Bajre Dara Trek – A Hidden Gem in West Sikkim

Nestled in the pristine landscapes of West Sikkim, the Bajre Dara Trek is an offbeat trail that offers breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range and its surrounding snow-capped peaks. At 3,350 meters (11,000 feet), Bajre Dara is a high-altitude ridge known for its panoramic mountain vistas and untouched wilderness, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The name "Bajre Dara" comes from Nepali, where "Dara" means ridge and "Bajre" refers to a place often struck by thunder. The remnants of burnt tree trunks along the trail are a testament to the ridge’s unique character.

Starting from Melliaching, a quaint village 17 km from Pelling, the trek winds through dense forests filled with rhododendrons, bamboo groves, and alpine meadows, eventually leading to the Bajre Dara ridge. Along the way, trekkers will pass through serene monasteries, traditional villages, and sacred sites, including a viewpoint from where the wish-fulfilling Khecheopalri Lake can be seen nestled among rolling hills.

With its moderate difficulty level, the Bajre Dara Trek is suitable for both beginner and experienced trekkers. The best seasons to embark on this journey are March–May (spring bloom) and October–November (clear mountain views).

Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat in the Himalayas or an adventurous trek through remote landscapes, Bajre Dara offers an unforgettable experience, blending spirituality, nature, and adventure in one extraordinary journey.

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 Itinerary: 

Day 1: Start from NJP or Bagdogra

Drive to Pelling in west Sikkim, via Gyalshing and Darap – 130 km – 6 hours. Halt at Homestay

Day 2: Pelling -Trek to Bhanjyang (2250 m)

Drive in the morning from Pelling up till the hilltop of Melli aching and hike via Goru Jurey – 8 km – 5/6 hours. Camp.

Day 3: Trek to Bajre Dara (3350 m)– 9 km – 6/7 hours. Camp.

Altitude Bajre Dara: 11,000 ft (3,350 m)

Trek Distance: 8-9 km | 6-7 hrs approx.

Day 4: Bajre Dara Trek to Khecheopalri Monastery (1970 m)

via Bhanjyang and Lamathang – 15 km – 6/7 hours. Trekkers Hut.

Day 5: From here drive to NJP / Bagdogra

– 150 km – 7/8 hours or to Pelling (if you have additional holidays) – 24 Km – 1 hour.

Note:

• You need to arrive at NJP station/Bagdogra airport/Siliguri latest by 8 am on Day 1. While returning you will reach NJP/Bagdogra on Day 5, in 7/8 hours time. You may book your train/flight after 6 pm on Day 5 or later.

• It may be convenient to arrive on Day 0 and get a good sleep for the night in Siliguri (the main city of Bagdogra/NJP) and then start fresh on Day 1. Similarly you can stay in Siliguri on Day 5 and move out anytime the next day.

• Last ATM is in Pelling. Better to withdraw any cash in Siliguri or earlier.

Highlights of the Trek

• Day 1: Begin your journey with a scenic 7–8-hour drive from NJP/Bagdogra to Melliaching. A short walk from the monastery at the ridge takes you to the first campsite, Pangreytar, offering incredible sunrise and sunset views of the mountains.

• Day 2: Gradual ascent to Gorujorey, followed by a descent into a forested area where the next campsite, Bhanjyang, is located.

• Day 3: Trek through rhododendron and bamboo forests to Bajre Dara. The afternoon often brings mist, but mornings reward you with clear views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks.

• Day 4: The trek ends near Khecheopalri Lake, where you'll also visit the nearby monastery. You can enjoy aerial views of the lake before heading back the next day.

Why Choose Bajre Dara?

This trek combines serene forests, sacred landmarks, and unforgettable mountain views, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Sikkim Himalayas. With breathtaking landscapes and a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience, the Bajre Dara trail is a trekker’s dream.

Best time for Bajre Dara trek: 

Being in Eastern Himalayas (Sikkim/Nepal border) this area observes longer monsoon. Clouds start to hover from April and prolong till October beginning. There are two distinct seasons when this year trek is particularly beautiful:

1) Spring/Summer for Rhododendron season (Mar to May): From mid of March to Mid of May. Flowering starts from early March in the lower elevation, and gradually towards end of spring on higher altitude. Rhododendron and Giant Magnolia are two most famous along with several other wild flower species. Cloudy or misty atmosphere is common during Spring. Though clear mountains views are not uncommon, specially during morning.

2) Fall/Winter for clear weather (Oct to Feb): From mid October to end of February. In the beginning of October clouds start moving out from this region and weather becomes clearer. November is  particularly known for its crystal clear views of the mountains.

From June to September, the trek is closed due to Monsoons.

 Permit requirements for travelling and hiking in Sikkim: 

Sikkim has some restrictions regarding travelling and special permits are a must to obtain for visiting different areas.

(A) For Indian Nationals: No special permit is required for this tour. Carry an original Photo ID card with address proof on it (Aadhar/Driving Licence/Voter ID/Passport but NOT PAN CARD) & 2 photocopies of the same.

 (B) For Foreign National including OCI: 

All foreigners will require Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter the boundary of Sikkim. This is issued Free Of Cost at Sikkim check posts while you enter Sikkim by road. This takes 15/20 minutes with the strength of your passport and valid Indian VISA. Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) has to go through the same process as of a foreign national.

Note: Diplomatic passport/ID card holders need to obtain a RAP/PAP directly applying to the  “Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. Of India”, through their embassy/high commission channel.

https://www.sikkimtourism.gov.in/Public/TravellerEssentials/pap

• Nationals of Pakistan, Myanmar, Nigeria and China can only apply for ILP/RAP through Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, New Delhi.

• Do carry multiple copies (both hard and soft versions) of your recent passport size photo and photocopies of your documents (Passport/Visa/ILP) to avoid any showstopper on mountains!