South Sikkim

South Sikkim Overview

The South district in Sikkim is now developing fast as a tourist destination. South has a very abundant potentiality in attracting tourists with its famous picturesque flora & fauna, cultural heritage, historical monuments, etc. Various destinations in South district which tourist can enjoy are Namchi, Ravangla, Temi Tea Garden, Sikip and Jorethang. Namchi is 80 kilometers from Gangtok and nearly 110 kilometers from Siliguri. It is situated at an elevation of 4300 feet. This is a good destination for quite short stay and village excursions.

Map Overview

Place To Visit

Nearly 72 kilometers from Gangtok near Namchi in South Sikkim is Samdrupfse which means in Bhutia language "The Wish Fulfilling Hill". At 135 feet unique statue of Guru Padmasambhava is installed at the top of Samdruptse. His Holiness the Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of the statue on 22nd October, 1997. It is said to be the highest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in the world. It took 1000 labourers and scores of experienced engineers and highly skilled architects and sculptors nearly took three years to complete this awe inspiring and towering statue. A two section Ropeway from Namchi to Samdruptse will be commissioned within two years. It will pass through the Rock Garden.
The Buddha Park of Ravangla, also known as Tathagata Tsal, is situated near Rabong in South Sikkim district, Sikkim, India. It was constructed between 2006 and 2013 and features a 130-foot high statue of the Buddha as its centerpiece.
Located between Namchi town and Samdruptse, this popular garden has many attractive plants, flowers and species of trees. A number of waiting sheds, view points and water bodies along its footpaths have been provided. A neat and clean cafeteria serves the tourists and visitors well.
Namchi, meaning 'Sky High', nestled among the hills at an elevation of 4400 feet. commands a panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. This Headquarters of the South District is fast developing into a tourist destination with its immense potential for all round tourist activities. It is about 78 kilometers from Gangtok and 100 kilometers from Siliguri. A 108 feet high statue of Lord Sniva with replicas of four 'Dhams' is getting completed at Solophok, near Namchi.
Above Damthang, overlooking Namchi, there is a small flat stretch of land at an altitude of 8530 feet surrounded by lush green ancient forest which is popularly known as Tendong Hill. Historically, this has been a place to rest for Buddhist Lamas who spent years in meditation amidst the silent scenic grandeur.
Situated at an altitude of 10300 feet the scenic view from this height is, perhaps, unmatched in this part of the world. Mount Khang – chen - Dzonga and its surrounding ranges loom above to dwarf the richly forested and rugged hills. On a clear sunny day, it is possible to see the plains of Bengal spanning across Kalimpong and Darjeeling hills in the South and right across the Indo - China border towards the North. A short distance away is the legendry Bhaley Dunga,
Facing the snow-capped mountains is Borong, motor able from Rabong or by a trek via Maenam. A picturesque village, its beautiful landscape and magnificent view is also host to the hot spring, 'Borong Tsa Chu'. The trek trail, originating from Namchi or Damthang to Tendong - Rabong - Maenam – Borong - 5 to 6 days is one of the most interesting trails scaling all the hill tops along the trekker can continue to Tashiding or terminate at Borong and then drive back to Rabong.
Flower exhibitions are organized twice a year at Namchi during the months of February - March and October. One can see the rare species of orchids with a riot of colours. A large flower pavilion with basic amenities, food, entertainment and craft display centers etc. is being constructed to boost flower production in the area.