Sillery Gaon is a Himalayan village that rests at an altitude of 6000 ft. and is an idyllic for escaping in the romantic world. Only 25 families reside in this landscaped destination. This heavenly place offers a spectacular view of Mt. Kanchenjungha and its related peaks. The place creates an ambiance of tranquillity. The only interruption is caused by the chirping of birds. The pine trees that adorn this serene village are nowadays being lovingly called New Darjeeling nowadays. Sillery Gaon is 96 km from New Jalpaiguri via Kalimpong.
Places to see at Sillery Gaon: Tin Chuley is a wonderful hilltop near Sillery Gaon, providing a 360 degree view of the legendary Himalayas, the towns of Sikkim, Jeep La and Nathula. The place is accessible by car or you can also trek to Tin Chuley. Another amazing spot of the location is Ramitey, a well-known view point, offering an extensive view of River Teesta with around 14 turns along with the majestic Kanchenjunga range.
You can also pay a visit to Damsang Fort, located 4 km. away from the Sillery Gaon. This fort locally was constructed in 1690 by the Lepchas. However, it was invaded by the British after the Anglo-Bhutan War of 1864. The ruins of the fort only exist now. You can conclude your day tour by enjoying the exquisite beauty of the Silence Valley, a small forest area with grassy land, offering the ultimate serenity.
Nearby attractions of Sillery Gaon: Sillery Gaon is surrounded by Pedong, Reshi and Aritar. A major attraction of tourists visiting Sillery Gaon is Sangchen Dorjee Monastery near Pedong. This 300-year-old monastery was built during the reign of Bhutanese in Pedong. The old section of the monastery is admired with some exquisite wall paintings depicting Tantrik Buddhism. The major attraction of the new section is the mummified body of a most revered Bhutanese priest. The annual “Chyam” dance is also held at this place in April-May.
You should also visit Cross Hill near Pedong, built by Fr. Augstine Desgodins in 1882. It stands grandly, overlooking Jelep-La and Nathula and is considered as a place of Pilgrimage for the local Christian Community. Another “must visit” location is the ShahidPark located 2 km from Pedong bazaar. A memorial stone has been laid at the park to commemorate the memory of a local young soldier of Indian army, Let Palender Raj who sacrificed his life at Thangdhar J & K sector (Kargil War). The park offers clear view of Sikkim on the opposite side.
A visit to the Rikisum, a majestic viewpoint on the way from Algarah to Lava is also rewarding. You would also appreciate the natural splendor of Kashyone village, located 8 km from Pedong bazaar. Relish the majestic view of the union of Rongpo Khola and Teesta River, behind this village. The village is dotted with Cinchona plantation. Walk a little ahead to visit Ranibon that has been declared as a preserved forest. You will also find a 300-year old Lepcha house here, which is the sole specimen of the rich Lepcha craft works.
Many tourists also make trip to Reshi Bridge and Reshi Khola, located 15 km from Pedong Bazaar. Rishi and Mudum Khola merge to form Rishi Khola just before the bridge. The place nurtures a romantic natural atmosphere. The Aritar Lake or Lampokhri is an amazing eco tourism spot, located 16 km from RishiBridge in East Sikkim. The top point here, popularly known as Mankhim offers a spectacular view of Mt.Kanchenjungha on the southwest and Jelep La and Nathu La towards the north-east. Another major viewpoint at Aritar is Love Dara.
Things to do at Sillery Gaon: You can enjoy boating at the Aritar Lake (Lampokhri) or step down the Reshi Bridge to join the adventure camping site, where fishing and camping is arranged for the tourists. Make short treks to various sightseeing points around Sillery Gaon like Tinchuley, Ramitey and Damsang Fort. The place is also a heaven for the bird lovers. You can also enjoy nature walk around the picturesque landscape of the village. However, the best thing to do is to sit idle and watch the mighty Kanchenjungha changing colours.
Best time to visit Sillery Gaon: The place attracts tourists throughout the year. However, it is better to avoid the rainy season. In the winters, you would get an excellent view of the entire range of Mt.Kanchenjungha.
How to go ?
You need to drive for about 30 minutes to reach Sillery Gaon from Pedong. From New Jalpaiguri Railway station or BagdograAirport, you can hire a car to reach Pedong via Teesta Bazar and Alagarh. Alternatively, you can also take shared cars or buses to Kalimpong and catch shared taxis to Pedong.
Where to stay ?
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