Buddha Park

Overview

Buddha Park, located in a tiny tourist town in the southern portion of Sikkim, is a must-see for all visitors. This well-known attraction serves as a significant landmark for the Buddhist community; it was built in 2006 to commemorate Lord Gautama Buddha’s 2550th birthday. Ravangla was chosen to build the 130-foot-high monument. This magnificent beauty, surrounded by a beautiful eco garden, also aids in the promotion of pilgrimage tourism in Sikkim. Tinkers and foreign and domestic visitors alike are nearly completely engulfed by tinkers and tourists appreciating the visual attractiveness of the memorial and its surroundings. Cho Djo Lake is also placed within the compound, making it a more appealing destination.

Things to do & see

This park is a beautiful spot to visit since it is surrounded by lush plants, tranquil settings, and a large pathway for tourists. You can see the mountains and the Cho Djo Lake in one continuous vista from here. This location is of enormous spiritual significance, and the atmosphere contributes to the visitors’ holy experience. A meditation centre, a museum, and a Buddhist conclave are all located near the park.

Best time to visit

From April to June is the greatest season to visit Buddha Park, but September to November is also a good time to see the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains and the magnificent flowers blossoming in the park.

How to reach

Buddha Park is located in Ravangla, and it is a short walk from the town centre. It is, however, around 80 kilometres from Gangtok, the capital. All major towns in Sikkim have taxi services that can take you to Buddha Park.

Bon Monastery

Overview

Bon Monastery, also known as Bon Yung Dung Monastery, is located near Kewzing, Sikkim, and offers a spectacular view of the hills and valleys of southern Sikkim. It is a must-see destination since it is Sikkim’s sole Bon Sect monastery. In actuality, India only has two Bon Monasteries: one in Kewzing, Sikkim, and the other in Solan, Himachal Pradesh. This monastery was founded in 1980 by the late Yung Dung Tsultrim, and it also houses an institution that provides Bon teachings to young pupils from low-income households.

Things to do & see

The echoes of chants and youngsters reading inside the monastery give the monastery a captivating aura. You may visit the only Bon Monastery in Sikkim and see the various paintings of the Bon Demonical Buddha and Bon Deity that are on exhibit within.

Best time to visit

Summer is the greatest time to visit Bon Monastery in Kewzing, which runs from March through June.

How to reach

This monastery is accessible by taxi from all of Sikkim’s major cities. It’s 3.2 kilometres from Kewzing’s major town and 80 kilometres from Gangtok, the state capital.

Ralang Monastery

Overview

This Buddhist monastery of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism is about 6 kilometres from Ravangla. According to legend, the 9th Karmapa tossed grains from his home in Tiber during the Rabney, and the spot where the grains fell became the site of Ralang Monastery.

This monastery contains a large collection of thangkas and paintings. It also hosts the yearly Pang Lhabsol festival, during which Mount Kangchenjunga is revered. This festival begins on the 15th day of the Buddhist calendar’s 7th month (August-September) and finishes on the 29th day of the Buddhist calendar’s 10th month (October-November) (December). This monastery is especially known for its annual Mahakala Dance, which takes place in November.

Ralong Hot Springs

Overview

Ralong Hot Springs, also known as ‘Ralang Cha-Chu’ by the locals, is located near Ravangla in South Sikkim. Natural steaming saunas with scenic attractiveness, these pools of sulphurous water have the medicinal capacity to heal various skin problems. Apart from that, Ralong Hot Springs has religious importance due to its proximity to one of Sikkim’s sacred caves. This location is also a trekker’s paradise, with several exciting treks and breathtaking vistas of carpeted hills all around. For those searching for a place to stay the night, there are trekker’s shacks nearby. Tourists may also go birding and chase a variety of colourful butterflies.

