Barsey or Varsey

Barsey or Varsey Barsey or Varsey is a small town in the north-eastern state of Sikkim in India. Located at an altitude of 10,000ft, Barsey is renowned for its Rhododendron Sanctuary. For the lovers of varied flora, a visit to Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary would actually be a delightful experience. The sanctuary falls in the West Sikkim district and can be accessible by road via Hilley. The trek from Hilley to Varsey is about 4 km and the path bridled with vegetation takes about 1 ½ hours. As you walk along the Singalila, you will be greeted with glorious views of Kanchenjunga Range. Stay at Varsey overnight to enjoy the rhododendron forests and sweeping view of the mountains. Hilley - Varsey is also associated with Joseph Dalton Hooker, the man who thoroughly documented the flora and fauna of this region, and published the book called the “Rhododendrons of Sikkim” in 1849 – his work is still followed as an authentic text on this subject. Even the golden yellow rhododendron, scientifically called the Dendobrium hookeriana, is named after him.

Route
Tourists can reach Barsey easily from NJP Rail Station or Bagdogra Airport or Siliguri Town or Darjeeling or Gangtok. Tourist Visiting Barsey are suggested to stay for minimum 2 nights. First day - tourist can reach Barsey from any source. Second day - full day sightseeing of Barsey. Third day - Back to their next destination.

Distance:
Pelling to Barsey : 75 kms
NJP to Barsey : 120 kms.
Bagdogra to Barsey : 123 kms
Darjeeling to Barsey : 54 kms.
Gangtok to Barsey : 144 kms
Kalimpong to Barsey : 100 kms

Accomodation:
Due to its advantageous location, many hotels and lodges have come up in and around Barsey catering to varied tastes and budgets.

Permit and Entry Rules

Indian : Indian tourists visiting Barsey do not require permit to visit.

Foreigner : Foreigners visiting sikkim are provided with only 15 days permit to visit Sikkim which can be extended for a further period of 30 days in two spells of 15 days each. This permit can be easily be obtained through the check post at Rangpho and Melli free of cost. This permits can also be obtained from Indian Embassy at different places. International travellers need to carry original and copies of photograph, passport and Visa.

Best time to Visit Barsey
Best time to visit Barsey is during the 12 months in the year. Most of the roads remains closed during the month of July, August due to heavy rainfall and landslides.