Walk from Hilley to Guras Kunj on the Barsey ridge

The walk begins at the wildlife checkpost at Hilley, about 2,750 m, where you pay the sanctuary entry fee, about ₹50 for Indians and ₹100 for foreigners per day plus a small camera fee as of recent seasons; check current rates. The trail is wide and obvious, rising gently for 4–5 km through forest of rhododendron, oak, magnolia and bamboo. Most walkers take 1.5–2 hours up, with stops, and gain about 250 m. A few steeper, rocky sections get slippery after rain.

From March to May the rhododendrons flower along the way, the lower trees first. Guras Kunj, the clearing at the top, has a trekkers' lodge and a view north to the Kangchenjunga range, clearest before about 10 am. Spend time at the ridge, have tea if the lodge is serving, and walk a little further along it if you have energy. The descent to Hilley takes about 1–1.5 hours.

At 2,750–3,000 m some people feel short of breath or get a headache. Walk slowly, drink plenty of water and turn back if symptoms grow. Carry a rain jacket, a warm layer, snacks and water; there is little to buy on the trail. Children who are used to walking manage it well. From June to September, the trail is wet and leechy and views are rare.