Treks and walks · Tonglu
The forest trail between Tonglu and Dhotrey
A steep, shaded 6 km trail links Tonglu with the village of Dhotrey through oak, rhododendron and bamboo. Walk up it as a quiet start to the trek, or down it as a short exit, with birds and the odd red panda chance on the way.
Dhotrey sits about 500 m below Tonglu on the eastern side of the ridge, reached by jeep from Maneybhanjan. The trail from the village climbs steadily through mixed forest: tall oaks and chestnuts, rhododendrons, then dense bamboo near the top, before breaking out onto Tonglu's open summit.
Uphill it takes 3–4 hours; downhill 2.5–3. It is quieter than the main Maneybhanjan trail and much shadier, which makes it pleasant in April and May. Birders like it for laughingthrushes, minivets, tits and, with luck, pheasants. Red pandas live in this forest too, though sightings are rare and need a quiet early start.
The path can be muddy after rain and steep in places. Your licensed guide is needed here as on the main route, and park entry applies. Many trekkers use it for a two-night loop: up from Dhotrey to Tonglu, a night at Tumling, then down via Meghma and Chitrey to Maneybhanjan.
Cost: Included in your guide fee
Questions people ask
Good to know
How long is the Dhotrey to Tonglu trek?
About 6 km, usually 3–4 hours uphill and 2.5–3 hours down, with roughly 500 m of height change. It is steep in parts but shaded. A licensed guide and park entry are required, as on the main Sandakphu route.
Is the Dhotrey route easier than starting from Maneybhanjan?
It is shorter to the ridge and quieter, but just as steep in places. It saves the long walk via Chitrey and Meghma. Many first-time trekkers prefer it because the forest shade keeps the climb cool.
How do I get to Dhotrey?
By jeep from Maneybhanjan, about 1 hour on a hill road, or by reserved car from Darjeeling in about 2 hours. Shared jeeps are few, mostly in the morning. Check current status before you travel.
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