Jamuni
Description :
Those who did not go did not know why go to Jamuni? Jamuni Tourist Complex is spread over 13 acres of land on both sides of the Rangit River, just 12 km from Darjeeling city. Surrounded by tea plantations, green hills and some organic farming, it is a breathtaking place. An agricultural fair is organized here every year by the government. Located at a height of about 5000 feet above the sea level, this Jamuni bridge is one of the bridges connecting West Bengal and Sikkim.
You may be surprised to hear that this jamuni has made its way into Bollywood movies as well. Among the few films that have been shot, the most popular film is 'Barfi' starring Bollywood king Shah Rukh Khan.
Where to Stay :
A tourist bungalow was built several years ago on the banks of the Rangeet river under government initiative to stay in Jamuni. Done means finished and now closed, not started. We can be in two places here. The first is a two-room homestay located above the Rangit River. And two camping tents above. Covered with a shed. Total accommodation for 10 people. Hours will be spent sitting on the balcony of this homestay almost hanging over the river. The chat will freeze.
Another hostel is a state-of-the-art hostel with swimming pool. Rooms with state-of-the-art facilities will give you a royal feel. Actually it is a farm house. Various fruits like mango, jackfruit, litchi, banana etc. along with rice, corn and various vegetables are cultivated here. Guests are served organic food.
How to Reach :
Jamuni can come directly from New Jalpaiguri railway station or Siliguri Junction by reserve car. Jamuni can also be reached directly from Bagdogra airport by reserve vehicle. The distance is approximately 84 to 90 km. Also from Darjeeling to Jamuni via Tukwar tea plantation by reserve vehicle. The distance is about 12 km. Or Jamuni on Bijanbari road opposite Pubung Phatak, 5 km from Jorbanglo on Lepchajoon road. (This road can be said to be closed now)
Those who want to come by share car should take any Darjeeling bound bus or share jeep to Darjeeling. From there to Jamuni by Bijanbari share car. And those who want to come from the direction of Peling or Jordthang can come from Jordthang by share car to Dirjeeling Jamuni.
Local Sightseeing :
On the road to Jamuni, you will experience an amazing blend of adventure and scenery. As you will get the steep mountain road, you will get the beautiful scenery of Tukvar tea garden and Sri Dwarika tea garden. On the forehead, the beautiful combination of white and white kanchanjungha against the backdrop of the occasional green tea plantations on the journey will stop you time and again. Standing on the Jamuni Bridge, you will be mesmerized by the gurgling sound of the raging Rangeet River flowing below for a long time for sure. The jingling of Shiva temple bells on the banks of the river and the huge statue of Jatadhari Shiva meditating will create a different atmosphere. You can worship in the temple, soak your feet in Rangit water. There are also boating facilities. You will see the centuries-old hanging iron bridge. You can visit the nearby small organic farm houses or some far away Bijjanbari. Those who go in winter will see orange groves spread here and there.
Expenses :
The cost to reach Jamuni from Siliguri/Jalpaiguri or Bagdogra directly by reserve vehicle is Rs.4200 to Rs.5000. 900 to 1500 from Darjeeling. 1500 taka from Bijanbari to 2000 taka.
Darjeeling by share car 250 to 300 taka and by bus 200 to 250 taka. From there to Bijanbari share car, Jamuni 125 taka. Jorthang to Darjeeling share car fare is around Tk 325.
The cost of accommodation and food is approximately 1700 to 1800 taka per person per day.
Best Time to Visit :
People of any age can come here at any time of the year as there is no high incidence of hot or cold. Especially in the rainy season, its form is indescribable.