Bunkulung Mirik – An Offbeat Destination of North Bengal

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Bunkulung is a hidden gem located within the verdant hills of Mirik. For those looking for a peaceful getaway from the bustle of city life, this charming and picturesque town is the ideal destination. Bunkulung offers a delightful fusion of nature, culture, and adventure with its charming tea gardens, breathtaking Himalayan views, and pleasant weather. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an adrenaline junkie, this enchanting destination has something for everyone. Join me on a quest to uncover Bunkulung’s magic, a location that will capture your heart and leave you yearning for more.

Bunkulung Mirik
Bunkulung Mirik

Attractions Near Bunkulung Mirik

The following are some of Bunkulung Mirik’s top sights that you should visit:

Mirik Lake:
Mirik Lake is a charming artificial lake that is situated in the center of the town. The lake is surrounded by verdant gardens and provides a tranquil setting for a leisurely stroll or boat ride. The lake is well-known for its eye-pleasing floating fountain. One can also indulge in horse riding, fishing, or cycling here.

Tingling Viewpoint:
On the outskirts of the town is a beautiful location called Tingling Viewpoint. The viewpoint provides a wide-angle view of the valley below and the snow-covered Himalayas. The magnificent mountains can be admired for hours, and this location offers simply mesmerizing views of the sunrise and sunset.

Bunkulung Bazar:
Bunkulung Bazar is situated in the center of the city. Traditional handicrafts, woolen shawls, tea, and spices are all well-known for being sold at the market. One can also indulge in some delicious local street food here. The market is the ideal location to buy gifts and souvenirs to send home.

Deosi Dara:
Deosi Dara is a hilltop located on the outskirts of the town. The hilltop offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. The location is well-liked for picnics and is ideal for people looking for a quiet retreat from the chaos of the city.

Rai Dhap:
A small forest called Rai Dhap is situated outside of the city. Nature lovers and bird watchers will enjoy the forest as a destination. Numerous different species of birds and animals, including the red panda, can be found in the forest. One can take a leisurely walk through the forest and soak in the beauty of nature.

Bunkulung Mirik

Nearby Place to Visit with Bunkulung Mirik

Here are some of the top places to visit near Bunkulung Mirik that you must explore:

Bunkulung Mirik Mountain

Darjeeling:
Darjeeling, located about 50 km from Bunkulung Mirik, is a popular hill station known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush green tea estates, and colonial architecture. The town is home to some of the most famous attractions such as Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. A visit to Darjeeling is a must for those who seek a blend of nature and history.

Kalimpong:
Kalimpong, located about 25 km from Bunkulung Mirik, is a small hill station known for its scenic beauty and calm ambiance. The town is home to several monasteries, temples, and colonial architecture. The Kalimpong Science Centre and the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery are some of the popular attractions in the town.

Kurseong:
Kurseong, located about 30 km from Bunkulung Mirik, is a small hill station known for its lush green tea estates and breathtaking views of the Himalayas. The town is home to several colonial buildings, temples, and monasteries. The Eagle’s Crag viewpoint, Kurseong Railway Museum, and Dow Hill Park are some of the popular attractions in the town.

Gangtok:
Gangtok, located about 70 km from Bunkulung Mirik, is the capital city of Sikkim, known for its scenic beauty and serene ambiance. The town is home to several monasteries, temples, and museums. The Nathu La Pass, Rumtek Monastery, and Tsomgo Lake are some of the popular attractions in the town.

Hiking Option in Bunkulung Mirik

The town is surrounded by lush green forests, tea gardens, and majestic mountains, making it a perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts. Here are some of the top hiking options in Bunkulung Mirik that you must explore:

Mirik Valley Trek:
The Mirik Valley Trek is a popular hiking trail that takes you through lush green forests, tea gardens, and small villages. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. The trek starts from Mirik Lake and takes about 4-5 hours to complete.

Tingling Nature Walk:
The Tingling Nature Walk is a leisurely hiking trail that takes you through the lush green forests of Tingling. The trail offers a serene ambiance and is perfect for those who seek a peaceful escape from the city’s chaos. The hike takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

Rai Dhap Hike:
The Rai Dhap Hike is a popular hiking trail that takes you through the lush green forests of Rai Dhap. The trail is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna and offers a perfect blend of nature and adventure. The hike takes about 3-4 hours to complete.

