Budget Government tourist bungalow · Lava
WBFDC Lava Eco Tourism Centre
Forest cottages run by the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation among tall pines near Lava bazaar, at about 2,195–2,350 m. Simple, cold, quiet and cheap, with a canteen for pre-ordered meals and easy access to Neora Valley National Park.
Photo: Pinakpani · CC BY 4.0 · CommonsThe West Bengal Forest Development Corporation runs a cluster of cottages and rooms in the forest just outside Lava bazaar. They sit among pine and fir on a slope, connected by paths and steps, and mist often hangs between them. Rooms are basic but adequate: beds with heavy blankets, attached bathrooms in most units, and windows onto the trees. The cottages higher up the slope have the best views but need a climb up steep steps.
Meals come from an on-site canteen; order with the manager in advance, since Lava has few restaurants open after dark. The location makes it a natural base for Neora Valley National Park, whose permits are issued in Lava, and for birding on the roads to Kolakham and Rishyap. Bookings open about three months ahead through the WBFDC system and fill quickly for October–November and the winter holidays.
Why we use it
- Government rates in one of West Bengal's best forest settings
- Walking distance to Lava bazaar and the monastery
- Practical base for Neora Valley permits and birding
Best for
The photo shows Lava, not the property itself.
Trips that stay here
Sleep here on a trip
Photo: Arne Hückelheim 2010-09-21 12:41:53 This is a … · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Saver
Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Lava by shared jeep
Shared jeeps, one short reserved car
Around the stay
Lava
Lava is a small bazaar village at about 2,195 m in the forests 32 km east of Kalimpong. It is the main entry point to Neora Valley National Park, home of the red panda. Stay 1–2 nights for forest walks, the monastery and birding; October to May is best, and snow is possible in winter.
Photo: Sandipanjalpaiguri · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Neora Valley National Park forest day
Enter Neora Valley National Park from Lava with a forest permit and guide for a day in one of eastern India's least dis…
Photo: Joydeep · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Morning prayers at Lava's Kagyu monastery
Walk up from Lava bazaar at dawn to Kagyu Thekchen Ling, the monastery on the hill, for morning chanting, butter lamps …
Photo: Sandipanjalpaiguri · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Changey Falls and Kolakham day trip
A half-day drive from Lava to Changey Falls, a tall forest waterfall reached by steps from the road, and on to Kolakham…
Questions
About WBFDC Lava Eco Tourism Centre
How do I book the WBFDC cottages in Lava?
Book through the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation's online system or its Kolkata office. Bookings usually open about three months in advance. Peak dates fill fast, so book as soon as your dates are fixed. Rules and rates change; check current status before you travel.
Is food available at the Lava forest cottages?
Yes, a canteen serves simple Indian meals, but you should order in advance with the manager, especially for dinner. There are few restaurants nearby in the evening. Carry snacks for late arrivals.
Are the WBFDC Lava cottages suitable for seniors?
Some cottages need a climb up steep steps, which can be hard for seniors or people with knee problems. Ask for a lower unit near the road when booking. Rooms are cold in winter, so bring warm clothes.
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