Sillerygaon
Sillary Gaon, a picture perfect mountain village, about 25km from Kalimpong and 6 km from Pedong which is on the ancient Silk Rout, at a high of 6000ft. is an ideal romantic escape. It is also called as “New Darjeeling” by the locals here. This small hamlet has a very few population of around 30-40 families are residing here. There no luxurious hotels in Sillary Gaon. Home stay are the only option for accommodation. This sleepy village of New Darjeeling offers a magnificent view of the silver Kanchandzonga peak, the third highest peak in the world.
Places to visit in Sillary Gaon:
Ramitay View Point: It takes about half an hour by trek to reach Ramitey from Sillary. It offers an extensive view of river Teesta with around 14 turns along with 180 degree panoramic view of Kanchandzonga. On a clear day it offers the excellent bird’s view of Sikkim town Namchi and adjoining areas. From Ramitey you can see the sunset.
Tinchuley View Point: It’s only 30 minutes trek from Sillary Gaon. It offers a magnificent 360 degree view of the Himalayan ranges along with Mt. Kanchandzonga. Nathu La, Jelep La pass and town of Sikkim are also visible from here.
Damsang Fort: This is a historical place, located 4 km away from Sillary. This fort was constructed in 1690 by the Lepchas. Though only ruins of the fort are left. The Anglo-Bhutan war of 1864 has destroyed it.
Silence Valley: Silence Valley, a vast tract of green pasture, is another attraction of Sillary Gaon. It surrounded by tall pine trees, and only sound is chirping of birds.
Cross Hills: Cross Hills, situated near Pedong, is highly revered as a pilgrimage for the Christian community. This place offers a very wide and wonderful view of the snow clad Mountain peaks.
Best Time to visit
Visiting Sillery Gaon is permitted throughout the year except monsoon. Winter is the most preferred season, since clear view of the range of Kanchandzonga can be seen during this time.
The temperature variation in Siller gaon can be as follows :
Summer : 10 to 20 degrees Celsius
Winter : 00 to 15 degrees Celsius
How to Reach:
Rail: Nearest railway is New Jalpaiguri railway Station (NJP) 95km. It will take 4 hrs to reach Sillery Gaon by car from NJP.
Air: Nearest Airport is Bagdogra (105km) . By car it will take 4hrs to reach Sillery Gaon from Bagdogra.
Road: Sillery Gaon can be reached from Siliguri by various hired vehicle in roughly 4hours.
Nearest town: Pedong, 6 km from Sillery Gaon