Gumbadara Viewpoint

The single most rewarding physical exertion on the entire circuit. A steep but manageable 20-minute walk through a forest of ferns, oak and damp undergrowth brings you to Gumbadara, the highest accessible point near Tinchuley. On a clear morning (and here, clear mornings are most reliable from October through early December and again in March and April) the panorama encompasses Kanchenjunga and the full eastern Himalayan arc, the silver ribbon of the Teesta and Rangeet rivers in the valley below, the green ridges of Kalimpong and a slice of Sikkim. Large rocks at the summit have historical significance as former training grounds for rock climbers. There are also several small caves to explore in the vicinity.
Hardy early-risers can attempt the climb before sunrise; the pre-dawn cold at 6,000 ft is bracing but the light on the peaks at first sunrise is compensation enough. Your homestay will pack a flask of tea if asked the night before.