forest bungalow · Lava
Lava Eco Tourism Centre (WBFDC)
The West Bengal Forest Development Corporation's cottages and tents in the Lava forest compound, at about 2,200 m. Misty, cold, quiet and good value, with the Neora Valley forest office and the monastery a short walk away.
The forest corporation made Lava known to Bengali travellers, and its eco tourism centre in the forest compound is still the most popular stay in the village. Standard and deluxe cottages sit on a slope among tall trees, with tents in season. The cottages with the best views need a climb up steep steps, which matters if you travel with older parents or small children; ask for a lower cottage if needed.
There is no restaurant around the compound, so meals come from the WBFDC canteen and must be ordered in advance. Bookings open about three months ahead on wbfdc.net and go fast for October and December. It is cold at night most of the year, so pack a fleece even in May. Check current status before you travel.
Why we suggest it
- Sleep inside the forest at government prices
- Short walk to the Neora Valley range office and the monastery
- Cottages and tents for different budgets
We list rates as indicative ranges. We do not take commission from this property for being listed here. Check current status before you travel.
Questions people ask
Good to know
How do I book the WBFDC cottages at Lava?
Book online at wbfdc.net, where the Lava Eco Tourism Centre is listed with its room categories. Bookings usually open about three months ahead and the October, Christmas and May dates go quickly. Carry the voucher and an ID. Rates and room types change: check current status before you travel.
Is food available at the Lava forest lodge?
Yes, through the WBFDC canteen, but you must pre-order. Tell the canteen your dinner by late afternoon and breakfast the night before. Meals are simple: rice, dal, vegetables, eggs and chicken. Lava bazaar, a 10-minute walk, has small momo and noodle shops for snacks.
Is the Lava forest lodge suitable for elderly travellers?
Partly. The cottages with the best views are reached by steep steps, which can be hard for older people or small children. Ask for a cottage close to the parking area when you book or on arrival. Nights are cold, around 2–8 °C in winter, so check that heaters or extra blankets are available.
Trips that sleep here
On a ticket
Comfort
Kalimpong6 nights · Reserved car
Kalimpong, Deolo, Lava and Rishyap for families
Kalimpong · Deolo · Lava · Rishyap
₹35,000per personabout ₹5,000 a day
Comfort
Kalimpong5 nights · Reserved car
Kolakham and Lava honeymoon by car
Kalimpong · Kolakham · Lava
₹30,000per personabout ₹5,000 a day
Comfort
Kalimpong7 nights · Reserved car
Kalimpong, Lava and Lolegaon in comfort
Kalimpong · Lava · Lolegaon
₹37,000per personabout ₹4,600 a day
Other stays nearby
