Icche Gaon: How To Reach, Things To Do, Places To Stay, What To Eat, Safety Tips And More
“Icche Gaon is the magic where everything gets right, and every wish gets fulfilled. Literally, Icche Gaon means the village (Gaon) of wish (Icche).”
Said Chiring, the attendant of our homestay. He became friends with us on the very first day in Icche Gaon, and he promised us to take us on a trek through the pine jungles.
This hamlet, one of the offbeat places to visit near Darjeeling, is just 17 km away from Kalimpong and 66 km away from Darjeeling. This hamlet offers amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
We started our journey from Kolkata and reached the New Jalpaiguri Junction by train. From there, we took a cab ride to Icche Gaon. On our way, we stopped at Sebok Bazar to gorge on steaming hot momos. Then we continued our journey, meeting the Teesta River, Sevok Kalibari, and Teesta Viewpoint on the way.
Again, we stopped at the Durpin Monastery, the Durpin Dara View Point, Morgan House, and the famous orchid house (Pine View Nursery). I was amazed to see that people can actually stay in the haunted Morgan House.
Finally, after touching upon other attractions such as the Delo Park, Guru Padmasambhava Statue, and Ramdhura Viewpoint, we reached Icche Gaon, at an altitude of 5800 feet.
For the next 2 days, Icche Gaon impressed us with its flowers, birds, and heavenly views of Mount Kancheniunga. In this Dream and Travel Guide, I will talk about the location of Icche Gaon, how to reach Icche Gaon, things to do, food, safety tips, and more.
Where Is Icche Gaon? How To Reach Icche Gaon?
Icche Gaon is located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal. A dense population of conifer, cinchona, and pine trees surrounds the hamlet.
Icche Gaon is 85 km from New Jalpaiguri Junction, the nearest railway station. Furthermore, you can even book a car from the Bagdogra Airport and reach Icche Gaon after traveling around 94 kms.
The can charge from the New Jalpaiguri Junction to Icche Gaon will be around INR 2500-4500. From Bagdogra, the cab price will be INR 3500 onward.
If you are traveling on a budget, you can take a shared taxi to Kalimpong from Siliguri, which will cost you around INR 110, and from Kalimpong, you can again take a shared taxi at INR 100 to reach Icche Gaon.
What Are The Things To Do In Icche Gaon?
If slow tourism needed a brand ambassador, Icche Gaon would have been the perfect choice. An idle stroll through the pine forests here and hiking through the trails to spot Himalayan birds offer a transcendental experience.
Also, it’s like a continuous game with the clouds and mist. In a moment, the sky is completely misty, and in the next moment, the Sun shines bright, kisses your cheeks like a spotlight.
Nevertheless, if you are someone who loves to have a checklist of things to do and places to see, you cannot miss these activities and attractions.
1. Exploring The Delo Park
The Delo Park is located in Delo, the highest point of Kalimpong. The entry fee to the park is INR 20 per person, and for parking, the charge is INR 50. The park opens at 6 AM and closes at 7 PM.
It has many attractions for kids, and from here, you will enjoy the views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the Teesta River flowing below.
2. Kalimpong Science Centre (Distance: 10 Km)
- Hours Open: 10 AM to 4:30 PM
- Fees: INR 10 for Science Observatory, INR 30 for Movie Theaters
If you are traveling with kids or you love exploring museums and scientific displays, the Kalimpong Science Centre is a prime attraction near Icche Gaon.
The science center has many interesting displays, a 3D movie center, and a science observatory. Furthermore, kids love playing in the outdoor area with swings, different rides, and dinosaur models.
The park also offers amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
3. Having Goosebump Moments At Morgan House (Distance: 4 Km)
George Morgan built this colonial-style mansion in 1930. There is a haunted story associated with this mansion. The story says that the spirit of Mrs Morgan, who died prematurely, is still present in the house.
Nevertheless, the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation has transformed this Victorian-style mansion into a heritage hotel.
Due to its regal charm and its strategic location, offering beautiful views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Morgan House has been a favorite holiday accommodation for many celebrated politicians and film personalities, such as Jawaharlal Nehru, Sunil Dutt, Uttam Kumar, and Kishore Kumar.
4. Visiting The Pedong Monastery (Distance: 14 Km)
The Sangchen Dorjee Monastery, or Pedong Monastery, is a holy site among Bhutanese Buddhists. The King of Bhutan built this monastery in 1873.