Things to do & see

Because Ralong and Borong Hot Springs are just 7 kilometres apart, one cannot visit one without seeing the other. Then there’s Ralong Monastery, which is only a half-hour walk away. Many small villages in Ravangla, such as Narsing Village, Borong Village, Kewzing Village, and others, may be visited to learn about their traditional way of life and culture. The Temi Tea Garden in Ravangla is a must-see in Sikkim if you want to see the finest tea brand being processed in the middle of nature. Ravangla offers adventurers hikes such as Tendong Hill and Maenam Hill, as well as a diversion to see the animals at the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and Tendong State Biodiversity Park. Apart from these, the Rimbi Waterfalls, Sewaro Rock Garden, Khecheopalri Lake, Rabdentse Ruins, and Khangchendzonga Waterfalls are also prominent tourist attractions in Pelling that are easily accessible from Ralong Hot Spring. There are a few prominent Buddhist monasteries hidden in the remote highlands of Pelling, such as Sang Da Choeling Monastery and Pemayangtse Monastery, for peace-seekers, and monasteries such as Ralang Monastery, Bon Monastery, and Tashiding Monastery may be visited while in Ravangla.

How to reach

From large cities such as Namchi, Pelling, Pelling, or Gangtok, one may easily acquire a bus or shared taxi to Ralong Hot Spring. After arriving at Ravangla, a private taxi may be hired to take you to the spring. Ralong Hot Spring is about an hour’s walk from Ralong Monastery, and hikers may enjoy the gorgeous routes on foot.

Best time to visit

The greatest time to visit Ralong Hot Spring is from March to May, when the temperature is mild and the town offers stunning vistas of orchids and rhododendrons. It is open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day of the week (including holidays).

Temi Tea Estate

Overview

The Temi Garden, in the state of Sikkim, is one of the most beautiful tea gardens in North-Eastern India. It is one of the top tea farms in the world, and it is located in Ravangla. This tea garden was established by the Government of Sikkim in the year 1969. It has a 440-acre footprint and employs roughly 450 people. The staff labour tirelessly to create 100 metric tonnes of organic tea each year. The Temi Tea Garden’s high-quality tea has made it big on the worldwide market. Tourists may enjoy a nice picturesque escape at this farm.

The Temi Tea plantation employs solely organic fertilisers in the cultivation of tea, avoiding the use of agrochemicals. The journey to this tea garden is only a teaser for its breathtaking splendour. The walkway is lined with cherry blossoms, and going through it transports you to a hazy pink realm scented with a variety of tea leaves. You may even visit the factory to learn about the tea-making process. If you’re lucky, you could obtain some to try as samples. The Temi Tea estate even features a cottage that acts as a residence for tourists visiting the garden, courtesy of Sikkim’s government.

History of Temi Tea Garden

Sherpa Village, which had ten acres of nurseries administered by the Forest Department, existed prior to the formation of this estate. These nurseries surrounding the Missionary Building, which functioned as the Divisional Forest Officer’s office and home. During the British colonial period in India, this structure served as a signpost for Scottish missionaries. It was acquired by the Sikkim government in 1954. The government transformed the land into the Temi Tea Estate in 1969. The Tendong hill range includes the land slopes. The activities are now conducted in accordance with the instructions of the Tea Board, a state government organisation.

Flora in Temi Tea Garden

Best Time To Visit Temi Tea Garden

The months of March to May are ideal for visiting the Temi Tea Estate since the sun is not as harsh on the skin. As a result, the temperature is nice, and the area is adorned with vivid rhododendron and orchid fields.

After May, November is an excellent time to visit the garden and appreciate its splendour. The area is prone to showers before November (July-October) and snowfall after November (December-February). As a result, you should go when the cherry blossoms are at their peak and the green countryside looks to be more fresh, preparing for the impending season of frost and snow.

How To Reach Temi Tea Garden

The Temi Tea Garden is located in Ravangla and may be reached via taxi or bus. Namchi, the nearest town, is 21 kilometres distant from the tea farm. It takes an hour to go to the ultimate destination from here.

