Far off from the hustle and bustle of city life, Daragaon Retreat is a home away from home. this charming home retreat is just a 10-minute drive away from Pelling on the Yuksam-Khechepari road and is run by Shiva and his wife Radha. The couple also has a dog name teetee who helps the couple in greeting the guests.

From the main road you take up a short hike climbing the slippery stairs until you reach a bright yellow sign announcing “Daragaon Village retreat”.

Stairs leading to Daragaon retreat

Visitors here can choose from two deluxe rooms, two cozy cottage rooms and tented facilities ensuring that one is taken away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

One out of two cottages

The porch has benches for you to sit and enjoy the majestic view of the mountains with a coffee in one hand and a book in another.

View form the porch

Early risers can see the Khangchendzonga shining bring in the first light of the day.

The premises are surrounded by mountains

There are flowers and trees everywhere. Like most other homestays in Sikkim, the Gurung’s also grow most of their vegetables.

Trees and flowers everywhere

How to reach

Darap is easily accessible by road by any part of Sikkim. It is a four to five-hour drive from the nearest stations like Siliguri, Gangtok, Bagdogra, Kalimpong. You can take a jeep or reserve a taxi from Siliguri. The nearest airports to Darap are Pakyong airport, Sikkim (4 hrs.) and Bagdogra airport, Siliguri (4 hrs. 30 min).

Also read: A chance stay at the Elgin Mount Pandim, Pelling: My thoughts