Namchi – The Cultural Capital of South Sikkim
Overview
Namchi, meaning “Sky High” in the local Bhutia language, is the district headquarters of South Sikkim and a rapidly developing spiritual and cultural hub. Located at an altitude of 5,500 ft, it offers panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the Darjeeling hills.
Highlights
Char Dham (Siddhesvara Dham):A grand pilgrimage complex with a 108-ft statue of Lord Shiva surrounded by replicas of India’s four Dhams — Badrinath, Jagannath, Dwarka, and Rameshwaram.
Samdruptse Hill & Statue of Guru Padmasambhava:A 135-ft-high statue of Guru Rinpoche (Guru Padmasambhava), believed to be the tallest in the world.
Namchi Rock Garden:Beautifully landscaped garden with pathways, viewpoints, and picnic spots overlooking the valley.
Serdup Choling Monastery:A serene Buddhist monastery offering a peaceful spiritual escape.
Namchi Helipad:Offers a stunning bird’s-eye view of the surrounding mountains and tea gardens.
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Ravangla – The Tranquil Hill Retreat
Overview
At 7,000 ft, Ravangla (also called Rawangla) is one of the most scenic and peaceful hill stations in South Sikkim. Nestled between Gangtok and Pelling, it’s surrounded by lush forests and offers magnificent views of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, and Narsing peaks.
Highlights
Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal):
The centerpiece of Ravangla — a 130-ft statue of Lord Buddha set amidst manicured gardens, prayer wheels, and a peaceful monastery.Ralang Monastery:
One of Sikkim’s most revered monasteries and the seat of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism.Temi Tea Garden:
The only tea estate in Sikkim, producing world-class organic tea with mesmerizing green slopes.Rayong Sunrise View Point:
Offers spectacular sunrise views over the snow peaks.Borong & Kewzing Villages:
Ideal for eco-tourism, bird watching, and homestay experiences
Temi Tea Garden – The Pride of Sikkim
Overview
Established in 1969, Temi Tea Garden is the only tea estate in Sikkim and one of the finest in India. Sprawled over rolling hills between Tendong and Maenam hills, it produces 100% organic tea that is globally acclaimed for its rich flavor and aroma.
Highlights
Tea Factory Visit:Tour the factory to watch the entire process — from plucking to packaging.
Tea Tasting Experience:Sample different varieties of the famous Temi Tea.
Viewpoint:Panoramic views of Kanchenjunga, Namchi, and Ravangla from the slopes.
Cherry Resort:A boutique resort amidst tea gardens offering luxury stays.
Cable Car Ride (Proposed):Planned between Temi and Singtam, offering aerial views of tea gardens
Borong Village – The Hidden Gem of South Sikkim
Overview
A small, picturesque village located near Ravangla, Borong is known for its natural hot springs, birdlife, and authentic village culture. It offers panoramic views of Maenam Hill, Narsing, and Sinigor peaks.
Highlights
Borong Hot Spring (Ralang Cha-chu):Natural sulfur springs believed to have healing properties.
Borong Monastery:Peaceful monastery with an excellent view of the valley.
Trekking Trails:Connects to Maenam Hill, Ralang, and Bakhim.
Homestay Culture:Experience true Sikkimese hospitality and local cuisine
Maenam Hill – The Hill of Medicines
Overview
Rising above 10,300 ft, Maenam Hill is one of the most famous trekking destinations in South Sikkim. The name “Maenam-la” translates to “Treasure House of Medicines” — as it’s rich in medicinal herbs.
Highlights
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary:Home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and a wide range of birds.
Maenam Gompa:A secluded monastery located at the hilltop.
Trekking Route:The trek from Ravangla to the Maenam peak (about 4 hours uphill) offers stunning Himalayan views.
Skywalk Project (Upcoming):A glass skywalk and ropeway to Maenam hilltop are being developed as major tourist attractions
Kewzing Village – The Cultural Heart of South Sikkim
Overview
Kewzing is a tranquil, traditional Bhutia village located near Ravangla. Surrounded by cardamom fields and forests, it’s famous for its eco-tourism homestays and the Bon Monastery — one of the only Bon (pre-Buddhist) monasteries in India.
Highlights
Bon Monastery:Dedicated to the ancient Bon religion, which predates Buddhism in Tibet.
Bird Watching:Spot exotic birds like the Satyr Tragopan and Himalayan Monal.
Kewzing–Bakhim Trek:Scenic route through forests and mountain streams.
Cultural Experience:Participate in traditional cooking, weaving, and local festivals
Damthang – The Gateway to South Sikkim
Overview
A peaceful hamlet located between Namchi and Temi, Damthang serves as the base for treks to Tendong Hill and nearby attractions. It’s surrounded by rhododendron forests and cardamom plantations.
Highlights
Damthang Monastery
Tendong Hill Trek Start Point
Rhododendron Sanctuary (Spring Season)