Destinations

Destination Sikkim

Sikkim is the top most tours & travel destination in India. It is one of the most politically stable and peaceful place in India. This landlocked state is blessed with some of the most spectacular landscapes, flora and fauna making it a haven for adventure enthusiasts and naturalists. Lying at an elevation of 8,586 metres, the state’s highest point is the summit of Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak of the world. Sikkim tourism has lots to offer a discerning traveller. Foreigners here can visit Gangtok, Rumtek, Phodong, Pemayangtse and the Yuksom -Zongri trekking route on the basis of restricted area permits which can be obtained. There are numerous Lakes and Monasteries which make the hill station vibrant and lively. To experience complete rejuvenation, Sikkim is a perfect place to travel for holiday.

Namchi

Known for a large statue of Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche, Namchi is the identifier South Sikkim. Some 78kms from state capital Gangtok, Namchi is best associated with Buddhist monasteries and scenic locales. And not only are this, the view of the Rangeet Valley and the Kanchenjunga Peak the additional charming assets of the place. Also the closely located Temi Garden, which by the way is known for producing best quality tea in the world also make a tour to Namchi worth it.

Ravangla

Located on a ridge between Maenam and Tedong Hill, Ravangla is yet another attraction in South Sikkim. Ravangla is an ideal place to visit if you are seeking peace of mind and some fantastic panorama to be etched forever in your memories. At a short distance of about 8kms from Ravangla is Rayong, which is the best place to be if you are an early riser. It is a place from where you can witness the falling of first rays of the sun on snow peaks, not to mention the view is simply to die for. Apart from it, Ravangla is known for its Buddhist Monastery and the salubrious climate that can be enjoyed immensely during your summer vacations.

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is situated above the Tendong Hill and can be reached from Ravangla, which is at a distance of 26 kilometers. The sanctuary occupies an area of 36.43sq. km. The altitude of the sanctuary ranges between 2300 meters to 3263 meters. This sanctuary is famous for two reasons, trekking and rich forest with alpine Himalayan species of animals. This temperate forest is the home to Red Panda, Goral, Serow, Barking Deer, Marbled-Cat, Leopard-Cat, Civet-Cats, Blood Pheasant, Common Hill Partridge, Magpies, Black Eagle, Blue necked Pitta, Sunbirds and different other types of animals and birds.

Jorethang

A major town in South Sikkim, Jorethang sprawls on the foothills below which River Rangeet flows. Jorethang stands at an altitude of 300m above sea level and thus have temperate climate, which is quite pleasant. The town is situated on the way to Pelling and is known for its Akar Suspension Bridge. Some 400m north of the Bridge is a photogenic roadside that has a temple called Sisne Mandir. Within an hours drive from Jorethang you can reach a number of attractive places such as Hilley (for trek to Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary), Zoom, Chakung, Gelling, Chisopani and others.

Sikip

Situated on the bank of Rangeet River, Sikip is a perfect place for a holiday in South Sikkim. Away from the bustles and cradled in the lap of serene nature, Sikip is an angler’s paradise. And not only this, one can be able to avail the facility of rafting down the Rangeet River from here. Sounds interesting, eh? Adding to the allurement is the fact that you can visit Sikip anytime of the year and can obtain maximum fun by including camping in your plan. Enjoy the scenic landscape and the tranquility and come back home as a better person.

Borong

A scenic village, Borong is an ideal trekking destination in South Sikkim. Overlooking the mighty mountains, this village is blessed with a beautiful landscape and spectacular views. The trek begins from Namchi and then crossing Tendong, Rabong and Maenam, it reaches the final destination of Borong. One can catch a glimpse of some the majestic Mt. Kanchenjungha and peaks like Sinolchu, Narsingh and Pandim and a spectacular sight of sunrise from the snow-covered mountains is also a guarantee.

Tendong Hill

Tendong again is a trekking destination in South Sikkim. Situated above the Damthang, Tendong Hill is a small flat stretch of land that is surrounded by lush green forest. It is believed that Lepcha Tribe of Sikkim offer worship in the forests of Tendong. Historically, this place was a hermitage for the Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the scenic grandeur. It is an ideal place to enjoy the nature’s beauty and view of the parts of the plains of West Bengal. One can trek Tendong Hill by seeking some guidance from the locals. Borong, Maenam, Temi Tea estate are few places close to Tendong.

Gurudongmar Lake

The lake fed by glaciers is located to the north of the Kangchengyao range in a high plateau area connected with the Tibetan Plateau. The lake provides one of the source streams which joins the Tso Lahmu and then form the source of Teesta River. China is 5 km (3.1 mi) to the border on the east. However, the size of the lake appears small at the place where the devotees offer worship but the larger part of the lake is not visible due to hilly topography obstructing the complete view at this location. The area surrounding the lake, also known as Gurudongmar, is inhabited by Yaks, blue sheep and other wildlife of high altitude.

Changu Lake

A winding road through rugged mountain terrain and sharp cliffs takes you to Tsomgo, which means source of the water in Bhutia language. The lake derives its water from the melting snows of the mountains surrounding the lake. Of legendary beauty, the lake looks different at different seasons. In winter the placid lake remains frozen with the area around it covered in snow while in late spring the profusion of flowers in bloom adds a riot of colours around the lake. The lake is associated with many myths and legends and is revered by the Sikkimese as sacred.

Yumthang Valley

Yumthang Valley is a beautiful valley situated in north Sikkim. It sits at an elevation of 3,500 metres above sea-level, so naturally home to many beautiful Himalayan flowers. It is rightfully called a valley of flowers, although that name is associated with the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand. Yumthang Valley is extremely picturesque, with green slopes covered with trees, yaks grazing in the flower-spangled grassy plains below, and a river flowing right through the valley. The serene and tranquil air of the Valley cannot be described in words. A single visit there can leave the visitor in an enchanted state for weeks.