Rishyap

Rishyap, also spelled Rishop, is a serene mountain village located in the Kalimpong district of West Bengal, India, perched at an altitude of about 8,500 feet (2,591 meters). Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and near Neora Valley National Park, it is known for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range and other neighboring mountains including parts of Sikkim, Bhutan, and Nepal.

Rishyap is a peaceful retreat surrounded by dense forests of pine, birch, fir, rhododendrons, and orchids, which creates a rich habitat for Himalayan birds and wildlife. The village evolved as a tourist destination in the late 1990s and offers homestays for visitors seeking to experience nature, trekking, and the spectacular sunrise from viewpoints like Tiffin Dara.

The area remains relatively untouched and offbeat compared to popular hill stations, making it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. Accessibility is mainly by road from Kalimpong or through a trek from nearby Lava, with the best visiting times being spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant and the mountain views clear.