Doban Valley: A Riverside Staying in North Bengal
Doban Valley is an obscure place in the Kalimpong district, about 84 km from Siliguri. This place is full of natural beauty, wrapped in green forest. This place is slowly becoming the center of attraction for tourists.
This place is the confluence of two rivers, the Rangpo and the Reshi Rivers. In Nepali, ‘do’ means two, and the word ‘ban’ means bond.
This offbeat destination is ideal for those who want to stay in the shelter of peace away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Doban Valley is an ideal destination for tourists traveling on the Silk Route. Because it is located very close to the Silk Route.
Where is Located?
How to Reach Doban Valley
Doban valley is a part of the Kalimpong sub-division but to get to Doban you have to come from the Rorathang side of East Sikkim.
To reach Doban Valley, one has to travel about 85 km from New Jalpaiguri station. It takes three to four hours. You can book a car or go for a share.
After reaching Rangpo, on the way to Renak from there, you have to get off at Rorathang Bridge. Then you have to walk along with the river for about 2 kilometers.
You can reach Doban by crossing a wooden bridge. If you don’t want to walk, you can also book a car directly from Rangpo and go to the Doban Valley.
Best time to visit
The ideal time to visit Doban Valley is from October to May. The weather is very good at this time. And during the winter, different species of birds are found here.
This place is closed in monsoon time from June to August. Due to the rising water level in the river during monsoon season, it is not possible to reach there.
What to Do (Activities)
Fishing– Due to its location at the confluence of two rivers, fishing is available here.
Nature walks-This place is full of wonderful natural beauty and you can explore it on foot.
River Camping- The valley is located between two rivers, and tent camping is available along the river.
Bird Photography- Due to the location being offbeat, the noise of the people is less here so different species of birds come here. So this place is very appropriate for bird photographers.
Sightseeing (Nearest place to visit)
Aritar-One of the most popular tourist spots in Sikkim, Aritar is located at a distance of only 20 km.
Mankhim-Mankhim is just next to the Aritar which is only 22 km from here.
Simanadara-A small beautiful offbeat destination Simanadra is just 2 kilometers from here, that you can easily visit.
Silk route-The Silk Route, a very popular destination in Sikkim, is just 40 kilometers away from here. Those who want to travel the Silk Route can easily visit from here.
Ideal Duration to Stay
1 to 2 days
Best Homestay in Doban Valley
The place is located in an offbeat location because there is almost no homestay here. There is only one homestay available here. Details of the Homestay are given below.
KANNAN VALLEY HOMESTAY
Phone No-9932386689 / 7076594114
Contact Person-Joyce Tamang
Important Travel Tips
The last road to get here has to cross the river a bit, so it is not possible to come during the monsoon season because the water level in the river rises at that time. So do not plan to come here during the rainy season.
You have to walk a bit here so keep in mind that it can be a little difficult for older people.
Keep the necessary medicine and cash with you because there is no Medical shop or ATM at all.