South Sikkim, a district in the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, is known for its scenic beauty, lush green landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The region offers a variety of attractions, including monasteries, lakes, viewpoints, and charming villages. Here are some of the best places to visit in South Sikkim, Sikkim:
Best Places to Visit
1. Namchi
Namchi, meaning “Sky High,” is the capital of South Sikkim and a popular tourist destination. It is known for its panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains and the rich cultural heritage of the region.
- Samdruptse Hill: Home to the giant statue of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche. The statue is 118 feet tall and is one of the tallest statues in Sikkim.
- Namchi Rock Garden: A beautifully landscaped garden with a variety of flowers, plants, and a peaceful ambiance.
- Char Dham: Also known as Siddhesvara Dham, this pilgrimage site features replicas of the four Dhams of India (Badrinath, Dwarka, Jagannath Puri, and Rameswaram) and a large statue of Lord Shiva.
2. Ravangla
Ravangla is a small town situated between Maenam and Tendong Hills, offering stunning views of the Greater Himalayas. It is known for its pleasant climate and serene environment.
- Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal): A park featuring a 130-foot high statue of Buddha, which is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
- Ralong Monastery: An important monastery belonging to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism, known for its beautiful murals and architecture.
- Maenam Hill: A popular trekking destination offering panoramic views of the mountains and valleys.
3. Temi Tea Garden
Temi Tea Garden is the only tea garden in Sikkim and is famous for producing high-quality organic tea. The garden is situated on a gentle slope and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
- Tea Estate: Visitors can take a guided tour of the tea estate, learn about tea production, and enjoy tea tasting.
- Scenic Beauty: The garden is a beautiful spot for photography and relaxation.
4. Borong
Borong is a picturesque village located near Ravangla, known for its hot springs and natural beauty. It is a great place for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.
- Ralong Hot Springs: Natural hot springs known for their therapeutic properties.
- Bird Watching: The area is home to a variety of bird species, making it a popular spot for bird watchers.
5. Tendong Hill
Tendong Hill is a sacred hill and a popular trekking destination in South Sikkim. The hill offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Tendong Monastery: A small monastery located on the hill, known for its spiritual significance.
- Trekking: The trek to Tendong Hill is a rewarding experience, offering scenic views and a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.
6. Kewzing
Kewzing is a small village located near Ravangla, known for its traditional Bhutia houses and rich cultural heritage. The village offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the Bhutia community.
- Bon Monastery: A unique monastery belonging to the Bon religion, which predates Buddhism in Tibet.
- Village Walks: Visitors can take guided village walks to explore the local culture and traditions.
7. Namchi Monastery
Namchi Monastery, also known as Ngadak Monastery, is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. It is located near Namchi town and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere.
- Key Attractions: Traditional Tibetan architecture, peaceful environment.
- Activities: Worship, exploring monastery architecture.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Namchi | Capital of South Sikkim with panoramic views | Samdruptse Hill, Char Dham, Rock Garden | Namchi, South Sikkim |
| Ravangla | Scenic town between Maenam and Tendong Hills | Buddha Park, Ralong Monastery, Maenam Hill | Ravangla, South Sikkim |
| Temi Tea Garden | Famous tea garden producing high-quality organic tea | Tea Estate, scenic beauty | Near Namchi, South Sikkim |
| Borong | Picturesque village known for hot springs | Ralong Hot Springs, bird watching | Near Ravangla, South Sikkim |
| Tendong Hill | Sacred hill and popular trekking destination | Tendong Monastery, trekking | South Sikkim |
| Kewzing | Traditional Bhutia village with rich cultural heritage | Bon Monastery, village walks | Near Ravangla, South Sikkim |
| Namchi Monastery | One of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim | Tibetan architecture, peaceful environment | Near Namchi, South Sikkim |
How to Reach South Sikkim
By Air
The nearest airport to South Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport, located about 125 km away. The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. From the airport, travelers can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach South Sikkim.
By Train
The nearest major railway station to South Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station, located about 120 km away. NJP is well-connected to major cities across India. From the station, travelers can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach South Sikkim.
By Road
South Sikkim is well-connected by road to major towns and cities in Sikkim and West Bengal. Regular bus services and shared jeep services are available from places like Gangtok, Siliguri, and Darjeeling. Private taxis can also be hired for more comfortable travel.
Best Time to Visit South Sikkim
The best time to visit South Sikkim is from March to June and September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The summer months (March to June) offer a comfortable climate, while the autumn months (September to November) bring vibrant colors and festive celebrations.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: South Sikkim offers a variety of traditional Sikkimese dishes, including momos, thukpa, gundruk, and kinema. Don’t miss trying the local beverages like tongba and chhang.
- Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting monasteries and religious sites. Modest clothing is recommended, and it is customary to remove shoes before entering religious buildings.
- Language: Nepali is the most widely spoken language in South Sikkim, but English and Hindi are also commonly understood.
- Currency: The currency used in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most places, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small transactions.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start with a visit to Samdruptse Hill in Namchi, exploring the giant statue of Guru Padmasambhava and enjoying the panoramic views. Then, head to Char Dham for a spiritual experience and a tour of the replicas of the four Dhams.
- Afternoon: Visit the Buddha Park in Ravangla to see the giant Buddha statue and the surrounding gardens. Have lunch at a local restaurant and try traditional Sikkimese dishes.
- Evening: Conclude with a visit to Namchi Monastery for a peaceful time and explore the traditional Tibetan architecture.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with visits to Samdruptse Hill and Char Dham in Namchi. In the afternoon, explore the Temi Tea Garden, take a guided tour of the tea estate, and enjoy tea tasting. End the day with a visit to the Namchi Rock Garden.
- Day 2: Start with a morning visit to Ravangla, exploring Buddha Park and Ralong Monastery. In the afternoon, head to Borong to experience the Ralong Hot Springs and enjoy bird watching. Spend the evening exploring local markets and enjoying the local cuisine.
South Sikkim’s blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual significance makes it a unique destination in Sikkim. Whether you’re exploring ancient monasteries, enjoying the tranquility of tea gardens and hills, or experiencing the vibrant local culture, South Sikkim offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler.
