Description
Aritar , a small village in East Sikkim of India under Rongli Sub-Division, is known for its natural and landscaped beauty. Isolated from the rest of the state, on the far eastern border of Sikkim and bounded by Mt. Kanchanjangha, the region is characterized by lush forest, mountains and rivers. It is located on the edge of the Himalayas and 16 Km from Rishi bridge in East Sikkim. Aritar is 3 to 4 hours drive from Gangtok via Rongpo. It is famous for its lush greenery, sweeping hills and placid lake.
Aritar is worth visiting destination, whether you may paddle boat around the lake, or take a hike up to Phusrey Lake, visit surrounding hills or just make a plan to trek to Rachela, which is about 6 hours from Aritar. You can enjoy the scenic trees on the way, jungle orchids, splendid giant mountains of Bhutan and Bengal and the overwhelming feeling takes over you as you take the last step towards the Rachela, where the red rhododendrons bloom here like nowhere else.
How to Reach
Aritar can be reached by rail, road and air. The nearest airport is Bagdogra (IXB), while the nearest railway station is NJP. There are no direct transport services between NJP and Aritar.
Places to Visit
Lampokhari : . Lampokhari or Aritar lake (4600 ft) is an amazing eco tourism spot, located 16 km from Rishi Bridge in East Sikkim. On local Bhutia language it is called “ghalu Tso” (‘Tso’ indicates lake). SikkimThis human boot-shaped lake with 350 m length and 75 m width surrounded by forest is ideal for paddle boating Initially it is one of the oldest natural lake in Sikkim and recently artificially constructed to facilitate boating for the tourists. The lake has been renovated by the government to facilitate the first paddle boating in Sikkim.Travellers feel falling in ‘love at first sights’ by its azure calm serine water. From Mankhim hilltop, the Lake looks just spectacular, if you are staying overnight at Aritar, it is recommended to enjoy its view very early in the morning.
Dak Bunglow : Popularly known as Ari-Bangla it is an old British built bunglow built by Sir James Claude White (first political officer of Sikkim during British rule in India) in the year 1895. At the same premises Sikkim’s first treasury was built as well as Sikkim Police was raised and the first outpost started functioning in the year 1897.
Aritar Gumpa : A monastery of the Kagyuapa order,considered as one of the holiest and oldest in Sikkim.The visitor’s can imbibe the tranquil air with splendour of monastic arts reflected in its traditional architecture, carved & painted murals and treasure of manuscripts and icons.
Parbateyswar Shivalaya Mandir : The most venerated shrine with picturesque splendour is considered a very holy pilgrimage site, where thousands of devotees throng for the blessing and participate during the month of “SAWAN” to offer water and sip the sacred water from a sacred vessel.
Mankhim: “Mangkhim”, a Temple of the Rai of Nepali origin is located at a height of 6500 ft at “Maity Village” (Kheselakha) . Hattipailay is another virgin village where the visitors can see elephant footprints on rock. Mankhim is the top point of Aritar.
Nirmal Dham : This place situated about 5 km (approx) from Rhenock Bazar, is an abode of “Nirmal Guruji” (a.k.a.) “ Kopchey Baba”, known for his miraculious healing power, which has attracted hundreds of devotees from all over India and neighbouring countries.
Ever green nursery & Ram Gauri Sangrhalaya : Located at Rhenock Bazar, the nursery and museum is privately owned and has drift wood collections, botanical & other varieties of flowers.
Kali khola falls (Lonely falls) : 100 m in height (Rorathang-Rongli road)
Changey water fall : 50 m in height (Near Lampokhari)
Lungchok valley : Trekking destination (Lokdara, Chujachen)
Love Dara : Low hill picnic spot.