Among all the artworks here, the fresco paintings on the inner chamber of the walls of Sangchen Dorjee Gumba, attracted me the most. I could understand that those were related to Tantric Buddhism.
5. Stopping By The Rikkisum Vantage Point
Our guide insisted that we visit the Rikkisum vantage point since we were in Pedong. Honestly, that was not on our bucket list, but it’s always the locals who know it the best.
We found a British Bungalow built in 1902, and could listen to the hoofbeats. It was a popular halting point for British travelers who used to ride to Tibet.
Also, the vantage point offered a really expansive view of the Himalayan Range, and we were happy to click multiple photos.
6. Exploring Ramdhura: The Village Of Ram
Around 3 km from Icche Gaon, there is Ramdhura viewpoint. We stopped at Ramdhura on our way from NJP to Icche Gaon.
Ramdhura has many beautiful nature trails, and the Jalsa Bungalow, constructed in 1930, is a prominent landmark here. You must also visit the Hanuman Tok viewpoint and the Mahadev Dham temple here.
7. Silk Route Excursion To Sillery Gaon (Distance: 16 Km)
We started early in the morning and reached Sillery Gaon from Icche Gaon after a journey of around 40 minutes. Sillery Gaon is located on the Eastern Sikkim Silk Route Circuit.
Also, you hike through ancient hiking paths, the chirpings of birds, and the smell of pines and rhododendrons will engulf you. If you are lucky, you will meet the Himalayan red pandas and Himalayan birds on the way.
I walked to the Ramitey Viewpoint from Sillery Gaon, and that route of 3 kilometers spoke to me. Once I reached the Ramitey Viewpoint, I could see a magical Himalayan panorama before my eyes.
8. Damsang Fort (Distance: 15 Km)
Gyabo Achuk, a Lepcha King, built the Damsang Fort to prevent a Bhutanese attack on this place. The fortress, now in ruins, is located in the Sillery Gaon area and is just 7 km away from the Pedong Bus Stand.
The fort is a witness to many Bhuita and Lepcha wars during the 17th century and the Anglo-Bhutan War in 1854.
Located on a hilltop, the fort area offers amazing views of the surrounding valleys, and every year, it gets many visitors during the birth anniversary of the Lepcha King in December and the ‘Chaitey Mela’ during Ram Navami in April.
9. A Walk To Ramitey Viewpoint
Ramitey Viewpoint, around 4 km away from Icche Gao, offers the best view of the Teesta River. From here, I could see the curves of the river, and from here, it looks like Mount Kanchenjunga is guarding the river.
Where To Stay In Icche Gaon?
For the ultimate thrill and luxury, you can plan a stay in the Morgan House Tourism Property. West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation Limited (WBTDCL) maintains this property, and it also has a restaurant and bar facility.
You can contact North Bengal Tourism at +91 94348 60604 or +91 81455 84286 to book a room or check about the tariff.
Furthermore, I stayed at Khawas Homestay. You contact the owner, Mr, Khawas, at 8017917008.
What To Eat In Icche Gaon?
You will love Bengali and Tibetan food at Icche Gaon. Even the simplest chicken curry with steamed rice tastes heavenly here.
Momos, soupy noodles or Thukpa, and Balep or Tibetan bread served with Dum Aloo are the popular Tibetan delicacies here.
The homestays here serve the most authentic meals. For breakfast and snacks, you can explore the local street food stalls and cafes.
What Are The Best Local And Cultural Experiences In Icche Gaon?
The homestay experience is a major part of the local and cultural experience in Icche Gaon. When you stay with the local Lepcha and Bhutia families, you get to know about their cultural traditions and the bond they share with nature.
Furthermore, as you explore the local nature trails, you will see people farming or the artisans busy with their artworks.
Also, for a deeper cultural and historical experience in Icche Gaon, you can visit the Kundeling Monastery. The locality is quiet and around 12 km away from Icche Gaon. Spend some time here, explore the artwork, and meditate.
Enjoy spiritual bliss and the Buddhist way of living, adapted by the people here.
What Are The Photography And Instagram-Worthy Spots In Icche Gaon?
#panroamicviews, #mountkanchenjunga, #tranquilescapes! Icche Gaon offers you photo opportunities beyond imagination.
