Rimbik – The Gateway to Sandakphu and Singalila

Rimbik is a quiet, rugged village perched on the edge of Singalila National Park in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Just 56 kilometres from Darjeeling town and close to the Indo-Nepal border, Rimbik isn’t your usual touristy hill station—it’s raw, remote, and remarkably beautiful. With dense forests, cascading hills, old tea estates, and mist-laden trails, this small mountain settlement is ideal for those seeking a slow-paced, immersive experience in the Himalayas.

Rimbik is most famously known as a base point or final stop for trekkers returning from the legendary Sandakphu-Phalut trek. But it’s far more than just a pit stop. The region’s rustic charm, alpine forests, friendly local communities, and magnificent views of the Eastern Himalayan range, including Mt. Kanchenjunga, make it a hidden gem worth exploring even if you don’t lace up your trekking boots.

Getting to Rimbik

Reaching Rimbik is a bit of an adventure in itself. It is one of the most remote villages in the Darjeeling hills, and that isolation is part of its charm.

If you're starting from New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport, you’ll first travel to Maneybhanjang (the Sandakphu trek base), which lies about 90 km from Siliguri. From there, a winding mountain road through forests and villages will take you another 30 km to reach Rimbik. The total travel time from NJP is around 5 to 6 hours, depending on the road conditions and the weather.

Alternatively, Rimbik can also be approached via Darjeeling town through the Bijanbari route, which is scenic but less commonly used due to steeper gradients and narrow stretches. Though the distance is shorter (around 56 km), it still takes about 3.5 to 4 hours to cover.

Due to its altitude and remoteness, shared jeeps or private vehicles are the only practical modes of transport. There are no direct buses or regular public transport options. NBTT Travel Solution can arrange reliable transfers and round-trip itineraries from Siliguri, Darjeeling, or even Gangtok.

Weather at Rimbik

Rimbik sits at an altitude of approximately 6,800 feet, which gives it a climate similar to Darjeeling but a bit more unpredictable due to its proximity to the Singalila ridgeline.

• Summer (March to May): This is the best time to visit. Temperatures remain between 19°C and 26°C, with pleasant weather perfect for hiking and village exploration. Rhododendrons bloom in the surrounding hills.

• Monsoon (June to September): The region experiences heavy rainfall, making the roads slippery and prone to landslides. Travel is not recommended during this time unless you're here for the monsoon forest charm.

• Autumn (October to November): Clear skies, crisp air, and excellent mountain views make this another great window for travel.

• Winter (December to February): It can get cold with temperatures dropping to 9°C or even lower at night, but the days remain clear and sunny. Ideal for those who enjoy solitude, silence, and off-season mountain vibes.

Rimbik – More Than a Trekker’s Stop

Rimbik may not have malls or manicured parks, but its authenticity is its main draw. You come here to unplug from the modern world, breathe in the pine-scented air, and live slow.

Base Point for Sandakphu and Singalila Treks

The most iconic aspect of Rimbik is that it’s either the last overnight halt for trekkers descending from Sandakphu or Phalut, or the first village you pass if taking the reverse route via Srikhola or Gurdum. Many trekkers descend from Kalepokhri or Gurdum to Rimbik and halt here before heading back to Darjeeling or Siliguri.

The village is surrounded by dense forests, tea estates, and traditional Lepcha and Nepali homes, making it a refreshing overnight base with basic comforts and warm hospitality.

Unexplored Himalayan Nature

Even if you’re not trekking, there are several short hikes and nature walks around Rimbik that take you through pine forests, old wooden bridges, chirping Himalayan birds, and secret waterfalls. The untouched landscape offers a front-row view of the Himalayan biodiversity, including rare orchids, rhododendrons (in season), and exotic birds.

Rustic Tea Gardens

While not as famous as the big tea estates near Darjeeling, the small family-run tea gardens near Rimbik offer a glimpse into the traditional way of tea cultivation in the hills. You can walk through terraced tea slopes and interact with tea pluckers who are happy to share stories about their lives and culture.

Accommodation in Rimbik – Stay with the Locals

You won’t find fancy resorts here. What Rimbik offers instead is a range of budget-friendly homestays, trekkers' huts, and community lodges. These may be simple, but they are clean, comfortable, and full of warm hospitality.

Most accommodations include basic meals, usually prepared from fresh, organic produce grown in backyard farms. Expect authentic Nepali, Lepcha, and Bengali food—dal-bhaat-tarkari, local gundruk soup, thukpa, and millet-based breads.

If you're travelling with a group or looking for recommendations, NBTT Travel Solution can help with verified stays, food arrangements, and guides.

Nearby Attractions and Experiences

Though Rimbik itself is a slow village, the region around it is rich with both natural and cultural sites.

Srikhola (5 km)

A serene riverside village where the Srikhola River flows through the forest. Ideal for day hikes, picnics, and riverside camping. The hanging wooden bridge here is a favourite photo spot.

Gurdum (8 km)

Another tranquil village on the Sandakphu trail, known for its views and birdlife. A short hike or jeep ride from Rimbik.

Darjeeling (56 km)

You can always plan a post-trek city break in Darjeeling, enjoying its cafes, colonial architecture, and toy train.

Singalila National Park Entry (via Maneybhanjang)

Rimbik is right next to one of India's most scenic and biodiversity-rich national parks. Though park entry for tourists is mostly from Maneybhanjang, being close to its fringes means birdwatching and forest walks from Rimbik can be rewarding.

Travel Tips and Essentials

• Carry Cash: There are no ATMs in Rimbik. Make sure to withdraw enough cash in Darjeeling or Siliguri.

• Connectivity: Mobile networks are patchy. BSNL works best, but even that can be unreliable. Internet access is limited.

• Permit Requirements: If you're doing the Singalila trek, you'll need a permit and a guide. NBTT Travel Solution can assist with all necessary logistics.

• Health: Basic medical facilities are available, but carry your medicines and a first aid kit.

Rimbik – for the Explorer at Heart

For travellers tired of over-touristed hill stations, Rimbik offers authenticity, solitude, and natural beauty in equal measure. Whether you come here to trek the legendary trails of Sandakphu, sip tea with local villagers, or just soak in the tranquil mountain atmosphere, Rimbik gives you a chance to rediscover the Himalayas in their purest form.

Planning a Trip to Rimbik?

Get in touch with NBTT Travel Solution Pvt Ltd, your trusted travel partner for the Darjeeling–Sikkim–Dooars region.

Call or WhatsApp: 9733300696.