Adventure · Jhalong
An evening at the Jholung River Camp
The forest corporation's river camp at Jhalong puts you beside the Jaldhaka with Bhutan's forest across the water. An evening fire, a simple dinner and the sound of the river make the night; dawn birding starts at the door.
Jholung River Camp is the forest corporation's property in the valley, with rooms in a few categories close to the river. It suits travellers who want to be by the water rather than in the colony. Facilities are simple and tidy, meals are cooked in the camp kitchen, and staff can usually help arrange cars to Bindu and Paren.
Evenings are the time to be outside: the river is loud after dark, the Bhutan hills turn black against the sky, and on clear nights the stars are bright. In winter, ask whether a bonfire is allowed and bring warm clothes, as nights by the river get cold.
Book through the corporation's website, confirm whether meals are included and check current status before you travel. Valley roads close in heavy rain, and the camp may shut in the monsoon.
Cost: ₹2,500–3,500 a room (indicative)
Questions people ask
Good to know
How do I book the Jholung River Camp?
Through the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation's website, where it is listed as Jholung River Camp in the Kalimpong district properties, with rooms at roughly ₹2,500–3,500 in the current tariff. Check meal plans and book early for December and January.
Is the river camp safe during rain?
The camp is set back from the main channel, but the Jaldhaka can rise sharply in heavy rain. Follow staff instructions, avoid the riverbank in bad weather and check forecasts. In the monsoon, consider whether to go at all; we advise October to April.
What can we do from the Jhalong camp?
Dawn birding on the river road, a morning trip to Bindu, a half-day to Paren, walks around the colony and market, and evenings by the water. It pairs well with a night at Samsing or Murti and a Chapramari safari on the way down.
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