You might be looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination that is breathtakingly beautiful. So, naturally, you’ll want to add South Sikkim to your list. Here are top 10 best places to visit in South Sikkim
With its tall mountains, green valleys, and clear lakes, it’s no surprise that this hidden gem is becoming a popular place for tourists. Sikkim is a northeastern Indian state bordered by Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal.
Nowhere in India will you find such a diverse range of cultures, religions, and languages as in Sikkim. It has snow-capped mountains, alpine forests, and lush valleys.
History Of South Sikkim
South Sikkim is a district in the Indian state of Sikkim. It was created out of North Sikkim’s south on May 4, 1992.
The district has an area of 1,399 square kilometers (541 square mi) and a population of 93,695 per the 2011 census. Namchi is the capital of South Sikkim.
South and North Sikkim were originally part of the Sikkim Kingdom, which India took over in 1975. Phuntsog Namgyal formed the kingdom in 1642.
Sikkim thrived economically and militarily under him and his successors, growing at the cost of neighboring kingdoms.
Why Should You Visit South Sikkim?
South Sikkim is a beautiful and relatively unknown destination in India. Here are some good reasons to go to South Sikkim:
1. To experience genuine Indian hospitality – South Sikkim has some of the friendliest and most welcoming people you will ever meet. They will go above and beyond to ensure you are comfortable and have an authentic experience.
2. To see amazing views of the Himalayas – South Sikkim has some of India’s best views of the Himalayan mountains. Make sure to bring your camera!
3. To learn about Tibetan culture – South Sikkim is home to many Tibetan refugees who brought their culture. You can learn about Tibetan Buddhism, try traditional foods, and shop for handicrafts made by local artisans.
10 Best Places To Visit In South Sikkim
Here are top 10 best places to visit in South Sikkim:
1. Namchi
Namchi is a town in South Sikkim, India. It is the district headquarters of the Sikkim district.
Namchi means “sky-high” in Tibetan. The town is situated at an altitude of 1,675 meters (5,495 feet).
Forests and mountains surround it. Namchi is home to the Char Dham Temple, a replica of the four holy sites of Hinduism – Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram. The temple was built in 1997 by His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Namchi also has a Museum of Tibetan Art and Culture, which houses a collection of Tibetan art and artifacts. The museum opened in 2010 with the help of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
2. Ravangla Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In South Sikkim
Ravangla is a beautiful town in South Sikkim. It is in the foothills of the Himalayas. Lush forests and snow-capped mountains surround Ravangla, and tourists can do many different things there.
Ravangla offers trekking, hiking, bird viewing, and astronomy. In addition, the town’s monasteries and temples make it a great place to learn about Sikkim’s history.
3. Borong
Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Borong is a hidden gem in south Sikkim. Lush green mountains and pristine forests surround Borong.
It’s the perfect location to escape the city’s noise and chaos.
Some of the most beautiful views in Sikkim are in this small village.
The best time to visit Borong is between March and May when the flowers bloom, and the weather is perfect for hiking and exploration.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, Borong has something for everyone. So come and discover this South Sikkim hidden gem!
4. Statue of Guru Rinpoche
Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, is a revered 8th-century Buddhist saint. People from across the globe visit a Guru Rinpoche monument in South Sikkim, India.
The statue is 12 feet tall and made of bronze. It was commissioned by the government of Sikkim and created by a Nepalese artist.
It was installed in October 2016, and since then, it has become a popular tourist destination.
Guru Rinpoche is believed to be the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, and his teachings are still followed by many people today. The statue is a reminder of his important legacy.
5. Siddheshwara Dham Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In South Sikkim
Siddheshwara Dham is a Hindu temple located in south Sikkim. The temple is one of the most popular places to visit.
It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is 2,000 meters (6,600 feet) and offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.
Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful architecture and sculptures that adorn the temple.
6. Tendong Hill
Tendong Hill is a South Sikkim hidden treasure. This position offers stunning views of the valley below and the snow-capped mountains in the distance.
The hill is also home to various flora and fauna, making it a perfect place for nature lovers. Moreover, Tendong Hill is a great place to make memories because of its beautiful scenery and many things to do.
7. Temi Tea Garden Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In South Sikkim
South Sikkim is home to the Temi Tea Garden, the only tea garden in the state. The garden covers an area of 200 hectares and produces around 1.5 million kilograms of tea per year.
