Kalimpong: Tourist Destination

There are many hotels and resorts in Kalimpong that are always open and fit your requirements. You will have no difficulty finding a comfortable and cozy place for your stay in Kalimpong. Therefore the well-known hotels in Kalimpong are Mayfair Kalimpong, Summit Barsana Resort and Spa, Sinclairs Retreat, Sood’s Golden Retreat and more.

Kalimpong doesn't have a Railway station or Airport. The nearest railway station to Kalimpong is NJP (New Jalpaiguri Railway Station) which is about 71 km and takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes drive. The nearest airport to Kalimpong is Bagdogra, about 77 km, and takes around 2 hours 55 minutes drive to reach. The best way is to hire a taxi for Kalimpong which is available out available outside the railway station and AirportAirport at the taxi booth. A cheaper way is also available where you can reach taxi junction at the main Siliguri city from the place you arrive, from there sharing taxis are available at a cheaper rate.

You can also hire car for Darjeeling, Sikkim, Dooars, Bhutan, Local Sightseeing and Departure.

The monsoon season in Kalimpong starts from June to September, when there is frequent rainfall and sometimes landslides, so this is not the best period of the year to visit Kalimpong. Summers at Kalimpong start from March to May, and autumn begins from September to November. Those are the times of the year when people love to visit Kalimpong as the days are more apparent for the views, and the mild breezes hit all day, making you feel fresh and enthusiastic all day. The winter at Kalimpong starts from December to February when the temperature reaches 15 degrees to minimum subzero, which is the most enjoyable period in Kalimpong. It is also the best season to pay a visit to Kalimpong. March to June is considered as most crucial tourism season in Kalimpong.

ACTIVITIES & ATTRACTIONS OF KALIMPONG

The town of Kalimpong is a scenic location that draws a lot of visitors. This tranquil little village can be found approximately 50 kilometers to the east of Darjeeling and sits at an elevation of 1,200 meters. It was once the centre of the trans-Himalayan trade between India and Tibet. During that time, merchants would transport their goods by mule caravan across the Jelepla pass, located between Sikkim and Tibet.This Guide will help you to explore Kalimpong.

Sightseeing Places to Visit in Kalimpong: Famous Places, Historical Places, Activites, Temples, Parks, River Rafting, Paragliding, Hikiing and Bird Watching.

Important places to visit in Kalimpong are Kalimpong Arts and Craft Center for handicraft goods; Tharpa Choling Monastery, a repository of old scriptures and documents; Thongsa (Bhutan) Monastery, the oldest in the area; Dharmodaya Vihar, a Nepalese Buddhist Temple; Parnami Mandir and Mangal Dham; Durpin Dara from where the mountain ranges of Sikkim, including Jelepla, Tiger Hill and the confluence of the Relli, Riang and Teesta rivers can be views Zong Dog Palri Fo Brang Monastery is located at Durpin Danda. Other attractions include Deolo View Point, which offers magnificent views, and the renowned flower nurseries in Kalimpong.

VILLAGE WALK

This hike departs from a location immediately adjacent to the premises of the retreat. What the tourist can anticipate finding there will captivate them. One will find themselves confronted with terraced fields and kitchen gardens after a stroll of fifteen minutes. The natural beauty found here is unrivalled. Visitors can get a feel for what it's like to live in a real community, complete with sprawling fields, bamboo groves, bridges, hills covered in lush vegetation, people's homes, and their daily routines. The nurseries that can be found along this section offer a wide variety of flowers, climbers, cacti, and plants that can be purchased or admired.

DHARMODAYA VIHAR

A Nepalese Buddhist monastery known as Dharmodaya Vihar can be found on the city's outskirts. In the year 1944, the Rana rulers expelled all Theravada Bhikkhus (monks) from Nepal, and a large number of followers followed them on their journey to Sarnath. The Dharmodaya Shabha was subsequently established at that location, and the Elza Villa in Kalimpong was later acquired for the purpose of being converted into their centre for the advancement of Theravada Buddhist doctrines. In 1949, for the benefit of the local populace as well as Bhikkhus and other scholars, a library was established that contained rare books on Buddhism as well as other disciplines.

