Mountain Travel | In pictures: Kaluk, a popular mountain destination in West Sikkim with Kanchenjunga views and natural beauty

Kaluk is one of the lesser known zen destinations in Sikkim. Situated at about 5,600 feet above sea level, it is approximately 43km from Pelling and 2km from Rinchenpong and offers spectacular views of Mt Kanchenjunga on a clear day. The little hamlet is known for its 360-degree views of the Eastern Himalayas. So if you miss out on a clear sighting in the morning, fret not because chances are you will be treated to a pristine panorama sometime in the day

Ideal for a quiet vacation, the best way to explore the quaint hamlet is on foot. Take a walk on the winding roads to soak in the abundance of natural beauty in the region

Each turn has a surprise in store, with waterfalls, forests and mountains engulfed in a carpet of green

Fresh mustard greens, chicken delicacies or soul food ‘dal-bhaat’, the organic produce and simple meals of the many homestays in Kaluk make the culinary experience equally memorable. You may also try the locally brewed ‘chhaang’

Food at Ghonday Village Resort

Make a stop at the handmade paper factory at Borong for an insightful tour. The factory also has a gift store, if you want to shop for diaries, puppets and more

Also stop by the Kaluk rock garden that has a gurgling stream running through it and stunning vistas of misty green hills

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Kaluk is also home to a wide variety of birds. Dawn and dusk in the Sikkimese village is marked by birdsong and it is an ideal getaway for birdwatchers

Dusk in Kaluk is a magical time. With the changing hues of the sky, the sun playing peek-a-boo with the evening clouds creates a watercolour painting of nature unfolding in front of your eyes

Ways to reach Kaluk: By air to Bagdogra, and then by car (125 km from Bagdogra). By train to NJP station, and a car ride (121 km from NJP). The hill station has several resorts and homestays offering accommodation. You can plan a trip to Ravangla, Pelling or Darjeeling from Kaluk