Barsey Trek
Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary: Practical Information & Walking Routes
About Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
Barsey (also spelled Varsey) sits in the quiet forests of West Sikkim, forming a green corridor between Singalila National Park in the south (West Bengal) and the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve in the north. Spread across 104 sq. km and rising to nearly 10,000 ft, the sanctuary is known for its peaceful forest trails, moss-covered trees, and its legendary rhododendron bloom, which turns the hills into a natural garden every spring.
Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
Trek Duration
You can choose from:
1 night / 2 days
2 nights / 3 days
Both options allow enough time to explore the forest and enjoy the quiet hilltop landscapes.
How to Reach Barsey
Barsey has two entry points—one from the south and one from the north.
Southern Gate (Hilley)
Nearest access point for the classic Barsey walk
Distance from Bagdogra Airport: ~130 km
Travel time: 5–6 hours
Vehicle drop-off point is at Hilley village
Northern Gate (Hee)
Less explored route, suited for travellers staying in Pelling, Uttarey, Dentam, or Rinchenpong
Distance from Bagdogra Airport: ~140 km
Travel time: 5–6 hours
Best Time to Visit
March to May
This is the peak flowering season when the rhododendrons bloom across the sanctuary in shades of red, pink, white, and purple.
22 Years Experience
5 Star Rating
Quick Turnaround
Local Expertise
Trekking Routes & Experiences
Hilley–Barsey Trail (Most Popular)
This easy and scenic walk starts at Hilley, where the vehicle access ends.
A 2-hour forest trail leads you into the sanctuary, ending at a flat meadow where Guras Kunj Bungalow stands.
You can:
Spend the night at Guras Kunj
Enjoy sunrise views over the forest canopy
Return the next morning to Hilley
The route is gentle and ideal for travellers of all ages with average fitness. This is the sanctuary’s most recommended short trek.
Hee–Barsey Trail (Less Travelled & More Pristine)
For travellers based in Pelling, Uttarey, Dentam, or Rinchenpong, the Hee Gate opens up a quieter section of the sanctuary.
You can:
Explore the forest on a full-day hike
Return to your resort in the evening
Enjoy minimal crowds and a deeper sense of solitude
This route is perfect for photographers and nature lovers looking for untouched trails.
Traversing the Sanctuary: Multi-Day Options
Hilley → Hee Traverse
A beautiful 2-night forest journey across the sanctuary’s upper ridgeline.
Recommended only with an experienced, local guide, as forest trails can be confusing.
Soreng–Dentam Ridge Walk
Start from Dentam, climb through Sribadam, and reach Guras Kunj by evening.
Another full day’s walk takes you from Guras Kunj to Hee.
A great option for travellers exploring West Sikkim’s cultural belt.
Barsey to Singalila Trail (For Trekking Enthusiasts)
This unique route connects Barsey with the famous Sandakphu–Phalut trail in the Singalila Range of West Bengal.
You can:
Begin the trek at Hilley
Reach Phalut in 2–3 days
Continue onward via Sandakphu, Srikhola, Gorkhey, or other routes towards Darjeeling or Manebhanjan
This trail is a favourite among trekkers who want to experience both Sikkim and Bengal landscapes in a single journey.
Our Services (NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd.)
We offer complete, end-to-end trekking support for all Barsey routes, including:
Local guides
Porters
Cook and kitchen support
Tents and camping logistics
Accommodation arrangements where required
Cost:
Depending on group size and route, the cost ranges between
USD 50 to 150 per person per day.
If you’d like us to organise your Barsey experience, fill the form below or call us at +91 9733300696.
Our travel experts from NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd. (20 years of operation, approved by Ministry of Tourism & West Bengal Tourism) will reach out soon.