A stunning statue of Lord Buddha carved from marble and presented as a gift by some priests from Burma was also installed here. The foundation of the Vihar (temple) was laid in 1952, and it was constructed in the style of the Sayambhu Stupa in Kathmandu, despite being of a significantly smaller scale. Dharmodaya Vihar has developed into an important center for Buddhist scholars from all over the globe to assemble.

DEOLO HILL

This is the primary destination for visitors to East Kalimpong. An 8-acre lush parkland with manicured flower gardens and several viewpoints with breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, Durpin hill, Kalimpong Township, and the valley with rivers running through them have been developed by the tourism department.

At an elevation of approximately 1,700 meters (5,500 feet), Deolo hill is the highest location in the city of Kalimpong. Along with a restaurant that serves a variety of cuisines, this location is home to a GTA hostel, which was formerly known as DGHC. Pony excursions are another fun option for children. Stalls selling coffee and refreshments can be found tucked away in one of the lawn's nooks. Overall, a superb location in which to have a picnic or unwind.

Bagdogra airport, which is located adjacent to Siliguri and approximately 79 kilometres away from Kalimpong, is the closest airport to the city. There are taxis accessible at the airport for transportation to Kalimpong. When travelling to Kalimpong by train, the New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station is the most convenient option; from there, it is possible to get to Delo without much trouble by renting a taxi. From New Jalpaiguri, getting to Delo is a journey that takes about 2.5 hours.

HIKES

The hiking is considered to be of moderate difficulty. There is a drop in elevation of more than 1500 meters. It takes about four days to complete the trekking, including time for sightseeing and rafting. You will have the opportunity to go hiking through the mountains and woodlands. You will have a chance to engage in conversation with locals, observe terraced agriculture, and remain in quaint mountain hamlets. The hiking paths are straightforward, and the accommodations after the day are satisfactory. The mountain journey begins in Bagdogra and concludes in Lepcha Valley Park. Every day, the time you spend trekking ranges from three to six hours. The only season in which the hike is not recommended is the rainfall season.

NEORA NATIONAL PARK

The illustrious Neora National Park, which can be found in Kalimpong and was established in the year 1986, is named after its namesake. This park, which covers a total area of approximately 88 square kilometres and is located close to Lava in a thick woodland at the foothill of the majestic Himalayan Mountains, is regarded as one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world.

On one side of this park are the woodlands that are characteristic of the Sikkim region, and on the other side is Bhutan. The presence of both vegetation and fauna in this park contributes to the park's overall attractiveness. This location is enhanced by its natural woodlands; each is home to a unique tree species. The particular characteristic of Neora National Park is that it still has a significant number of bamboo groves and orchids.

Visitors interested in wildlife will find this location interesting because it is home to various birds and animals. Visitors to the area have a good chance of spotting a golden-headed black sparrow, blind snake, or king cobra in their natural environment. This region is renowned for being an excellent location for picnics, where people of all ages can have fun and make memories together.

Neora Valley National Park is near the well-known tourist destination of Lava, which can be reached by travelling approximately 105 kilometers from New Jalpaiguri and 34 kilometers from Kalimpong. Lava is about 10 kilometres from the park entryway in a village called Kolakham. From Kalimpong, it takes more than an hour to get to Lava, and from NJP, it takes more than three hours. (via Kalimpong).

Because of the poor condition of the roads, the trip from Lava to Neora Valley, which is only 10 kilometres away, could easily take an additional hour. This approach road to Neora can be navigated using a vehicle similar to a jeep, which is accessible.

ARMY GOLF CLUB

One of the most significant places to visit for tourists is the Army Golf Club. It is a beautiful location for amateur photographers. You can take stunning photographs of the Durpin monastery by focusing from various vantage points on the surrounding regions. The employees of the army are kept in shape at this golf club to prepare them for high-altitude soldiering.

