The word Rangaroon is derived from the Lepcha origin which means ‘Turning of the great river’ as the river named Rongdong revolves around. Also, some local people refer to the place as Rai Gurung, where Rai, Gurung and Rai Gurung are all different common surname of the Nepali people living in the area.
This small village of Rangaroon is situated Just south-west of Darjeeling town. The altitude of the village is about 5950 feet or 1812 meter. From the famous Darjeeling mall, the Rangaroon village is easily visible. The place can be reached by foot in about 3 to 4 hours from Darjeeling town. From Rangaroon Darjeeling town forms the foreground with Kanchenjunga as the background creating a beautiful collage of pictures. It is about 12 kilometres from Darjeeling town and one of the best offbeat locations famous for its pristine beauty and tea garden. The first botanic garden in the hills was established here in the year 1876.
Getting There
Rangaroon is about 75 kilometres from Siliguri and 18 kilometres from Darjeeling town. To reach Rangaroon you have to drive to Jorebunglow. From here take the Peshok road to reach 3rd mile about 5 km ahead. From 3rd mile, there is a downhill road to Rangaroon which is about 7 km further. The road is mostly in good condition except for the last 7 km which is steep and in need of repair at the time of writing this article.
Weather
Rangaroon has a slightly lower altitude than Darjeeling (5950 meters). The weather is similar to that of Darjeeling as the physical distance is not very far. Summer is soothing and Winters can be very cold. Monsoon rains are very heavy including occasional landslides.
To See
Rangaroon Tea Garden – Tea manufactured from Rangaroon is famous for its quality and flavour throughout the world. It produces export quality tea. Tourists can have a lifetime experience of viewing the tea garden along with the 18th-century tea factory and the old bungalow. They can also take a look at the Rangaroon valley and the famous river Rongdong.
Senchel Wildlife Sanctuary – Tourists can visit this place and see different species of Himalayan birds and some rare animals.
Mata Singha Temple – It is a famous temple for the local people over here which performs several religious activities.
Nearby Places – As it is very close to Darjeeling town, one can avail the Darjeeling sightseeing places such as Tiger Hill, Ghoom Monastery and the famous Batasia Loop.
Do
It is also a paradise for adventure lovers. This place also offers hiking, mountain biking, trekking and bird watching. A trek to Darjeeling town is a viable option for the young.
To Stay
As this place has come up in the limelight within a few years, different properties have arisen. Humro Home Rangaroon is one of the best property to stay explore this paradise.
