Dhotrey: A hidden village in Singalila National Park
Dhotrey or Dhotre is a small hidden Himalayan village located in the buffer zone of Singalila National Park in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal.
It belongs to the Eastern Himalayas and is located at an altitude of 8500 feet above sea level. The distance from Darjeeling to Dhotre is only 43 km.
This place is a paradise for trekkers, nature lovers, and bird watchers. The majestic view of Kanchenjunga is another great feature of Dhotreya. Because from here the full range of the sleeping Buddha of Kanchenjunga appears.
The village is also famous for its location as Dhotrey is a favorite base camp for Tonglu, Sandakphu, and Phalut Trekking.
How to Reach Dhotrey
The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri and the airport is Bagdogra. Direct car or taxi services are available from NJP, Siliguri, and the airport.
Those who come from NJP or Bagdogra can reach Manebhanjan through Mirik, Sukhiyapokhri and those who come from Darjeeling can reach Manebhanjan through Lepchajagat and Sukhiyapokhri.
You won’t find any shere cars from Manebhanjan to Dhotrey. From here you need to book a private car.
Best Time to Visit
Dhotrey can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit Dhotrey is between October and January to enjoy the memorable scenery of the mighty Kanchenjunga.
Another great time to visit Dhotre is between March and early April when the area is filled with the smell and swelling of magnolias and rhododendrons.
What to Do (Activities)
Trekking:-This place is very popular for trekking lovers as it is the place where trekking like Sandakanfu and Phalut starts from here.
Bird Photography:- The area, which is part of the Singalila National Park, is home to a wide variety of birds.
Relaxing:-This secluded and scenic village is ideal for those who come to the mountains for one or two days to relax.
Village explores:- This village is part of the Singalila National Park, surrounded by pine trees and full of natural beauty you can explore for half a day. You will be impressed by the culture of the people and their hospitality.
Watch tower:-There is a Watch Tower from where you can see the beautiful view of Kanchenjunga if the sky is clear enough.
Monastery visit:-The village has a small monastery that you can visit.
Nearest place to Visit
Sandakphu:-1st highest pick Sandakphu is a popular trekking spot in West Bengal. This trekking starts from Manebhanjan or Dhotrey.
Tonglu:-Tonglu is very close to here and you can reach Tonglu by trekking only 7 kilometers in the deep forest.
Tumling:-This place is just 2.5 kilometers from Tonglu and only 10 kilometers from Dhotrey. It falls on the way to Sandakphu trekking.
Phalut:- 2nd highest pick Phalut is another popular trekking spot in West Bengal. Some people start trekking to Phalut from here.
Maneybhanjan:-It is another famous tourist spot on this route. This is where the Sandakaphu Trek begins. Dhotrey distance from Maebhanjan is only 11 kilometers.
Sukhiyaphokri:-Located just 25 kilometers from Dhotrey, this village is very popular among tourists.
Ideal Duration for Stay
1 to 2 Days
Tempature
Being located at an altitude of 8500 feet, it is cold all year round. During the winter the temperature drops below 0 degrees and this time snowfall can be seen.
During the summer, the temperature here fluctuates between 10 to 20 degrees.
Best Homestay in Dhotrey
Homestay accommodation is the only option for staying in Dhotre, the local villagers and the tourism development community have a comfortable stay in the homestay with all the basic amenities like a comfortable bed, a healthy and spacious room with an attached bath.
Dhotrey Sherpa Lodge – 9733048579/9733005191
Dhotrey Green Valley Homestay – 6294713953
Padma Homestay- 8768873121
Orchid Dell Homestay-099330 43051
Important travel Tips
This place is a trekking route so there is no good road. So when you come here, it is better to bring a big car that will have good ground clearance.
It is cold all year round because it is located at a high altitude. So if you visit here at any time of the year, you have to bring warm clothes.
Due to the low number of homestays in the village, you will not be able to get a room, so book in advance.
Even a car is available till Manebhanjan, it is not available till Dhotrey, so arrange a car in advance.