Lava is the kind of hill village where mornings start with mist drifting through the pines and the sound of chanting from the monastery. It sits at about 2,350 metres in Kalimpong district, roughly 12 km from Rishop, which makes it an easy half-day trip if you are staying nearby.
Things to do in Lava
Walk up to the Lava Monastery, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the area, and spend a few quiet minutes in the prayer hall. The forest trails around the village, full of pine and birch, are lovely for slow walks and birdwatching. Lava is also the gateway to Neora Valley National Park, so nature lovers often combine the two.
Good to know
Evenings get cold here even in summer, so pack a warm layer. Lava fits beautifully into a relaxed two or three day loop with Kolakham, Rishop and Lolegaon.
Looking for a place to stay? Browse our homestays in Kalimpong, or message us on WhatsApp and we will suggest the best base for your trip.
