Mairung (Mayrong) Gaon & Tendrabong Forests – A Quiet Neora Valley Escape

Introduction

Have you heard of Tendrabong or Mairung / Mayrong Gaon?
Most travellers hadn’t—at least not until a few years ago. This hidden forest village near Neora Valley National Park stayed isolated for decades. Only after the Lava–Algarah bypass road was built did the area become accessible. From 2019 onwards, homestays began opening, and slowly, travellers searching for untouched nature, quiet forest trails, and authentic village life discovered this new destination.

Today, Mairung is one of the most promising offbeat places in the Kalimpong region—serene, scenic, and still blissfully uncrowded.

Orientation

Mairung village lies along a small road that branches off from the main Lava–Algarah bypass. The road winds for about 5 km before reaching Kagey, with most homestays dotted along this route.

Landscape & Views

• Surrounded by dense Tendrabong forests.

• Slopes facing north with clear views of
  Sikkim hills, Nathula, Dzuluk, and even snow peaks on good days.

• Traditional forest village atmosphere—locals have lived here for generations.

Its proximity to Neora Valley National Park gives Mairung the true feel of a biodiversity hotspot: dense forests, orchids, moss-covered trails, and birds everywhere.

Things to See & Do

1. Pure Nature & Forest Life

The main attraction is simply being here.
Wake to the sound of birds, walk along forest edges, and breathe air that smells of moss and pine. The village is peaceful, slow, and uncommercial.

2. Bird Watching

Tendrabong is emerging as a birding hotspot, with sightings common right from the village itself. Early mornings are especially rewarding.

3. Short Village Walks

The villagers are friendly and welcoming. A walk through the village offers glimpses of
traditional kitchens, farms, and forest-fed lifestyles.

4. Day Trips

Mairung is perfectly placed for short excursions:

• Pedong – 20 mins

• Lava – 45 mins

• Kalimpong – 45 mins

All major sightseeing points around the Kalimpong district can be covered from here.

How to Reach Mairung / Tendrabong

Nearest Hub: Kalimpong

From Kalimpong, drive towards Lava. After crossing Algarah, continue for about 2 km and take a left. Drive another kilometre until you find a narrow descending road on your right—this marks the entry to Mairung village.
Another 500 metres ahead, the homestays begin.

Need a Vehicle?

Our sister organisation Humro Cars provides reliable, reasonably priced vehicles for travellers.
You can book through the official Humro Cars website.

Weather

• Altitude: Just above 5,000 ft

• Cool climate throughout the year due to forest cover.

• Summer: Rarely above 25°C

• Winter: Cold but generally above freezing

• Monsoon: Frequent rainfall; lush and misty environment.

The climate makes Mairung ideal for a peaceful, quiet holiday in nature.

Where to Stay

As of 2023, Mairung has around 25 homestays with more being added every year.
Quality varies—some are basic, while others are better equipped.

For updated recommendations, it’s best to consult our team.
Humro Home works closely with several homestays in the village.
You can check their website for the latest accommodation options.