South Sikkim
South Sikkim is a picturesque district that captivates visitors with its lush green landscapes, rich heritage, and spiritual serenity. Located at a lower altitude compared to other parts of Sikkim, it is blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year.
One of the district’s key attractions is Namchi, the capital of South Sikkim. Namchi is home to the towering Statue of Guru Padmasambhava at Samdruptse Hill, standing at 118 feet and offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The Char Dham Complex in Namchi is another significant religious site, featuring replicas of India’s four sacred Hindu pilgrimages - Badrinath, Puri, Dwarka, and Rameshwaram alongside a massive Shiva statue.
Ravangla, another popular destination in South Sikkim, offers spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks. It is renowned for the Buddha Park, featuring a 130-foot statue of Buddha amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. The park is a peaceful spot for meditation and photography. Wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rare flora and fauna, including red pandas and Himalayan black bears. The sanctuary also offers trekking opportunities through its dense forests and rhododendron groves.
South Sikkim’s scenic tea estates, like Temi Tea Garden, add to its charm, offering visitors a chance to witness the tea-making process and enjoy fresh, aromatic teas. The district is also known for its traditional festivals and local cuisine, giving travelers a deeper insight into Sikkim’s vibrant culture.
The capital of South Sikkim, Namchi is a serene town known for its religious and scenic attractions. Situated at an altitude of 1,675 meters, it offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. The town is home to the towering Statue of Guru Padmasambhava at Samdruptse Hill and the famous Char Dham Complex, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site. Temi Tea Garden, Sikkim’s only tea estate, adds to Namchi’s charm. With its peaceful atmosphere, cultural richness, and spiritual significance, Namchi is a must-visit destination in Sikkim.
A peaceful town in South Sikkim, Ravangla is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and the Buddha Park, featuring a 130-foot statue of Buddha. The Ralang Monastery and Tashiding Monastery are amongst the top tourist attractions in Ravangla. The town is also a gateway for treks to Maenam Hill and Tendong Hill, offering nature walks and birdwatching opportunities.
A small village near Ravangla, Borong is known for its hot springs, trekking trails and scenic mountain views. Borong village is also considered to be a hotspot for birdwatchers as they can spot rare birds and several indigenous. Mount Kanchenjunga and peaks like Sinolchu and Pandim can be sighted from Borong.
It is said that Guru Rinpoche aka The Second Buddha taught Vajrayana Buddhism to Tibet, Bhutan and its surrounding areas. The Statue of Guru Padmasambhava is located at Samdruptse Hill near Namchi. It is a 118-foot tall structure that stands as a symbol of peace and spirituality. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The site is a major Buddhist pilgrimage destination.
Situated in Namchi, Siddheshwar Dham replicates the four sacred Hindu shrines—Badrinath, Rameswaram, Puri, and Dwarka. The complex also features a towering Shiva statue and various temples dedicated to different deities. This spiritual hub is a major attraction for Hindu pilgrims.
Tendong Hill, located near Ravangla, is a serene spot known for its panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range. It holds spiritual significance for the local Lepcha community and is an ideal place for trekking, birdwatching, and witnessing Sikkim’s rich flora and fauna. The hill offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
The only tea estate in Sikkim, Temi Tea Garden is renowned for producing premium 100 metric tons of organic tea annually. The estate’s rolling green slopes offer picturesque views of the Himalayas and surrounding landscapes. Visitors can explore the tea-making process, enjoy tea tastings, and soak in the tranquil beauty of the plantation.
Here are quick links to explore the Sikkim Tours Online website and find important information about Sikkim travel, tourism, and holiday packages.