The pine forest, Sinchona plantations, and all the nature trails look heavenly during the sunrise and sunset hours. When covered with mist, the forest also exudes an eerie vibe.
Also, Icche Gaon is full of flowers and birds, offering you the perfect frames for pictures. Furthermore, thanks to the Ramitey Viewpoint & Tinchuley Viewpoint, you will get to capture amazing snaps of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Safety Tips For Traveling To Icche Gaon
- Carry cash and ID cards.
- Always book a car or cab through a reliable agency or someone who is frequent to your homestay.
- Do not randomly stroll on unmarked trails alone, as there can be wildlife.
- Don’t roam aimlessly at night and enjoy evenings sitting by the fireplace in your homestay or over a jamming session at a cafe.
- Listen to the instructions of your local guide or homestay owner regarding weather updates and possible changes.
3 Days In Icche Gaon: Check Out The Itinerary
Here is how I spent my 3 days in Icche Gaon. If you feel that the itinerary is very rushed, you can make adjustments.
1. Day 1: Kalimpong Sightseeing And Arriving At Icche Gaon From NJP
| Time | Activities |
|---|---|
| Morning | • Arrive at NJP • Starting road journey towards Icche Gaon |
| Mid-Morning | • Having Tea and Snacks at Sevok Bazar • Visiting Sevok Kali Bari |
| Noon | • Stopping by Teesta Viewpoint for photos |
| Afternoon | • Exploring Durpin Monastery, Durpin Dara Viewpoint, Pine View Nursery (Orchid House) |
| Late Afternoon | • Visiting Morgan House Heritage Property • Exploring Delo Park |
| Evening | • Reaching Icche Gaon and Checking In |
| Night | • Early Dinner at the Homestay |
2. Day 2: Icche Gaon, Pedong, And Sillery Gaon
| Time | Activities |
|---|---|
| Early Morning | • Sunrise View of Mount Kanchenjunga • Cherishing the View with a Cup of Tea |
| Morning | • Taking a Stroll in the Pine Forests and along the Village Trails • Breakfast |
| Late Morning | • Visiting the Pedong Monastery and the Rikkisum Vantage Point |
| Afternoon | • Driving to Sillery Gaon and Hiking to Damsang Fort |
| Late Afternoon | • Watching Sunset and the Teesta River Curves from the Ramitey Viewpoint |
| Evening | • Returning to the Homestay and Attending the Bonfire |
| Night | • Dinner at Homestay |
3. Day 3: Ramdhura And Departure
| Time | Activities |
|---|---|
| Early Morning | • Cherishing Sunrise Views and Breakfast |
| Morning | • Visiting Ramdhura Viewpoint |
| Late Morning | • Exploring Hanuman Tok Viewpoint, Mahadev Dham Temple, Jalsa Bungalow |
| Afternoon | • Driving Back to NJP via Kalimpong. |
Icche Gaon: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Icche Gaon.
Icche Gaon is just 18 km away from Kalimpong. You can travel the distance by road within 50 minutes.
The cheapest way to travel to Icche Gaon from Kalimpong is to take a shared taxi ride. It will cost around INR 1000.
March to May, or the spring season, is the best time to visit Icche Gaon. Icche Gaon gets filled with beautiful flowers in these months, making the nature walks all the more engaging.
Furthermore, the average temperature in these months hovers around 15 degrees Celsius. So, you get temperate weather ideal for exploring the outdoors and a clear view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Yes, you will get many homestays in the Icche Gaon village. These homestays offer rustic and nature-focused experiences. Furthermore, they ensure an authentic experience with home-cooked meals and cultural exchange.
Furthermore, these homestays offer budget-friendly accommodations for families and solo travelers. The average charge for a homestay in Icche Gaon will be around INR 1500-2500.
Icche Gaon is suitable for solo travelers and families. Kids love exploring the parks like Delp Park and the learning places such as the Science Centers. They also love spotting the wildlife.
However, I feel Icche Gaon is more suitable for solo travelers and couples. You can then have the most flexible schedule and hike around Icche Gaon at any point in time.
No, visiting Icche Gaon during the monsoon season is not a safe option. Though hills have their unique charm in the monsoon, with the rainfall, the roads become slippery and perilous.
Also, there are chances of fatal landslides and road blockages.
