A dreamy village nestled in the lap of cloud-shrouded hills, Daragaon Kalimpong is a hidden gem in the lap of North Bengal. Located in Sitong of Darjeeling district, at about 3,000 feet, this small village is like heaven amidst the green hills. The name “Dara” conjures up a sense of calm, serenity, and nature’s embrace, and “Gaon” means village – a magical world.
Daragaon Kalimpong
In this village, people of Rai, Gurung, Chhetri, Limbu and Lepcha tribes live together. Their simple smile, sincere behaviour and hospitality fascinate anyone. The beautiful wooden houses on the slopes of the mountain are arranged like a picture. On the ‘veranda’ of each house, there is a colourful flower garden, where bees and butterflies freely come and go. It seems like a beautiful painting of nature.
Kalimpong to Daragaon distance | Kalimpong to Daragaon
Kalimpong town Hall to Daragaon Munsong Ichha Forest Distance is about 18 km and it takes 45 min to reach
Well-arranged farmland on the slopes of the mountains, sometimes cardamom gardens, sometimes corn fields, and sometimes broom bushes β all in all, a diverse scene. While walking from Mongpu to Dara gaon, rows of cinchona trees appear. The unique form of nature unfolds at every bend of the path.
Daragaon Picnic Spot | Daragaon Kalimpong
A small mountain stream called Riang Khola further enhances the beauty of this path. If you walk along the rocky path between green grass and jungle, you can reach the river bank within half an hour. Daragaon Kalimpong is a paradise for birds. When the dew-drenched grass glistens in the morning light, the surroundings are filled with birds chirping. In winter, the air in the village is filled with the sweet scent of oranges, because almost every house has an orange garden. At this time, Dara Gaon seems to be celebrating an orange festival.
There are many beautiful places around Daragaon, such as Ghaletar, Thamdara, Namthing Pokhri, Ahaldara and Latpanchar. These places can be easily visited by renting a car. Mongpu, which is associated with the memory of poet Rabindranath Tagore, is also not far from here.
Daragaon kalimpong temperature
The temperature in Daragaon Kalimpong remains pleasant throughout the year but the best times to visit are October and November for beautiful mountain views and weather
Nearby attractions| Daragaon Kalimpong sightseeing
- Ghaletar (4 km): Ghaletar is a quiet village located about 4 km from Dara gaon. On a clear day, one can see a mesmerizing view of Kanchenjunga from here. The snow-capped mountains seem to be looking up at the sky β a sight that is difficult to describe in words.
- Namthing Pokhri (8 km): Located another 4 km from Ghaletar, Namthing Pokhri is known as the abode of salamanders. The green waters of this lake, surrounded by dense pine forests, are a symbol of peace and beauty. Although the lake is full of water during the monsoon, it is almost dry at other times. If you are lucky, you can also spot the rare Himalayan salamander here.
- Ahladara (9 km): The Ahladara viewpoint, 1 km from Namthing Pokhri, offers a magnificent view of the green forests of the Terai and the hills of Sikkim and Darjeeling. It is an ideal place to capture the mountains, rivers and valleys in the same frame. Watching the sunrise from here is a wonderful experience. The first rays of the sun on Kanchenjunga create a magical atmosphere.
- Latpanchar (14 km): Latpanchar is a bird paradise near the Mahananda Sanctuary, about 5 km from Ahaldara. Here you can see various species of birds like Rufus-necked Hornbill, Sultan Tit, Minivet, Thrush, Magpie, Grey-headed Barbet and Warbler. The main attraction here is the Great Indian Hornbill or Rajdhanesh.
Tradition and Culture| Daragaon Kalimpong West Bengal
Near Daragaon Kalimpong, a Lepcha cave is about 300 years old. Ancient Tibetan paintings made of clay and stone can be seen on the inner walls of this cave. There is a seat of Buddha inside the cave and a ghee lamp is always lit there. Prayers are held here in the morning and evening. The cave is a shining example of its architecture, art and tradition.
Nearby is the new Gurung cave next to the green tea garden, at the entrance of which blue, white, red, yellow and green flags flutter in the wind.
Daragaon Kalimpong is not just a village, it is a wonderful meeting place of nature, culture and tradition. Daragaon Kalimpong is an ideal destination for those who want to spend some time in the peaceful lap of nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Daragaon Homestay | Daragaon kalimpong
| Mountain Majic Homestay Daragaon | π 8145468444 π 9083243772 π 9932891002 |
| Ekta Homestay | π 9933446719. |
| Priyanshu Homestay | |
| Burmaik Retreat Daragaon | π 9932535447 |
FAQ on Daragaon Kalimpong
Q.1: What is Daragaon Kalimpong?
Ans: Daragaon Kalimpong is a picturesque village in the Sitong area of Darjeeling district, West Bengal, located at an altitude of 3,000 feet. It is a serene destination surrounded by hills, nature, and traditional culture.
Q.2: What does the name “Daragaon” mean?
Ans: The name “Dara” means calmness and nature’s embrace, and “Gaon” translates to village, symbolizing a tranquil and magical place.
Q.3: Who lives in Daragaon Kalimpong?
Ans: The village is home to the Rai, Gurung, Chhetri, Limbu, and Lepcha tribes. Their warm hospitality and cultural traditions make the village special.
Q.4: What are the main attractions in Daragaon?
Ans: Riang Khola Stream β A scenic stream reachable via a short trek.
Ghaletar (4 km) β Offers stunning views of Kanchenjunga.
Namthing Pokhri (8 km) β Known for its salamanders and lush surroundings.
Ahaldara (9 km) β Famous for its sunrise and panoramic views.
Latpanchar (14 km) β A bird-watching paradise near Mahananda Sanctuary.
Lepcha Cave β A 300-year-old cultural site with ancient Tibetan paintings.
Q.5: What is special about Daragaon in winter?
Ans: In winter, the village becomes fragrant with oranges from local gardens, creating an atmosphere akin to an orange festival.
Q.6: How is nature depicted in Daragaon?
Ans: Daragaon is surrounded by verdant hills, farmland, cardamom gardens, and streams. It is also a haven for birds and butterflies, making it an idyllic destination for nature lovers.
Q.7: How can one explore nearby attractions?
Ans: Visitors can easily rent cars to explore places like Ghaletar, Namthing Pokhri, Ahaldara, and Latpanchar.
Q.8: Why is Ahaldara a must-visit spot?
Ans: Ahaldara viewpoint provides breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and valleys. Watching the sunrise over Kanchenjunga is an unforgettable experience.
Q.9: What bird species can be seen in Latpanchar?
Ans: Latpanchar is known for species like Rufus-necked Hornbill, Sultan Tit, Minivet, Thrush, Magpie, and the Great Indian Hornbill.
Q.10: What makes Daragaon unique?
Ans: Daragaon is a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquillity, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace away from urban life.
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