Kalapokhari Lake - The Lake En Route To Sandakphu Peak
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Kalpokhri At A Glance - Uncovering The Myth Of The Sacred Black Waters
How often do you yearn to escape this hectic monotony? Have you ever considered getting away from every inch of this claustrophobic urban life? If you want to restore your peace and rejuvenate your mind, come find it all as you sojourn to the lesser-travelled trekking trails of the Himalayas. Snuggled at an elevation of 3,186 metres, Kalpokhri or Kalapokhari Lake is the closing leg en route to Sandakphu. It forms a major part of the trekking trail starting from Maneybhanjang to Sandakphu Peak, lying approximately halfway along the steep ending stretch of the trek from Gairibas to Sandakphu.
Kalapokhri is actually a regional (Nepali) word that literally translates to 'black lake' or 'dark lake'. It's rather unusual for a natural lake to exist at such a high elevation. Besides, the lake conveys the impression of possessing black-coloured water. However, that's not the actual colour of the water, nor is it caused by pollution — the entire lake is litter-free. The black, muddy base and the depth of the lake give the impression of black, so spectators often accept the delusion of declaring the water black.
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The exotic Kalapokhari Lake that intrigues every sight is also religiously important. It is considered sacred by the locals and is worshipped by Hindu and Buddhist devotees alike. If you're fascinated by myths and legends, there are many folklores about Kalpokhri Lake — the native inhabitants believe the lake to be the dwelling place of the fierce black snake, or the 'kaalnaag'.
The Lake En Route For The Trekking Adventure To Sandakphu
Due to the availability of water throughout the year, a tiny village settlement has emerged nearby. The place serves as a major stopping point for trekkers, with a good number of private huts for those seeking a restful stay for the night. The Kalpokhri Lake and the tiny village are based within the famous Singalila National Park under Darjeeling district.
Albeit its offbeat essence, the place and the lake stand as a major attraction en route to Sandakphu. Trekkers and explorers travelling through spend a good time admiring the lake. The peaceful aura, mountains, and natural appeal surrounding the lake add to its charm, and the stillness and gloomy shade of the water intensify its mysterious appeal even more.
The Winter Weather Throughout The Calendar
Kalpokhri experiences extreme winters and cold weather throughout the year. During winters, the temperature ranges between 2°C and 10°C. The summer season in the Kalpokhri region is colder compared to other minor-altitude regions of Darjeeling, extending a much-needed retreat from the raging heat of the plains, with temperatures ranging between 11°C and 19°C. The region experiences cold weather throughout the year, so even if you plan a trek in summer, you should carry adequate warm clothes and shoes to fight the cold mountain wind.
Getting There & What To Expect During The Journey
It takes about a 3-hour trek to cover the 6 km stretch from Gairibas to the Kalpokhri region. As you start your trek uphill, you will traverse the verdant and serene forest of rhododendrons, oaks, bamboos, and cedars. In about 1.5 hours, you will come across Kaiyakatta, and a further 1.5-hour uphill trek brings you to Kalpokhri. The route offers appealing sights of blooming wildflowers and magnolias, and birdwatchers can spot rare bird species throughout the journey. Once you reach the Kalpokhri village, you will notice the mysteriously black lake amid the high elevation, with Buddhist prayer flags fluttering through the tunes of the mountain breeze. At one tip of the lake, a tiny Buddhist chorten stands in a tranquil mode. The Kalpokhri region is the borderline between India and Nepal — a pathway near the lake leads to the Ilam district, one of the major places in Nepal. On a clear day, you can actually catch sight of Sandakphu Peak from the Kalpokhri region.
The Kalpokhri region renders a peacefully rustic charm that contradicts contemporary times. The village people sitting near the firewood for warmth, the melody of folk songs on the radio, the scanty settlement with zero pollution and no traffic noise, and the breathtaking backdrop — all of these truly justify your struggle for coming this far.
The Dhotrey to Tonglu and Tumling trek is a relatively moderate Himalayan trail, perfect for both beginners and seasoned trekkers — offering breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, mystical prayer-flag pathways, and a gateway to Sandakphu.
