Tumling is a small hamlet that falls on the Sandakphu trek route- one of the famous trek routes in west Bengal located at an altitude of 9600 feet that crisscrosses between India and Nepal. Although Tumling is a part of Nepal, Indians and foreigners (with an Indian visa) can freely travel as the road passes through the Indian territory.

Tumling offers serenity and lovely views. The viewpoint in the middle of Tumling offers a magnificent view of Khangchendzonga’s snowy peaks, especially on a clear day. Many Buddhist prayer flags are hoisted at the viewing area that flutter in the passing breeze. The locals believe that fluttering of the prayer flags brings purity and holiness to the area. 

Tumling is a small village and is inhabited by 12 to 15 families. You can stay overnight in the small village while going up on the trail since there are small huts and cottages which are well noticeable from a distance. There are also a few private lodges and huts that have come up here to cater to tourists & trekkers heading towards Sandakphu. Electricity is now available but hot water is still supplied in buckets in most of the lodges. There are a few small shops where snacks, dry food, biscuits, packaged water, and other small items are available. 

Tumling’s Snowy Winter

There can be heavy snowfall in Tumling during the winter season, especially from December to February. Although it is possible for trekkers to trek with snow gear, vehicles may not be able to ply beyond the village as the roads can get blocked. 

Things To Do Nearby

(1) Trek to Tonglu

You can go on a short trek to Tonglu, which takes almost 1 hour from Tumling, and come back by evening. Tonglu is known for its spectacular sunrise views and views of Mt. Khangchendzonga. 

(2) Visit Singalila National Park  

You can also go to Singalila National Park, which is almost 1 km away from Tumling. 

How to Reach Tumling

Most of the tourists and the trekkers stay at least for a day or two at Tumling and then make an onward journey to Singalila National Park and further to Sandakphu. To reach Tumling, you need to reach Manebhanjan by car. 

The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri railway station and the nearest airport is Bagdogra airport. From both the places you can hire a taxi to Manebhanjan, which takes almost 4 hours to reach. From Manebhanjan you need to take another taxi since outside vehicles are not allowed or permitted to go further. From Manebhanjan it takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach Tumling.