Tucked perfectly in the hilly terrain of Darjeeling, the Gumbadara Viewpoint is an invigorating place that is visited by tourists who want to end their wandering trails in the Pacific View. You will be winding your way through pine-scented trails and picture-book villages before a final stretch will take you to a vantage point from where you will be able to see the majestic Kanchenjunga range in its entirety. Used by trekkers, ornithologists, photographers, painters, and individuals in search of an escape from the daily humdrum and the business of life, this viewpoint will leave you breathless and recharged.
About Gumbadara Viewpoint
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Gumbadara Viewpoint located on top of hills coming towards Darjeeling is relatively a calm place providing splendid views of the Himalayan and green valley. Situated around 10 kilometres away from Darjeeling town it is a serene place, best approached on foot through a winding trail past pine trees and a local village. Tourists are paid breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range at large which is even more beautiful during the break of dawn and the setting of the sun. There is an impressive kind of rock formation that looks like a fortress that enhances creativity in photography and tranquillity in the area that is a few hammocks away from the common tourist frenzy.
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Places To Visit Near Gumbadara Viewpoint
Discover the top attractions within proximity to Gumbadara Viewpoint. Whether you’re interested in stunning natural landscapes, cultural sites, or adventurous activities, given below are the must-visit spots near the viewpoint.
1. Tiger Hill
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Tiger Hill is highly renowned for providing one of the best views of the great Himalayas. It is said that as the morning sun rises, it brings out colours on the Mountain of Kanchenjunga that are so moving and picturesque that tourists from different parts of the world flock to the area. However, usually, the views are obstructed, and the bit of the Himalayan range that can be discerned in the distance is further away than one might desire.
On very clear days, when the mountaintop is barely discernible in the distance, the whole view is breathtaking. The silence and the clean air, the possibility to see the extraordinary beauty of nature and the wonderful sky – all these things make this trip a unique experience for the admirers of the beautiful landscapes and the excellent photo-shooting.
Distance from Gumbadara Viewpoint: 15 KM
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free
2. Peshok Tea Garden
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Peshok Tea Garden is one of the beautiful and serene places and estates that are between the hills of Darjeeling. There is an area for tours with tea gardens, tea plucking in process, and beautiful scenery of valleys. Its arrival coincided with the fresh smell of tea leaves, and thus it is suitable for nature lovers and photographers. The option to visit here is always a relaxing break from some of the crowded tourist attractions and establish a closer relationship with nature.
Distance from Gumbadara Viewpoint: 25 KM
Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
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3. Ghoom Monastery
Image Credit: Syed Sajidul Islam for Wikimedia Commons
Histories and spiritual beliefs have always included the places so one gets a completely serene feel when in Ghoom Monastery. Though its glaring exterior is each decorated with standard Tibetan paintings, the indoors provide a very peaceful feel. The monastery has some unique Buddhist manuscripts and beautiful thangka paintings. One can see monks praying and meditating and thus get a feel of the Buddhist monastic practices of today. Prayer wheels spinning and the scent of burning incense make a visit romantic for those who have something to do with cultural and spiritual tourism.
Distance from Gumbadara Viewpoint: 8 KM
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Sandakphu Trek
Image Credit: Solarshakti for Wikimedia Commons
The Sandakphu Trek is of course a fairly arduous trekking yet loaded with lots of excitement offering various terrains. The trekkers get to cross the rhododendron forest, meadows, and steep valleys and in between come across beautiful flowers and some animals. It took through scenic terrains with occasional views of local Nepali and Sherpa villages around some parts of the trail. This situation is the beauty of climbing to the top of the mountain. At its top unwearied views of the top of the highest peaks of the world, and a feeling of triumph that cannot be obtained while hiking anywhere else.
Distance from Gumbadara Viewpoint: 50 KM
Timings: The trek itself can be done over several days, typically taking 4-6 days depending on the route.
Entry Fee: No specific entry fee
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5. The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
Image Credit: Shahnoor Habib Munmun for Wikimedia Commons
Being a specialised zoo, this place has tremendous potential in the conservation of Himalayan fauna. The guests have an opportunity to see some of the endangered animals in their natural environment, their activities, and the problems they experience in the wilderness. Some of the successes of the breeding programs have been realised in the increase in the number of endangered species in the zoo. Because of the relatively verdant surroundings and the richness of the park’s focus on the care of animals, it became a recognisable attraction.
