Padamchen

Padamchen is a small village on the Silk Route circuit at a distance of 14 km from Rongli and 10 km from Zuluk. The hamlet lies at an altitude of 7000 ft and is surrounded by dense forests. The place experiences pleasant weather throughout the year which is one of the main reasons behind its increasing popularity among tourists. Padamchen is also a bird watcher's paradise. The dense forests covering the entire valley is home to various species of birds including laughing thrush, honey buzzards, steppe eagles and babblers. The interior region of the jungle is inhabited by Himalayan black bear, red panda and leopards. Thambi Viewpoint is 24 km from Padamchen which offers visitors a magnificent view of sunrise and the snow capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga range. The beautiful Kuikhola falls is just a few minutes drive from Padamchen.

Padamchen

How to Reach

The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri. Hired cars are available from both New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri to reach Padamchen. It will take around 6-7 hours to reach Padamchen.

Where to Stay

Silent Wood Retreat. Tel: 7872895493.
Sonam Inn. Tel: 9932487358.

Deulghata

Deulghata is an lovely unexplored destination located 18 km from Purulia in West Bengal. The place is situated on the banks of the Kansabati river and hosts several ancient Jain temples many of which are now in a ruined state. The exquisite terracotta works and intricate designs on the walls of the temples are worth seeing. The historical atmosphere and lush greenery surrounding Deulghata make it an ideal place to be away from the city rush.

How to Reach

The nearest railway station is Purulia. Buses and cars are available from Purulia to reach Joypur. Deulghata is just 1.5 km from Joypur.

Where to Stay

There are no hotels at Deulghata. It is best to stay in Purulia.
Hotel Akash. Tel: (03252) 224535. Tariff - Rs. 800-2500.

Batote

Batote is an offbeat destination situated at a distance of 120 km from Jammu in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The place lies at an altitude of 1560 m above sea level. The main attraction of Batote is the temple of Lord Shiva. Gourikund and a waterfalls are located near the temple. Another attraction of Batote is Mantalai. Mantalai is a beautiful scenic place with some religious significance too since it is believed that the wedding of Lord Shiva and Parvati took place at this very spot. Some archaeological remains have also been found in this place.

How to Reach

Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station. Patnitop is 112 km from there. Buses and shared cars are available from Jammu to reach Patnitop. Batote is 11 km from Patnitop. Hired cars are available from Patnitop to reach Batote.

Where to Stay

JKTDC Hotel Alpine. Tariff - Rs. 800-1500. Tel: (01998) 244243.