Sikkim

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Built in 1896 by Sir James Claude White (Sikkim’s first British political officer), the Aritar Dak Bungalow was the first outpost of Sikkim Police and the first site for Sikkim Treasury. It has also been used by the British as a temporary health centre for its injured soldiers during early 20th century.

Located at an altitude of 4750 feet above sea level with fabulous views of the rolling mountains and surrounded by lake, forests and valleys, the Aritar Dak Bungalow is a true heritage of the Himalayas. Built completely, with local pinewood amidst sprawling lawns and gardens, this British bungalow was renovated with modern furnishings recently to accommodate guests.

Accommodation in the Aritar Dak Bunglow

There are three extra-spacious Double Bed and Triple Bed rooms with wall to wall carpeting, wood paneling, large glass windows, heritage furniture and fireplaces in rooms. The bungalow has a huge sitting room with couches, coffee tables and large glass windows overlooking the mountains. There is a large extensive verandah perched on the lush lawn – just the perfect place to enjoy your morning tea and a Dining room with its wooden furniture. The attached western bathrooms have been renovated with modern fixtures and hot water geysers. The guests are looked after by the caretaker and Chowkidaar of the Dak Bungalow, who also cooks food for the guests. The whole bungalow exudes a British charm in its architecture and design and if you are fond of re-living the days of the Raj, then you can spend few days at Aritar Dak Bungalow.

How to reach Aritar Dak Bunglow

If you are travelling from Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri, then head straight towards Rangpo and then to Rorathang, Rhenock and reach Aritar. It would roughly take you 4 hours to cover this 130 km stretch. If you are coming from Gangtok, then head straight towards Rangpo via Singtam and take the same route through Rorathang and Rhenock to reach Aritar. There is another new road through Pakyong, which connects Gangtok to Rorathang and is around 25 kms. shorter than going through Rangpo.

Things to see around Aritar

Located at an altitude of 4600 feet, the boot shaped Aritar Lake or Lampokhari surrounded by pine forests is the major attraction of Aritar. Tourists can enjoy boating in this lake and also feed the local swans. A hike from the lakeside through the forests on a well-maintained trail would take you to Mankhim – the hilltop from where you can enjoy a panoramic view on Mt. Kanchenjungha and the Lampokhari Lake below. There are few viewpoints here strategically located on the surrounding hilltops with views of the valleys and helipad grounds. You would also find a small monastery here with some colourful murals and woodwork. A 10-min walk from the dak Bungalow would take you to a Rai Mandir located at Mankhim hilltop, from where you can catch a panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjungha. Another nearby attraction is the beautiful Kali Khola falls on the Rorathang-Rongli Road.