Deosi Dara Trek:
The Deosi Dara Trek is a popular hiking trail that takes you to the hilltop of Deosi Dara. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the valley below. The hike takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

Mirik Hill Hike:
The Mirik Hill Hike is a popular hiking trail that takes you to the top of Mirik Hill. The trail offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. The hike takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

How To Reach Bunkulung Mirik

If you are planning a trip to Bunkulung Mirik, here is a guide on how to reach the town:

By Air:
The nearest airport to Bunkulung Mirik is Bagdogra Airport, which is located about 50 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Bunkulung Mirik.

By Train:
The nearest railway station to Bunkulung Mirik is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is located about 55 km away. The railway station is well-connected to major cities in India. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Bunkulung Mirik.

By Road:
Bunkulung Mirik is well-connected to major cities in West Bengal by road. The town is located about 50 km from Siliguri, 52 km from Darjeeling, and 65 km from Kalimpong. You can take a bus or hire a taxi from these cities to reach Bunkulung Mirik. The road to Bunkulung Mirik is scenic and offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

By Shared Cab:
Shared cabs are a popular mode of transportation in Bunkulung Mirik. Shared cabs are available from Siliguri to Mirik.

By Private Car:
If you prefer a more comfortable and private mode of transportation, you can hire a private car to reach Bunkulung Mirik. Private cars are available from major cities in West Bengal, such as Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong. Private cars are more expensive than shared cabs but offer a more comfortable and personalized ride.

Cost To Reach Bunkulung Mirik

If you are planning a trip to Bunkulung Mirik, here is a guide on the cost of reaching the town:

By Air:
The nearest airport to Bunkulung Mirik is Bagdogra Airport, located about 50 km away. The cost of reaching Bunkulung Mirik by air depends on the place of origin. The cost of a one-way ticket from Delhi to Bagdogra Airport can range from INR 4,000 to INR 12,000, depending on the airline and the time of booking. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Bunkulung Mirik, which can cost around INR 1,500 to INR 2,000.

By Train:
The nearest railway station to Bunkulung Mirik is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located about 55 km away. The cost of reaching Bunkulung Mirik by train depends on the place of origin. The cost of a one-way ticket from Delhi to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station can range from INR 500 to INR 2,000, depending on the class of travel and the time of booking. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Bunkulung Mirik, which can cost around INR 1,500 to INR 2,000.

By Road:
Bunkulung Mirik is well-connected to major cities in West Bengal by road. The cost of reaching Bunkulung Mirik by road depends on the mode of transportation. The cost of a one-way bus ticket from Kolkata to Bunkulung Mirik can range from INR 500 to INR 1,500, depending on the bus operator and the time of booking. The cost of hiring a taxi from Siliguri to Bunkulung Mirik can range from INR 1,500 to INR 2,000.

By Shared Cab:
Shared cabs are a popular mode of transportation in Bunkulung Mirik. The cost of reaching Bunkulung Mirik by shared cab depends on the place of origin. The cost of a one-way shared cab from Siliguri to Bunkulung Mirik can range from INR 200 to INR 300 per person.

By Private Car:
If you prefer a more comfortable and personalized mode of transportation, you can hire a private car to reach Bunkulung Mirik. The cost of hiring a private car depends on the place of origin. The cost of hiring a private car from Siliguri to Bunkulung Mirik can range from INR 2,500 to INR 3,000.

In conclusion, the cost of reaching Bunkulung Mirik depends on the mode of transportation and the place of origin. If you are planning a trip to Bunkulung Mirik, you can choose the mode of transportation that suits your budget and preference. It is advisable to book tickets and transportation in advance to avoid last-minute hassles and to get the best deals.

Where to Stay In Bunkulung Mirik

If you are planning a trip to Bunkulung Mirik, here is a guide on where to stay in the town:

Mirik Tourist Lodge:
Mirik Tourist Lodge is a popular budget hotel located in the heart of Bunkulung Mirik. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, 24-hour room service, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine. The hotel is situated in close proximity to major tourist attractions such as Mirik Lake, Bunkulung Monastery, and Bokar Monastery.

Sourenee Tea Estate:
Sourenee Tea Estate is a beautiful tea estate situated on a hilltop overlooking the town of Bunkulung Mirik. The estate offers comfortable cottages equipped with modern amenities such as TV, Wi-Fi, and an attached bathroom. The estate also has a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine, a tea lounge where you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea and a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.

