The Mirik hills have a special appeal due to the friendly gradient and rounded hill tops covered with green tea bushes. The weather is usually brighter compared to Darjeeling and Kurseong, making it ideal for Hiking. One of the popular hike in this region is the hike from Okayti Tea Estate to Gufapatal View Point located around 8 kilometers away from Mirik on the road to Pashupati and Simana. This uphill hike is not that strenuous and the Golpahar Viewpoint on the way is an added attraction.
Gufapatal is located atop broad, undulating hill tops overlooking the very wide Mechi river valley. Green meadows, neatly arranged colorful flower beds and the blue sky above add a magical old world charm to the place.
The Route Overview
The hike starts from Okayti Tea Estate which is around 4 kilometers from Mirik. From here you have to walk upwards on the Mirik Pashupati Road. The Balason valley on the right by now appears tiny while on the left you get an expansive view of the Mechi river valley dotted by small villages in Nepal. The weather will start getting colder and if it is winter, you will need woollen pullovers and jackets with gloves. The well known Gopal Dhara Tea Estate falls on the way where you can stop at the Golpahar view pint for a panoramic view of the terrain and the valley below.
Highlights of the Hike
Golpahar View Point
This view point is at Gopaldhara Tea estate near a cosy homestay and eatery. You can take a sip of the famous Gopaldhara tea which is among the top Darjeeling teas. The viewpoint offers you the exquisite sight of mound like hill tops covered with green tea bushes, as if manually designed. Golpahar viewpoint offers hikers the option of a ten minute rest to enjoy the scenic beauty around.
A Walk Through Tea Gardens
The hike provides you the opportunity to walk through some of the famous tea gardens of the Darjeeling hills including Okayti Tea Estate and Gopaldhara Tea Estate. The international renowned Okayti Tea Estate derives its name from the expression “Okay Tea”, meaning the perfect taste that tea should have. As stated, the tea of Gopaldhara Tea Estate on the other hand is often considered among the most fragrant of Darjeeling tea along with that of Makaibari Tea Estate.
Green Meadows and Colourful Flower gardens.
It is indeed a pity that not many are aware of the sheer beauty of Gufapatal. To be sure, it is not just a viewpoint but an entire stretch of undulating green meadows surrounded by the vibrant colours of endless rows of flowers. With the blue sky above and the towering Himalayan peaks in the distance, Gufapatal brings out the best of nature.
Majestic View of Mechi River Valley
Although the origin of Mechi river is far down below, south west of Gufapatal, the valley is wide and expansive offering a panoramic view of the landscape in Nepal. Gufapatal itself is on the Nepal side of the Indo-Nepal border and Hikers should have a proper Indian ID just in case it is required.
Tips for Hikers
Best Time to Visit: This hike can be made any time of the year except the monsoon season. March and April in spring and September and October during autumn are the best times for this hike.
What to Pack: Comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothes including windcheaters and jackets, and plenty of water are essential. Along with your camera, it would be a good idea to carry a pair of binoculars.
Difficulty Level: This is a moderately difficult hike.
Respect the Environment and the Dignity of the People: Respect the beautiful surroundings, do not litter the place with waste, and instead carry a waste bag. Respect the sentiments of the friendly local people you meet on the route.
