In the quiet borderlands of the Kalimpong district and the Dooars region, far away from over-visited hill stations and tea garden trails, lies a secret preserved by nature herself—Sakam Forest. Untouched, underexplored, and utterly magical, this forest is not just a stretch of green—it’s a realm where mysticism meets ecology, and where the harmony between nature and tribal communities still thrives undisturbed.
While popular destinations like Lava, Loleygaon, and Lataguri draw more attention from tourists, Sakam Forest remains hidden in plain sight, offering a raw, unfiltered experience of nature for those who dare to go off the beaten path.
Where is Sakam Forest?
Sakam Forest is situated near the Indo-Bhutan border, in the eastern fringes of the Kalimpong district, bordering the Dooars lowlands. The forest is accessed primarily via Gorubathan and Samabeong Tea Estate. Tucked between dense jungles and terraced farmlands, this secluded region lies approximately:
- 100 km from Siliguri
- 40 km from Kalimpong town
- 20 km from Gorubathan
The name “Sakam” is believed to have Lepcha or tribal origins, referring to the bamboo groves and sacred forest lands used by indigenous people for generations.
The Enchantment of Sakam: Why It’s Special
What makes Sakam Forest an exceptional offbeat destination is its multifaceted personality. It’s a sanctuary of wildlife, a spiritual refuge, a cultural heartland, and a biodiversity hotspot—all rolled into one.
Here are a few things that make Sakam Forest truly unique:
🌳 Pristine Sub-Himalayan Ecosystem
Sakam lies within a subtropical moist broadleaf forest zone, with altitudes ranging from 1,200 ft to 4,000 ft. It acts as a biological corridor between Kalimpong’s uplands and the dense Dooars forests. The forest is thick with:
- Sal and Teak trees
- Dense undergrowth of ferns and wild orchids
- Bamboo clusters and cane groves
Wildlife sightings include:
- Barking deer
- Himalayan porcupines
- Wild boars
- Leopards (occasional)
- A variety of snakes and butterflies
Sakam is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 150 recorded species including:
- Blue-throated Barbet
- Hill Myna
- Black Bulbul
- Oriental Pied Hornbill
🐾 Tribal and Ecological Harmony
Sakam is home to a number of Lepcha, Rai, and Nepali tribal communities who have lived in harmony with the forest for generations. Their knowledge of the forest—from medicinal herbs to animal behavior—is profound and deeply respected.
- Locals practice sacred groves conservation, where parts of the forest are considered spiritually protected.
- Farming is organic and small-scale, preserving the forest’s natural rhythm.
You can engage in cultural exchanges, witness folk dances, and taste traditional tribal meals like kinema curry (fermented soybean), gundruk, and sel roti.
🛶 Mystic River Trails and Forest Streams
The Sakam River (a stream that feeds into larger tributaries of the Teesta) flows gently through the forest, offering scenic picnic spots, wild bathing pools, and meditation corners surrounded by chirping insects and rustling bamboo.
- Monsoon brings seasonal waterfalls.
- Dry months expose beautiful river stones, ideal for forest bathing (shinrin-yoku).
This river is believed by locals to have healing properties, and rituals are performed by shamans and village elders on full moon nights.
Things to Do in Sakam Forest
Sakam is best enjoyed slowly and soulfully. It isn’t a place to tick off sightseeing points—it’s a place to absorb, breathe, and connect with the wild.
🌿 Forest Walks and Eco Trails
Several marked and unmarked trails crisscross Sakam, taking you deep into bamboo groves, elephant grass patches, and red-soiled ridges. Guides from nearby villages can take you on:
- Short hikes (1–2 hours)
- Day treks to nearby tribal hamlets or forest watch towers
- Herb and butterfly identification walks
🔭 Bird Watching and Night Safaris
Rise early to witness the forest come alive with songs of bulbuls, thrushes, and sunbirds. At night, you may hear the hooting of owls, howling of jackals, and if lucky, glimpse a leopard’s silhouette in moonlight.
🛶 River Time
Spend time by the riverbanks—dip your feet, listen to the current, and enjoy nature’s meditation. Forest picnics with fire-cooked meals and tribal storytelling make for an unforgettable afternoon.
🏕️ Forest Camping
A few community-run eco-campgrounds exist near the forest edge. Stay in canvas tents or bamboo huts lit by solar lanterns. These camps offer:
- Bonfires under starry skies
- Organic meals
- Tribal performances and songs of the forest
Nearby Attractions and Extensions
If you’re visiting Sakam, you can also combine your journey with these lesser-known nearby destinations:
- Samabeong Organic Tea Estate – Known for its high-elevation organic teas and vintage British-era bungalows.
- Rongo Forest Trail – A virgin forest trek near the Bhutan border.
- Jalsa Bungalow – An old British planter’s bungalow perfect for heritage stays.
- Bindu & Jhalong – Riverside escapes and Indo-Bhutan cross-border village trails.
Best Time to Visit Sakam Forest
- Winter (Nov to Feb): Dry, cool, and ideal for hiking, birding, and stargazing.
- Spring (Mar–Apr): Rhododendron and orchid bloom season.
- Monsoon (June–Sept): The forest becomes lush and alive, though slippery trails and leech presence may deter some.
How to Reach Sakam Forest
- By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra (approx. 100 km). Hire a vehicle from Siliguri via Sevoke–Gorubathan.
- By Rail: Nearest railway stations are New Mal Junction, New Jalpaiguri (NJP), or Damdim.
- By Road: Taxis and shared jeeps are available from Siliguri or Kalimpong. Roads are semi-paved but scenic.
Where to Stay
While Sakam Forest itself doesn’t have luxury accommodations (and that’s a good thing), you can choose from:
- Sakam Eco Homestays – Run by locals, offering simple rooms, organic meals, and guided forest treks.
- Samabeong Forest Bungalows – Located a short drive away.
- Camp Sakam Retreat – Tent accommodations with community-run eco-facilities (seasonal).
Responsible Travel Tips
- Do not litter – The forest is sacred to locals.
- Avoid loud music or flash photography – Respect wildlife.
- Support local guides and homestays – It helps sustain the eco-tourism model.
- Avoid plastic – Carry reusable water bottles and eco bags.
Final Thoughts: A Forest Beyond Words
In a world overrun by over-tourism and commercial getaways, Sakam Forest stands as a sanctuary not just for biodiversity, but for the human spirit. It’s a reminder of how deeply we are connected to the wild, and how healing a walk through untouched woods can be.
Whether you are a naturalist, a photographer, a spiritual seeker, or just someone looking to escape the noise, Sakam offers not just escape, but transformation.
So the next time your soul craves silence, let the whispers of Sakam Forest guide you home.