A pristine natural destination in the state of Sikkim is Barsey. It is one of the most alluring tourist destinations due to its placid ambience. Barsey, also spelled as Varsey (Location 27.1942° N, 88.1183° E) islocated in Singalila natural reserve forest range of western Sikkim.One will get to see variety of rhododendron (season March to May) and breathtaking view of mighty Kanchenjunga. Spreading over 104 sq. km, across the Singalila Range, which forms the natural international border with Nepal.The faunal reserve of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary comprises Leopard Wild cat , Himalayan Yellow Throated Marten , Himalayan Palm Civet, Himalayan Langur, Crimson Horned Pheasant, Monal Pheasant, Kaleej and multiple species of birds.The climate is generally wet and cold due to wide spread of dominant fauna, guarding the natural sunlight during most of the day.

Important points that a traveler should know:

● Morning hours are the best time for day excursions. Proper gear and guide should be hired for visits to this site.

● Need permission to enter Singalila forest reserve

● Try to carry umbrella / raincoat during this trek post May

● No food, beverages available in the trail

● Do not carry plastic, polyethene

● Preferably do not start in the afternoon hours, torch/ lighting arrangement is a must if you do

Quick itinerary: 4 days 3 nights

NGP / Bagdogra airport to Ochrey , from Orchey proceed towards Hilley ( approx distance 10 kms). From Hilley trek till Varsey (~4.5kms) by walking. This can be completed within 3-3.5 hours. Optionally one can trek from Okhre to Hilley as well.

Detailed itinerary:

Day 1: NGP or Bagdogra airport to Ochre

Arrive at NGP or Bagdogra airport and drive toOkhrey via Jorethang and Meli. Okhrey is a beautiful village which is mostly inhabited by Sherpa and Bhutia communities across all hilly regions. Reach Okhrey by lunch and take leasure for the rest of the day, move around and interact with the locals over small Tea and food stalls, get an authentic taste of local food (mostly vegetarian). Visit the monastery nearby Okhrey which is surrounded by dense forest of rhododendron. Trek commences on the next day.

Day 2: Travel to Hilley and trek to Versey

Reach Hilley which is 10 Kms from Okhrey. If you are lucky enough ,Hilley will offer you the extravagance view of mighty Kanchenjunga from parts of it. This drive from Okhre to Hilleywill take around half an hour and you may optinally choose to trek from Okhre to Hilley mostly through motorable road,with a few shortcut trails. From Hilley, the actual trek will start towards Varsey. The trek distance is approx ~4.km which is ofeasy category and can be covered within 3 to 4hours.Trekkers hut and a few extended rooms are the only option to stay at Varsey if you are not carrying tent. A magical camp-fire can mark your night and a lucky traveler can get a wide and brilliant night view of the mighty Kanchenjunga range if the Moon light blesses. Night stay will be at Varsey.

Day 3: Varsey to Okhrey

Wake up in the morning to see Kanchenjunga in its full glory, breakfast in the tall grasslands in front of the camp sight. Short hiking can be arranged to Nagi valley for the enthusiasts (1.5 to 2 hours up down). Do not missLattar Monastery while returning. Post lunch you will drive back to Okhrey via Hilley. Evening time bon-fire at Okhrey and overnight stay at Okhrey (Homestay or Hotel)

Day 4: Back to NGP or Siliguri

Wake up early morning to enjoy scenic beauty of Singalila Rhododendron Sanctuary. Post breakfast drive for NGP railway station / Bagdogra airport. However it is also possible to return to NJP from Okhrey on day 3 if you have time constraints.

Approximate cost:Depending on team size and carriage requirement, the cost will vary. Contact team Tripsee for a custom quote (7687882512)