Why Sittong is the New Favourite Among Bengali Tourists

Sittong is one of those magical places in the Darjeeling hills that somehow stayed hidden from mainstream tourism for years. But now that the secret’s out, Bengali tourists are flocking to this beautiful hamlet in search of quiet, misty mornings, chirping birds, orange orchards, and soul-soothing views of the Himalayas.

Sittong is not one village, but a cluster of villages spread over a large area. The area is called Sittong Khasmahal. Villages such as Latpachanr, Shelphu, Ghalaytar, Koylagudam, School Dara, and Jogighat are all part of the Sittong area. The area is known for its great view of the mountain, nice weather, orange plantations and awesome hospitality.

What’s better than staying in a homestay while you’re here? When you book a homestay in Sittong, you’re not just finding a place to sleep—you’re living with locals, eating what they eat, and getting a true taste of the hills that no hotel can ever offer.

Getting to Sittong – The Road Less Taken

One of the charming quirks about Sittong is how many different ways there are to get there. Depending on where you're starting from and what kind of road trip you enjoy, there are four main routes to reach the village.

From Kurseong, the route goes via Bagora—around 12 km of winding roads that slowly climb through pine forests. This route is ideal for those coming from Darjeeling, Kurseong, or even Mirik. It’s scenic, refreshing, and perfect for the slow traveller.

The route via Sukna–Shivkhola–Mahaldiram is a bit offbeat, passing through forests and tea estates that feel like they belong in old Bengali novels. It's a treat for the eyes and best suited for those who want a little adventure on the way.

Then there's the most commonly used route—from NJP or Siliguri, through Kalijhora and Latpanchar. It’s the most direct, making it ideal if you're coming by train or flight. Even here, due to a landslide just before Latpanchar, an alternative route has been developed in recent years, which goes through Shelphu rather than Latpanchar.

Lastly, there’s the Mangpu route, which is perfect if you want to combine your Sittong stay with a quick detour to Rabindranath Tagore’s retreat at Mangpu. This road connects directly to Lower Sittong through a bridge over the Riyang River at Jogighat.

Whichever route you pick, the journey is scenic and sets the mood for the tranquil escape that Sittong promises.

Upper or Lower Sittong – Where Should You Stay?

Sittong isn’t a single village, but rather a region with varying altitudes. And that’s what gives it such an interesting flavour. The higher parts, like Koylagudam, Mana and Ghalaytar, are around 4500 feet high and offer sweeping views of the Himalayan ranges. These are perfect if you love chilly weather, trekking trails, and wide vistas of cloud-covered mountains.

On the other hand, Jogighat and the lower Sittong areas lie at around 2100 feet. The climate here is warmer, the vegetation is thicker, and the rivers are closer. This part is ideal if you enjoy riverside walks, birdwatching, or just want to spend lazy afternoons in orange orchards.

The entire region, from the lowest to the highest point, is just 7 km apart, so if you plan well, you can experience both vibes during your stay.

What to Expect During Your Stay

Birdwatchers love Sittong, and it’s easy to see why. This part of the Darjeeling district is home to a rich variety of Himalayan birds—some of which you might spot right from your balcony. The mornings here are a treat, with layers of mist slowly lifting to reveal mountain ridges and orange gardens. Evenings are best spent chatting with locals around a fire, sipping on hot tea or local brews, and sharing stories.

There are waterfalls, riverside picnic spots, and camping areas nearby. If you’re into photography or nature exploration, Sittong is an open canvas. And if you’re just here to relax, well, you won’t find a more peaceful setting.

Book Your Homestay in Sittong with Humro Home

If all this has made you want to pack your bags, you’re not alone! But choosing the right homestay can make all the difference. That’s where Humro Home comes in. With their deep roots in the region and years of experience in managing local stays, Humro Home ensures that your experience in Sittong is smooth, authentic, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re looking for a warm host family, delicious homemade meals, or just a quiet place to relax with the best view, Humro Home has you covered. They can even help with travel planning and road condition updates.

So don’t wait— call 9733071716 or 9733069690 today and get ready for a peaceful escape to the hills of Sittong.