20 km from Kalimpong, just off the road going to Lava is the small village of Pedong. From Algarah take a left turn and you will soon reach Pedong. The small picturesque hamlet situated on a ridge and surrounded by pine forests commands some magnificent views of the surrounding hills. The village used to be a major transit hub on the ancient silk route that connected Tibet with India through the Jelep La Pass. The village is spread North to South on a ridge and is the starting point of some interesting small hikes.
Hiking in the area
One such hike will take you to Damsangudi fort- a historically important site that witnessed a long ethnic war between Lepchas and Bhutias. There used to be a fort of the Lepchas at this spot which has now been destroyed.
Another short trek from Pedong will take you to Tinchuley (not to be confused with the other Tinchuley near Peshok road). The area is ideal for adventure tourism activities such as Para Gliding and Hang Gliding. Local enterprising people have set up mountain biking, rock climbing, and archery infrastructure here for lovers of soft adventure.
On the Silk Route Trail
Tourists visiting the famous Dzuluk / Zuluk silk route trail of East Sikkim may use Pedong as the destination of their first/last night stay. Rangli town in East Sikkim, the place from where permits to visit Dzuluk are given is about and half hours drive.
Location
Places Around
Rikisum or Reesoom is another scenic spot nearby. Situated on top of a densely forested hill close to Algarah, Rickisum provides a birds-eye view of the surrounding mountains including mount Kanchenjunga. There used to be an old British Bungalow built in 1902. However, the bungalow has been destroyed now. From here one can get a panoramic view of the entire Kanchenjunga range as well as a view of the towns of Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Gangtok, Pedong, and others.
Sillery Gaon: From Damsamguri, a 500 meters walk will take you to Sillery Gaon. The village has developed tourism infrastructure in recent years and has been growing in popularity for its great views of the Kanchenjunga massif. Located amongst pine forests the village offers a serene environment to tourists. Wake up to the sounds of birds chirping and a Glorious Golden Sunrise. The view of Mt. Kanchenjunga is simply breathtaking from here.
Rishi - 15 km from Pedong through a winding downhill road you will reach the Bengal Sikkim border of Rishi. Cross river Rishikhola and enter Sikkim through the checkpoint here. The area has become popular with the effort of a local person Sebastian Pradhan. His contribution to developing tourism in the area is legendary. You may stay at Rishi as well where several basic accommodations are available.
Damsang Fort: Damsung fort is located within a short walk from Pedong. During the late 17th century, several wars were being fought in the area between the Bhutanese and Lepcha people. The fort was built by the Lepcha to defend their territory. The fort was destroyed during the British invasion of 1864. Even for those who do not find much interest in history, a visit to the location would not be wasted as the views from the spot will mesmerize any tourist.
TinChuley View Point: A short 900m walk will take one to Tin Chuley Hill. Any hilltop where three ridges meet tends to be referred to as Tinchuley by the locals. There is another more famous Tinchuley village near Peshok road closer to Darjeeling hills. The viewpoint offers lovely views of Kashyone village, thickly wooded forests, and terraced fields brimming with green paddy. The Jelepla pass and Nathula pass can be viewed at a very close range, as well as the entire Mt. Kanchenjunga range, Sikkim, and also as far as Gangtok town.
Sangchhen Gumpa: This is a Bhutanese monastery built in the year 1706. all the antiques belonging to the Damsang Fort are kept in this monastery after the fort was destroyed. The Chaam dance is performed during the Raninavmi festival. People from Bhutan regularly visit the Gumpa even today.
Tourists visiting Pedong can also go to Lava or Rishyop which are within a 30 to 45-minute drive away from here.
Recommended Activities in Pedong
Nature Walks, Treks, Fishing, River Picnicking, Rock Climbing, Bird watching, Camping, etc.
Where to stay
Over the years several tourist accommodations have come up at Pedong as well as its surrounding area. Apart from Pedong village, you may also stay at Rishi, Sillery Gaon, Lava, or Rishyop and visit the area as part of a day tour. Even Kalimpong is just an hour's drive away.
At Pedong, our Home Lodging division Humro Home offers lodging options for visitors. The Humro Home Pedong is one of the best accommodations here.
You can get further details about the Lodge by visiting the Humro Home website you may also contact our helpdesk executives for any assistance regarding staying at Pedong.
