Chota Mangwa is one and half hours drive from Darjeeling and can also be reached via Teesta bazar from NJP/Bagdogra. From Darjeeling it took us about 40 minutes to cross Ghoom and then take a left turn from Jorebangla. Drive up to 6th-mile and then take a right turn to proceed down towards Takdah which is about 8kms from here.
Takdah is a small little town with lovely tea gardens. It is here you can stop for a cup of tea and then proceed towards Tinchuley which is 3kms from Takdah. After about 20-minutes drive from Tinchuley you will reach a diversion where a 1.5km stretch on a boulder road will take you to Chota Mangwa.
Nearby attractions in Chota Mangwa
Take a stroll through the nearby Takling village. There is an old monastery here.
- Take a nature walk through the mountain forests and many orange orchards. You are allowed to pick up the oranges that fall off to the ground and savor the natural juices.
- Visit the wonderful Rungli Rungliot Tea Garden in Takdah
- Lopchu is another small village and located close by. You can visit the orange juice manufacturing unit here and see how the juice is produced.
- Bara Mangwa, is located about 12kms from Chota Mangwa
- Tinchuley and Kalimpong are also within short driving distances
- If you want to try out white water rafting, go down to Teesta or river Rangeet. There are several tour operators who organize such watersports. Talk to Mr. Pradhan and he will help you out.
Best time to visit in Chota Mangwa
If you want to see the orchards full with oranges, the best time to visit Chota Mangwa is between October and February. Even otherwise, it's always a great time to visit this lovely quiet village and enjoy the nature. Monsoon time is considered off season.
Location & how to reach
Chota Mangwa is accessible from NJP, Bagdogra, Sikkim, Kalimpong & Dooars via Teesta Bazar, and from Kurseong, Mirik and Darjeeling via Jorebangla.
The distance from Darjeeling town is 35kms by road, fare is Rs 1700 by car (during high season) and takes about 1.5 hours to reach. From NJP station the fare is Rs 2100 and takes about 2.5 hours to reach (distance ~70kms). From Gangtok the distance is 62kms. The route from NJP/Bagdogra is via Sevoke and Teesta Bazaar. From Teesta Bazaar, teh climb starts and the roaad goes through Bara Mangwa (well known for its step cultivation and green foliage), Orange Garden Compex, and the village Serong. A 1.5kms diversion from the main road leads to Chota Mangwa through a dirt road. The main road continues to Tinchuley, Takdah etc.
Where to stay in Chota Mangwa
Tamang Homestay is the best option to stay in Chota Mangwa, we have Three Triple bed cottages.
Pocket Pinch-Rs.1350 per head per day with all meals.
