Enveloped with tranquility, Sillery Gaon is a picture-perfect Himalayan hamlet, which nestles at a height of around 6000 feet, is an ideal romantic escape from bustling city life. It is a place synonymous to peace, calm and serenity, a completely different experience, a place that is miles away from everything that you would want to leave behind, yet so close to everything that you dream of. It is liked by everyone – children, adults, and elders. Sillery – the name derived from a plant which grows in abundant in this part of the Himalayas. The area is also has a Cinchona plantation which is a source of Quinine. The scenic beauty of the place is undoubtedly eye appealing. Gorgeous view of the mighty Mt. Kanchenjunga can be observed from Sillery Gaon. The music of wilderness, the chirping of the birds and the fragrance of nature of this pristine hamlet will soothe your senses and refresh your mind. This intimate village adorned with pine trees is nowadays lovingly called New Darjeeling. This charming village is the haven of varieties of exotic bird species, which makes it an ideal place for passionate bird watchers. Enjoy a nature trail, while enjoying the beauty of the picturesque landscape of the destination. It has always a soothing weather and makes the place an all season visiting place except monsoon. The village is surrounded by tall pine trees, shrouded with tranquility and the only interruption is the chirping sounds of birds. The location of Sillery Gaon is unique and from here anyone can see almost 180 degree view of the Himalaya ranges– as Nepal on the west, Sikkim on the north and east and Bengal on its south.
At a glance Sillery Gaon is a place which offers exceptional natural beauty. This small hamlet has a very few population of around 25-30 families are residing here. They are friendly and always ready to welcome guests with smiling face. The basis profession of these people is agriculture. But now-a-days Sillery Gaon has become popular tourist hotspot. So the people of the village have now embraced Eco-tourism and it has become an alternative money earning source.
It is located 96 kms from New Jalpaiguri via Kalimpong. The ancient silk route, which went through Pedong, is only 6km away from Sillerygaon.
Sight Seeing
Silent Valley is interesting place to visit in Sillery Gaon. A vast tract of green pasture is surrounded by tall pine trees and only sound is chirping of birds resembles Switzerland. A descend from the main road, the sudden appearance of the green field makes visitor surprise . During monsoon Silence valley becomes a small pond. As per the old local residents it was originally a lake long before. The village is the home to the highly revered Sang hen Dorjee Monastery, located near Pedong. The origin can be traced back 300 years ago, during the rule of Bhutanese in Pedong. The old section of the monastery is decked with some beautiful wall paintings, depicting Tantric Buddhism. The center of attraction of the monastery is the mummified body of a holy Bhutanese priest. Tin Chuley is a wonderful hilltop near Sillery Gaon, providing a 360 degree view of the legendary Himalayas, the towns of Sikkim, Jeep La and Nat hula. The place is accessible by car. You can also pay a visit to Damsang Fort, located 4 km. away from the Sillery Gaon. This fort locally was constructed in 1690 by the Leptchas. The remnants of the fort only exist now. Sillery Gaon is encircled by Pedong, Rishi and Aritar. Cross hill is located at a vantage point near Pedong, where in the view of the mountain is simply glorious. On any clear day Tibet is clearly visible from here and it’s a perfect sunset point. Cross Hill is highly revered as a pilgrimage for the local Christian community and be frequently visited by them. During 19th century number of Evangelists who travelled to Tibet for spreading Christianity lost their lives or never came back. In the memory of lost Evangelists in 1882 Fr. Augustine Desdgodins erected a cross facing Tibet directly in the hope that they will come back. Visiting the place in April-May, do not miss the “Chyam” dance held at this place. Shahid Park is another “must visit” location ,2 km from Pedong bazaar. A memorial stone has been laid at the park, to honor the memory of a local young soldier of Indian army, Late Palender Raj, who sacrificed his life at Cargill War. Panoramic view of Sikkim can be viewed from this park. The scenic beauty of Kashyone village, located 8 km from Pedong Bazar truly offers visual splendor. The splendid view of the union of Tista River and Rongpo Khola, makes an incredible sight behind this village. This pristine village is dotted with Cinchona plantation. Explore a little further to visit the beautiful Ranibon that has been declared as a preserved forest. There is a 300-year old Lepcha house, which is the only specimen of the exquisite Lepcha craft works. Trips can also be made to Reshi Bridge and Reshi Khola, nestled 15 km from Pedong Bazaar. Reshi Khola is a wonderful romantic escape. The Aritar Lake or Lampokhri is a remarkable eco tourism spot, located 16 km from Reshi Bridge in East Sikkim. The highest point here is famously called Mankhum, which offers a striking view of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga on the southwest and Jelep La and Nathu La towards the northeast. another celebrated viewpoint at Aritar is Love Dara.
Communication
By Train: From Sealdaha and Howrah trains go through North Bengal and way to North East should get down at NJP. From NJP booked hired car to Sillery Gaon via(98km app) Kalimpong and via Pedong(118km)
By Bus: From Kolkata avail express, super fast, luxurious bus way to Siliguri. From Siliguri booked hired car towards Sillery Goan via Kalimpong (91km app).
By Air: From Kolkata airport to Bagdogra airport avail daily flight. From Bagdogra booked hired car to Sillery Goan via Kalimpong (100km app).
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