If you are in Darjeeling with very limited time and want to add some flavour on your trip then a day hike to Tunglo is one of the perfect hiking trails for those adventure lovers. This single-day tour is highlighted by magnificent views of Khangchendzonga, which is almost 8586 meters and around 28,169 feet above sea level and Mount Everest which is almost 8848 meters and around 29, 0290 feet above sea level. If you are lucky then you can see the great views of the Himalayas, the mountain range on a clear day. Tonglu is the starting trail of a Sandakphu trek which is one of the most famous trekking trails of Darjeeling. Before starting a day hike to Tonglu you need to reach a small village called Dhotrey via Manebhanjan from Darjeeling by car and it is about two to three hours drive since the road conditions is not very good. Once you reach Dhotrey enjoy your breakfast in the local canteens which are available there. From Dhotrey you have to walk uphill through the dense forest and rhododendrons to reach Tonglu. At an altitude of almost 10130 feet, Tonglu is located and you can witness the magnificent view of Mount Khangchendzonga along with the snow peaks when the day is clear and bright.
The beautiful Tonglu
Tonglu is also one of the stop points for the people who are trekking towards Sandakphu. From Tonglu if you hike further for almost 2 km, you will reach Tumling, which offers a beautiful view of Kanchendzonga. From Tumling hike downhill towards Chitrey, which is almost 3 km, your car will be waiting for you to return to Darjeeling. You can start the trek as early as 6.00 am and return back to Darjeeling around 5 pm. The entire trail is scenic and makes for a wonderful walkthrough.
How to reach Tonglu
The nearest airport is Bagdogra airport and the nearest railways station is New Jalpaiguri railway station. You have to reserve a cab to reach Darjeeling directly or take a cab or an auto-rickshaw and reach the Siliguri town from both places. From Siliguri, you can take public transportation to reach Darjeeling. From Darjeeling take a cab to Dhotrey via Manebhanjan and start a hike to Tonglu from Dhotrey.
Best time to visit Tonglu
The best time to visit Tonglu, Darjeeling is between Oct-Apr.