Aritar Travel Guide 2026: Lampokhari Lake, Mankhim Viewpoint, Silk Route Homestays & Packages from Kolkata

Quick Destination Summary

• Distance from Kolkata: Approx. 630 km (Overnight train to NJP / 1 hour flight to Bagdockra/Pakyong + 4 to 4.5 hours scenic mountain drive from NJP/Siliguri via Rangpo or Pedong)
• Nearest Airport / Railway Station: Pakyong Airport (PYG) / Bagdogra Airport (IXB) | New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) / Siliguri Junction
• Altitude: 4,600 feet (1,400 meters)
• Ideal Trip Duration: 2 Nights / 3 Days (or 4 Nights / 5 Days when combined with Zuluk, Nathang Valley, Reshikhola & Sillery Gaon)
• Best Season to Visit: October to May (Autumn & Winter for crystal-clear Himalayan views & snow peaks; Spring for blooming azaleas & emerald lake greenery)
• Ideal For: Families, Couples, Nature Lovers, Offbeat Silk Route Explorers, Photography Enthusiasts & Peaceful Retreats

Introduction: Discover Aritar – The Emerald Lake Gem & Peaceful Silk Route Gateway of East Sikkim

Nestled at an inviting altitude of 4,600 feet in the Rongli sub-division of East Sikkim, Aritar is an offbeat Himalayan wonderland celebrated for its lush pine forests, historic monasteries, panoramic view points, and its shimmering crown jewel — Lampokhari Lake. Shaped like a human foot and bordered by dense cryptomeria pine trees, Lampokhari is one of Sikkim's oldest natural lakes and the only one offering boating facilities at this elevation.

Unlike commercial tourist hubs, Aritar retains an enchanting rural charm. The air is filled with the sweet fragrance of pine needles, wild orchids, and fresh mountain breezes. Beyond the lake, the high ridge of Mankhim Top offers an astounding 360-degree view of Mount Kanchenjunga standing proudly over the winding green valleys of the Silk Route circuit.

For travelers from Kolkata, Howrah, Salt Lake, New Town, Barasat, and Madhyamgram planning a soul-soothing mountain holiday, Aritar serves as the perfect sanctuary. Whether you wish to pedal across mirror-like waters, trek through pine forests to ancient British-era bungalows, seek blessings at historic Buddhist monasteries, or feast on hot homemade Bengali meals in cozy eco-homestays, booking a customized Aritar tour package from Kolkata with Bholanath Tour & Travels — Kolkata's trusted travel partner — guarantees a smooth, safe, and deeply refreshing Himalayan escape.

Why Visit Aritar in 2026?

Aritar is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends nature, spirituality, and Silk Route heritage. Here is why this tranquil East Sikkim hamlet belongs at the top of every Kolkata traveler's bucket list:

Where is Aritar Located?

Aritar is located in the East Sikkim district of Sikkim, nestled in the lower Himalayan foothills near the border of West Bengal (Kalimpong district) and Bhutan. It lies approximately 63 km from Sikkim's capital Gangtok, 45 km from Kalimpong, 15 km from Rongli (the Silk Route permit point), and 110 km from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station and Bagdogra Airport (IXB).

Positioned along the historical Silk Route corridor, Aritar serves as an accessible bridge connecting the lush green valleys of Pedong and Reshikhola with the high-altitude mountain passes of Zuluk and Kupup.

Top Places to Visit & Things to Do in Aritar

When you book an Aritar travel guide package with Bholanath Tour & Travels, our travel desk provides dedicated private reserved mountain vehicles (Innova, Xylo, Bolero, Scorpio) and experienced Himalayan drivers so you can explore all local sights comfortably:

Located at 4,600 feet, Lampokhari Lake is the primary attraction of Aritar. The lake is artfully enclosed by green pine forests and features a paved walking track around its perimeter. Visitors can rent pedal boats to glide across the water while admiring reflections of pine trees and blue skies. A small shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva sits on the lake bank, giving it sacred spiritual value.

Perched on a high hilltop overlooking Lampokhari Lake, Mankhim offers one of the most magnificent panoramic views in East Sikkim. From the hilltop temple belonging to the local Rai community, visitors can witness a 360-degree vista of Mount Kanchenjunga, the winding Reshi River valley, and the entire Aritar village below.

Belonging to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism, Aritar Gumpa is one of the oldest monasteries in East Sikkim. Built with traditional Buddhist architecture, the monastery houses exquisite painted murals, ancient manuscript scrolls, monastic trumpets, and carved wooden stupas set amidst a peaceful courtyard.

Constructed in 1895 by Sir James Claude White, the first Political Officer of Sikkim under British rule, this heritage stone bungalow evokes colonial history. Surrounded by manicured flower lawns and towering pine trees, the bungalow offers a nostalgic glimpse into Sikkim's historical past.

