Dzongu, North Sikkim

Dzongu, the official reserve for Lepcha people is bounded by Teesta River in the south-east, Tholung Chu River in the north-east and by rising mountains in the West. Dzongu offers the best of Sikkim – unexploited and serene. The place appeals to visitors who simply want to enjoy nature. It is a beautiful land of dense forest area and glacial rivulets that nurture both the human and natural habitation around. Numerous waterfalls cascade down steep cliffs and bubbling hot springs can be found hidden beneath the shelter of caves. Everything at Dzongu exudes a deep sense of solitude and calm. Snowy mountain ranges form the backdrop and bird calls add to the pretty painting that the landscape provides.

Attractions of Dzongu, North Sikkim

You can visit the Lepcha museum at Namprikdong near the Sangkalang police check post. You can also visit the confluence of the Teesta River.

Trek to the Tholung Monastery can be an interesting option. It is one of the oldest monasteries built during the first visit of Guru Lhatsun Chempo. Explore around the periphery of the monastery, and find out the hot springs and sacred caves. Traditional Lepcha cane bridges, made from long sections of split bamboo, can be seen at Passingdang and above Tholung Monastery.

Waterfalls are everywhere in Dzongu. The best is in Lingzya, on the way to Sakyong and Pentong. The Ruk Shot waterfall has a drop of around 250 feet.

Tingvong village is located on a gentle slope overlooking the yawning valleys amidst terraced farmlands of mustard, millet and vegetables. Sparkling streams flow through the village and its tranquil surroundings make it an ideal base for your stay in Dzongu and from here you can map out other day excursions to nearby villages and monasteries in the surrounding area.

To have a spectacular view of the Khangchendzonga Range, you must visit the Lingthem village which is a three hours uphill walk from road head at Passingdong across terraced fields and pine ridges. Though the ascent is arduous, your efforts are rewarded with great views of Himalayas and the exciting beauty that nature has on the offer. Here, you have the opportunity for a close looks at old traditional houses still intact, probably the last relics of Lepcha architecture. The unique feature in the construction of traditional Lepcha houses is that no nails are used. This is an interesting point to begin ones exploration of Dzongu.

Things to do at Dzongu, North Sikkim

There are treks and hikes through the villages around for you to explore. Dzongu is a natural paradise for birds and there are more than 200 species in the surrounding area. The sparse population with scattered houses, dense evergreen forests with topographical extremes creates a perfect arena for avifaunal diversity. Bird watching is an enjoyable and educative experience and Dzongu offers this opportunity. If you have the habit of angling you can go for it at the streams of Ringpi Chu River which cascades down to meet the Rongyong Chhu at an altitude of 1085m – all in a distance of 26 km.

Best time to visit Dzongu

You can visit Dzongu throughout the year.