Daragaon

Daragaon, also locally known as Upper Icchey, is a pristine, offbeat hamlet perched on a hilltop in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, India. Situated at an altitude of approximately 5,500 feet and just 14 to 17 kilometres away from Kalimpong town, this tranquil eco-tourism village is celebrated as the "Balcony of Kanchenjunga". The name "Daragaon" translates from the native language to mean "Top Village" (Dara meaning top, and Gaon meaning village)

Key Characteristics & Attractions
The "Balcony of Kanchenjunga": The village earned its famous moniker because it provides a spectacular, unhindered panoramic view of the snow-peaked Mount Kanchenjunga range right from the doorsteps of its cottages

Scenic Landscape: The entire hamlet is enveloped by lush green pine and cinchona forests, vibrant seasonal flower gardens, and sprawling orange orchards and cardamom plantations. From its high vantage point, travelers can capture a bird's-eye view of the meandering Teesta and Rangeet river valleys flowing gracefully down below

Tranquility and Solace: Unlike major commercial hill stations, Daragaon remains a virgin destination largely untouched by heavy tourist influx. It features fairy-tale-like wooden cottages and serpentine village lanes that offer a peaceful refuge for nature lovers looking to escape the clamour of city life

Heritage & Treks: A key local highlight is the century-old Dara Gaon Bungalow, a classic 105-year-old British heritage property. Visitors frequently enjoy short village treks through the cinchona plantations to the historic 1930s Jalsa Bungalow

Proximity to Key Hubs: Accessible within a 30-minute drive from Kalimpong city, it serves as an excellent base to explore surrounding scenic destinations like Icchey Gaon, Ramdhura, Bara Mangwa, Chota Mangwa, and the dense wilderness of Neora Valley National Park