Love Dara is a quiet, elevated hillock located near Aritar, popular among couples and nature photographers. The viewpoint offers soothing views of terraced green rice fields, cardamom gardens, and surrounding mountain hills.

Located just 12 km downhill from Aritar, Reshikhola is a scenic river bank village along the Reshi River (the border between West Bengal and Sikkim). Visitors can dip their feet in crystal-clear river waters, enjoy riverside angling, and visit the roaring Changey Waterfalls nearby.

Best Time to Visit Aritar

• Autumn & Winter (October to March): Best Time for Clear Kanchenjunga Views & Crisp Air! Day temperatures range between 8°C to 16°C. The skies are intensely blue, providing razor-sharp visibility of snow peaks. Winter mornings at Lampokhari Lake feature atmospheric mountain mist drifting over pine trees.
• Spring (April to May): Best for Blooming Flowers & Pleasant Weather! Temperatures hover between 12°C to 22°C. Azaleas, orchids, and wild mountain blooms decorate the hillsides, making it ideal for family vacations and lake boating.
• Monsoon (June to September): Lush Emerald Greenery & Romantic Fog! Rain clouds dance across the valley, filling waterfalls and making the lake and surrounding pine forests vibrantly green.

Where to Stay: Homestays & Resorts in Aritar

Aritar offers a warm selection of authentic mountain homestays and charming eco-resorts:

• Lake-Facing Eco Resorts & Hotels: Situated near Lampokhari Lake, offering modern rooms with glass balconies, pine wood interiors, attached Western bathrooms, and 24/7 hot water.
• Mankhim & Village Homestays: Perched along Mankhim hill and Aritar village, offering traditional Nepalese hospitality, fresh farm-to-table organic meals, and sweeping valley views.

When you book your Aritar homestay booking Kolkata through Bholanath Tour & Travels, we guarantee:

• Clean, sanitized rooms with attached modern Western bathrooms and 24/7 hot water supply.
• Prime property locations offering views of Lampokhari Lake or Mount Kanchenjunga from Mankhim.
• Delicious 4-time Bengali meals prepared fresh — hot luchis with aloo dom for breakfast, steamed rice, dal, seasonal veg, fresh fish or chicken curry for lunch and dinner, accompanied by evening hot tea and snacks.
• NJP/Bagdogra private cab pickup with personalized care for senior citizens, families, and couples.

How to Reach Aritar from Kolkata

Reaching Aritar from Kolkata is simple and offers a scenic journey through North Bengal tea estates and Sikkim mountain valleys:

• By Train (Most Popular & Comfortable Route): Board an overnight express train from Howrah (HWH) or Sealdah (SDAH) — such as Vande Bharat Express, Darjeeling Mail, Padatik Express, Saraighat Express, or Shatabdi Express — to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station (approx. 9–10 hours). From NJP, Aritar is approximately 110 km (around 4 to 4.5 hours drive via Sevoke, Teesta Bazaar, and Rangpo or Pedong).
• By Air (Fastest Route): Fly from Kolkata (CCU) to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) (1 hour flight) or Pakyong Airport (PYG) near Gangtok. From the airport, private reserved cabs arranged by Bholanath Tour & Travels pick you up directly for your drive to Aritar.
• Car Rental & Dedicated Pickup Service: Bholanath Tour & Travels provides dedicated private reserved mountain vehicles (Innova, Xylo, Bolero, Scorpio) pick-up directly from NJP station, Siliguri, or Bagdogra airport.

Plan Your Hassle-Free Aritar & Silk Route Trip with Bholanath Tour & Travels

Planning a serene mountain holiday to Lampokhari Lake, Mankhim, and the legendary Old Silk Route should be joyful, effortless, and completely stress-free. At Bholanath Tour & Travels, we handle every single travel detail — from Howrah/Sealdah train tickets and NJP cab pick-ups to verified lake homestays, Silk Route permits, and hot Bengali meals.

Why Choose Bholanath Tour & Travels?

• 🚩 Kolkata's Trusted Travel Partner: Over 15+ years of experience serving families, senior citizens, and tour groups across West Bengal & Sikkim.
• 🏡 Verified Homestays & Authentic Bengali Meals: Handpicked properties ensuring clean rooms, hot water, and delicious familiar food.
• 🚗 Reliable Private Mountain Vehicles: Dedicated reserved cabs with polite, experienced Himalayan drivers.
• 💰 Transparent & Budget-Friendly Pricing: Clear cost breakdowns with customized itineraries and no hidden charges.

Official Company Details & Contact Desk

• 📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 8509308011 / +91 8653652159
• 🏢 Kolkata Office Addresses:

• 🌐 Official Website: www.bholanathtourandtravels.com
• ✉️ Email: info@bholanathtourandtravels.com

Book your Aritar tour package from Kolkata today with Bholanath Tour & Travels and experience the serene emerald lake beauty of East Sikkim!