Ahaldara, the kingdom of birds

At a distance of 50 km from the NGP and at an altitude of 4500 feet above the plains lies an infamous hill village called The Ahaldaras in Darjeeling. For those who do not like the hustle and bustle of Darjeeling, they can visit this secluded and uninhabited place in this hilly village with butterfly grazing, house orchids and flower habitats.

They are many ways to go to Ahaldara, you have to reserve a car from NGP. You can reach through Shivkhola, Karshiang, Latpancher and Bidik more if you want to enjoy the scenic beauty. From the point of view of road condition, Sitam is the best. There are a few home stays to stay in the hills. There are also arrangements to stay in the tent. You can also carry tents along with you. Kanchenjunga wrapped in red light will wake you up in the morning; you will find the blue hilly river Teesta. And the decoration of the tea garden looks like a green carpet on the hill. As evening falls, the lights of the houses on the lower hills glow like fireflies.

The main attraction of Ahaldara is the Tagore Hill. This hill looks exactly like Rabindranath Tagore. That is why this hill has such a name. Latpanchar hill is also known as the paradise of birds. There are a total of 240 kinds of birds and 36 kinds of wild animals. If you are lucky enough, you might actually end up seeing one of these animals. It is one of the second largest bird tourist destinations in the world. Many foreigners come here just to watch birds throughout the year; it is a perfect place for bird watchers .There are so many species of birds and their chirping that you will not be able to comprehend without actually seeing them. You will find Rufous Necked Hornbill, Golden Fronnedted Leaf Bird, Himalayan Vulture and the famous Himalayan Hornbill.

Note that you must take a local guide to the birds, it costs around 500 rupees, and they will take you to the proper places where you can see good birds. And they have different sound systems which attract birds so that the birds can be brought near you. Next to it is Pukri Lake where wild animals including birds come to drink water.
Hilly home stays and houses are decorated with beautiful orchids and attractive flowers. It will take you to an unknown kingdom surrounded by flowers and birds hidden in the lap of Mother Nature.

Get off at NGP by train from Sealdah Station and book a car from there. It will take you to Ahaldara. Price for reserving a car ranges between Rs 3000-3500/ –

There are a few Home Stays where the cost of staying and food is between Rs1200 and 1500 rupees per person / day. Rates change seasonally.