Nestled amidst verdant tea gardens, Tabakoshi enchants visitors with its natural beauty and majestic hills. This quaint hamlet, also known as Tamakoshi, is located near the Gopaldhara Tea Estate, just a few kilometers from Mirik. Unlike the bustling crowds of Mirik or Dooars, Tabakoshi remains relatively undiscovered by tourists, offering a serene retreat.
“Discover a beautiful place to get lost in.” – Unknown
Imagine staying in a picturesque homestay surrounded by endless stretches of tea gardens, with the gentle murmur of a river flowing beside the village. Here, you can escape daily routines, immersing yourself in nature and savoring the solitude of the mountains. Tabakoshi provides a perfect sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
While searching for a scenic spot for an extended weekend getaway, we stumbled upon Tabakoshi. The name intrigued us, and the few photos we found were captivating. We set off for Siliguri, excited to explore this new destination. Our journey began with a day in rain-soaked Darjeeling before heading to Tabakoshi. Having previously traveled from Darjeeling to Siliguri via Mirik, we had admired the tea gardens and enjoyed fresh Darjeeling tea at Goalpahar, but we had never imagined that this region harbors such a beautiful eco-tourism spot. Tabakoshi, located just 8 kilometers downhill from Mirik, stands at about 5000 feet above sea level.
Tabakoshi features a single homestay, Sunakhari Homestay, managed by Ramesh Rai and his family. We had made our reservations in advance. The homestay, with its five rooms—one bamboo cottage, two stone cottages, and two additional rooms—offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. A small artificial pond in front of the cottages, adorned with fish, enhances the charm of the place.
Mr. Rai built the homestay himself with the help of his sons. We were warmly welcomed upon our arrival, and the hospitality of the Rai family was exceptional, making us feel like we were staying with relatives. We were served meals in beautiful brass utensils, and the family’s warmth was truly touching.
Two of Mr. Rai’s sons work in Afghanistan, and his elder son was home on leave during our visit. In the evenings, he shared fascinating stories from his experiences in Afghanistan, adding a unique layer to our travel experience. Meeting new people and hearing their stories is an invaluable part of travel!
Tabakoshi offers a serene escape for weary travelers. The Rangbhang River flows through the village, and Subhash Ghishing named it after a river in Nepal, captivated by its beauty. Tabakoshi is part of the Gopaldhara Tea Estate, surrounded by the Thurbo and Sangma Tea Estates. There are two temples near the river—one close to the homestay and another accessible by crossing a metallic bridge.
While Bengal Tourism has installed some seating and concrete pathways to enhance the area, these amenities are often neglected. We also noticed a swimming pool-like structure that was unclean and moss-covered, which might deter potential swimmers.
The monsoon season transforms the tea gardens into a lush, vibrant landscape. We observed local women harvesting tea leaves, their colorful attire creating a striking contrast against the green backdrop. The area is also a haven for bird watchers, with chirping birds providing a morning symphony. Our rain-soaked weekend in the tea gardens was both refreshing and exhilarating, fulfilling a long-held desire to stay in such a beautiful setting. The connection with the local community and the Rai family made our stay truly memorable.
How to Reach Tabakoshi
From Siliguri, Tabakoshi is approximately 47 kilometers away. You can hire a car from Siliguri to Tabakoshi or take a shared jeep to Mirik and then a private car to Tabakoshi. Private car fares from Mirik range between Rs. 400 and Rs. 500, depending on negotiations. Alternatively, you can travel from Darjeeling. Sunakhari Homestay can also arrange private transportation if notified in advance.
Where to Stay in Tabakoshi
The only accommodation available in Tabakoshi is Sunakhari Homestay.
Best Time to Visit Tabakoshi
Tabakoshi is a year-round destination, with winter being the most favorable time to visit. If traveling during the monsoon season, be sure to bring umbrellas or rain jackets.
