Tucked away in the tranquil hills of Kalimpong, Yelbong is a small village that’s slowly making its mark on the map as an adventure-packed travel destination. It is the perfect place for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. This amusing hamlet in North Bengal has a plethora of natural wonders, from gushing waterfalls and dense jungles to the captivating Yelbong River Canyon Cave. Adding on, here’s more about this lesser-known hamlet.

First About Yelbong

If you’re an adventure freak, yelbong is sure to leave you spellbound. It remains covered in the Himalayan mist amidst the valleys of Kalimpong. Surrounded by hills, forests, and rivers, this hilly hamlet offers breathtaking views of both sunrise and sunset. The symphony of chirping birds, the dance of lovely butterflies, the melody of the flowing river, and the hospitality of the local residents all combine to create a dreamy destination.

The Culture of Yelbong

Yelbong is not just about the adventure, it’s also about the warm embrace of its villagers. The people of this tiny rural hamlet always remain eager to welcome you and reveal the hidden treasures that Mother Nature has bestowed upon their land. They take pride in preserving their natural heritage and are keen to share it with visitors.

Way Through Yelbong

Yelbong Canyon Cave is easily accessible from Siliguri and New Mal Junction station, both of which are a mere three-hour drive away. The journey to Yelbong takes you along the scenic route towards Bagrakot, which lies approximately 18 km from both starting points. From Bagrakot, Yelbong is a short 7 km away, offering a seamless transition from urban life to the lap of nature.  

Yelbong’s Canyon Trekking

Besides everything, the best part of this pristine destination is undoubtedly the Yelbong River Canyon Cave. It stretches an impressive area of two kilometers, making it the longest river canyon cave in North Bengal. The cave is a sight to behold with its narrow pathways leading you through the heart of the cave, with the soothing sounds of the flowing river. 

The river canyon trekking offers a journey through hidden waterways, alongside towering waterfalls – just like they show you in the movies. All in all, it is an adventure-packed location that promises you a thrilling experience. 

Also Read Niti Valley Adventures Travel Guide: Unveiling the Secrets of Uttarakhand

But wait, what do you understand by canyon? 

A canyon is a narrow, deep valley surrounded by steep, rocky cliffs, often with a river flowing through its depths. Yelbong’s canyon trek is widely famous as the best trek of North Bengal, offering a haunting yet thrilling experience. Herein, you’ll also find spectacular waterfalls like the Rainbow Waterfall & the Three-step Waterfall, deep through the jungles where you can rest and enjoy a peaceful time amidst the wonders of nature. And this is also the place where the actual trek adventure starts wherein you can engage in activities like bouldering, swimming, river crossing, and more.

Things to do in Yelbong

• Bird watching
• Forest hike
• Mountain trekking
• Butterflies watching 
• Night walk on the riverbanks
• Bonfire night at the hill forest
• Explore offbeat waterfalls/places
• Stroll through Yelbong village observing the local culture & lifestyle

The Best Time to Visit 

If you’re solely visiting the place for the Canyon cave trekking, the months from October to March mark the best time to explore the place. However, if you just want to enjoy the scenic beauty of the majestic mountains and rushing rivers, you don’t need to wait for any specific time of the year. 

Things to Remember:

• If you’re coming just for the Yelbong River Canyon cave trek, make sure to only visit during the month of October to March as the rest of the time it remains closed.
• As there are only a limited number of homestays, ensure making your bookings in advance to ensure easy availability.
• The routes to Yelbong are not very well known to many. Hence, you can consider requesting your homestay owner to arrange for a pick-up. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q. Is Yelbong safe for solo travelers or small groups?

A. Yes, Yelbong is considered quite safe for solo travelers and small groups. However, it goes without saying that you should follow all the safety guidelines. Also, try to travel in groups if possible, and keep someone informed about your itinerary.

Q. Can you suggest some accommodation options in Yelbong?
A. Sure, you can check out the following homestays for a comfortable stay:

• Yelbong Homestay

Contact: 8250847197 

Email: (francisraidon@gmail.com)

• Gopal Homestay 

Contact: 9339126613

Email: (gopal9339126613@gmail.com)

Q. What should I pack for Yelbong Canyon Cave trekking:?
A. While packing for the trek, make sure to carry essentials like comfortable clothing wear, hiking boots, insect repellent, a first-aid kit, sunscreen, and any other personal items. You can even consult your organizer to get a comprehensive list of the items.

Also Read Discovering the Hidden Gem: Bori Wildlife Sanctuary

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