Chuikhim Village in Kalimpong: In a significant development for adventure tourism in West Bengal, Chuikhim village, situated in the Kalimpong-I block of Kalimpong district, has introduced paragliding as a new tourist attraction. Known for its serene homestays and scenic beauty, Chuikhim is now positioning itself as a rural adventure tourism hub, offering visitors an exhilarating way to experience the natural landscape while boosting the local economy and employment opportunities.
Transforming Chuikhim’s Tourism Landscape
Chuikhim, approximately 50 kilometers from Siliguri and located at an elevation of around 3,500 meters, has traditionally attracted tourists seeking peaceful rural retreats through its 22 homestay facilities. While the village was already popular among travelers looking for a quiet getaway, visitors had expressed a desire for more engaging adventure activities.
To meet this demand, the Chuikhim Village Welfare Society, led by president Hom Khawas, launched a paragliding facility, allowing adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers to experience the village from above. This initiative reflects the community’s effort to diversify tourism offerings beyond conventional homestays, making Chuikhim an attractive destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Read more on Kalimpong tourism
Paragliding Experience in Chuikhim
The paragliding operations began from Limbudara, a scenic take-off point in the village. Tourists can glide over the lush valleys, enjoying aerial views of the Leesh riverbank, Paunbudara, and surrounding landscapes before landing at Chunabhatti. Each flight lasts approximately 20 minutes, with a participation fee of ₹3,000 per person.
To ensure safety and quality, the village has engaged seven professional guides from Kalimpong, Himachal Pradesh, and Siliguri. There are also plans to increase flight frequency and extend session durations based on visitor demand.
Learn about paragliding in India
Chuikhim Village in Kalimpong: Economic and Tourism Impact
The introduction of paragliding in Chuikhim is expected to boost local tourism significantly. The new activity is likely to attract adventure enthusiasts as well as casual tourists seeking unique experiences in the region.
This initiative also promotes economic growth by creating jobs for guides, support staff, and local businesses. Experts in North Bengal tourism highlight Chuikhim’s potential to become a rural adventure tourism model, combining scenic homestays with outdoor activities.
Adventure tourism in West Bengal
Strategic Advantages of the Initiative
- Diversified tourism offerings: Tourists can now enjoy both tranquility and adventure in a single destination.
- Enhanced visitor experience: Aerial perspectives of Chuikhim’s valleys and rivers provide a unique way to explore the region.
- Local economic development: Jobs and business opportunities are created for villagers, contributing to sustainable growth.
- Rural adventure tourism hub: The paragliding initiative positions Chuikhim as a leading destination in North Bengal for adventure tourism.
Kalimpong district official website
Community and Tourism Perspectives
Community leaders and tourism experts have welcomed the paragliding facility as a game-changer for Chuikhim. By blending adventure activities with the village’s traditional homestay offerings, this initiative strengthens tourism potential and community involvement.
Visitors can now enjoy a combination of cultural homestay experiences and adrenaline-filled adventure sports, reflecting Chuikhim’s commitment to modernizing tourism while preserving its natural and cultural heritage.
Future Prospects and Sustainability
Looking forward, the Chuikhim Village Welfare Society plans to expand paragliding offerings with more flights, extended durations, and enhanced safety measures. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable adventure tourism in rural areas, ensuring economic benefits for the community while maintaining ecological balance.
With its panoramic views, lush landscapes, and professional paragliding services, Chuikhim is emerging as a prominent adventure tourism destination in North Bengal, appealing to domestic and international tourists alike.
Responsible adventure tourism guidelines
Conclusion
The launch of paragliding in Chuikhim marks a significant milestone in the village’s tourism evolution. By integrating adventure tourism with rural homestays, Chuikhim now offers a distinctive mix of thrill, culture, and natural beauty. The initiative enhances the visitor experience while contributing to local economic development and community empowerment, serving as a model for sustainable tourism in hill villages across West Bengal.
Chuikhim’s paragliding project highlights the potential of rural adventure tourism to transform small communities into vibrant tourist destinations, promoting both cultural preservation and ecological responsibility.
Also read: Home | Channel 6 Network – Latest News, Breaking Updates: Politics, Business, Tech & More