By Road: The closest point to New Jalpaiguri and Bagdogra is Siliguri, around 10 km from here. From Siliguri, a traveller will get ample road services to reach Kalimpong. How to Get There: By Air: The nearest nodal point to New Jalpaiguri and Bagdogra is Siliguri. After arriving in Kalimpong, travellers can always hire a taxi to get here.

WATER RAFTING

The Crystal Clear Water Rafting on the rivers Teesta and Rangeet (Tribeni), the scenic beauty of the banks, neighbouring hills, flora and fauna, and sightings of several different fish species are simply enthralling activities. Rafting down a river is a group exercise full of excitement and fun. It is possible for a novice with a healthy dose of curiosity to also take pleasure in it. Roaring white water created by the confluence of the River Teesta and the River Rangeet as they rush down the mountains of Darjeeling is perfect for rafting. This rafting pathway stream in Sikkim has carved out deep valleys and gorges in the region, and it winds its way through the highlands with Kalimpong sitting just off the river. While rafting down, you will have a beautiful perspective of the dense forests below.

Nearly 18 kilometres from the Kalimpong Bus Station, the Teesta River has emerged as one of eastern India's most popular destinations for white water rafting and other adrenaline-pumping water sports like canyoneering and kayaking. The Teesta River rafting excursions for passengers who cannot swim typically start at Melli Bridge and finish at Geil Khola in Kalimpong. This route is 12 kilometers long and takes approximately one to two hours. Going down to the primary hub for rafting, which is known as Teesta Bazaar, is yet another option. Rafting and camping are two activities that are frequently combined by vacationers. The valley and the scenery around the rivers come together to produce a breathtaking view.

The rafting excursion for Swimmers and experienced customers is a stretch of twenty kilometres (km) that lasts for two to three hours and begins at Tarkhola and ends at Melli. River Rafting Center of GTA Tourism is in charge of organizing rafting trips on the Teesta River. They do this by following the appropriate safety protocols and guidelines for secure rafting. Rafters must follow all of the detailed instructions provided by the rafting instructor at all times. If you want to have a thrilling and captivating experience while rafting on the Teesta, March through June and September through November are the ideal times to do so.

MORGAN HOUSE

The former home of the Morgan family in India has been renovated into a hostel for vacationers and is now managed by the Indian government's tourism department. It is a historic residence that was constructed during the time that the British were in control of the country. This bungalow was thought to have been the preferred residence of a wealthy jute exporter who was originally from England.

It has been preserved as a beautiful example of the colonial manner of architecture in Kalimpong, and marvellous gardens surround it. The blossomed flowers contribute to the house's beauty, and one can see the scenic beauty of the hills situated at a distant horizon from the house's windows. There are a variety of wild animals and birds that call the forests that encircle this location their home.

The bird-watching experience that visitors can have from this house can be a pleasant one since they have the opportunity to see some uncommon species of birds. Away from the commotion of the cities, visitors can take advantage of this location to enjoy some peaceful time alone.

The Morgan House of Kalimpong can be found directly across the street from the Army Golf Club in West Kalimpong of the Darjeeling district in West Bengal. It is also on the route to the Durpin Monastery. It is possible to take the regular share vehicle service from Kalimpong Market to Durpin Monastery, which passes by Morgan House on the way.

CROCKETY Bungalow (KALIMPONG)

One of the most impressive examples of British architectural design can be found in Kalimpong's Crockety Bungalow. It was one of India's most distinguished colonial residences when the British Raj was in power. It is magnificent in appearance and possesses excellent construction. In the 18th century, wool merchants from Britain were responsible for building it. The house has a charming impression and can be located in the higher part of Kalimpong.

