Birding at Rongtong and Surroundings
The road towards Rongtong goes through Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and Sukna Reserve Forest, making it an ideal place for bird watching and photography. Travelers can spot Himalayan Bulbul, Spangled Drongo, Black-Crested Bulbul, Scarlet Minivet, Serpentine Eagle, Shikra, Golden-Fronted Leafbird, and Green Bee-eater while heading towards Rongtong, creating a paradise for bird watchers.
Rongtong is a small hamlet cradled in nature, known for its lush greenery and aesthetic beauty. It is located 17 km from Siliguri and 7 km from Sukna.
This picturesque hamlet can be reached by road and by the toy train. Rongtong is a small railway station of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railways, situated at an altitude of 1,404 ft above sea level. The breathtaking views of the low Himalayas and the beauty of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and Sukna Reserve Forest make it an ideal spot for bird watching and photography.
Bird watchers can find many colorful species, including Scarlet Minivets, Crimson Sunbird, Golden-Fronted Leafbird, and Serpentine Eagle. The melodious songs of these birds are captivating, with many using their songs as warning calls to declare their territory.
Taking the road towards Shivkhola will lead to a sharp U-turn from Rongtong, approximately 7 kilometers uphill. A steep downhill path will bring you to a popular temple at Shivkhola, located on the banks of the Mahananda River. The serene beauty of nature in Shivkhola is a major attraction, where bird watchers can observe various bird species.