Lava and Lolegaon : Lava, about 97 kms. From Siliguri and 32 kms. from Kalimpong, is at an altitude of 7755 ft. and remains hidden in the mists and clouds almost throughout the year. It stands against the backdrop of the Neora Valley National Park. Attractions approached from this unique landmark of bio-diversity are the emerald green valleys, lakes, waterfalls, the snow-capped mountain peaks and the unforgettable, ever smiling helpful village folks.
One can get a completely different view of Mt. Everest at sunrise than what one has from Tiger Hill of Darjeeling. Lava holds no end to sightseeing and no barrier to its scenic beauty. Visit the Silviculture research station and discover the mysteries of the Himalayan medicinal plants. Visit the Ratnarishi Bihar Buddhist Gumpha (Lava Monastery) with a devotional heart or just enjoy the serenity around the large Neora Reservoir Lake. Those interested in monasteries may visit Guruchukhi Monastery (Gitkolbung) which is about 7 km. from Lava.
The TIffin Dara appears enchanting which commands a magnificent Panoramic view of Khangchenjunga. A little trek will take one to the Ghanti Dara which provides a pleasing and romantic view of the sunrise. Besides all, the Neora Valley National Park is unique and mingles harmoniously to develop the enchanting beauty of the Nature. Treks to Samthahar plateau also begins from here.
Lolegaon lies at an altitude of 1850 m above sea level. Lolegaon is reached via Lava by mountain bikes and jeeps. Lolegaon is basically a tiny Lepcha village also known as Kafer and has recently been introduced as a tourism place in the state of West Bengal, offering views of the Eastern Himalayan snow ranges.
Lolegaon is ideal for travellers looking forward to spend a leisure holiday enjoying the views of Mt. Kanchenjungha, Mt. Pandim and others. Located on top of a flat hill, Lolegaon is famous for its panoramic views of the Himalayas. A very important spot to look out for in Lolegaon is Jhandidara which is a wooded top of a hill and it offers views of all the peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Everest. Lolegaon can be visited throughout the year. But it is better to avoid the monsoon season from July to early September when leeches are a very big problem in the area.
Tourists can avail accommodation at the forest rest houses as well as many private hotels and take part in activities like sightseeing, trekking, bird watching or taking a nature walk. There is also a provision for an exclusive ‘Canopy Walk’ through the ancient Cypress and mossy Oak of the Heritage Forest.