Maenam Hill

Overview

Maenam Hill, at an elevation of 3140 metres, is well-known for providing the best views of the lushly wooded slopes, which contrast with the gleaming Mt. Khangchendzonga behind them. On a clear day, its rich green landscapes, adorned with meandering routes for hikers, provide a panoramic view of the entire beautiful town and even beyond. Maenam Hill is the highest of all the hills that run parallel to Sikkim’s two major rivers, the Teesta and the Rangeet. Despite its dense forest, it is home to a number of endangered Himalayan animals and birds. The tourists are inspired to get lost in the mesmerising beauty of the surroundings and become one with nature by the tranquil and contemplative circumstances.

Things to do & see

The excursions to Maenam Hill are paired with a visit to the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, where unique Himalayan birds and animals can be seen in their native habitat. Tendong State Biodiversity Park, which can be visited after exploring the attractive pathways of Tendong Hill, adds to the whole experience. Tourists are invited to stay in Ravangla’s culturally distinct villages, such as Narsing Village, Borong Village, Kewzing Village, and others, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of living with them and learning about their unique lifestyle and customs. Take a bath in the sulphurous water of Ralong and Borong Hot Springs to experience its healing properties. There are colourful monasteries filled with tranquillity for those seeking quiet, such as Ralang Monastery, Bon Monastery, and Tashiding Monastery. The Temi Tea Estate, which is surrounded by natural beauty and scented with the best tea, is a must-see for Sikkim tourists. Other prominent tourist attractions in Pelling include the Rimbi Waterfalls, Sewaro Rock Garden, Khecheopalri Lake, Rabdentse Ruins, Khangchendzonga Waterfalls, Sang Da Choeling Monastery, and Pemayangtse Monastery.

How to reach

To go to Maenam, you may take a normal bus or a shared cab from Namchi. If you want to experience the picturesque splendour of Namchi by stopping at random intervals, you can book a private cab from Namchi.

Best time to visit

The months of March to May have the ideal weather for trekking to Maenam Hill. The walkways will be lined with well-kept trees and surrounded by stunning vistas of orchids and rhododendrons. Before beginning the walk, one must first obtain a permit from the forest office department.

Borong

Overview

Borong is a little lovely hamlet in South Sikkim near Ravangla that has lately acquired recognition as a result of the growing popularity of village tourism and eco-tourism activities. Borong is a wonderful destination for individuals seeking peace and tranquillity, with the Himalayan Mountains as a backdrop.

Borong, a picturesque town in South Sikkim at an elevation of 5800 feet, is ideal for nature enthusiasts. Borong offers a peaceful stay in cottages surrounded on all sides by mountainous trees with a lovely view of the snow-capped Himalayan Mountains. When the light touches the snow peaks at morning, it s a sight that is well worth the effort of travelling to Borong. You may also go sight-seeing at the Narsingh, Sinolchu, and Pandim peaks, where you can take in the breathtaking surroundings while listening to the chirping of rare species like the black magpie, scarlet minivet, and Himalayan pheasants. Apart from the breathtaking beauty, there are other tourist attractions where you may get a peek of and learn about Borong’s local culture.

Best Time To Visit Borong

Borong’s natural beauty may be enjoyed at any time of year. If you want to see the event on the Rangeet River’s bank, though, you should go to Borong in February.

Tips For Visiting Borong

Always travel with a tour guide. Because the vegetation is fragile here, stick to the approved pathways. Do not litter and dispose of trash in appropriate areas. Pollutants of all kinds should be kept out of lakes. Before taking a picture, be sure you have permission. It is usual to give a contribution at a monastery and to make a clockwise loop around shrines. Do not purchase endangered species or antiquities.

How to reach Borong

• Air: Flights to Bagdogra Airport, which is the closest airport to Borong, are available. It is situated in the state of West Bengal. You’ll have to catch a train to Sikkim from there.
• Rail: Borong is served by the New Jalpaiguri railway station. Then, from the station, you must take a cab to Borong through Ravangla.
• Road: From Siliguri bus station, proceed to Jorethang or Sing tam and then to Borong. Borong is also accessible by automobile from Pelling, Gangtok, or Rinchenpong.