The exotic bungalow and the exquisiteness of its surroundings never fail to astonish the guests who come to stay there. One of the most well-liked attractions for luring in vacationers is the Crockety. The home of the renowned poet Rabindranath Tagore is just behind this one; on his birthday, he shared the poem Janmadin with all of India by broadcasting it on the radio from this very house.

The best way to get there is by road, which is well connected with Sikkim and other critical urban regions in India. Direct transport administrations from the states that surround Kalimpong are helping to boost the metropolis of Kalimpong. From Kalimpong, private tourist transportation can also be arranged to travel to Bagdogra (79 kilometres away) and Siliguri (70 kilometres away). The towns of Darjeeling and Gangtok, popular tourist destinations, are only 50 and 75 kilometers away from the city.

SHERPA VIEWPOINT

There is a watershed near the Buddha statue, and the vistas in both the north and south directions are spectacular. If you turn your head to the north, you will see magnificent views of the Sikkim hills and Mount Kanchenjunga. If you turn your head to the south, you will see a stunning view of a valley with the Relli river running through it. Loleygaon (Kafer) and the highlands of the Samthar plateau are in this region.

NATURE INTERPRETATION CENTRE

A museum known as the Nature Interpretation Centre can be found in Lava, West Bengal, on Rishi Road. It is approximately one kilometre away from the Lava Jeep Stand. Because of its location at the entrance to Neora Valley National Park, it is widely considered one of the finest places to partake in Lava Tourism.

The Nature Interpretation Center is an excellent place for people who are interested in learning more about flora and fauna of the Neora Valley and the Lava region. The forest department administers this centre, and it is a beautiful location for nature enthusiasts. The museum is famous for its dioramas, which feature stuffed birds and animals, models, and photographs of the subject matter. In addition to that, there are various blossoms and orchids on display. Thursdays are a day off, so the hours are 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

DR GRAHAM'S HOMES

In 1900, Dr J. A. Graham established this Anglo-Indian orphanage and missionary school as a place of education for the children who were left without a family. In the beginning, there was only one farmhouse, and it could sleep up to 35 children. It has evolved into a well-known multi-religious and co-educational school that encompasses more than 500 acres of verdant terrain and has approximately 50 residences. It is positioned along the route that leads to Deolo Hills. You can get too many different areas of the campus by walking across it.

GALINGKA

Galingka is a well-known destination for picnics among tourists due to its magnificent bungalow, renowned for its exquisite architectural style and the picturesque circumstances in which it is situated. The attractiveness of this location is amplified by the presence of a stunning garden encircled by a variety of foreign flowering plants and different trees. After Kalimpong gained its reputation as a popular summer hill retreat, this garden was developed all around Galingka.

During the time that the British ruled, this bungalow was constructed. The world-famous bungalow known as Galingka can be found in a location that offers a breathtaking view of Kanchenjunga, the second-largest mountain in the Himalayan range. This place was constructed by British merchants who dealt with wool and was used by those merchants as a stopover and place to relax while they travelled.

Visit this location if you want to experience the grandeur and peace of the area, and especially if you're going to share some special moments with a loved one in a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors will feel more relaxed after spending time here, allowing them to take full advantage of their time off with their loved ones or other companions.

LORD BUDDHA STATUE

On the road to or from Deolo Hills, there is a rest stop with a small pavilion and a giant Lord Buddha statue. This statue is magnificent and stands very tall. The atmosphere throughout this location is delightful and calming. The serene energy that emanates from this exquisite figure of Lord Buddha meditating in the lotus position is felt all around it. It's a nice place to relax and take a break from the stroll.

The immaculate golden statue of Lord Buddha instils astonishment and reverence in its viewers. The tourists who visit the valley will feel the calming effects of the valley's gentle breezes, which herald an environment of peace and tranquillity. The figure is attractive on account of its myriad hues and vivaciousness. It is close to the statue of Lord Hanuman and the Hindu shrine that is not far away.

Before you visit this sacred Buddha monument, you must remove your shoes, maintain the sanctity of the location, and not litter or make a mess anywhere in the vicinity.

