Lamahatta

Exploring the Serene Beauty of the Himalayan Hamlet

Lamahatta is a small village in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India situated under the shadow of Himalayas. The natural beauty, peace and vast mountain views of this place is well known.

Let’s see what hidden treasures this place has to offer in this article.

Lamahatta: A Gateway to Serenity

Lamahatta is at an elevation of about 5,700 ft and is the perfect escape from daily chaos.

This place is famous for its peace and cleanliness and is a paradise for peace lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Lamahatta has something for everyone, whether you want peace in nature or a unique place to relax.

Natural Beauty at Its Best

A Floral Heaven :
Lamahatta’s flower gardens are famous and a visual delight for tourists.

Rhododendrons, orchids, magnolias and more are some of the beautiful flowers that adorn the village. With the fragrance of flowers in air, walking through these gardens is a sensory pleasure.

Verdant Tea Gardens :
Tea estates are aplenty in the neighborhood of Lamahatta. Beautifully manicured tea bushes as far as the eye can see, the green tea gardens are a treat to the eyes.

These plantations allow you to take a leisurely walk and learn about tea making and even participate in tea tasting.

Majestic Mountain Views :

Panoramic views of the snow capped Himalayas including the majestic Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world is visible from Lamahatta.

Visitors are left with a sense of wonder after seeing the sun rise behind the snow mountains. The village also has clear skies making it a great place for astrophotography and stargazing.

Exploring Lamahatta: Things to Do

Nature Walks and Picnics :

Lamahatta is surrounded by nature so there are many opportunities for picnics and nature walks. You can walk along the many paths that criss cross the village and get stunning views of the valleys and forests.

The village has many picnic spots where you can sit and have a quiet dinner and enjoy nature.

Lamahatta Eco Park :

A must visit to see the biodiversity of the area is Lamahatta Eco Park. The park has beautiful flower gardens, great views and well maintained walking trails.

You can sit and relax in the peaceful surroundings of the park and take photos of the nature or just sit and take time amidst the greens.

Tea Tasting and Garden Tours :

Lamahatta is a tea lover’s paradise. Several of the tea gardens in the area offer guided tours so you can see how tea is made and what all the types of tea are. You can taste the flavors and aromas of the famous teas of the area during tea tasting sessions.

Experiencing Local Culture and Traditions

Lepcha Community Interaction :

The Lepcha people, famous for their heritage, are in Lamahatta. Talk to them and learn about their culture, customs and lifestyle. Have a cultural exchange and know more about their traditions.

Traditional Dance and Music :

Must watch Lepcha dance and music program to see Lamahatta’s culture. It’s a visual and audio treat and of the area.

A compelling mood is produced by the pulsating beats of the traditional musical instruments and the vibrant costumes worn by the performers.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options

Lamahatta Homestays :

It is strongly advised to stay at one of Lamahatta’s homestays for an authentic experience. The opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the local culture is provided by the warm hospitality of the residents and the luxurious lodgings.

Homestays offer a look into the Lepcha community’s everyday routine and include home-cooked meals that highlight the local cuisine.

List of Homestays at Lamahatta :

Lamahatta Mountain View Homestay
Pine View Homestay and Restaurant
Kanchenjunga View Homestay
Lamahatta- The Oak Retreat
Sherpa Homestay
Khambache Homestay
Icchedana resort – lamahatta
A Good time Homestay
HILLS HOMESTAY
Lamahatta Asha Aani Homestay
FabHotel Aliya
Greenview Homestay, Lamahatta
Yolmo Homestay, Lamahatta
Seven Pines Homestay, Lamahatta
Bohemian Homes Lamahatta

Culinary Delights of Lamahatta

Traditional Lepcha Cuisine :

Lepcha cuisine is the main cuisine in Lamahatta. The food is all about organic veggies, bamboo shoots, wild mushrooms and other local ingredients.

Lepcha dishes will tantalize your taste buds with their unique flavours like “phagshapa” (pork with radish), “kinema” (fermented soybean) and “churpi” (hard cheese).

Organic Farm-to-Table Experience :

Farm-to-table food is available in many Lamahatta homestays and eco resorts. Guests can have organic food made from fresh ingredients available locally.

The farm-to-table philosophy guarantees that the flavours are genuine and the food is nutritious, resulting in a satisfying culinary experience.

Best Time to Visit Lamahatta

The best months to travel to Lamahatta are March through June and September through December. These months provide agreeable weather, bright skies, and ideal outdoor activity conditions.

Avoiding the monsoon season is advised because it might cause travel disruptions and reduce visibility.

How to Reach Lamahatta

Flying to Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri, which has good connections to important Indian cities, is one way to get to Lamahatta.

Lamahatta is roughly 75 kilometres from the airport and can be reached there by taxi or shared taxi. An alternative is to take a beautiful train ride to New Jalpaiguri Train Station, where one can then continue their adventure by road.

Weather at Lamahatta

The weather in Lamahatta is generally cool and pleasant throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.

The monsoon season in Lamahatta starts from June and lasts until September. During this time, the village experiences moderate to heavy rainfall, which can make the roads slippery and muddy. It’s recommended not to plan to visit Lamahatta during the monsoon season.

The winter months in Lamahatta are from December to February, and the temperature during this time can drop to around 5°C in the night. It’s recommended to carry warm clothing if you plan to visit Lamahatta during the winter months.

More Offbeat places near Lamahatta

Tinchuley

Sittong

Takdah

Mahaldiram

FAQ about Lamahatta

Is Lamahatta suitable for family vacations?

Yes, Lamahatta is an excellent destination for family vacations. It offers a peaceful ambiance, nature walks, and cultural experiences that can be enjoyed by all age groups.

Are there any adventure activities available in Lamahatta?

While Lamahatta is known for its serene atmosphere, nearby destinations like Darjeeling and Kalimpong offer adventure activities such as trekking, paragliding, and river rafting.

Can I visit Lamahatta during the winter season?

Yes, Lamahatta can be visited during the winter season, but it is advisable to check the weather conditions and road accessibility beforehand, as heavy snowfall can affect travel plans.

Are there any local festivals celebrated in Lamahatta?

Lamahatta celebrates the Lepcha New Year, called “Namsoong,” with great enthusiasm. Visitors during this time can witness traditional rituals, dance performances, and cultural events.

Is it necessary to book accommodation in advance?

It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure a comfortable stay.