This is a small village in the Kalimpong district. Till recently it used to be one of the least visited tourist places in the area due to its inaccessibility of the place. It used to take about 5 hours to reach Chuikhim from NJP via Kalimpong. In recent years, the alternative road via Bagrakote has become improved and operational and Chuikhim is now just a couple of hours' drive for anyone arriving at NJP. This has led to renewed interest among visitors in this off-beat destination.
For tourists who want to experience the majestic beauty of nature in a completely calm and serene environment in the eastern Himalayas, Chuikhim is the ideal destination. Chuikhim is a small village which is located in the southern part of the Kalimpong hills. Situated at an altitude of 3500 feet it is a picturesque abode that is a delight for the visitor. The sublime beauty and the peaceful atmosphere rejuvenate the soul and create a lasting impression on the visitors.
This wonderland is situated on the slope of the mountains and amid strikingly beautiful lush green tea gardens. The valley which is set in the backdrop of mountains is bathed with mist and clouds. The valley gradually slopes down to the river bed of Lees River. Few other streams are flowing across the valley adding a bit of extra beauty to this wonderful village.
Getting There
The village is in the hills bounded by the rivers Leesh and Ghish both rivers are tributaries of River Teesta. Bagrakote is a small tea garden in western Dooars lying between these two rivers. Bagrakote bazaar can be reached from NJP in about 1.5 hours. From here the hilly road will take you to Chuikhim in about 45 minutes.
Attractions
Chuikhim is not a place where tourists can hop around for sightseeing spots. It is a place to seat and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of nature. Every corner of the village offers a magnificent view. Walking in the village, into the river bed, and trekking through the chel forest would be a memorable experience.
You can visit the top of the hill on which the village is located. From here you will get a stunning view of sunrise and sunset. This is an ideal place to get acquainted with the simple lifestyle of the local villagers.
A couple of hours of downhill trek from here will take you to the Leesh riverbed. This can be a soft adventure day activity. The area is popular as a birding destination as well.
One can also visit the nearby village of Yelbong. From here you can go for a trek to the Ghish riverbed. There are caves, waterfalls, and canyon-like formations in this river valley which together make for a great trek option.
Nearby places
Loleygaon, Samtahar, Charkhole, and Yelbong all are very close to Chuikhim. All these places are beautiful and ideal for nature lovers. Loleygaon is 23kms.
Samtahar is 25kms and Charkhole and Yelbong are respectively 15 and 5 km from Chuikhim.
Climate
The weather is very pleasant here. Summer is comfortable. The cool fresh breeze and the pollution-free environment make it a place which could be visited throughout the year. Winter is chilly. There is no such specific time to visit here.
Where to Stay
The only accommodation option is in the local homestays. There are about 3 / 4 small homestays in the village. Humro Home is a network of homestays that offers some of the best accommodations at Chuikhim. You can book Humro Home homestay by getting in touch with us at the contact details given below.