The garden was established in 1969 by the late Mr. Laldenga, the Chief Minister of Sikkim at that time. This garden is 1,500 meters above sea level and has a cool climate, ideal for growing tea.
The minerals in the soil give the tea grown in the garden a unique taste and make it of high quality. The garden also has a beautiful view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the highest peak in India.
8. Ralang Monastery Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In South Sikkim
Ralang Monastery is one of Tibetan Buddhism’s most prominent monasteries. The 12th-century monastery houses about 600 monks.
Ralang Monastery is a beautiful and serene place surrounded by mountains and forests. It is a very peaceful place where you can escape the noise and chaos of everyday life.
The monastery is open year-round and offers meditation, prayer, and Tibetan language training. Ralang Monastery is ideal for spiritual retreats and experiencing Tibetan culture.
9. Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
The Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary in south Sikkim is perfect for those who love nature and wildlife. The sanctuary is home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and Tibetan wolves.
The sanctuary features several species, including the almost-extinct rufous-necked hornbill. Maenam Fauna Sanctuary has stunning landscapes and a variety of wildlife.
10. Buddha Park Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In South Sikkim
Buddha Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations. The park is home to a 40-foot-tall statue of Lord Buddha and is a serene place for picnics and nature walks.
The park was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Sikkim, Pawan Chamling, in 1996. The statue of Lord Buddha at the park is a symbol of peace and harmony.
The park also has a museum that displays Buddhist cultural artifacts.
Buddha Park is a must-visit place for all tourists visiting South Sikkim. The peaceful atmosphere and the serenity of the site will leave you spellbound.
How To Travel Safely In South Sikkim?
When traveling to South Sikkim, it is essential to take some safety precautions. Here are some safety tips for traveling in this beautiful area:
1. Avoid traveling during the monsoon season. Heavy rains can cause landslides and flooding, making travel very dangerous.
2. If you must travel during the monsoon season, check the weather forecast before setting out. And always carry a flashlight and extra batteries in case you get stranded.
3. When trekking or hiking, wear proper footwear and follow marked trails. Don’t take shortcuts, as this can increase your risk of getting lost or injured.
4. Be aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting remote villages. Don’t accept rides from strangers or go off with someone you don’t know well.
Is South Sikkim A Costly Place To Visit?
Yes, South Sikkim is an expensive place to visit, but it is worth it! The beauty, people, and cuisine make it a location everyone should visit at least once.
While the cost of living is high, there are ways to save money by choosing cheaper accommodation options and eating at local restaurants.
With some planning, your trip to South Sikkim will be an unforgettable and affordable experience!
How Much Does The Average Hotel Cost In South Sikkim?
Hotels in South Sikkim offer a wide range of prices, making it easy to find one that fits your budget. A hotel in South Sikkim costs about Rs 2,500 per night on average.
However, some hotels charge as little as Rs 1,000 per night. So if you want to stay in a luxurious hotel, expect to pay more than Rs 5,000 per night.
No matter what your budget is, you’ll be able to find a hotel in South Sikkim that meets your needs.
What Can You Buy From South Sikkim?
South Sikkim is a beautiful and secluded region in India. But what can you buy while you’re there? Here are a few ideas:
1. Traditional Sikkimese Clothing: From colorful traditional dresses to warm woolen shawls, you can find some beautiful clothing from South Sikkim.
2. Handicrafts: Many talented local artisans in South Sikkim make some stunning handicrafts. Whether you’re looking for carved wooden masks or delicate silver jewelry, you’ll be able to find it here.
3. Local food: South Sikkim is home to some delicious local dishes you’ll want to try while there.
Best Time To Visit South Sikkim
South Sikkim is best visited between October and November. This is the peak season for tourism in Sikkim, and the weather is pleasant and relaxed.
From December to February, the weather is cold and snowy, making it difficult to get around. March to May is springtime, and the weather is again pleasant and calm.
June to September is the monsoon season when heavy rains make travel difficult.
Conclusion
In conclusion, South Sikkim is a fantastic place to visit with its natural beauty, rich culture, and friendly people. It’s a spot where you can unwind and appreciate the little things in life.
So, South Sikkim is the ideal location if you’re seeking a spot to disconnect.
Nayana is passionate about discovering the most magnificent places to visit in India! She also loves to uncover the most incredible sights and capture her experiences in her writing through TouristPanda.com.