nature · Ramdhura, Kalimpong
Icchey Gaon, Sillery and Ramitey Dara day
Ramdhura, Icchey Gaon and Sillery Gaon sit within a few kilometres of each other on the ridges between Algarah and Pedong. A local car, arranged by your homestay, can link them in a slow day with walks in between. Start early, while the mountains are clear, and stop at Icchey Gaon for tea and its views over the valley. The roads are narrow and steep, so a local driver who knows them is worth more than a bigger car from Kalimpong.
Continue to Sillery Gaon, at about 1,830 m, and walk or drive up toward Ramitey Dara, a viewpoint above the village. From here the Teesta is seen far below, looping back and forth through its valley; local guides like to say you can count 14 turns. On clear days the Kanchenjunga range and the Sikkim hills stand behind. Have lunch at a homestay in Sillery Gaon; ask your Ramdhura host to call ahead so a meal is ready.
On the way back, stop at Damsang Fort, the Lepcha ruin near Algarah, for a short forest walk, and have tea in Algarah bazaar. The whole day involves only short drives on narrow roads and a few walks of 30–60 minutes. Carry water, snacks and a warm layer, as there are few shops on the way. Be back before dark, as village roads have no lighting and fog can settle quickly on winter evenings.
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Questions people ask
Good to know
What is Ramitey Dara
Ramitey Dara is a viewpoint above Sillery Gaon, near Pedong, known for its view of the Teesta river looping through its valley far below, with the Kanchenjunga range behind on clear days. It is reached by a short drive and walk from Sillery Gaon. Mornings from October to April give the clearest views.
How far is Sillery Gaon from Ramdhura
Sillery Gaon is only a few kilometres from Ramdhura as the crow flies, but the narrow, winding road means about 30–45 minutes by car. Icchey Gaon lies in between. A local car for a day linking the villages and Damsang costs about ₹1,500–2,500, indicative for 2026.
Can I walk from Ramdhura to Icchey Gaon
Yes, local footpaths and village roads connect the two, and fit walkers can do it in about 1.5–2 hours. The paths are unmarked and branch often, so go with someone from your homestay or arrange a local guide. Arrange a car to bring you back, or stay the night in Icchey Gaon.