The Retreat:
The Retreat is a luxury resort situated on a hilltop overlooking the town of Bunkulung Mirik. The resort offers spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities such as TV, Wi-Fi, and an attached bathroom. The resort also has a restaurant serving delicious local and international cuisine, a spa where you can relax and rejuvenate, and a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.

Best Time To Visit Bunkulung Mirik

The town experiences a pleasant climate throughout the year, but there are certain times when it is best to visit Bunkulung Mirik. Here is a guide to help you plan your trip:

Summer Season (March – June):
Summer is the peak tourist season in Bunkulung Mirik. The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 10°C to 25°C, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and sightseeing. The famous orange orchards in the town are in full bloom during this time, adding to the scenic beauty. However, the town can get crowded during this season, and hotel prices tend to be higher.

Monsoon Season (July – September):
The monsoon season in Bunkulung Mirik is characterized by heavy rainfall, making it a less popular time to visit the town. However, the rainfall adds to the natural beauty of the town, and the tea gardens look lush and green. The temperature during this season ranges between 10°C to 20°C, making it a good time for nature walks and enjoying the scenic beauty. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before planning a trip during this season.

Autumn Season (October – November):
Autumn is another good time to visit Bunkulung Mirik. The weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging between 5°C to 20°C, making it a good time for outdoor activities. The town is less crowded during this season, and hotel prices tend to be lower. The autumn season is also a good time to witness the beautiful autumn foliage in the town.

Winter Season (December – February):
Winter is the off-season in Bunkulung Mirik. The temperature during this season can drop to as low as 0°C, and the town experiences occasional snowfall. However, the winter season has its charm, and the snow-covered tea gardens and the misty mountains offer a unique and breathtaking view. Winter is also a good time to enjoy a cup of hot tea and local snacks while sitting by a fireplace.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Bunkulung Mirik depends on your preferences and interests. The town is a year-round destination, but the summer and autumn seasons are the most popular among tourists. It is advisable to plan your trip, especially during the peak tourist season, to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Things to Carry While Travelling To Bunkulung

Important Information About Bunkulung

  • Although homestays serve plenty of food, you can keep dry food like cakes and biscuits with you.
  • It is better to keep the necessary medicines with you but if you feel ill suddenly, the doctor is available there.
  • Mobile Network is available there.
  • Carry at least one ID proof with you.
  • If you are going for a forest trail, please go with a proper guide.
  • Due to the high demand for the Resort, it is suggested to book your room in advance. You can book the resort by calling them directly or by their website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bunkulung

Can we watch Bird during Bunkulung Trip?

Yes, Bunkulung Mirik is a great place for bird-watching. The town is surrounded by lush green forests and tea gardens, which provide an ideal habitat for a wide variety of birds.

Is there any option for Hiking in Bunkulung?

Yes, there are 2-3 hiking routes available in Bunkulung. You can experience them easily.

Is Mt. Kanchenjunga visible from Bunkulung?

On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga from various locations in Bunkulung Mirik. One of the best places to view Mount Kanchenjunga is Mirik Lake, which is located in the heart of the town.

Final Words

In conclusion, Bunkulung Mirik is a hidden gem in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, India, that is perfect for those seeking a serene and tranquil getaway. With its picturesque tea gardens, lush forests, scenic viewpoints, and stunning mountain views, Bunkulung Mirik has something to offer every traveler.

The town is not only a great place to relax and rejuvenate but also offers plenty of activities such as hiking, bird watching, and boating. You can also explore the local markets and taste the famous Darjeeling tea, which is grown in the nearby tea estates.

To make the most of your trip to Bunkulung Mirik, it is advisable to visit during the winter and autumn seasons when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear. You can also consider hiring a local guide who can help you explore the best spots in the town and provide you with insights into the local culture and history.

Overall, Bunkulung Mirik is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who wants to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Himalayan foothills. So, plan your trip to Bunkulung Mirik today and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Don’t leave the garbage and plastic in the mountains. Keep the mountains clean by thinking of the people living in the mountains and the mountain-loving people like you and me so that they can travel in the mountains for the next few thousand years. Remember that whatever you give to the environment you will get back one day.

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Hi, I am Rahul, the man behind this blog. I am a Freelancer and Digital Nomad From India. Like you, I am also a travel lover and love to explore different places. Started this blog with the intention of sharing various travel-related information with you. Hope it will help you a little bit.

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