Explore Lamahatta’s Eco Park, Sacred Pond and Pine Forest
Lamahatta is an amazing village surrounded by dhupi and pine forests, providing a serene landscape of the Eastern Himalayas, features beautiful flowers such as white and yellow orchids and stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
Lamahatta is situated at an altitude of 5,700 feet & approximately 23 kilometres from Darjeeling town, reachable by a little over an hour’s drive.
Developed as an eco-tourism destination in late 2012, Lamahatta offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Before the concept of eco-tourism took root, It was known for its tranquil ambience and its historical significance.
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Meaning of the Name – Lamahatta
The name “Lamahatta” is derived from two words:
- Lama: Referring to Buddhist monks.
- Hatta: Meaning dwelling or hermitage.
It is said that Buddhist monks once inhabited this area, finding peace among the lush green hills.
The name “Lamahatta” finds its roots in “Lama,” symbolizing a Buddhist monk, and “hatta,” denoting a humble abode, hut or hermitage.
Therefore, Lamahatta signifies “A monk’s hermitage” or the place where Buddhists live.
What is Lamahatta famous for?
Lamahatta is famous for its well-maintained park with a diverse array of plants and flowers, pine forests, colourful prayer flags, and a sacred pond.
It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it ideal for nature walks and hiking.
The key highlights of Lamahatta include:
- Lamahatta Eco Park
- Pine Forests
- Wooden Watch Tower
- Sacred Pond or Jore Pokhari
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Lamahatta Eco Park
Lamahatta Eco Park features beautifully landscaped gardens filled with a diverse array of plants and flowers, including stunning white and yellow orchids.
Vibrant prayer flags, representing prayers and blessings, enhance the park’s spiritual ambience and visual charm.
The park also offers well-marked walking trails that wind through the forest, perfect for nature walks.
At its centre, a serene Sacred Pond, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a peaceful haven for meditation and reflection.
Lamahatta Pine Forests
The Pine Forest of Lamahatta stands tall and majestic, their scent infusing the air with a refreshing, earthy aroma creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere.
These forests are a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers, offering peaceful trails that wind through the dense foliage, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of nature.
Beyond relaxation, the forest is perfect for leisurely walks, photography, picnics, and bird watching, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the beauty of Lamahatta.
Wooden Watch Tower
The Eco Park is renowned for its natural beauty and eco-friendly initiatives. One of its notable attractions is the wooden watchtower, which offers visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes.
The watchtower provides a 360-degree view of the park, lush green forests, terraced gardens, and distant mountains. On a clear day, you can see the majestic peaks of the Eastern Himalayas.
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Sacred Pond or Jore Pokhari
The spiritual charm of Lamahatta is its sacred pond also known as Jore Pokhari. The pond is located within the Lamahatta Eco Park and is often included in local rituals and ceremonies.
It is considered a holy pond and believed to possess divine properties and hold a significant place in the spiritual life of the community.
It can be reached by a short trek through a well-maintained forest trail, which adds to the experience of visiting this serene spot.
Surrounded by dense forests and prayer flags, the pond offers a tranquil environment and is one of the key attractions in Lamahatta.
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Best time to visit Lamahatta
The best time to visit Lamahatta and enjoy is either March to May or October to December. Let me provide more details:
- Spring (March to May):
- During spring, the weather is pleasant, and the landscape comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
- You’ll experience comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- Spring is perfect for capturing stunning photographs of Lamahatta’s natural beauty.
- Early Winter (October to December):
- The months of October to December offer clear skies and crisp air.
- You can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Himalayan Peaks and the surrounding hills.
- It’s a great time for trekking, nature walks, and exploring Lamahatta’s serene environment.
Keep in mind that Lamahatta is a year-round destination, but it’s recommended to avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to the possibility of landslides in hilly areas.
So plan your visit accordingly and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this Himalayan hamlet!
Entry Fee / Ticket Price
The entry fee for Lamahatta Eco Park is Rs. 15/- per person. This nominal fee allows visitors to experience the park’s natural beauty, including its lush gardens, pine forests, sacred pond and scenic trekking routes.
How to reach Lamahatta
By Flight: The nearest airport is located at Bagdogra, approximately 75 km away. Travellers can book a flight to Bagdogra and then hire a rented car to reach Lamahatta.
The drive from the airport to the village offers scenic views and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
By Train: The closest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), which is around 72 km away. NJP is the busiest railway station in North Bengal, providing excellent connectivity.
Upon arrival at NJP, travellers can hire a car to reach Lamahatta. The journey by car from the station to the village takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
By Road: From Siliguri, the distance to Lamahatta is about 66 km, and the drive typically takes around 3 hours. The road trip offers beautiful landscapes, making the journey enjoyable.
Travellers can hire a rented car to drive through amazing routes via National Highway 10 including Sevoke, Kalijhora, and Teesta Bazar.
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