect with nature.
Amenities available:
Well wooden furnished rooms
Attached bathrooms with western toilet
In house dinning facility
Serves all organic and home cooked meals
Pick up and drop facility available
Arrangement of local sightseeing on request
Bar-B-Cue and Bon fire (chargeable)
Rooms offer clear view of the mountains
Tariff:
INR @ 1300/- per day per person (both food and lodging included)
Meals include: morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea, snacks and dinner.
HOW TO BOOK: Call us at 9831311606 , 9830381306, to get the current availability status or use the query form furnished below with all you travel queries and submit, we will call/ contact you directly.
Or, you may also directly book from our Kolkata office at: 8C Shanti Ghosh Street, Kolkata – 700003. Nearest Landmark: Manindra Chandra College and Shyambazar Metro Railway Station (Gate No: 3).
