Ahaldara Viewpoint

Located at the highest accessible point in the Shelpu hills within Sittong-III, the Ahaldara viewpoint delivers what many consider the most complete panorama in the entire belt: a 360-degree sweep that takes in the Dooars plains and Teesta River to the east and south, the ridgelines of Kurseong, Darjeeling, Kalimpon and Sikkim to the north and west, and — on clear winter mornings — portions of the Nepal Himalaya and Bhutan visible beyond. Kanchenjunga presides over the western horizon with astonishing grandeur. A small entry fee (Rs 10-50) applies; the gate is at the Sukhe Pokhari junction. Arrive before 7am in winter for the best Kanchenjunga light.