| |
|
|
| |
SOUTH SIKKIM- Places of Tourist Interest |
|
| |
Namchi
Namchi, meaning 'Sky High', nestled
among the hills at an elevation of 5,500 ft commands panoramic view
of the snow-capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. Atop
Samdruptse hilltop near Namchi, recently erected is the worlds
tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of both
Hindus and the Buddhist. |
|
| |
Temi
Tea Garden
The one and only tea estate existing in
the State produces one of the top quality teas in the international
market. The tea garden is spread out on a gentle hill slope
originating from the Tendong Hill and provides a magnificent view
for the surrounding villages. The visit to the fact" could be an eye
opener for those wanting to know more about the tea processing
methods. |
|
| |
Samdruptse
At a height of 135 feet, this
colossal statue of the Buddhist Patron Saint of Sikkim is said to be
the biggest of its kind in the world. Located in the woods of
Samdruptse just four kilometers above Namchi, this newly erected
monument is now a popular pilgrimage site for local devotees. |
|
| |
Tendong Hill
Above Damthang, overlooking South District Headquarter town
Namtse, there is a small flat stretch of land at an altitude of
8530 ft.,surrounded by lush green ancient forest which is
popularly known as the Tendong Hill. Historically, this has been
a place of recluse for Buddhist Lamas who spend years in
meditation amidst the silent scenic grandeur. The view from the
top of the Tendong Hill is something to be cherished and enjoyed
as it spans across plains of Bengal to the majestic heights of
the Himalayan Ranges. One can also proceed to Namtse by trekking
via Tendong Hill following the traditional route used in the old
days. Such trekking is also possible throughout the year except
during monsoons, that is if one is scared of ubiquitous leaches.
|
|
| |
Ravangla
At the base of Maenam Hill is Ravangla, a
small township and transit to various tourist destinations in
South Sikkim and West Sikkim . It is also an upcoming tourist
spot, and transit point for trekkers to Maenam Hill and Borong.
There are accommodation facilities and numerous short nature
trails. A trek down to the sacred cave "Shar Chok Bephu", one of
the holiest caves in Sikkim.. |
|
| |
Maenam Hill
Maenam towers above Tendong Hill on the other side overlooking
the Ravangla Bazar settlement. situated at an altitude of 10,300
ft., the scenic view from this height is, perhaps, unmatched in
this part of the world. The trek from Maenam from Ravangla takes
about 4 hrs. and from Maenam Hill-Top one has the option to take
the gentle trek to Borong village |
|
| |
Borong
Facing the snow-capped mountains is Borong motorable from
Ravangla or a trek via Maenam. A picturesque village with
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-Ravangla-Maenam-Borong (5 to 6 days) is
one of the most interesting trials scaling the hill tops along
the route. |
|
| |
|
|