Rangpo is a border town of Sikkim, close to the West Bengal border. Teesta river runs along with the town, which is one of the main rivers of the mountains of Sikkim. Foreign tourists entering Sikkim need to stop at the check posts at the town.
What to see
The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra stops at the town in its journey via Nathu La. After an interruption in 2015 due to trouble at the Doklam Indo-China border, the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra via Rangpo has resumed again in 2017. The journey flags off from Gangtok and pilgrimage are traditionally welcomed with khadas.
Nepalis and Bhutias are the main inhabitants of Rangpo. Mewari businessmen have also settled in the area and opened stores. The literacy rate of Rangpo is over 70%, much higher than the national average of 59%. Rangpo has recently adjudged as the topmost city in Swachh Survekshan 2018 results for waste management in the northeast.
Rangpo is a small town that carries great attraction for not having any cultural dilution. The communities around Rangpo are a delight for any culture vulture who loves going off the beaten track and exploring life outside cities. Village tourism is picking up, and the town pulls people from all parts of the country for its natural beauty and cultural conservation. It is also on the way to other destinations like Lachung, Pelling, and Yuksom.
When to reach
Due to its proximity to higher altitude places like Tsomgo & Nathula Pass, the town has cold weather almost throughout the year. Summer is the best time to visit Rangpo.
How to reach
The town can be reached via Siliguri, West Bengal which is 75.8 Km by Government and Private Operated Bus Services. Cabs are also available. If you want to travel by Air, Pakyong Airport in Sikkim is the closest with the proximity of around 20 km.