How to Take Public Transportation to Get to the Statue of the Lord Buddha and the Park

If you travel here by bus, the bus terminals closest to this location are the Kalimpong Bus Station, the Tista Bazar Bus Station, and the Chitrey Bus Stop.

PRATIMA TAGORE HOUSE

Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel Prize in Literature winner, is commemorated in many different ways in Kalimpong. Gauripur House, approximately two kilometres away from the town and in the direction of Durpin hill, was Tagore's favourite home and where he penned many of his best verses. However, the house is not in a good state and needs to be restored. The home of Pratima Devi Tagore, who was Rabindranath Tagore's daughter-in-law, is a much more exciting location to check out than any other. You will also come across many of Tagore's recollections in this location.

Pratima Devi Tagore constructed this home by hand in the year 1943. You can still locate the very bed and other pieces of furnishings that she had used. The house has been meticulously cared for, along with its verdant landscape and stunning vistas. The living area is particularly outstanding in its attractiveness. This place is home to several of Rabindranath Tagore's lyrics, some framed and displayed on the walls. The site keeper, Chandranath, will carefully show you around and explain each unique collection housed inside. Since 1965, the state of West Bengal has maintained ownership of the home, now designated as a heritage residence. There is a training centre specifically for women operated by the government here. The place can be found on Atisha road near Pineview nursery.

CATHOLIC CHURCH

The local Roman Catholic community can reap the benefits of the existence of this church in their community. This church has a significant impact on the various forms of cultural expression and social interaction that take place in this area.

The Catholic Church is a well-known landmark in Kalimpong and draws visitors due to the city's religious allure. It has been here for a long time and is known as Kalimpong's biggest church. It has also withstood the test of time.

It was during the period of colonization that colonial people took the initiative to construct the walls of this Catholic Church. The church's history is intertwined with this area's British people. It is speculated that the architect Hardy from Edinburgh was responsible for designing and perfecting the patterns and layouts of the cathedral. After some religious and ceremonial consecration, it was announced to be a location for public veneration following an inauguration ceremony in 1891, just after establishing a church. This announcement came shortly after the church had been inaugurated.

Tourists interested in visiting the site can either walk a distance or hire a cab from the central town. A traveller is permitted to light a candle at the entryway of it, which is guarded by the gesture of divinity, to memorialize the deeds of Lord Christ. As you continue to make your way toward the church's main entrance, you will see the chronological stands, which, in turn, will require your brain to comprehend the illogical existence of this narrative church.

BINDU

Bindu is a little-known tourism destination located in the lower Kalimpong foothills. It is a small, picturesque hill village on the border between India and Bhutan. The route from Chalsa to Khunia to Jhalong to Bindu is fascinating because it goes through some stunning tea gardens, high forests, river valleys, and small, peaceful communities.

The closest airport to Bindu / Parren Busty is Bagdogra, which is approximately a two to three-hour journey away. The New Jalpaiguri railway station, NJP, is the most critical intersection. Bindu is located near several significant stations, including Rajabhatkhawa, New Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, and Chalsa, with Chalsa being the closest. One can take the train until they reach Chalsa and continue to Bindu via Chapramari in their vehicle. The primary thoroughfare through Duars is U.S. Route 31, the National Highway. Regular bus services offered by North Bengal State Transport Corporation and Assam State Transport Corporation, and other private vehicles are also accessible. This is only different during the tourist season when reservations must be made in advance. Approximately 115 kilometers separate from Bindu and Siliguri. From the Siliguri Bus Stand, visitors can travel to Bindu via Malbazar and Chalsa. It will take you about three hours to get there.