Kewzing Village

Overview

Kewzing Village, near Ravangla in South Sikkim, is located at an elevation of 1402 metres and offers beautiful views of Mt. Narsing and Mt. Kabru. This lovely village is situated away from the hustle and bustle of city life on a remote hill covered in dense chestnut woodland. The Lepchas live there, preserving their colourful culture and simplicity while actively engaging in the popularisation of rural tourism via the efforts of the Kewzing Tourism Development Committee [KTDC] and a local NGO, Sikkim Development Foundation (SDF). It offers the appealing possibility to stay in one of the local households and enjoy their warm hospitality as well as rural life. Kewzing Village provides a safe sanctuary for a variety of birds and animals that are thriving in their natural environment. One feels renewed and invigorated after visiting this natural wonderland, beholding the spectacular vistas of the mountains beneath the painted sky.

Things to do & see

The location of this location is surrounded on all sides by monasteries. The Bon Monastery, Tashiding monastery in the south-west, Mangbrue and Pemayangtse Monastery in the west, Ralong and Ravangla monastery in the southeast, and Doling and Kyosing Monastery in the east are all around 2 kilometres apart. Few villages nearby, such as Doling Village, Barfung Village, Bakhim Village, and Mambru Village, may be visited to learn about rural life and culture. The Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and Tendong State Biodiversity Park are like frosting on the cake for wildlife enthusiasts who are experiencing the fascinating hikes of Tendong Hill and Maenam Hill, all of which are only 34 kilometres from Kewzing town. History aficionados may delve into the past by visiting the Khandosangphu and Sharchog Bephug caves, as well as the neighbouring Ralong and Borong Hot Springs, which are only 7 kilometres apart. Temi Tea Estate, Sikkim’s only tea garden, is a popular tourist destination due to its naturally beautiful settings and the opportunity to learn about tea processing. Rimbi Waterfalls, Sewaro Rock Garden, Khecheopalri Lake, Rabdentse Ruins, and Khangchendzonga Waterfalls are just a few of Pelling’s prominent tourist attractions that are near to Kewzing Village.

How to reach

The nearest village to Ravangla is Kewzing Village, which is located on the legship and Ravangla Highway (9 km). Legship, on the other hand, is only approximately 16 kilometres away. From large towns like as Namchi, Pelling, or Gangtok, Ravangla may be accessed by bus or shared taxi. From there, a private cab may be hired to take you to Kewzing.

Best time to visit

During the months of March to May, Kewzing Village has pleasant weather. As a result, now is the greatest time to visit this lovely village and enjoy its peacefulness.

Rayong Sunrise View Point

Overview

Prepare to savour every minute when visiting Rayong Sunrise View Point, as this location offers spectacular views. Ravangla, located in Sikkim’s southern region, attracts a large number of visitors from near and far. This is a renowned tourist attraction because it beautifully exhibits the breathtaking views of the Singalila and Chola ranges. Many people go to the vantage point before the sun rises to catch a glimpse of the magnificent golden sunrise. As the sun rises above Bhutan’s Chola Range, the light reveals a spectacular vista of peaks such as Mt. Narsing, Kabur, Jopuno, Rathong, and Pandim.

Things to do & see

This prominent Ravangla attraction is a must-see for those who want to see the dawn and Himalayan peaks. Trekking to areas like Deorali Dara, Tinkitam, and Gholey Bhir are among the adventurous activities available in this area.

Best time to visit

Rayong Sunrise View Point is best visited during the spring-summer season, from March to June. The month of September is also an excellent time to visit this site.

How to reach

About eight kilometres from Ravangla lies Rayong Sunrise View Point. Taxis are accessible from Ravangla and other main cities in Sikkim to travel to this spot.