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Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
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Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
+91 70017 24300
Altitude
2,591 meters
Region
Darjeeling
Min temp
4 °C
Max temp
25–26 °C
Rishop is a peaceful Himalayan hamlet which offers the best view of the Kanchenjunga range and the misty forests, clear starlit nights and magical sunrise paint the landscape vibrantly. You can experience soul-soothing escape in this low-connectivity, less crowded area to fulfil your peace-craving soul amidst the fresh, rusty scent of the Pine forest.
You can expect starry nights, whispering pine trees and breathtaking Himalayn views from Rishop. I was left spellbound during my trip to Rishop, where I was surrounded by mystic Himalayan charm and quiet ambience.
Rishop is a hamlet snuggled peacefully in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, India, roosting at an elevation of about 500 feet and nestled peacefully in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas. Rishop is placed on the edge of the lush Neaora Valley National Park and is encompassed by thick forests of Fir, Birch, Rhododendron and Pine, making it a tranquil heaven for nature lovers. You will get to enjoy an undisturbed view of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga, Siniolchu, Bhutan’s hills and Mt. Pandium from this hamlet.
Rishop offers a misty, cool mountainous climate all year round. A season-wise breakdown of Rishop’s temperature and climate is mentioned below-
| Season | Temperature | Weather | Best activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | 8°C – 18°C | blooming and pleasant | bird watching and trekking to Tiffin Dara |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 12°C – 20°C | occasional showers and coold | photography and forest walks |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 6°C – 16°C | vibrant foliage and clear skies | local explorations and stargazing |
| Winter (December to February) | 0°C – 10°C | occasional frost and chilly | cosy stays, mountain views |
The best time to visit this beautiful hamlet near Kalimpong is during October and May. The weather remains at its best during this period with a pleasant climate and clear skies, offering the best view of the mountains. The blooming Rhododendrons enhance the charm of the landscape, creating an ideal ambience for peaceful stays and enjoying scenic walks in the forest trails.
My trip to Rishop felt like a dream in April, surrounded by misty hills and blooming Rhododendrons. The weather was also perfect for exploration.
| Months | Weather | Footfall | Category | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | clear skies and pleasant | Moderate | Peak Season | trekking, Rhododendron blooms |
| Monsoon (June-August) | foggy and rainy | Low | Off-Season | peaceful retreats |
| Autumn (September-November) | scenic, cool and crisp | High | Peak-season | hikes, birdwatching and photography |
| Winter (December-February) | occasional snowfall or frost and cold | Low to Moderate | Shoulder Season | stargazing, quiet escapes |
You can wake up to the sweet chirping of birds, trek to Tiffin Dara for breathtaking sunrise views and enjoy majestic Kanchenjunga views in Rishop. I felt like walking through clouds while trekking in Tiffin Dara. I was surrounded by complete silence, golden peaks and a cold breeze here. Some of the interesting attractions to explore and activities to try out in Rishop include-
Tiffin Dara Viewpoint
You can visit this popular sunrise viewing point through a short forested trek, offering the best view of the neighbouring peaks and the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga.
Neora Valley Forest Trails
Rishop is in proximity to this biodiversity hotspot, which is adorned beautifully with attractive forest trails, vibrant orchids and chirping birds.
Sunrise & Sunset Watching
You can enjoy a golden sunrise beautifully painting the snow-clad peaks and nearby valleys at the hilltop spots and even from the balcony of your homestay.
Kanchenjunga Viewing
You can enjoy the view of Siniolchu, Mt. Padmini and Mt. Kanchenjunga from the nearby hilltop spots.
Lava
This quaint hamlet is situated at a distance of 5 km from Rishop. It acts as a base of the biodiversity hotspot, which is the Neora Valley, where you can enjoy some misty charms while exploring the local markets and Lava Monastery.
Loleygaon
The distance between Rishop and Loleygaon is 28 km, where you can enjoy a canopy walk amidst the heritage forest and visit Jhandi Dara viewpoint to enjoy the best sunrise view.
Kolakham
This picturesque village is situated at a distance of 12 km, sitting peacefully on the edge of Neora Valley, offering the wilderness of the forest, a serene escape, waterfalls and dramatic landscapes.
Changey Waterfall
This charming, hidden waterfall is situated at a distance of 14 km via Kolakham, surrounded by fern and pine forests. It is an ideal spot to enjoy nature photography and take peaceful breaks.
I reached Rishop from Kalimpong via Lava, the road was slightly bumpy and scenic, and I took a local cab to cover the last narrow and steep stretch. You can reach Rishop by the following means.
By Air
The Bagdogra Airport (IXB) situated at a distance of 120 km, is the nearest to Rishop. You can take a cab from the premises of the airport to reach Lava via Kalimpong and continue your journey on the bumpy stretch of road up to Rishop in a local cab. The entire travel time by road will take you about 4.5-5.5 hours.
By Train
The NJP railway station is the nearest to Rishop, being situated at a distance of 115 km. You can take a cab from NJP to reach Risjop via Lava, which will take you around 4.5-5 hours.
