Image Source: Ankit Mukherjee
About Rishyap
Rishyap, a quaint Himalayan village located near Kalimpong in West Bengal, is an offbeat paradise for travelers seeking peace, untouched landscapes, and mesmerizing Himalayan views. Nestled at an altitude of around 8,500 feet, the village is blessed with breathtaking panoramas of Kanchenjunga and other snow-clad peaks. Unlike commercial hill stations, Rishyap offers a raw, authentic experience of the Himalayas with rustic homestays, dense forests, and endless trekking trails.
Attractions and Experiences
The biggest charm of Rishyap lies in its panoramic view of Kanchenjunga, which appears incredibly close and clear on a bright day. From here, visitors can also see the majestic peaks of Kabru, Pandim, Narsing, and the entire Kanchenjunga range. The village is surrounded by pine, birch, and rhododendron forests, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. Walking through the forest trails offers encounters with exotic birds, butterflies, and rare Himalayan flora.
Adventure seekers can trek from Rishyap to Tiffin Dara Viewpoint, a short but rewarding hike that offers spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the mountains. Unlike crowded tourist spots, Rishyap maintains its charm as a quiet retreat, making it ideal for meditation, relaxation, and stargazing at night under the clear mountain sky.
Local Culture and Stay
Rishyap is home to a small mountain community, mainly Lepchas and Nepalese families, who warmly welcome visitors into their homestays. Staying in traditional wooden cottages allows travelers to enjoy authentic local hospitality, simple home-cooked meals, and a chance to experience Himalayan village life up close.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: October to December and March to May for clear views of Kanchenjunga.
Accommodation: Rustic homestays and small lodges with basic facilities are available.
Things to Carry: Warm clothing (as it gets chilly), trekking shoes, and a camera for the stunning landscapes.
Connectivity: The area has limited mobile network coverage, making it a true digital detox destination.
How to Reach
Rishyap is about 32 km from Kalimpong and can be reached by road via Lava. The final stretch of the journey is a steep and bumpy track, accessible by jeep or SUV. For adventure lovers, there’s also a 4 km uphill trek from Lava to Rishyap, which passes through dense forests and is perfect for trekkers. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), around 110 km away, and the nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, about 115 km away.