Jaldhaka valley is a prominent tourist destination, in the Kalimpong sub-division of West Bengal. This valley is situated at a height of over 1,500 feet above sea level. There is a mountain ridge descending south-west, from the Reche La Pass, which segregates the destination from the district. This pass is in turn separated from Bhutan by the Jaldhaka River, which is also called as river De-chu.
The origin of the Jaldhaka River lies in the Himalayas, in the south-east region of Sikkim. The river flows through Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, Mathabhanga, Samsing and Jaldhaka in West Bengal. Moreover, this river marks the natural border between India and Bhutan. It is famous for its peaceful atmosphere and the local bazaar, which is situated in the centre of the main town. This bazaar is an ideal place to walk around and purchase various local handicrafts.
Jaldhaka is popular for its hydro electric power station and Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary. Trekking and birdwatching are two important tourist activities in the region of Jaldhaka. This river valley is situated at a distance of 90 km from Siliguri, which also has the major airport close to Jaldhaka.
While travelling to Kalimpong, which is around 135 km from Jaldhaka, tourists can enjoy the view of the route leading to Coronation Bridge at Sevok. The hilly roads also pass through Chalsa, Jhalong and Gairibas. Jalpaiguri has the nearest railway station from Jaldhaka, which is served by regular trains from numerous cities in India. Taxis are easily available from the towns of Siliguri and Jalpaiguri to reach the valley of Jaldhaka.
Summers are very short in the valley and the destination experiences perennial rainfall during the monsoon months between May and September. October and November are suitable for visiting the destination as the weather is neither too hot and nor too cold.