Slightly off the usual tourist circuit, the 7th Mile View Point is just 3 kilometres off Kalimpong. This location promises stunning views of the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal. This viewpoint is for nature lovers, photography lovers, or even those who need time to relax. Walking to the top of the mountain is easy, and once you reach the top, you can enjoy the refreshing mountain air and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Elevate your experience to the next level and be captivated by the picturesque beauty of the 7th Mile View Point.
About 7th Mile View Point Kalimpong
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
The 7th Mile View Point, a tourist spot near Kalimpong, has gained popularity for its breathtaking views of the Teesta Rangeet Valley and the surrounding tea gardens. Just a few kilometres from the town, this is a marvellous place offering the travellers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the appealing nature of the area. Given the nature of a viewpoint, the name likely originated from the distance of this particular viewpoint off a local road, a practice often seen in such attractive locations.
Also Read: Things To Do In Kalimpong
Things To Do At 7th Mile View Point Kalimpong
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Hiking: In the evening, you can take a 15-minute hike on the moderately steep path up to 7 kilometres viewpoint. The climb up and around is winding and is shaded and canescent with vegetation, providing bribes of what the physical environment holds. One significant feature is the steady incline to create an opportunity for everybody to have a good time.
Picnicking: Carry some food and drinks and have a picnic at the 7th Mile View Point, which will turn your outing into a lovely one. It has many quiet corners ideal for laying a picnic sheet and relishing a meal in beautiful scenery. Whether you’re choosing an intimate couple’s restaurant or a place where you can gather with your family, you will always be able to find the most comfortable place to rest and taste delicious foods.
Photography: For photographers, the 7th Mile View Point will leave them spoilt for choices regarding some fantastic city shots. The huge estate allows countless ways to photograph the region’s beauty, from its hills of tea plantations to the low, misty valleys. The weather continues to brighten up as the morning transforms to afternoon and evening, and as the sun starts to set, it will be illuminating the sky in splendid shades of red.
7th Mile View Point Places To Visit Within 100 KM
The viewpoint itself is the sight that is of main interest. However, local tea gardens and a few villages are other places of interest. The guests can visit them to get some feel of the area’s people’s way of living. The area is also ideal for short nature trails and bird-watching. Some nearby places to visit are shared below :
1. Rumtek Monastery
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Rumtek Monastery, established at the top of a hillock in Gangtok town, represents the Tibetan style of architecture and is of religious importance. It contains fine paintings, antique sculptures, ornaments, and a golden chorten, and it provides a look into the life of Tibetan Buddhists. Courtyards and the praying halls’ depth make the monastery an ideal place for contemplating and learning architectural designs. Being the residence of the incarnate Karmapa Lama, Rumtek is responsible for spreading Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism. As a result, the monastery draws Buddhist visitors and scholars from different parts of the world.
Timings: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners
Distance from 7th Mile View Point: 84 km
Related Post: Places To Visit In Kalimpong
2. Nathula Pass
Image Credit: Vijayanand7 for Wikimedia Commons
Nathula Pass is located at an altitude of 4,310 metres, straddling across the Indo-China border. Besides being a natural wonder, it also holds political importance. They can observe the contact of two mighty world nations and share a tension-filled but quiet post of the border. The trip to Nathula passes through most of the hills mostly surrounded by fog; thus, this forms a perfect backdrop for the Eastern Himalayas. Nevertheless, this rather secluded pass is filled with significant traces of the ancient Silk Road trade and signifies the strategies and cooperation of the countries in international relations.
Timings: Open Wednesday to Sunday, 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Entry Fee: Special permit required (approximately INR 200 per person)
Distance from 7th Mile View Point: 98 km
3. Tsomgo Lake
Image Credit: Indrajit Das for Wikimedia Commons
They also visit Tsomgo Lake, locally known as Changu Lake, a seasonal lake, meaning the water level rises in winter and falls during the summer. During the winter, it becomes a sheet of ice with a virgin white colour, while during the summer, you see flowers of different colours covering the beaches. Thus, for the local Sikkimese, the lake is believed to have the power to grant any wish one might have. There are yak rides along the lakeside, which serves local dishes, or one can sit and watch the beautiful scenery of reflected snow-capped mountains. This is a famous tourist attraction in Kalimpong near 7th Mile Viewpoint.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Distance from 7th Mile View Point: 86 km
Related Post: Singalila National Park
4. Tashi Viewpoint
Image Credit: SARFORAZ for Wikimedia Commons
Tashi Viewpoint is yet another achievement where tourists can enjoy the splendid view of the Kanchenjunga massif, and thus, it attracts nature lovers and photographers. This spot is only one and a half hour’s drive from Gangtok and offers stunning views of the mountain range and the valleys. Those who are lucky to visit the park get to have a view of the light of the sun firstly rising over the park and especially the snow-capped peaks, which give breathtaking views of shadows on the terrain. The viewpoint also has facilities for gardening and other sitting areas with adequate arrangements for viewers.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
Distance from 7th Mile View Point: 73 km
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While planning a trip to West Bengal, do not miss the enchanting beauty of 7th Mile View Point near Kalimpong. It is an ideal place for thrill and serenity and a must-see location when visiting the Himalayas. Whether walking, eating, or taking beautiful pictures, the 7th Mile View Point is a treat you want. Plan a visit; it will be the highlight of your route, and you will see how stunning the region is.
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Cover Image Credit: Sumit Surai for wikimedia commons
Frequently Asked Questions About 7th Mile View Point
What months of the year should one visit 7th Mile View Point?
The best time is from October to May when there is clear and sunny weather, thus the views are the most spectacular.
Are there any snack vendors available or close by the 7th mile viewpoint?
There are a few tea shops near the viewpoint, where you can sip a hot cup of Darjeeling tea.
Is 7th Mile View Point appropriate for physically challenged tourists?
The area is reachable by car, but there might be specific sections that will need short walking on combed ground.
Can I spend the night around the 7th Mile View Point?
This is a wonderful destination but alas, it does not allow overnight camping, although there are guest houses in Kalimpong, the nearest town.
Are there any guided tours that can be done in 7th Mile View Point?
Tourist companies who operate in Kalimpong offer packaged full-day sightseeing tours that encompass 7th Mile View Point.
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