Treks and walks · Sittong
Down to the Riyang river
Walk down through terraces and forest to the Riyang river, with bamboo footbridges and clear pools. An easy descent and a steep return, best in the dry months.
The Riyang river cuts through the bottom of the Sittong valley on its way towards the Teesta. Village paths drop to it from the houses, past orange trees, cardamom under the shade trees, and patches of bamboo.
At the river, simple bamboo bridges cross between the banks. In the dry season the water is low and clear, with rocks to sit on and pools where village children swim. Have a packed lunch, then start back up by early afternoon: the climb is steep and takes longer than the walk down.
Go with someone from your homestay or a local guide. Avoid the river from June to September, when it rises quickly after rain and the paths become slippery.
Cost: Free · guide ₹500–800
Questions people ask
Good to know
How long is the walk to the Riyang river from Sittong?
Allow 1–1.5 hours down and 1.5–2 hours back up, depending on where your homestay is. The path is steep in places, with stone steps. Plan for 3–4 hours including a rest by the water.
Is it safe to swim in the Riyang river?
In the dry months some pools are calm and shallow, and village children swim there. Ask locals which spots are safe, never swim alone and stay out entirely in the monsoon, when the river can rise very fast after rain upstream.
Are the bamboo bridges safe to cross?
They are built and used by villagers every day, but they move underfoot. Cross one person at a time, hold the handrail if there is one and keep bags light. If a bridge looks damaged after rain, do not use it.
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