Picture yourself walking on a forest trail lined with over 600 species of rhododendrons that paint the landscape and fill the air with a fruity fragrance. Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is a relatively unknown destination in the Singalila Range of western Sikkim. This forest is home to the red panda and the singing spotted laughingthrush. And here’s a quirky fact: The sanctuary is one of the most accessible treks in the world and is famously called the “Honeymoon Trek.” So, whether you are an experienced trekker or a nature lover seeking a quiet retreat, Barsey has much to offer.
Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary Overview
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The Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary or Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is situated in the extreme southwestern part of West Sikkim. It is the second largest park in the city, occupying an area of 104 km² and is famous for the blooming of rhododendron flowers in March and April. The sanctuary is in the Singalila Range, located in the western part of Sikkim, and shares its border with Nepal in the west and south of West Bengal.
There are more than 600 varieties of Rhododendrons in this colourful haven, besides other plants such as Magnolia, Primula, Oaks, Bamboos, and Pines. The fauna is also very rich, and visitors can see animals such as red pandas and Tibetan serins and spotted laughing thrushes. These elements, put together, make the place beautiful and full of life, a perfect tourist attraction for people worldwide.
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Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary Price And Guided Tours
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Sanctuary entry permits can be procured from the Hilley Wildlife Check Post or the Gangtok Forest Secretariat. Guided tour prices vary based on group size and trek duration: Rs. 6600 per person for a group of eight, Rs. 9500 per person for a group of four and Rs. 12500 per person for two or single travellers. It is advisable to make a booking in advance so that you can be expected and the visit can be well planned.
Things To Do In Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene beauty of diverse flora and fauna while exploring various trekking trails. From birdwatching to photography, the sanctuary presents many activities for every traveller.
Trekking
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Trekking is the most popular activity in Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, where tourists can explore the natural beauty. The Barsey trek, a well-known route from Hilley to Barsey, spans just 4 kilometres and is relatively easy, offering breathtaking sights of blooming rhododendrons. While walking through the forest trail, one can look out for the colourful Tibetan serin bird and, at times, the shy red panda. This trek offers scenic views of nature and chances of bird watching and photography to the tourists, which makes this trek quite enjoyable for nature lovers.
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Bird Watching
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Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is a bird watcher’s delight with various bird species. Due to the forest cover and the different altitudes, the sanctuary provides a home to many birds, such as the spotted laughing thrush. Bird lovers can watch these lovely birds flying around the rhododendron trees while their sweet songs are heard in the calm of the woods. Bird watchers and photographers can spot these species of birds in their natural environment, which makes this activity even more appealing.
Nature Photography
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Photography of nature in Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is a fulfilling experience as every picture tells a story of this bio-diverse sanctuary. The sanctuary is full of beautiful sights, from the majestic mountain ranges of Kanchenjunga to the details of gorgeous flowers like Rhododendrons. Take the beauty of the light and shadow on the old trees or the beauty of the petals of flowers and the plumage of exotic birds. Barsey is a haven for any level of photographer, be it a professional or just an enthusiast.
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Wildlife Spotting
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Going on a safari to see wildlife is another fun activity in Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of fauna. Make sure to be on the lookout for the red panda, a favourite among many visitors to the park. The sanctuary also has other interesting species like the Tibetan serin and different butterflies. During the guided tours, you will increase your likelihood of observing these animals and, at the same time, gain some knowledge about the peculiarities of the given type of environment.
Cultural Immersion
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Explore the villages around Okhrey and get to know the Sherpa people. Visit Lattar Monastery, a beautiful place surrounded by rhododendron trees, and learn about the Buddhist Monastery and the people’s customs. Homestays are where you can get a feel for the real Sherpa culture and sample their local dishes. This cultural experience enriches your tour and offers a more comprehensive experience than the scenic beauty of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary.
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Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary: Travel Tips
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Permits: Visitors must get special permits since the sanctuary is a protected area. The permits can be obtained from the Gangtok Forest Department or licensed travel agents in the town.
Packing Essentials: If you are planning to visit the sanctuary during the peak blooming season, then you are advised to bring warm clothes. Waterproof gear is a must during the monsoon season.
Accommodations: Limited accommodations are nearby, so book your stay in advance to avoid any hassles.
Health and Safety: Visitors must carry necessary medications and first aid kits. Also, since the sanctuary has trekking trails, ensure you are ready for hiking and adjust to the high altitude. Also, carry enough water and snacks.
Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary Best Time To Visit
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If you plan a trip to Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, March and April will be great. During this time, the rhododendrons are in full bloom, and the sanctuary turns into a riot of colours and fragrances. Trekking and other outdoor activities become even more fun during this weather.
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How To Reach Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
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By Air: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal is about 120 kilometres from the sanctuary. You can take a taxi or a shared vehicle from the airport to reach Okhrey, where you’ll start your trip to the sanctuary.
By Rail: The closest central train station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 115 kilometres from the sanctuary. From here, you can conveniently get a taxi or shared jeep to reach Okhrey.
By Road: If you are already in Sikkim, you can drive or hire a taxi from Gangtok to Okhrey. The distance is about 115 kilometres and takes around 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions.
Local Transport: Once you reach Okhrey, hire local vehicles or trek to the sanctuary entrance. Several trekking routes are available for visitors who want to explore the beautiful landscapes on foot.
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Visiting Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is a great place to enjoy nature with its green forests and mountain views. The lush forests and panoramic mountain views will uplift your spirit and rejuvenate your senses. So plan a trip to Sikkim today and enjoy this brilliant haven of nature, promising unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary.
How much time does it take to hike in the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary?
The distance from Hilley to Varsey is approximately 4 km, and it takes about 2 hours to go one way. You can take a personal taxi or public transport to reach this place.
What are the options for lodging close to the sanctuary?
There are options to stay in a forest barrack on the hill, several homestays close to the entrance to the sanctuary or in resorts that have better facilities.
Is Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary open throughout the year?
The sanctuary is open throughout the year but it is most recommended to visit during March and April when the Rhododendrons are in bloom.
Is there any possibility to have a guided tour for a single person?
Yes, there are guided tours for single travellers and the cost may be slightly higher than the group tours. It is recommended to make the booking beforehand.
What are the other tourist destinations close to Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary?
Other nearby tourist destinations are Okhrey Village, Latter Monastery, and Nagi Valley, which offers more natural and archeological sightseeing.
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