Distance from Gumbadara Viewpoint: 13 KM
Timings: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM; Closed on Thursdays
Entry Fee: INR 60 for adults, INR 30 for children, INR 10 for students (with ID)
Homestays Near Gumbadara Viewpoint
Explore the amazing homestays near the Gumbadara Viewpoint, offering cosy accommodations that bring you closer to nature. These homestays provide a comfortable and authentic local experience, ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat in Darjeeling.
1. Gorkhali Homestay
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Located in the heart of Darjeeling, Gorkhali homestay provides a real touch of the region to travellers. Gorkhali homestay promises a homely comfort that is devoid of any tampering with the traditional Gorkha architectural styles that dominate the construction of the building. The visitors are offered fresh Nepali meals, introduced to how to produce tea and have a beautiful sight of the Kanchenjunga range from the terrace. The friendliness of the hosts and the opportunity to learn about all the interesting places of the region are its advantages. Such cultural events as singing and dancing, as well as classes in preparing local dishes for tourists, are sometimes organised for visitors.
Check-in: 1:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Address: Peshok Rd, Peshok Tea Garden, West Bengal 734312, 734312 Māngwa, India
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2. Vamoose Cosynook Homestay
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Vamoose Cosynook Homestay is situated in a peace-driven corner of Darjeeling. An energy-efficient cottage with an opportunity to view the garden and a warm and welcoming ambience for bird lovers. Every room in the hotel is designed with artefacts such as fabrics and other locally made artistic works. Shifts are possible to spend time in the lounge together with the other guests and discuss the impressions sharing or go to the nearby trails for hiking. In the homestay both inside and outside the workplace, Sustainable working practices are followed that include power with solar panels for electricity, and the purchase as well as consumption of organic vegetables from the vegetable garden.
Check-in: 1:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Address: Takdah West Bengal,India Takdah Cantt.Near Tinchuley.Darjeeling.
3. Snowdrops Homestay
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This homestay has a snow-white finish with well-manicured flowers all over it and is called the Snowdrops Homestay. The property has large rooms with huge windows opening into the beautiful scenes of nature, particularly the mountains. Guests can have their tropical beer in the sun on the patio or go bird-watching in the many forests nearby. The hosts are particularly well-informed about lesser-known attractions, and can also organise a visit to one of the local monasteries or tea plantations. Campfire in the evening affords splendid opportunities for watching stars and light conversations with a hot cup of Darjeeling tea.
Check-in: 1:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Address: 10th Mile Lopchu Bazar Darjeeling, 734235 Darjeeling, India
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Gumbadara Viewpoint Darjeeling Location & How To Reach
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Gumbadara Viewpoint is located near Lepchajagat in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. This scenic viewpoint is situated approximately 20 km from Ghoom Railway Station and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, hills, and the majestic Kanchenjunga peak, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers. To reach Gumbadara Viewpoint, you have several options:
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is about 70 km away from the Viewpoint. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Kalimpong
By Train: The closest railway station is Ghoom Railway Station, also approximately 20 km from the Viewpoint. You can take a taxi or a bus from the station to Kalimpong
By Road: Kalimpong is well-connected by road to major cities like Darjeeling, Gangtok, and Siliguri. Once in Kalimpong, you can hire a local taxi or take a bus to reach the Viewpoint.
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When planning your trip to West Bengal, do not miss to visit Gumbadara Viewpoint. It is a very calm place where one can see the beauty of Darjeeling and also provides a wonderful view of the Himalayas. It is not only the sunrise in the early morning through the fog or the sunset in the evening, but any moment you spend on the Gumbadara is unique. Let this be one of the great discoveries you will make when visiting West Bengal and one you will not want to forget.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Gumbadara View Point
When is the best time to visit Viewpoint for photography?
For the best photographic shots of the Kanchenjunga range it is recommended to start before sunrise around 6:00 am as the light is best at this time.
Are local guides available at Gumbadara Viewpoint?
Yes, a few local trekking agencies in Darjeeling provide the trekking tour to Gumbadara Viewpoint making your trip more informative.
Can the travellers camp at the Gumbadara Viewpoint?
Overnight camping is not allowed officially but there are some camping sites in the nearby homestays on prior arrangement.
which local food to try at Gumbadara Viewpoint?
Occasionally local vendors stock spicy hot ‘sel roti’ sweet rice bread and freshly brewed Darjeeling tea which is ideal for consumption as one marvels at the beauty of the place.
Is Gumbadara Viewpoint open during the monsoon season?
The viewpoint is open all year, but the treks in the area become slippery and dangerous during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. For several days in the summer, fog may obscure the peaks.
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