About Dalgaon (Rongo)

Dalgaon is a serene, offbeat village perched at an altitude of around 2,500 feet in the Kalimpong District. Ideal for travelers who love everything natural, manual, organic, and fresh from the garden, Dalgaon promises a unique and immersive experience in harmony with nature.
A Land of Medicinal Heritage
Dalgaon is home to one of India’s oldest Cinchona plantations, dating back to the British era. The plantation still manually produces Quinine, the historic anti-malarial drug. This plantation is what gave rise to the settlement of Dalgaon itself.
Historical Marvel Nearby
Just a short distance away lies the Jaldhaka Hydel Project, India's oldest hydroelectric power project, located on the Jaldhaka River near the Indo-Bhutan border—an engineering and historical gem.
Culture, Community & Organic Living
Dalgaon is home to warm-hearted communities like the Rai, Manger, and Gurung tribes. Here, traditions are still deeply respected, and livelihoods revolve around:

Organic farming and homestead plantations
Traditional cattle rearing and bee keeping
Brewing of local drinks from rice and millet
Black cardamom cultivation and sale
Organic tea and manual rubber processing
Every bite of food and sip of local drink here tastes like the earth — untouched, pure, and healing.
Stay the Dalgaon Way
The village is dotted with charming homestays surrounded by blooming flower gardens, humming with birdsong and local music. Enjoy a relaxing herbal paste massage, or just take in the mountain air with a cup of organic tea.
Nearby, Neora Valley National Park, a UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot, adds even more to Dalgaon's natural allure.
Things to Do in Dalgaon
Nature Adventures:
River trekking, fishing, rock climbing, and swimming at Jholung River
Bird & butterfly watching trails (spot hornbills, kaleej, parakeets, minivets, and more)
Trekking Experiences:
A two-night trek to Tong Tongay and Neora Valley — possibly spot a Red Panda
Rachela Trek — a popular forest trail, including camping in tents
Dalgaon Sightseeing Highlights
Jaldhaka Hydel Project – India’s oldest hydropower station
Cinchona Plantation – oldest in the country
Local organic tea gardens
Dalgaon Watch Tower – offering panoramic views of Jaldhaka Valley
Nearby tourist gems: Samsing, Suntalekhola, Paren, Jhalong, Bindu, Gorumara National Park, and Neora Valley National Park
How to Reach Dalgaon
By Air: Nearest airport is Bagdogra (IXB), approx. 100 km away.

By Train: Nearest station is New Mal Junction, or New Jalpaiguri (NJP).
From there, hire a private vehicle or request a pickup from your homestay.

Best Time to Visit Dalgaon
Dalgaon is a year-round destination.
Summer: Cool breezes and clear skies
Winter: Crisp sunshine and magical mountain mists