Pedong, Cross Hill and Damsang loop

Drop down from Sillery Gaon to Pedong, a short drive away on the old trade road to Jelep La. Start at Sangchen Dorjee Gompa, usually dated to around 1706, when Bhutan ruled these hills. Its old prayer hall, murals and courtyard of prayer wheels are worth half an hour. Remove shoes and ask before photographing inside. Mornings are best, when monks are present and the courtyard is quiet.

Then climb Cross Hill above the town, where Father Augustine Desgodins of the Paris Foreign Missions raised a cross in 1882, in memory of missionaries trying to reach Tibet. The walk takes 15–20 minutes and gives views over the Pedong ridge toward Sikkim. The Sacred Heart Church, from the same mission, still serves the local Catholic community. Wear shoes with grip for the climb, as the path is steep and can be slippery after rain.

On the way back, stop at Damsang Fort on the ridge near Algarah. A short forest walk leads to the stone remains. Lepcha tradition holds that the chief Gaeboo Achyok built it around 1690 to resist the Bhutanese. Have tea in Pedong or Algarah bazaar and be back in Sillery Gaon for lunch. A local car for the loop costs about ₹1,500–2,500, indicative for 2026, and every stop on it is free.