Sonada – The Tea-Fringed Hamlet

Sonada is the kind of place that most people pass through on their way to somewhere else. Perched at an altitude of 6,146 feet, it lies right between Darjeeling and Kurseong, two of the most iconic hill towns in North Bengal. On the surface, Sonada might appear like any typical hillside bazaar town—bustling with shops, traffic, and the occasional whistle of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR). But veer off the main Hill Cart Road (NH-110), and a completely different Sonada reveals itself—quiet, charming, and enveloped in the greenery of tea estates and forests.

For those willing to pause their journey, Sonada offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and railway nostalgia, along with easy accessibility and a surprising number of nearby attractions. It’s an ideal base for offbeat travellers, short family stays, or even as a pitstop for Darjeeling-bound tourists who want something calmer than the main town.

Getting to Sonada – Easily Accessible Yet Off the Radar

Sonada’s location on National Highway 110, better known as Hill Cart Road, makes it one of the most accessible offbeat destinations in the Darjeeling hills. Any vehicle travelling from Siliguri to Darjeeling will pass through Sonada.

From New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport, Sonada is about 55 km and takes 2.5 to 3 hours by road. Shared jeeps and private taxis are readily available from Siliguri. For a more immersive arrival, take the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway—Sonada is one of its major halts. The toy train’s journey up the mountains is slow, scenic, and unforgettable.

If you're staying in Darjeeling or Kurseong, Sonada is within an easy 45-minute drive, making it perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.

A Slice of Darjeeling Without the Crowds

The Town and Beyond

On the surface, the town centre of Sonada is a mix of small shops, markets, and roadside eateries. It’s a functional hill town that provides for the surrounding villages. But just beyond the main street lie hidden trails, homely tea gardens, and forested ridges. Most tourists overlook this quieter side, which makes it perfect for those who seek solitude.

Sonada is also home to the Salesian College, a historic institution founded in 1938, which adds a youthful academic vibe to the town. Its hillside campus is worth a short visit for its colonial architecture and panoramic views.

Things to See and Do Around

While Sonada itself is a peaceful destination, its surrounding region offers plenty of sightseeing and light adventure opportunities. Here are some of the best experiences in and around the area:

Tea Gardens of Sonada

The rolling slopes around Sonada are dotted with some of Darjeeling’s finest tea estates. Unlike the manicured gardens you see in brochures, the ones here feel lived-in, quiet, and wonderfully scenic.

Some of the most famous nearby tea estates include:

• Margaret’s Hope Tea Estate

• Rungmook and Cedar’s Tea Estate

• Oaks and Moondakotee Tea Estates

• Balasun and Kalej Valley Tea Gardens

• Milling and Ring Tong Tea Estates

These gardens offer a chance to walk through tea-covered slopes, chat with tea pluckers, and even taste fresh Darjeeling tea at the source. Some of them allow informal visits or guided walks, which NBTT Travel Solution can arrange.

Chatakpur – Hidden Himalayan Jewel (7 km)

Just 7 km uphill from Sonada lies Chatakpur, a quiet eco-village inside the Senchal Wildlife Sanctuary. It offers one of the best panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, especially during sunrise and sunset.

At Chatakpur, you’ll find a forest watchtower, well-marked trails, and charming wooden cottages run by local families. It’s a place where you can disconnect and breathe. Birdwatchers and photographers often frequent this village.

Tiger Hill – Sunrise Point Extraordinaire (15 km)

You’ve probably heard of Tiger Hill, and if not, you’ve seen photos of the sunrise over Kanchenjunga with Everest peeking in the background. Sonada is just 15 km (45 minutes) from Tiger Hill, making it one of the best overnight bases for catching the sunrise without staying in crowded Darjeeling.

Visit early in the morning to beat the crowd and watch the snow peaks blush with light—a spiritual experience for many.

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – A Living Legacy

Sonada is one of the official stations of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Toy Train route. You can watch the DHR trains chugging through the market, curving around hills and crossing narrow bridges. You can even board the train from Sonada to Kurseong or Darjeeling for a slow, nostalgic ride through the misty hills.

Homestays and Accommodation in Sonada

Sonada has a growing number of homestays and boutique guesthouses that offer clean rooms, hot food, and genuine hospitality. Most are located slightly off the main road, surrounded by forests, ridges, or tea gardens, giving you privacy and peaceful views.

These stays are usually hosted by local families—expect home-cooked meals, Nepali and Lepcha hospitality, and easy access to short hikes or viewpoints. Many properties also have views of Kanchenjunga on clear days.

If you’re planning a longer stay or travelling in a group, NBTT Travel Solution can help you choose the best stay based on your travel style—be it cosy cottages, tea estate bungalows, or family-run homestays.

Weather in Sonada – Mist, Sunshine, and Mountain Breeze

The climate in Sonada is very similar to Darjeeling, though less crowded and less polluted. Expect cool temperatures year-round:

• Summer (March to May): Pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. Ideal for exploring tea gardens and day hikes.

• Monsoon (June to September): Misty and wet, with lush greenery. Travel can be slower due to fog and rainfall.

• Autumn (October to November): One of the best times to visit, with clear skies and vivid mountain views.

• Winter (December to February): Cold but sunny, with temperatures often dipping below 5°C at night. Some homestays offer indoor heating or fireplaces.

Nearby Destinations from Sonada

• Darjeeling (18 km): An Iconic hill town with shops, cafes, and colonial charm.

• Kurseong (16 km): A quieter hill station with heritage buildings and scenic walks.

• Batasia Loop and Ghoom (10 km): Historic toy train stops and war memorials.

• Senchal Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary (12 km): Great for forest lovers and birders.

Travel Tips for Sonada Visitors

• Connectivity: Mobile networks are available. Jio and Airtel work best. The Internet may be slow in forested areas.

• Cash & ATMs: Some ATMs are available, but they may not work consistently. Carry cash if staying in rural homestays.

• Health: Carry personal medicines. The nearest health centres are in Kurseong or Darjeeling.

• Clothing: Pack warm clothes even in summer. The weather can change quickly in the hills.

Sonada – A Pause Between Journeys, A Destination in Itself

Sonada is not about ticking off sightseeing points. It’s about lingering over tea with a view, walking through foggy ridges, or watching clouds roll over the valley from your cottage balcony. For travellers who crave quiet beauty, warm hosts, and slow travel, Sonada delivers an authentic Himalayan experience without the crowds of Darjeeling or the rush of Kurseong.

Need Help Planning a Trip to Sonada?

Let NBTT Travel Solution Pvt Ltd take care of your stay, transfers, and local experiences.

Call or WhatsApp: 9733300696.