Mangpoo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Mangpoo, West Bengal.


Mangpoo is a secret gem nestled in the Darjeeling Hills of West Bengal, India. A trip to this quaint Himalayan village is a perfect escape from the crowds of popular tourist destinations, and a chance to explore the beauty and culture of rural India. In this tour guide, we will explore everything you need to know when visiting Mangpoo.

Introduction to Mangpoo

Mangpoo is a small village located in the Darjeeling Hills of West Bengal, India. The village is surrounded by lush green forests, rolling hills, and scenic tea gardens. This idyllic location makes it a perfect spot to relax, unwind and rejuvenate.

The village is home to a small population of people who have lived here for generations. This has kept the traditional way of life in Mangpoo intact, making it a great place to experience rural Indian culture. The locals are renowned for their warm hospitality, and visitors are welcomed with open arms.

List of Places to Visit in Mangpoo

Mangpoo is teeming with exciting places to visit. Here are some of the top attractions that you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lepcha Heritage Museum - A museum that displays the culture and traditions of the Lepcha community. It is a great place to learn about the history and lifestyle of the Lepcha people who are the indigenous community of Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, etc.
  • Yuksom Heritage Trail - Yuksom is a small village that is located close to Mangpoo. It is steeped in history, and the heritage trail takes you through the history and culture of Sikkim.

Natural Attractions of Mangpoo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kaijlia Viewpoint - It offers a stunning 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and the rolling hills.
  • Tumling Forest Trek - This is an enchanting trek through the forests of Tumling, which is a small village close to Mangpoo. The trek is suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.
  • Tista River Rafting - Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling session of river rafting on the Teesta River.
  • Sundar Busty Monastery - A serene and peaceful place, the Sundar Busty Monastery is the perfect spot to spend some time in solitude and reflection.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mangpoo

Mangpoo has numerous hiking and biking routes to explore. Here are some of the best routes for a day trip:

  • Mangpoo to Tinchuley hike - A scenic hike through tea gardens, forests and small villages, with breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
  • Mangpoo to Lamahatta bike ride - A thrilling bike ride that takes you on a hair-raising route through the lush green forests and hills of Darjeeling.

Best Things to Do in Mangpoo: Activities and Tours

  • Tea Garden Tours - Take a tour of the nearby tea gardens and learn about the process of tea-making.
  • Bird Watching - Mangpoo is home to a plethora of bird species, making it a bird watcher’s paradise.
  • Picnic in the Forest - Take a picnic basket and take a tranquil walk to some of the scenic spots in the forest.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mangpoo

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Mangpoo

Day Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Mangpoo
Day 2 Tumling Forest Trek
Day 3 Visit to Lepcha Heritage Museum and Yuksom Heritage Trail
Day 4 Sundar Busty Monastery visit and Picnic in the Forest
Day 5 Tea Garden Tour and Kaijlia Viewpoint Visit
Day 6 River Rafting on Teesta River and Sightseeing
Day 7 Departure from Mangpoo

Food and Drink Scene of Mangpoo

Must-Try Dishes

  • Momos - A popular street food, momos are a type of dumplings typically filled with vegetables, chicken or pork.
  • Thukpa - A traditional noodle soup that is perfect for a cold evening.

Local Beverages

  • Darjeeling Tea - An iconic tea that is grown in the nearby tea gardens. Enjoy it served hot or cold.

Where to Stay in Mangpoo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mangpoo offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Bunkotel Mangpoo - A comfortable and cozy hostel that is perfect for solo travelers or backpackers.
  • Magnolia Residency - A guesthouse that offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
  • Mangpoo homestays - Experience the traditional way of life by staying with a local family in a homestay.

What to Buy in Mangpoo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Tea - Darjeeling tea is one of the most popular souvenirs to bring back from Mangpoo.
  • Handicrafts - The nearby villages of Darjeeling Hills are known for their handicrafts, including paintings, handwoven fabrics, and wood carvings.

Local Culture and Customs of Mangpoo

The Lepcha community has a rich cultural heritage and traditions, including music, dance and colorful festivals. Visitors are welcome to participate in these celebrations and learn more about the local way of life.

Best Time to Visit Mangpoo

The best time to visit Mangpoo is from October to December when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The period from January to February is when the annual Darjeeling tea festival is held.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mangpoo

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.
  • Dress appropriately while visiting places of worship.
  • Carry a copy of your passport and visa at all times.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter.
  • Do not disturb wildlife.
  • Do not click photographs of locals without their consent.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mangpoo

Mangpoo is a safe destination, but visitors are advised to take precautions such as avoiding late-night walks in isolated areas, carrying a copy of their passport and visa, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Mangpoo

Visitors are advised to drink only bottled water and avoid consuming food and drinks from street vendors. It is also important to carry basic medicines and a first aid kit when exploring the outdoors.

Getting to Mangpoo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Mangpoo is accessible by air, road, and railway. Here are some of the best travel options:

Airports Near Mangpoo

The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is about 50 km from Mangpoo.

Bus Stations Near Mangpoo

Siliguri Bus Station is the nearest bus station, located about 30 km from Mangpoo.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available. You can hire them from Bagdogra Airport and Siliguri Bus Station.

How to Get Around in Mangpoo

Mangpoo is a small village, and most places are within walking distance. Taxis and private cars are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Mangpoo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Darjeeling - A popular hill station known for its tea gardens, colonial architecture, and stunning views of the Himalayas.
  • Kalimpong - A charming town located in the foothills of the Himalayas, famous for its handicrafts, Buddhist monasteries, and flower nurseries.

Conclusion

Mangpoo is a hidden gem in the Darjeeling Hills that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and traditional way of life. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination to explore in India, Mangpoo should definitely be on your list!