Chota and Bara Mangwa – Offbeat Darjeeling Touring Ideas
Darjeeling is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking views, tea plantations, and colonial architecture. However, the town also offers lesser-known offbeat locations that are worth exploring. Chota and Bara Mangwa are two such locations that offer unique experiences to travelers. In this article, we will explore the top ten things to do in Chota and Bara Mangwa, and why they are a must-visit for anyone traveling to Darjeeling.
Heading: Top 10 Things to Do in Chota and Bara Mangwa for an Offbeat Darjeeling Tour
H2: A Scenic Drive to Chota and Bara Mangwa
The drive from Darjeeling to Chota and Bara Mangwa is a scenic one, passing through tea gardens, forests, and quaint villages. The winding road offers stunning views of the valley and the mountains, making the journey itself a memorable experience. Along the way, visitors can stop at various viewpoints to take in the scenery and capture the perfect picture.
H3: Visit the Orange Orchards
Chota and Bara Mangwa are known for their orange orchards, and a visit to these orchards is a must-do activity. Visitors can pick fresh oranges, taste orange juice, and learn about the cultivation process. The orange orchards also offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
H3: Experience the Local Culture
Chota and Bara Mangwa are home to various ethnic communities, including Lepchas, Tamangs, and Nepalis. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending traditional dance performances, visiting monasteries, and interacting with locals. The village markets are also worth exploring, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of the people living in these areas.
H3: Stay in a Homestay
To truly experience the local culture, visitors can opt to stay in a homestay. These homestays are typically run by local families and offer comfortable accommodation, home-cooked meals, and an opportunity to interact with the locals. Visitors can also participate in traditional activities such as cooking, farming, and handicrafts.
H3: Trek to Tinchuley
Tinchuley is a small village near Chota Mangwa, known for its stunning views of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain peak in the world. Visitors can trek to Tinchuley, passing through forests, streams, and waterfalls. The trek is a moderately difficult one but offers rewarding views of the mountains and the surrounding landscape.
H3: Explore the Tea Gardens
Darjeeling is famous for its tea plantations, and Chota and Bara Mangwa offer visitors the opportunity to explore some of these gardens. Visitors can learn about the tea-making process, taste different varieties of tea, and take in the stunning views of the tea gardens.
H3: Visit the Riverside
The Teesta River runs through Chota and Bara Mangwa, offering visitors the opportunity to enjoy water-based activities such as rafting and fishing. The river also offers scenic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
H3: Learn about the Cinchona Plantation
Cinchona is a medicinal plant that is grown in Chota and Bara Mangwa. Visitors can learn about the cultivation process, the history of the plant, and its medicinal properties. The Cinchona Plantation also offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
H3: Bird Watching
Chota and Bara Mangwa are home to various species of birds, including the Himalayan bulbul, the oriental white-eye, and the red-billed leiothrix. Visitors can go bird-watching, either on foot or
on a guided tour, to spot these beautiful birds in their natural habitat. The forests and tea gardens in the area provide a perfect environment for birdwatching enthusiasts.
H2: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the best time to visit Chota and Bara Mangwa? A1. The best time to visit Chota and Bara Mangwa is from October to April when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
Q2. How do I reach Chota and Bara Mangwa? A2. Chota and Bara Mangwa can be reached by road from Darjeeling or Siliguri. The nearest airport is Bagdogra, and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri.
Q3. Is it safe to stay in a homestay in Chota and Bara Mangwa? A3. Yes, staying in a homestay in Chota and Bara Mangwa is safe. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and the homestays are well-maintained.
Q4. What kind of activities can I do in Chota and Bara Mangwa? A4. Visitors can do a variety of activities in Chota and Bara Mangwa, including trekking, bird watching, visiting tea gardens and orange orchards, exploring the local culture, and enjoying water-based activities on the Teesta River.
Q5. What is the distance between Darjeeling and Chota and Bara Mangwa? A5. The distance between Darjeeling and Chota and Bara Mangwa is around 30 kilometers.
H2: Conclusion
Chota and Bara Mangwa offer a unique and offbeat experience to travelers visiting Darjeeling. The scenic drive to these villages, the orange orchards, the tea gardens, the local culture, and the beautiful views of the mountains and valleys make Chota and Bara Mangwa a must-visit destination. Trekking, bird watching, and water-based activities on the Teesta River add to the experience. Staying in a homestay offers visitors an opportunity to interact with the locals and experience their culture firsthand. Plan a trip to Chota and Bara Mangwa on your next visit to Darjeeling, and experience the beauty of these lesser-known destinations.