From Siliguri
The distance between Siliguri and Rishop is about 110-115 km. The travel route includes Siliguri, Kalimpong, Algarah, Lava, and Risho, which will take you approximately 4.5-5 hours by road in a hired cab.
From Darjeeling
The distance between Darjeeling and Rishop is approximately 80-85 km, and the travel route includes Darjeeling, Jorebunglow, Kalimpong, Lava, and Rishop. The total travel time by road will be about 3.5-4 hours in a shared/private cab.
The local cuisine of Rishop is simple, and the food here reflects the Himalayan flavours. The meals are prepared by the locals with utmost care and love, using ingredients which they collect from the nearby forest or grow on their farms. Their menu contains simple, nutritious and comfortable items which carry the local flavours. Some of the recommended dishes to try out here include- Dal Bhat Tarkari, Aloo Dum with Roti or Poori, Thukpa, Momo, Ningro with Churpi and Po Cha. Rishop offers a blended experience of serene ambience, natural beauty and traditional lifestyle of the Nepali, Bhutias and Lepcha communities inhabiting this region. You can take part in the following activities to get a true taste of Rishop’s enriching culture
Visiting the nearby Lava Monastery
You can take a spiritual retreat by visiting the Lava Jamgyong Kongtrul Monastery, situated in Lava, which is in proximity to the Rishop. You can attend the prayer sessions of the monks, soak yourself in the tranquil ambience and spin the prayer wheels.
Learning to cook the local dishes
You can ask the host of your homestay to teach you their ways of preparing meals such as momo, thukpa and dal bhat prepared using local spices and fresh ingredients collected from the mountain.
Listening to traditional music and folklore
You can enjoy your evenings by sitting near the bonfire and listening to the lively traditional music of the Nepali and Lepcha communities and interesting folklore from the elders passed down through generations.
Exploring the traditional farming techniques and crafts
You can interact with the locals and help them tend to their farms in harvesting fresh vegetables and watch them knit and weave attractive pieces, and get an idea about the basic crafts of the locals.
You can enjoy a tranquil stay experience in Rishop in the budget-friendly rustic homestays, cottages and affordable hotels. You can enjoy the scenic view created by the surrounding pine forests and Mt. Kanchenjunga in these accommodations. Some of the recommended stay options here, which are known to offer the best possible hospitality and amenities, include Neora Valley Resort, Rishop Eco Village, Sonar Tari Homestay, Retreat Alpine View and Silent Valley Resort.
I stayed at a beautiful homestay in Rishop, where the hosts were very sweet and friendly, who offered me hot and delicious home-cooked meals. I forgot the chaos of city life while enjoying the misty views from the window of my room.
| Category | Best stay | Price range | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-Range Cottage | Resort Sonar Tari | ₹1,600 – ₹2,000 per person | peaceful setting, Kanchenjunga views from the cottages | Nature lovers, comfort seekers |
| Homely Stay | Neora Valley Retreat Homestay | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 per person | mountain views from the rooms, family-run | families, solo travellers |
| Budget Option | Valley of Flowers Homestay | ₹800 – ₹1,200 per person | great views, basic amenities | short trips, budget travellers |
| Top Rated Option | Rishop Clouds Homestay | ₹1,500+ (varies) | views from the balconies, bonfire options and cosy wooden interiors | peaceful getaways and couples |
| Group-Friendly | Green Valley Homestay | ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 per person | trekking arrangements, group meals and large rooms | group stays and families |
Homestays
The homestays in Rishop are mostly simple with wooden cottages, Kanchenjunga views, basic amenities and warm hosts. Some of such homestays are mentioned below
Travelling to Rishop will give you lifetime memories of peace and tranquillity, where you will be able to enjoy the sunrise view adoring the snow-laden Kanchenjunga. You can simply enjoy the silence of the greenery here, along with sipping a warm cup of tea.
Where is Rishop located?
Rishop is situated near Loleygaon and Lava in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal.
What is Rishop known for?
Rishop is known for its stunning sunrise treks, pine forests and Mt. Kanchenjunga views.
How can I reach Rishop?
You can reach Rishop via Lava or Kalimpong by taking a cab from NJP. To complete the final 4 km road, you can take a local jeep as the road is very steep.
When is the best time for a trip to Rishop?
October-December and March-May are the best times for Rhododendron blooms, clear views and pleasant weather.
Can I find good accomodation optins in Rishop?
Although there are limited luxury options in Rishop, you can find some decent budget homestays here with Kanchenjunga and valley views and basic amenities.
Name some things that I can do in Rishop?
You can enjoy several activities in Rishop, such as watching sunrise at Tiffin Dara, stargazing, birdwatching and enjoying nature walks.
Can I find mobile network in Rishop?
Although the internet speed is slow here, you can find basic mobile networks such as Jio and Airtel.
How many days are enough for a fulfilling trip to Rishop?
1-2 days are enough for enjoyable short treks and peaceful retreats in Rishop.
Is Rishop safe for solo travelling?
Yes, Rishop is safe and welcoming; you just have to remember to carry warm clothes and some essentials.