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An easy, practical and in-sequence itinerary planner I have travelled the length and breadth of India, and am truly proud of its rich and varied heritage. I am amazed by the tradition and values, the people, festivals, celebrations and the changing landscape. Have you wondered if it's possible to travel across India completely? Most foreigners arriving in India, land in Delhi and then travel the Golden Triangle route first- which is a good decision incase you have limited time at hand and want to make the most of it. The Golden Triangle- Delhi, Agra and Jaipur includes the much hyped Taj Mahal which invariably is part of a tourist's bucket list. This blog on the other hand- is a sequential strategy and detailed 'been there done that' itinerary plan starting from Mumbai. I am sure as we go through this Journey you will understand India better. My experiences are based from the perspective of a - digital nomad, budget backpacker and from a local standpoint. Each Itinerar...

3 Top Reasons to visit Pedong | Kalimpong Pedong East Sikkim 10 days Itinerary



Pedong in Darjeeling lies on the historic Silk Road that connects India to Lhasa via the Jelepla Pass.

At the time of my visit in Nov 2020, Sangchen Dorjee~ the old Bhutanese monastery here which was built in 1706- like all other monasteries was closed due to Covid19.

When the Journey is as good as the destination, there no reason why you shouldn't visit Pedong. After a lazy morning, and a delicious hearty breakfast I decided to get into a shared jeep from Kalimpong taxistand to Pedong (Rs.100/pp).

Is Pedong worth visiting?

Here are my 3 Top Reasons to visit Pedong.

đź‘Ť Like all hillstations; driving through the early morning mist is dreamy and gives a misty-rious feel- so far removed from the crazy city life. The 22 kms (2 hr) drive along the twirling, hilly but good roads is delightful- incase you don't suffer from motion sickness. 

đź‘Ť Pedong- is A quite and lonely hillstation, as compared to Darjeeling and even Kalimpong. The only moderately crowded places are the markets.

đź‘Ť The climate- Oh What a way to Beat the Summer Heat! Finally breathing in the fresh, pure hill air is rejuvenating! 

đź‘Ť There are very few distractions and no sound of traffic. Meditate, do yoga, Read, Relax, rejuvenate!

đź‘Ť Long walk-There are several trails you can choose from, while getting some great pics.

đź‘Ť Breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga-The hiking trail (about 8 kms) from Pedong to Sillary gaon on a clear day - is totally worth it. Yet another 2.5 kms will take you to Ramitey viewpoint, which will give you a bird's eyeview of the Teesta river.

Where can I stay in Pedong?

There are many homestays available, but only few are listed on Booking.com. Rates are vary from Rs.600- 1000/ in the mid-range.
If you're a budget backpacker, there's Wheelers Hostel Rs.350/ per dorm opp Military topkhana, Pedong. They also have private rooms for families. I stayed here, nice place with great location; although they're a bit lax regards food.

Food options in Pedong

Pedong market has some decent options. Local joints provide momos, chowmein. You can buy your food supplies here.

The best 10 day tour package is : KALIMPONG 3 Days, PEDONG 3 Days return Kalimpong, and then head to GANGTOK, SIKKIM 4 Days. Since all fall in the same route, it's cost-effective, time-saving and less tiring!


Photo Gallery :

   
Pathway leading to Milan viewpoint at Pedong, Kalimpong- Darjeeling
Pathway leading to Milan viewpoint at Pedong, Kalimpong- Darjeeling

    
Beautiful homes at at Pedong, Kalimpong- Darjeeling
Beautiful homes at at Pedong, Kalimpong- Darjeeling

   
The Kanchenjunga as seen from the trail leading to Sillari gaon Darjeeling
The Kanchenjunga as seen from the trail leading to Sillari gaon Darjeeling

    
The Kanchenjunga as seen from the trail leading to Sillari gaon Darjeeling
The Kanchenjunga as seen from the trail leading to Sillari gaon Darjeeling

   
mica shiny rocks on the trail from Sillari gaon to Pedong, Darjeeling
mica shiny rocks on the trail from Sillari gaon to Pedong, Darjeeling

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