DarjeelingHIMALAYAS

Viewpoints · Kolakham

Changey Falls below Kolakham

A tall cascade in the forest about 4 km from Kolakham, reached by a walk of roughly 900 m from the road end. Fullest after the monsoon, and a short, easy half day from Kolakham or Lava.

Time2–3 hours CostSmall entry fee · car ₹80… Altitude1,981m
Changey Falls below Kolakham
Photo: নন্দিনী · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Changey Falls drops through forest below the Kolakham ridge, about 4 km from the village and roughly 10 km from Lava. Sources disagree about its height, and figures range widely, so we will just say it is tall and falls in several stages. The drive ends at a roadhead, and from there a path of about 900 m leads down to the falls through trees and steps.

The falls are fullest at the end of the monsoon, from late August to October, and thinner from February to May. The path is steep and slippery in places, especially after rain, so wear shoes with grip. Local authorities sometimes charge a small entry fee and run tea stalls at the top. Swimming is not safe; the pool and rocks are slippery and the water is cold.

From Kolakham, a local car costs about ₹800–1,500 return with waiting, or you can walk the road and paths in about an hour each way. Combine it with lunch in Lava or a walk back via the village farms. Paths can be closed after landslides, so check current status before you travel.

Cost: Small entry fee · car ₹800–1,500 return

Questions people ask

Good to know

How far is Changey Falls from Lava?

About 10 km from Lava and 4 km from Kolakham by road, then a walk of about 900 m from the roadhead. A car from Lava costs roughly ₹1,200–1,800 return with waiting. Allow 2–3 hours for the trip from Kolakham, more from Lava.

Is the walk to Changey Falls difficult?

It is short, about 900 m each way, but steep, with steps and slippery stretches, especially after rain. Most reasonably fit people manage it in 20–30 minutes down and a bit longer back up. It is harder for older people or those with knee trouble.

When is the best time to see Changey Falls?

Late August to October, after the monsoon, when the water is high. The path is wettest and riskiest during the monsoon itself. From February to May the falls are thinner but the walk is easier. Check current status before you travel.

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