Ravangla Tourism
Ravangla is a gateway into tranquillity of Nature. This serene town nestled in the lap of Eastern Himalayas, is a small but a beauteous one of South Sikkim, India. Being perched at an altitude of approximately 7,000 feet, adds to the beauty of this quaint town. Basically, Ravangla is a paradise for the ones seeking spiritual solace, adventure as well as nature driven beauty. The town’s mesmerising characteristics that make it a tapestry in terms of biodiversity, includes verdant forests, rolling hills, snow-clad peaks and a rich variety of flora and fauna too.
Talking more about the scenic beauty of this town, is always going to be less. Each and every corner of Ravangla, visitors can witness awe-inspiring views. From the majestic snow-covered peaks of Mt. Kanchenjuna standing as an unparallelly beautiful backdrop to sparkling streams, lushy green forests and picturesque terraced farms, showcasing a scenic splendor of the town.
Having mentioned Ravangla’s rich biodiversity, making it a home to numerous species of birds and endangered animals that includes red panda, black bear etc. A treasure trove for birdwatchers and animal lovers.
Other than being a hub for nature enthusiasts, Ravangla is also an important centre for Buddhist spirituality, making it a major stop for Buddhist pilgrims as well as for visitors seeking Buddhist practices. Tathagata Tsal, the most iconic landmark/park that features a 130 foot high statue of Lord Gautama Buddha. The park is an ideal place for meditation while being a visual spectacle. The serene environment making it an utmost tranquil setting, making it a perfect spot for the ones seeking spiritual solace.
For the adventure nuts, Ravangla being on high altitude, serves as an ideal base. The Maenam Hill Trek is one of the most popular treks if some is looking to participate in trekking. Taking trekkers through dense lushy forests that offers panoramic views of the Himalayas and the surrounding mesmerising valleys. Tendong Hill Treak is for the ones interested in exploring more remote areas, rewarding trekkers with views that are worth calling treat for the eyes.
The town of Ravangla is deeply rooted with culture with mainly of Lepcha folks, as well as Nepalis and Bhutias. The blend of these three ethic communities reflects in town’s festivals, cuisine, the overall culture and daily lives of these natives as well. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring nearby town markets, sampling local cuisine from eateries and being a part of the festivals.From festivals like Losar, Saga Dawa that showcases rituals and are celebrated with music and dance to cuisines that includes iconic food items like Momo, Thukpa and Sinkhi being yet another highlight of the culture.
To conclude every aspect of Ravangla, the town is like a hidden gem of Sikkim tourism landscape, that offers a perfect blend of spirituality, nature, deep rooted culture as well as adventure. Ravangla is literally an Idyllic escape for every type of traveller. Visitors can immerse themselves in the solace of this tranquil setting away from the chaotic work life and stress. From adventure to serenity and from spirituality to sightseeing, Ravangla is a destination that has all these aspects in abundance.
Popular Tourist Attractions in Ravangla
The town offers like a package deal comprising of Monasteries, Wildlife sanctuaries, trekking facilities and holy places. Some of the popular ones are as follows:
- Buddha Park
- Ralong Monastery
- Ralong Hot Spring
- Temi Tea Estate
- Rayong Sunrise View Point
- Bon Monastery
- Maenam Hill
- Kewzing Village
Buddha Park
Buddha Park is also known as Tathagata Tsal. It is a prominent spiritual site of the town Ravangla, that features a majestic 130 foot high statue of the deity of Buddhism, Lord Gautama Buddha. Inaugurated back in 2013 to celebrate the 2550th birth anniversary of Lord Buddha, making it a hotspot for majority of pilgrims as well as tourists. The park also offers a backdrop of the surreal Himalayas, adding to the serenity of the park. A must visit place for the ones seeking a tranquil setting for meditation, peace, reflection, spiritual growth and being at one.
