Mongpoo

Mongpoo, the land of Orchids

Mongpoo is a destination that will take you on a heritage travel trip. As history narrates, it was the favorite summer destination of "the Bard of Bengal '' Rabindranath Tagore. It is a land of slow travel. The hill station is only 32 km away from the tea tourism hub of North Bengal, Darjeeling. Mongpoo or Mongpu is a great example of rural tourism. 

Located at an altitude of approximately 3700 feet, the village of Mongpoo is a historic settlement where the culture and traditions are still alive and thriving among the locals. The sight of tea gardens shining on both sides of the roads, colorful flora and fauna, and clear water streams define the beauty of Mongpu. As you wander the beauty of the land, you may see some kind of roadside establishments. These establishments are used to dry the cinchona barks. These barks are used to make quinine, the elixir to ward off malaria! This responsible tourism hub is famous for quinine production. This hillside village is also well-known for its beautiful nurseries.

Mongpoo is an offbeat destination that will take you on a journey where peace and excitement co-exist in their best form. It has many unexplored places that lay dormant in its purest form. It brings a sense of satisfaction to those who believe in the need for conservation travel tourism. The place is a very convenient option if you are looking for a budget travel destination. Furthermore, it is easy on the wallet when it comes to accommodation. 

Many homestays let you enjoy the best and most authentic cultural tourism experience in its food and hospitality. So, what are you waiting for? Pack up your bags, fuel up your car or book one of Mongpoo’s best safari tours and begin your journey to paradise!

Mongpoo is a picturesque hamlet and the sight of the eastern Himalayas, the cascading waterfalls and the lush green forests double up its glory. Mongpoo showcases its cultural richness in every corner. The sustainable tourism aspects get its meaning here. The traditional houses, the monasteries, and the factories all live up to its definition. However, few places are a must-visit, whether you are on a fun tour or just on a relaxing vacation.

The Government Cinchona factory is a place that you must never miss. Established in 1864, it still provides livelihood for many living here. While visiting the factory, you will get to experience the quinine extraction process for free. Furthermore, visit the Cinchona tree plantation sites as well. The tall trees stand there for a great cause. Close to the factory is the Rabindranath Tagore Memorial Museum. 

Among the historic tales of the locals, you will get to know about the bond between Maitreyi Devi and Tagore that blossomed in the hill station of Mongpoo. It is also said that the famous poem of Rabindranath ‘Janamdin’ was written here. The erstwhile summer residence of Tagore showcases his bed, desk, handwritten scripts, original paintings and many more. Apart from these, the other sites that are a must-visit are Kalijhora Waterfall, Dinchhen Sherpa Chhoeling Gumba Monastery, Mongpoo bazar and Mongpoo viewpoint, just to name a few.

Mongpoo is an ecotourism hub with pleasant weather conditions. The weather in Mongpoo is perfect for orchid cultivation. Over 150 such varieties are grown here. Even though it is a hill station, the temperature does not fall below 4 degrees Celsius in winter.

In the summer season, especially in June, Mongpoo witnesses a lot of visitors. For those who are willing to take up photography tours, the best time to visit is between October to December. You can witness the Cinchona trees in full bloom during this time.

Traveling to Mongpoo is very convenient and affordable. Those planning to travel by train, the closest station is New Jalpaiguri Junction. The distance to Mongpoo via NH10 from New Jalpaiguri is around 52 km. The closest airport is Bagdogra. From the airport, it takes around three hours to reach Mongpoo via NH 10. There are many cabs or taxis available that you can hire or are included in the tour packages itself, letting you enjoy a hassle-free ride to Mongpoo.