Discovering Lepchakha: The Hidden Gem of Buxa Tiger Reserve

Nestled in the heart of the Buxa Tiger Reserve, Lepchakha is a tranquil village that beckons travellers with its untouched beauty, serene environment, and breathtaking panoramic views. This offbeat destination offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and peace. It is an idyllic spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the pristine wilderness of the Eastern Himalayas.

Lepchakha is located within the Buxa Tiger Reserve, a biodiversity hotspot that spreads across the eastern part of Dooars. This quaint village, perched on a ridge, offers unparalleled views of the Dooars plains in front, and the Bhutan hills behind. The journey to Lepchakha is as enchanting as the destination itself, with the winding trails passing through dense forests, bubbling streams, and vibrant flora and fauna.

The village is home to the Drukpa community, which has preserved its unique culture and traditions over centuries. The simplicity of life here, combined with the warm hospitality of the locals, makes Lepchakha a truly unforgettable experience for every visitor.

How to Reach Lepchakha

Reaching Lepchakha requires a mix of road travel and trekking. The nearest major town is Alipurduar, which is well-connected by train to various parts of India. From Alipurduar, you can hire a vehicle to reach the Buxa forests. The starting point for your trek to Lepchakha and Buxa Fort is a place named Santalabari. The trek is approximately 6 kilometres long and takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace. The trail is moderately challenging, with steep sections, but the scenic beauty along the way makes the effort worthwhile. From Santalabari you will walk for a couple of hours to reach Buxa fort first, take a break and visit the fort before walking further for another 45 minutes or so to reach Lepchakha.

It is not compulsory to take the service of a guide to visit Buxa, if you are carrying heavy luggage, then you can engage a porter to carry your luggage too.

Major Attractions in Lepchakha

The Breathtaking View

The main attraction of Lepchakha is its stunning view. From here, you can witness a mesmerising 300-degree view of the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, you can see five rivers—the Dima, Jaldhaka, Kaljani, Sankosh, and Raidak—meandering through the Dooars plains. The distant Bhutan hills form a picturesque backdrop, and the play of light and shadow on the hills and valleys is a sight to behold. Sunrise and sunset from this vantage point are particularly spectacular, with the sky painting itself in hues of gold, pink, and purple.

Buxa Fort

A visit to Lepchakha is incomplete without exploring the historic Buxa Fort. Located a few kilometres before Lepchakha, the fort has a rich history dating back to the British era. It was used by the British to detain Indian freedom fighters and later served as a refuge for Tibetan monks escaping Chinese persecution. The ruins of the fort, surrounded by dense forests, offer a glimpse into the past and are a poignant reminder of the region’s historical significance.

The trek to Buxa Fort is relatively easy and can be done en route to Lepchakha. The fort is also a great spot for photography, with the dilapidated walls and the surrounding greenery creating a perfect setting for capturing the essence of history and nature.

Exploring the Buxa Tiger Reserve

Lepchakha is an excellent base for exploring the Buxa Tiger Reserve, which is one of the most biodiverse regions in India. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, Himalayan black bears, and numerous species of deer. Birdwatchers will be delighted with the array of avian species, including hornbills, peacocks, and migratory birds.

Several nature trails within the reserve offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and photography. Guided forest safaris can be arranged with the help of local guides, who have an intimate knowledge of the forest and its inhabitants. The reserve also has several watchtowers from where you can observe the wildlife in their natural habitat. Contact our travel consultants for more information and booking.

Interacting with the Local Community

The Drukpa or Dukpa community in Lepchakha is known for their warmth and hospitality. Visitors are often invited into their homes to experience their way of life. Some homestays are owned and managed by the Drukpa / Dukpa people. The traditional wooden houses, adorned with prayer flags, reflect the community’s deep-rooted cultural beliefs.

Best Time to Visit Lepchakha

The best time to visit Lepchakha is between September and March when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. The temperature is moderate during this time, making it ideal for trekking and outdoor activities. From June to September, the monsoon should be avoided as the region receives heavy rainfall, making the trails slippery and increasing the risk of landslides. Also, entry inside the forest is restricted between the 15th of June and the 15th of September every year. This should be borne in mind while planning your tour. April to mid-June is also a good time to visit Lepchakha, but this period is warmer, though Lepchakha is relatively cooler due to its elevation.

Accommodation in Lepchakha

Accommodation options in Lepchakha are limited. The village has a few homestays, offering basic amenities and a chance to experience the local way of life. The homestays are clean and comfortable, with home-cooked meals that feature local ingredients and traditional recipes. There are also some tents on open grounds where tourists can stay.

It is recommended to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, as the number of available rooms is limited. Contact our travel experts to book your accommodation at Lepchakha.