Ralong Monastery
Ralong Monastery belongs to the Karma Kaygu sect of Buddhism of Tibet. Making it a significant Buddhist monastery and a very important pilgrimage site.It is known for its traditional architecture and prayer halls that are vibrant. The Monastery is also famous for hosting the annual Pang Lhabsol, which is a festival marked by masked dances and rituals that celebrates Mt. Kanchenjunga and the protector deities. Whilst providing a glimpse into the Buddhist culture, the monastery also serves stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains, making it an idea spot for spirituality seeker.
Ralong Hot Springs
The Ralong Hot Springs also known as Ralong Chachu is a nature driven hot spring located near Ralong Monastery. Being nestled among the banks of the river making it a secluded spot that attracts both locals as well as tourists. The therapeutic waters of the hot spring are believed to have healing properties due to the presence of high amount of minerals. Visitors can enjoy a warm and soothing soak whilst being in the midst of nature. A perfect rejuvenating escape for wellness enthusiasts.
Temi Tea Estate
Temi Tea Estate being nestled in the hills of Sikkim, is known for its high quality of tea production. Established in 1969 spanning over 440 acres and is said to be the only tea garden. The rich soil and being in unique climate, adds to the exquisite flavour of its organic teas. The Estate along with promoting sustainable farming, supports the local economy. Visitors can have guided tours and enjoy the tea making process amidst nature in this facility.
Rayong Sunrise View Point
Rayong Sunrise View Point being perched on the surreal coastline of Thailand’s Rayong province surrounded by lush greenery serves breathtaking panoramic views of Thailand’s Gulf. Making it a popular spot for both domestic as well as international travellers. The spot especially becomes magical at dusk when the sun sets as the sky drapes with hues of orange-golden-pink. An accessible tranquil space offering fresh sea breezes and surreal vistas.
Bon Monastery
Bon Monastery is nestled in the picturesque region of Ladakh. It is known as a heaven of spirituality for practitioners of the ancient Bon religion. The Monastery stands against the stunning backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, featuring vibrant murals, statues and as well as other architecture that reflects the richness of its cultural heritage. Bon Monastery offers insights into the unique customs and beliefs of the community along with scenic vistas, making it an ideal spot for being at one, being at peace.
Maenam Hill
Maenam Hill is a serene destination of Thailand, located at an elevation of 625 meters and on the enchanting Island of Koh Samui. The Hill is known for its surreal vistas of the surrounding coastline and landscapes, that captivates adventure heads for its Hiking trail. It is a great spot for Eco-tourism as lush forests and diverse wildlife surrounds the Maenam Hill. The well-known Wat Maenam Temple on this Hill adds to the spiritual touch to this scenic setting.
Kewzing Village
Kewzing Village is a charming village/destination, nestled in the serene hills of Sikkim. Surrounded by picturesque vistas of Himalayan mountains. The village offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Lepcha community and its vibrant culture. Visitors can interact with kind and friendly locals and experience the authentic hospitality and welcoming nature of the village. The village is also a portal to many monasteries as well as tea gardens. A tranquil village to the ones looking to have a retreat and rejuvenation.
Best Time to Visit Ravangla
The best time to visit Ravangla town would be from March to May and September to November. As spring and early summer arise, the weather gets pleasant and becomes ideal for roaming and exploration.
But it might depend on one’s approach, if someone is looking for outdoor activities and sightseeing, then the given time frame is ideal.
But if a visitor is looking forward for a particular thing for which the city is famous for, say to be a part of famous festivals like Bhumchu Mela, then packing bags in February would be more appropriate as the festival only arrives in February.
How to Reach Ravangla?
Ravangla is an easily accessible and well-connected town to major cities of Sikkim like Gangtok, Pelling and Namchi. If travelling by air, the nearest Airport is in Bagdogra which is in West Bengal.
While New Jalpaiguri being the nearest railway station in New Jalpaiguri, making it ideal for the ones looking to trail through railways.
The town is pretty mush accessible through roads as well, as it is connected to the big parts of Sikkim including the capital city.
Despite any mode of transport that a visitor is travelling through, once reached at the given stations, they all can hire themselves a private cabs and shared taxis that operates on regular basis which leads to this town called Ravangla.
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