JHALONG

Jhalong is a small village in the Kalimpong subdivision of the Darjeeling district in West Bengal. It is close to the boundary between India and Bhutan, on the river Jaldhaka. Those interested in birds will be pleased to discover that this location is home to many hill birds, including the Kingfisher, Brown Dipper, Redstart, Laughing Thrush, and migrating waterfowl. People who enjoy outdoor activities and those interested in vacations in nature visit Jhalong in large numbers. Visitors will find a wide variety of things to do in Jhalong, which is located in the Himalayan mountains and offers a host of outdoor pursuits. It is a well-known tourism destination that is only 12 kilometres from Bindu and famous for the Hydroelectric Project. You'll find a picture-perfect woodland bungalow along the banks of the Jaldhaka River in Jhalong.

On the way to Bhutan, Jhalong is located approximately 99 kilometers distant from Siliguri. The New Jalpaiguri Railway Station and the Siliguri Railway Station are this region's most important train stations. After arriving in New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri, tourists can continue their journey to Jhalong by taking the route there.

LAVA

The hamlet of Lava can be found about 34 kilometers east of the Kalimpong metropolis. Lava is located at an elevation of 2,100 meters (7,016 feet). (2,138 meters). It is one of the few locations in West Bengal that sees snowfall during winter. Visitors from Kalimpong enter the Neora Valley National Park through this gate. The drive to Lava is beautiful because the vegetation shifts from tropical deciduous to wet alpine trees like fir, pine, and birch. This makes for a dramatic difference in the landscape. Picnicking, hiking, and looking at birds are all popular activities that can be done in the verdant woodlands. People who live along the shore of West Bengal have made Lava a popular tourist destination in recent years, and as a result, the people who live there now rely on tourism as their primary means of subsistence.

Many tiny guest houses and lodges have been constructed, some of which are log cabins or small huts built in the middle of the forest. These structures are available for hire to tourists so that they can experience the local wildlife and visit a popular location to watch the sunrise. Rishyap, which is just a four-kilometre walk along a path with a glimpse of the Himalayas, is another tourist destination close to Lava.

Bagdogra airstrip, the closest airstrip located just outside of Siliguri town, is the most convenient way to get there. The location has excellent connectivity and is served by domestic and international aircraft. The New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the most suitable option. (NFRly). The largest and most significant town in North Bengal, Siliguri is known as the "Gateway to North Bengal." It has excellent road, rail, and air connections with the rest of the province and the country. Lava is around 99 km distant via Kalimpong (Kalimpong to Lava - 32 km.) or 119 km away via Garubathan from Siliguri.

MONGPONG

Your first stop in the Dooars region will be Mongpong, 35 kilometres and a half-hour journey from Siliguri (via Sevok on National Highway 31). Mongpong is a desirable location because it is located on the lofty banks of the great Teesta River. One can get a beautiful view of the Teesta basin and the Mahananda Sanctuary from here. The stunning natural beauty found in Murti, located 73 kilometres from Siliguri, is the primary draw to this destination. At the Lataguri Interpretation Centre, visitors can purchase day visit permits to access the National Park and Sanctuary.

At this point, it branches off into a few different waterways before flowing through the lower marshy land of the sanctuary. This area serves as an excellent breeding ground for migratory birds. The Mongpong Forest Rest House provides guests with a stunning vista encompassing the Mahananda Wild Life Sanctuary and the expansive Teesta valley. The colour of the river shifts as the sun gradually sets behind the hills, and groups of wild geese return to their nests simultaneously. The neighbouring forests are brought to life by the sudden cacophony of crickets and beetles. As darkness falls in Mongpong, a leopard can be heard nearby roaring. It is time for you to return to your cosy home, which is among the best in the area. Enjoy the remaining hours of this peaceful night to the fullest.

The calm and relaxing atmosphere is one of the primary draws for visitors to Mongpong. Spending a few days here, strolling through the forest and relaxing by the Teesta river is the perfect way to spend some time off. Those who are interested in going for a drive in the surrounding area have a plethora of different choices to choose from.

