Rongo, nestled in the lush hills of West Bengal, is a hidden gem among rural settlements, with a cluster of villages that include Dalgaon, Gairibas, and Rongo itself. This region, along with nearby villages like Todey, Tangta, Paren, and Kumai, offers visitors an unfiltered glimpse into simple village life imbued with rich cultural heritage and traditions.
One of Rongo’s unique features is its role as a government-established medicinal plantation. Here, crops such as Cinchona, Epica (also known as "Green Gold"), and Dioscorea are cultivated by the Government of West Bengal. These plants have immense medicinal value—Cinchona, for instance, is known for its role in malaria treatment, Epica is used for various therapeutic purposes, and Dioscorea’s essence is essential in family planning medicine. Visitors can tour this plantation to witness the agricultural process firsthand and see how the local people work to cultivate these invaluable plants.
In addition to the government plantations, local farmers contribute to the area’s agricultural landscape by growing crops such as cardamom, broom grass, and various other medicinal plants. This fusion of government and personal cultivation has turned Rongo into a unique hub for medicinal agriculture, offering insight into the lives and livelihoods of its residents.
The scenic beauty of Rongo and its neighboring villages is a major attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers. In Dalgaon, for example, the GTA (Gorkhaland Territorial Administration) has established a viewpoint where visitors can soak in panoramic views of the Himalayan range, gaze upon the dense Nathula forests, and marvel at a bird’s-eye view of the Jaldhaka River and Dooars plains. Recognizing the tourism potential, the GTA is also developing the area with amenities such as tourist cottages, a cultural auditorium, a swimming pool, gardens, and an avenue.
Rongo itself holds historical treasures like a rural hospital dating back to British rule, which has continued to serve the local community since then, as well as schools with over 75 years of heritage. Exploring further, you can find an ancient cave and a Sherpa village that has preserved traditional ways of life. For trekking enthusiasts, Rongo offers guided off-road treks led by local youth. Popular routes include the Jaldhaka to Dalgaon trail and Dalgaon to Rongo, each covering about 25 kilometers and providing opportunities to observe local birds, flora, and fauna along the way. A more adventurous two-day trek leads to Racheala, marking the borders of Sikkim, Bhutan, and West Bengal.
The months from October to January are especially enchanting in Rongo and surrounding villages, as wild orchids bloom vibrantly in villagers’ homes, filling the air with color and fragrance. During this time, early mornings are filled with the songs of various birds, making it a paradise for photographers and birdwatchers. With some luck, visitors may even catch a rare glimpse of the majestic hornbill.
Surrounding villages such as Gairibas, Samsing, Kumai Tea Estate, and Bindoo (where the Jaldhaka hydel project is located) also offer intriguing excursions. You can even visit the Bhutan border, experiencing cross-cultural interactions along the way. Upon request, local youth are known to arrange traditional dances representing Nepali, Sherpa, Tamang, Lepcha, and Bhutia cultures, giving visitors an authentic cultural experience.
Rongo and its surroundings provide a blend of natural beauty, history, cultural heritage, and adventure, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking a unique escape into rural India’s heart.
HOW TO REACH:
NEAREST AIRPORT: Bagdogra
NEAREST RAILWAY STATIONS:
- Malbazar
- New Jalpaiguri (N.J.P.)
HOW TO REACH US BY ROAD:
You can find several shared vehicles from Malbazar and Chalsa to reach our location. If preferred, we can arrange reliable and convenient private vehicles for pickup and drop-off upon request.
NEAREST POLICE STATION: Jaldhaka
NEAREST HOSPITAL:
Rongo Rural Hospital, part of the historic Cinchona Plantation setup, serving the local community since British colonial times.
DIRECTIONS FROM SILIGURI/MALBAZAR:
Take the route via Chalsa for the most direct access.
