nature · Tashiding, Pelling
Ridge walk above the Rathong Chu and Rangeet
The monastery stands on top of a hill rising between the Rathong Chu and the Rangeet. The Rathong Chu comes down from the high Kangchenjunga side, past the forests of the national park, and the Rangeet runs on south to Legship and Jorethang before joining the Teesta at Melli. From the edges of the hilltop you see the valleys open on either side, with terraced fields, cardamom groves and forest falling steeply to the water.
Start after your monastery visit and walk the paths around the hilltop, then wander down through the village lanes towards the bazaar. You do not need a fixed route. Stop wherever the view opens up, and look out for prayer flags strung across the slopes. Early morning brings mist lifting from the river valleys; late afternoon brings warm light on the ridges. On clear days in autumn and winter the hills towards Yuksom and Pelling stand out sharply.
Wear comfortable shoes, as paths are steep and uneven, and ask locally before following any trail that leads well down towards the rivers, since some are steep and not maintained. Carry water and keep to paths that villagers use. Respect fields and private land, and greet people as you pass. The walk costs nothing and gives you a feel for Tashiding as a living village, not only a monastery. End it with tea in the bazaar.
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Questions people ask
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Which rivers flow below Tashiding
Tashiding Monastery stands on a hilltop between the Rathong Chu and the Rangeet. The Rathong Chu comes down from the Kangchenjunga side, and the Rangeet flows south past Legship and Jorethang to join the Teesta at Melli. From the hilltop you can see both valleys on clear days.
Can I walk down to the river from Tashiding
There are village paths down the slopes, but some are steep, rough and not maintained, and the river banks can be dangerous, especially in the monsoon when water rises fast. Ask locally before following any path towards the rivers, and never go alone. For most visitors, the views from the hilltop and village lanes are enough.
Is Tashiding good for photography
Yes. The chortens, prayer flags and carved mani stones make strong subjects, and the hilltop looks over two river valleys. Early morning mist and late afternoon light are best. Ask before photographing people or inside the temple, avoid flash, and be especially careful during the Bumchu festival, when crowds are large.
