Okhrey

Okhrey

Okhrey, a tiny village in West Sikkim, is mainly the starting point of the Varsey Rhododendron Trekking Route. It is the gateway of Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. The place is mesmerizing with its serene and charming elegance. It is a tranquil place for visitors. Amidst the lush green vegetation, Okhrey is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. The inhabitants of Okhrey are mainly Sherpas and Bhutias. Their main livelihood is farming. Among the farming products, Potatoes are the main crops you find here.

How to Reach Okhrey

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (IXB). Bagdogra is about 134 kilometres by road from Okhrey.

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). Okhrey is about 125 kilometres by road from NJP.

Okhrey is a bit far from Gangtok (the capital of Sikkim) also – It is about 122 kilometres by road.Darjeeling is nearer to Okhrey – it is about 63 kilometres by road.

Sombaria, the nearest town to Okhrey, is about 20 kilometres by road.

Sightseeing in Okhrey

1) Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary - Rhododendron Sanctuary, a lovely place in Hilley village, is carpeted with many colourful shades of Rhododendrons

2) Ugen Thon Meon Ling Monastery – This monastery is situated at the top of the village. You could experience a magnificent view of the snow-capped mountains and shrouded greenery.

3) Anden Olong Monastery – This monastery is an older one, situated nearer to Okhrey. 

4) Jurelidara View Point – This viewpoint will mesmerise you with the view of snow-capped mountains all around.

5) Sai Temple: Sai Temple in Daramdin is about 28 kilometres far from Okhrey. The temple is a religious centre for the Sai devotees and a general centre for all religions.

Month-wise Temperature (Average)

• January: 2°C – 10°C (Cold, clear mornings)
• February: 4°C – 12°C (Cool and stable)
• March: 7°C – 16°C (Fresh and pleasant)
• April: 9°C – 18°C (Comfortable weather)
• May: 11°C – 20°C (Mild and scenic)
• June: 13°C – 22°C (Clouds begin to build)
• July: 15°C – 20°C (Heavy rain, misty trails)
• August: 15°C – 20°C (Wet and cloudy)
• September: 14°C – 19°C (Rain reduces gradually)
• October: 9°C – 17°C (Clear skies and crisp air)
• November: 5°C – 14°C (Cool and calm)
• December: 3°C – 11°C (Cold and quiet)

 Best Time to Visit

Okhrey, at around 8,000 ft in West Sikkim, sits close to the Barsey forest region and serves as a base for ridge walks and forest trails. The best time to visit is from March to May and October to November, when the weather remains clear and routes are accessible. Spring brings rhododendron blooms along the trails, while monsoon brings heavy rain and slippery paths. Winters are cold but peaceful.