How To Reach Rinchenpong

Around 120 km away from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is situated a charming little town called Rinchengpong. An area that constitutes the Rinchenpong-Kaluk region – two villages just 3 km apart –  makes for some perfectly scenic locations at an altitude of 1600 m that is well known for offering spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga as well. 

Rinchenpong has witnessed a rise in annual footfall in recent times due to its remote beauty that is yet to be marred by commercial tourism. Connected to a number of locations through a variety of means of transportation, accessing Rinchenpong is an easy task; here’s a list of some of the most convenient ways to reach Rinchenpong.

The Pakyong Airport is a new airspace that became operational in Gangtok in 2018, and is the closest airport from Rinchenpong. However, it currently only provides services to and from Guwahati and Kolkata. The other nearest airport is the Bagdogra Airport located in Siliguri, West Bengal. Around 130 km away, Rinchenpong can be reached within 5 hours from Bagdogra through buses or cabs that are easily available outside the airport.

People who prefer to travel by train can opt to reach the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is the nearest railhead from Rinchenpong. NJP connects to all major stations in the country through regularly operating trains. Most of the hotels and resorts in Rinchenpong provide pickup services to and from NJP station; a convenient option for those who have pre-booked accommodation. For those who don’t, can avail the services of buses and taxis available outside the railway station.

Rinchenpong is connected to a number of regions through a good network of roads. Buses, taxis and shared jeeps are available from Siliguri and Gangtok, both located around 120 km away.

The most convenient travel route going to Rinchenpong, including those from within Sikkim is accessible via Jorethang. The road from Jorethang goes uphill to Soreng, which continues north to reach Kaluk – a village located just 3 km away from Rinchenpong. Another route originates near Legship in West Sikkim that reaches Rinchenpong within 11 km. People traveling from Gangtok, Namchi or Ravangla are well suited to take this route.

For those travelling from Pelling and preferring to take a more scenic route, are more suited to reach Rinchenpong via Singsore Bridge through Dentam Valley.

The small village of Rinchenpong does not have access to any form of public transport, nor does it seem like much of a requirement in this quaint town. Walking around is the best option to sightsee and explore the landmarks, most of which are located close to each other. Shared jeeps can be hired to take you to significant locations near Rinchenpong.