South Sikkim

Namchi

78 kms from Gangtok, Namchi, literally translating as ‘top of the sky’ is the South district headquarters and fast emerging as a tourist destination. Set in a picturesque location, Namchi offers an unmatched view of the Khangchendzonga range and the Rangit valley. Here you can visit the Sherdup Choeling Monastery and the Dichen Choeling monastery. Around two kms from Namchi is the old Ngadak monastery which is now being renovated. Situated on a hill just above Ngadak monastery is the very attractive Rock Garden, which is full of rare flowers and plants and also offers breathtakingly beautiful views. 

Namchi hosts the very popular Namchi Mahotsav, a Tourism, Culture and Food Festival, every year in October. A flower festival is also held annually.

Samdrupste

On Samdruptse hill is installed the tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in the world. The 138 ft statue was unveiled in February 2004 and has since become an irresistible draw for tourists who come here to see Sikkim’s grand tribute to its Patron Saint. The statue which has been designed without a canopy can be seen from as far as Darjeeling and the India- Nepal border.

A two-kilometre long ropeway will soon connect Namchi to Samdruptse Hill. The Sikkim Helicopter service offers the ‘Aerial Darshan’ service which takes passengers on a helicopter ride for an aerial view of the statue. 

Siddheshvara Dhaam (Chaar Dhaam) at Solophok

A facsimile of the actual Chaar Dhaam, the architecture of this pilgrimage cum cultural site is unique that brings the four sacred pilgrimages of India at a single destination that includes the West as Dwarika, East Jagannath, North as Badrinath Dham and South as Rameshawaram. This colossal pilgrimage center boasts a 108 ft deity of Lord Shiva, sitting atop a platform which is further enclosed by the replicas of the 12 temples or the 12 ‘Lingas’, eminent part of the Chaar Dhaam spread across India. 

Shirdhi Sai Mandir at Assangthang

Temi Tea Estate

On a gentle hill slope that starts from Tendong Hill is Temi, the only tea garden in the state. Located amidst picturesque setting, Temi also offers great views. You can stop here awhile and watch the plucking of tea-leaves from the garden and the processing of tea in the factory. Temi tea is highly appreciated in the international market.
The path to Temi is itself very beautiful with waterfalls and green hills all along the way. You could also spend a night at the old British built Dak bungalow located just below the garden.

Tendong Hill

Overlooking Namchi is Tendong Hill, a prominent landmark of South Sikkim and one that is imbued with mythical significance for the Lepchas. Legend has it that during the great deluge when the whole world was flooded, the Lepchas living near Mount Tendong climbed to its top to escape the rising waters. Mt Tendong, which means ‘the upraised horn’ is said to have risen above the flood waters and saved the tribe. Even today the Lepchas have a special festival, Tendong Lho Rum Faat dedicated to Mt. Tendong.

You can trek from Namchi through a lush green forest up to Tendong Hill for a panoramic view of the plains of Bengal and the majestic Himalayan ranges.

Ravangla

Ravangla is one of the most popular tourist destination in South Sikkim. At an altitude of 7000 ft, located on a ridge between Maenam and Tendong Hill, Ravangla offers unmatched views of the Greater Himalayas. The beauty of its landscape and its location as a transit point to nearby destinations has made Ravangla a must-visit place.

Ravangla stages the Pang Lhabsol festival in a grand manner every year around August-September. The festivities last for three days, culminating in the traditional dances known as ‘Chaam’ on the last day.

8 kms on way to Damthang is the Rayong sunrise view point that offers spectacular views of the first rays of the sun falling on snow peaks. Visit the Ralong monastery as well as the Tibetan Carpet Centre. The traditionally designed and woven carpets available here are said to be the best you can buy anywhere.
In April Ravangla stages its own Tourism, Culture and Crafts Festival.

Kewzing

8 kms from Ravangla is Kewzing Village which offers the opportunity of experiencing the rural life in Sikkim. You can stay here with a local family in village home stays and experience the warmth of Sikkimese hospitality.
The Bon Monastery here is the only one of its kind in Sikkim and is a symbol of the determination of a community to preserve their religious traditions. Located 2 kms from Kewzing bazaar is the Mangbrue Gompa, which follows the Nyingmapa sect of buddhism. The invading Bhutanese army used this strategic location in the 19th century and the ruins of their bunkers and outposts can still be seen.

Tinkitam
This charming village is the home of Indian Soccer Captain, Baichung Bhutia. Located 6 kms from Ravangla, Tinkitam is worth a visit. The area is also the natural habitat of a rare species of orchid, Paphiopedilum Faireanum or ‘lady’s slipper’ as it is commonly known. Unlike most wild orchids which grow on trees, this orchid is terrestrial and flowers in October-November.

Maenam Hill

A 12 km trek from Ravangla through a thick forest of oak, chestnut, magnolia and rhododendron trees takes you to Maenam Hill, which at an altitude of 10,800 ft offers the most amazing scenes of scenic splendour. You can not only view the snowy Himalayan ranges but also sweeping scenes of the plains of Bengal. 
A short walk from here takes one to ‘Bhale Dhunga, a rocky spur resembling a rooster’s comb which offers some more great views.
3500 hectares of the hill comprises of the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary which is home to the Red Panda, Leopard Cat, Civet Cat, Blood Pheasant, Black Eagles and other animals of the temperate forest.

Borong and Ralang Hot Springs 
Borong and Ralong hot water springs are located within a distance of 7 kms from each other. Popular with visitors from all over the region, these natural spas are said to have strong curative powers. Ralang Cha-chu can be reached after an hour long walk from Ralong monastery while Borang Cha-chu is reached after a 7 km drive to Ralong and then a 40 min walk downhill. For overnight stay temporary huts are available but you have to carry your own bedding and cooking utensils.