LOLEYGAON

The Lepcha community of Loleygaon is a picture-perfect example of rural majesty. It is located 24 kilometres from Lava and at an altitude of 1,675 meters above sea level. It is situated in the most remote part of a Himalayan Ridge. It is a part of the Kalimpong I block, located within the Darjeeling District of West Bengal. Siliguri is approximately 124 kilometers away from Loleygaon and can be accessed by car in four hours via Kalimpong and Lava. The closest municipality to Loleygaon is Kalimpong, 55 kilometres away. Kaffer is the name that most people in the area call Loleygaon. Along a path through a beautiful woodland is where you'll find Loleygaon. There is a heritage forest there and an observation point known as Jhandi Dara, from which visitors can see the snow-capped summits of the Singalila Range. Some people believe that it provides an even more breathtaking perspective of the sunrise than Tiger Hill does.

How to Get There: If you leave from Siliguri, it will take you four hours to travel the 124 kilometres to Loleygaon, which you will do via Kalimpong and Lava. The closest municipality to Loleygaon is Kalimpong, 55 kilometres away. A different route can be taken through Gourbathan, which will take less time. Tea plantations line the roads on either side, and rolling hills provide a picturesque background. The streets themselves are a sight to behold.

PEDONG

West Bengal's Darjeeling division includes Pedong as one of its towns. Pedong is located 20 kilometres east of Kalimpong on the road leading to Lava. It has an elevation of 1,240 meters. (4.071 ft). As a result of its elevated position on a hillside, the town enjoys a breathtaking vista that takes in both the Kanchenjunga and the Himalayas. Upper Pedong and lower Pedong are the two halves of the whole municipality. On the ancient Silk Road, which leads from India to Lhasa and passes through Jelepla Pass, Pedong can be found.

Damsang Gadi is a historic fort constructed by the Lepchas in 1690 AD, and its ruins can be found close to Pedong. It was at the epicentre of the decades-long conflict between the Dukpas of Bhutan and the Bhutanese. After that, it was used as a weapon against the British East India Company's armed troops. Following the Anglo-Bhutanese War in 1864 AD, the fort was allowed to fall into disrepair. There is only one other fort in the Darjeeling district, the Damsang fort (also known as Damsang Gadi). Since the Lepcha people are the actual indigenous inhabitants of this area, it was here that the final King of the Lepcha, Gyabo Achuk, made his residence.

A brief look at Pedong: Another attraction in the area is the Cross Hill, which features a cross erected in 1882 AD by the priest Fr. Augustine Desgodins on his journey to Tibet. A significant number of Evangelists gave their lives or disappeared during the Tibet Mission. Many of them have yet to return from Tibet. In respectful remembrance of the evangelists, Father Augustine Desgodins erected a cross at a strategic location with an unobstructed view of Tibet in the expectation that the missionaries would one day return. It is a place of religious pilgrimage for the Christians in the area because they believe it to have supernatural powers. The spectacular panorama of the surrounding mountains is best appreciated from the vantage point of Cross Hill, which is situated at just the right spot. One can glimpse Tibet or the boundary between Tibet and the People's Republic of China from this vantage point. It is the ideal location to watch the twilight.

The Sangchen Dorjee Monastery was established during the time of Bhutanese control, making it one of the most ancient monasteries in the Pedong-Kalimpong region. Around the beginning of the year 1700 A.D., this monastery was founded. It offers a historical perspective that sheds light on the background as well as the culture of the location. Tantric Buddhism is depicted in fresco form on the interior walls of the main chamber of the structure, which is commonly referred to as Sangchen Dorjee Gumba. The Gumpha Dance, also known as the Chyaam dance, is another yearly event that takes place in this location. It has developed into Shabdrung Rimpoche's main seat in recent years. (known as the Dharma Raja of Bhutan). The last Shabdrung Rimpoche moved his residence to Pedong before passing away several years ago. At Pedong, his physical body has been carefully conserved, and on a momentous occasion, it will be enshrined in a stupa or cloister. This location has become a significant pilgrimage destination for Buddhists who practice the Drukpa Khargu tradition, including Bhutanese Buddhists.

