About Okhrey
Okhrey is a small Himalayan village in Gyalshing District of West Sikkim, situated at about 2,200 metres altitude near the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. It serves as a gateway to the sanctuary via Hilley and is known for its tranquil setting, views of the Kanchenjunga range, rhododendron forests, and Sherpa culture. The village offers homestays, nature walks and trekking access, attracting visitors seeking nature, birdwatching and mountain scenery.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a quiet Himalayan village surrounded by forested hills and terraced fields with views of the Kanchenjunga range on clear days. The settlement consists of homestays, small shops and eateries along a mountain road. It is the base for the Hilley-Barsey trek into Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, with nature walks, birdwatching, rhododendron blooms in spring, and access to nearby viewpoints, monasteries and the Singshore Bridge area.
Key highlights
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Gateway village to Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary via Hilley (4 km trek to Barsey)
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Spring rhododendron blooms from March to May inside the sanctuary
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Views of Kanchenjunga and Singalila range on clear days
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Birdwatching and nature walks in temperate forests
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Sherpa village culture and homestay experience
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Proximity to Singshore Bridge and Dentam-Pelling circuit
History of Okhrey
Traditionally a Sherpa agrarian settlement in West Sikkim, Okhrey developed as a rural village and later as an ecotourism base for access to Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary and the Singalila trekking region.
Culture & Context
Predominantly Sherpa community with Buddhist traditions, reflecting Sikkimese Himalayan culture; nearby monasteries, prayer flags and seasonal festivals are part of the local cultural landscape.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) near Siliguri, onward by road via Jorethang-Geyzing |
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