Wildlife · Lepchajagat, Darjeeling & Kalimpong
Jorepokhri lakes and the Himalayan newt
Visit Jorepokhri, a small twin lake in forest near Lepchajagat that is protected as a breeding site of the endangered Himalayan newt, and learn why these quiet ponds matter to one of the rarest amphibians in the eastern Himalaya.
Photo: Arne Hückelheim 2010-09-21 12:41:53 This is a … · CC BY-SA 4.0 · CommonsJorepokhri means twin ponds in Nepali, and the name describes it well: two small lakes in forest on the road between Ghum and Sukhiapokhri. They are protected as a wildlife sanctuary because the endangered Himalayan newt, an orange and dark brown salamander, congregates here to breed, as it also does at Sukhiapokhri nearby.
The newts breed in the wet season, so they are most likely to be noticed from about May to August, but you should never handle them, net the water or walk along the soft banks. Most visitors see only the lake, the forest and perhaps a signboard. The point of the visit is to understand how fragile these small wetlands are.
Combine Jorepokhri with a stop at Sukhiapokhri's market and continue to Mirik, or return to Lepchajagat for lunch. Keep noise low, take litter with you, and follow any rules posted by the forest department.
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Questions
Before you book
Will I see a Himalayan newt at Jorepokhri?
Possibly, but not reliably. Newts are most active during the wet breeding season, roughly May to August, and hide under vegetation. Never handle them or disturb the water. Treat a sighting as a bonus.
Is there an entry fee at Jorepokhri?
A small entry fee is usually charged by the forest authorities. Fees and opening times change, so check current status before you travel. Visits take about an hour.
Why are the newts endangered?
The Himalayan newt depends on small ponds and wetlands in hill forest. Drainage, pollution, construction and collection have reduced its habitat. Protecting sites like Jorepokhri and Sukhiapokhri helps the species survive.