Villages such as Sakyong, Kasyong, Dalep, Kagey, Upper Menchu, and Lower Menchu can be found near Pedong.

How to Get There: The hill village of Pedong is located 85 kilometres from both Siliguri and Gangtok and 75 kilometres from Darjeeling. The distance to Lava is only 25 kilometres, and Lolegaon is 38 kilometres away.

SUNTALEKHOLA

Suntalekhola is a tourist destination comprised of a small village. The location is situated between 650 and 950 meters above sea level. The word for "orange" in Nepali is "Surely," and the word for "stream" is "khola." This location is approximately 5 kilometers away from Samsing. Additionally, one of the entrances to the Neora Valley National Parks can be found at Suntalekhola.

In Suntalekhola, a few different homestays can be booked, but the WBFDC bungalow is by far the most comfortable option. From Suntalekhola, you can access several hiking trails, most of which are located within the Neora Valley National Park. It is famous for its stunning environment, filled with verdant tea gardens. You will feel compelled to return repeatedly to answer the siren song of mountain streams and the siren song of the sun's warm beams.

The following types of birds can be found in this area: the pond heron, the black eagle, the hill partridge, the red-vented bulbul, the ashy wood pigeon, the bronzed drongo, the white-throated fantail, the blue rock thrush, the scarlet minivet, the lesser racket-tailed drongo, the rufous sibia, the grey treepie, the spangled drongo, and the type A significant number of residents are active participants in the tourist industry.

RISHOP

Located in the state of West Bengal is the Himalayan village of Rishop. It is a pleasant, quaint village located away from the city crowds at 2591 meters above sea level and features picturesque views of snow-capped mountains. Rishop, which can be translated as "mountain peak and tree," is a place that can be found between the three junctions of the states of Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bhutan. The fact that there is nothing but open land between the teeny-tiny hamlet of Rishop and the Kangchenjunga range in the distance sets it apart from other places. The town is stretched along a ridge that is only a few hundred feet wide, and valleys are on either side. From this vantage point, the magnificent summits can be seen in their entirety. From Rishop, you can see Kokthang, Mt. Kharg, Kabroo, Talung, Kangchenjunga, Rathung, Simvo, Narsingh, Siniolchu, and Pandim. Other mountain groups include Kabroo, Talung, and Kangchenjunga. The breathtaking view of picturesque and magnificent Kangchenjunga as well as various mountain peaks in India and Nepal is by far Rishop's most popular draw for tourists. A tourist in Rishyap can see a portion of the Nathula.

Throughout the day, the sun casts a vermillion glow. When darkness falls, the vast night sky appears to be more accessible. The sparkling lights of Gangtok and Pedong are reminiscent of the stars that are visible in the night sky. Neora Valley National Park (Sikkim) and Tiffindara are known for their breathtaking scenery, making them popular destinations for vacationers. Both can be experienced by going on a hike through a dense and quiet woodland filled with pine, birch, and fir trees, as well as orchids, and following the chirps of the birds along the way. Rishop is a relatively small town, and it can be covered on foot easily. There needs to be a method of transportation practised. Strolling through the surrounding area is the best way to enjoy natural splendour.

At most, Rishop is adequate for a single day's use. There is no city or town life to be found here; instead, it is just a tiny village with breathtaking views of the Kangchenjunga range, which contains the world's third-biggest mountain peak. Expect precisely that, and make sure to factor in the presence of the full moon when planning your trip, and get to Rishop before it gets dark. When there is very little artificial light at night, the hamlet takes on a heavenly appearance in the light of the moon; nearly every lodge will have an open courtyard where guests can rest in the fresh air and unwind. At night, the beauty is accentuated by the lights of the small villages on the slope in the opposite direction.

How to Get There: Rishop is 110 kilometres away via Kalimpong and 120 kilometres away via Garubathan from the NJP railway terminal. An additional ten kilometres would separate you from the Bagdogra airstrip. From NJP, the journey to Rishop takes approximately four hours.