Nestled in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayas, Rongtong is a serene, lesser-known birding destination located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal. This tranquil area is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering a rich variety of bird species, especially in the lush forests that surround it. With its peaceful atmosphere and pristine natural surroundings, Rongtong provides a refreshing escape into nature for those who wish to explore the avian beauty of the region.
Geography of Rongtong
Rongtong is located at an elevation of around 1,200 meters (approximately 3,900 feet) above sea level, making it a hotspot for both Himalayan and sub-Himalayan bird species. The area is covered in lush forests, bamboo groves, and rhododendron trees, creating a perfect environment for birdlife to thrive. The region experiences mild weather throughout the year, with cool winters and warm summers, making it ideal for birdwatching year-round.
How to Reach Rongtong
Reaching Rongtong is convenient, and its proximity to popular destinations like Darjeeling and Siliguri makes it easily accessible.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra, around 40 km away. From here, you can take a taxi to Rongtong.
- By Train: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the closest railway station, approximately 30 km from Rongtong. Taxis and shared vehicles are readily available.
- By Road: Rongtong is well-connected by road. It is a short drive from Siliguri or Darjeeling, taking around 1 to 1.5 hours.
My Experience in Rongtong
Having visited Rongtong in different seasons, I found it transformed each time. The lush green forests and vibrant flowers of Rhododendrons in various shades painted a picture of pure beauty. My trips to Rongtong were day excursions from Latpanchar, another birding haven. What made Rongtong truly special were its lovely flower-filled landscapes, offering stunning backdrops for bird photography.
One of the most unique experiences in Rongtong was witnessing a significant number of Great Hornbills, a rare sight and a highlight of this area. Additionally, early summers in Rongtong offer birders the chance to observe Black Baza and Jerdon’s Baza during their nesting period. These two species are remarkable highlights of the region and their nesting behavior can be observed as they settle into the trees, providing an unforgettable experience for bird lovers. However, Rongtong is not yet fully developed as a birding destination. It lacks good accommodation facilities, though there are several homestays in development, which promises better facilities for future visitors.
Birds Found in Rongtong
Rongtong’s forests and vegetation provide habitats for a wide range of bird species, including resident and migratory birds. Here are some of the notable species you can encounter:
- Chestnut-headed Tesia
- Rufous Sibia
- Himalayan Bulbul
- Great Barbet
- Blue-throated Barbet
- Grey-chinned Minivet
- Ashy Drongo
- Scarlet Minivet
- Rufous-necked Hornbill
- Vernal Hanging Parakeet
- Red-vented Bulbul
- Oriental Turtle Dove
- Mountain Imperial Pigeon
- Striated Laughingthrush
- Black-throated Sunbird
- Rufous-gorgeted Flycatcher
- Green-tailed Sunbird
- Grey-sided Laughingthrush
- Oriental White-eye
- Red-whiskered Bulbul
- Long-tailed Broadbill
- Golden-fronted Leafbird
- White-throated Fantail
- Little Spiderhunter
- Black Bulbul
- Slaty-backed Forktail
- Black-hooded Oriole
- Spotted Forktail
- Speckled Piculet
- Blue Whistling Thrush
- Grey-hooded Warbler
- Black-eared Shrike Babbler
- Brown-throated Treecreeper
- Streaked Spiderhunter
- Grey-backed Shrike
- Yellow-bellied Fantail
- Red-billed Leiothrix
- Long-tailed Shrike
- Crested Serpent Eagle
- Common Kestrel
- White-rumped Munia
- Pied Bushchat
- Hill Partridge
- Bronzed Drongo
- Green-backed Tit
- Maroon Oriole
- Black Eagle
- Brown Fish Owl
- Rufous-bellied Eagle
- Common Green Magpie
- Black Baza
- Jerdon’s Baza
Conclusion
Rongtong may not yet be a fully developed birding hotspot, but its hidden beauty and serene charm make it a must-visit for bird lovers. With the rich diversity of birds, stunning landscapes, and the chance to spot the majestic Great Hornbill, and the fascinating sight of Black Baza and Jerdon’s Baza nesting in early summers, Rongtong offers a unique and rewarding experience. As the area continues to grow and homestay options improve, Rongtong will likely become a prime destination for birdwatchers looking to explore the avifauna of West Bengal. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a nature enthusiast, Rongtong’s peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings will leave a lasting impression.