Barsey Rhododendron Trek: History, Highlights, Best Time & Itinerary

Located at an altitude of 10,000 ft, Barsey Rhododendron Trek/Sanctuary. In the time of spring, the pleasant fragrance of Rhododendrons blooming is spread across the whole terrain.

Carpeting around 104 sq. km, Barsey Rhododendron Trek / Sanctuary is home to numerous species of Rhododendron, Magnolia, Pine, and Oaks. Rare Himalayan species of Red Panda and Black Bear can be seen here.

The glimpse of Mt.Kanchenjunga makes this trek a complete package, the nearby mountain cliff looks like an island amidst the clouds.

History of Barsey Rhododendron Trek

During the 1880’s British botanist Dalton Hooker visited the Singalila range and glorified blooming Rhododendrons as the beauty of the Singalila range chiefly referring to the Barsey Rhododendron sanctuary.

Consisting of Conifers to Alpines, many species of Rhododendrons which it is famous for is also known as ‘Guras’ locally. The only source of energy at such high altitudes is firewood obtained from slow-growing Rhododendron shrubbery.

Reducing the exploitation of these resources, officials had to put restrictions on animal grazing and tourism. So these places are less explored and pure bliss.

Images of Barsey Rhododendron Trek

Highlights of Barsey Rhododendron Trek

Location of Barsey Rhododendron Trek

Situated in the Singalila Range in western Sikkim, it borders the state of West Bengal to the south across the Rambong Khola stream and Nepal to the west.

Villages at glance include Okhrey, Jorethang, and Hilley. There is the availability of three access points from Hilley, Dentam, and Soreng. The most preferred one is Hilley as the roads are more accessible.

Best Time to Visit Barsey Rhododendron Trek

Spring blossoms are the attraction here which includes the months of March and April. It is advised to avoid the monsoon that is July to September, due to leech colonies and muddy walkways. Normally it’s always windy and cold, so consider carrying extra clothing accordingly.

How to Reach Barsey Rhododendron Trek

By Air:- Nearest Airport is Bagdogra in WB, reach Siliguri then to Okhrey via Jorethang and lastly Hilley; for this shared jeeps are available.

By Train:- Railway station is New Jalpaiguri, reach Siliguri then to Okhrey via Jorethang and lastly Hilley; for this shared jeeps are available.

Itinerary of Barsey Rhododendron Trek

Day 1: NJP to Okhrey

130 Km | 7/8 Hours – Once you reach Okrey also called the pristine village of Sikkim pause and have a deep breath enjoying the view. Visit a monastery built in 1952 The Ugen Thongdroling built by Sherpa.Try Lali Guras, wine made of Rhododendrons.

Day 2: Okhrey to Hilley

30 Km |  2 Hours – Okhrey to Hilley hire a cab takes about 2 hours. Trek from Hilley to Barsey 4-5 km reaching Guras Kunj together with pleasing your eyes with ‘Guras’. Keenly observe Barsey lake as animals come there to quench their thirst.

Day 3: Barsey to NJP

Walk back to Hilley, then Okhrey.Okhrey to NJP via

Kugti Pass Trek

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Barsey Rhododendron Trek