Ravangla
Serene High Altitude Town: Located at 7,000 feet, Ravangla acts as a buffer between Gangtok and Pelling, offering a quiet retreat with misty landscapes. Religious Landmark: The town is globally famous for the Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal), which features a massive 130-foot copper statue of Lord Bud dha. Natural Splendor: It provides a majestic view of peaks like Mt. Narsing and Mt. Kabru, and is surrounded by the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary. Cultural Fusion: The area is a melting pot of Bhutia and Lepcha cultures, visible in the local festivals, food, and the nearby Ralong Monastery.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1-2 DaysPlace Type:
Pilgrimage / NatureEntry Fees:
Park Entry: Buddha Park has an entry fee of around 50 INR per person for maintenance.
Camera Fees: Nominal charges may apply for professional video equipment in certain monastic areas. ...Park Entry: Buddha Park has an entry fee of around 50 INR per person for maintenance.
Camera Fees: Nominal charges may apply for professional video equipment in certain monastic areas.Timing:
Operating Hours: Most parks and monasteries are open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
Best Visit Time: October to June is preferred for clear weather and pleasant temperatures. ...Operating Hours: Most parks and monasteries are open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily.
Best Visit Time: October to June is preferred for clear weather and pleasant temperatures.Special Events:
Pang Lhabsol: A festival unique to Sikkim celebrating the protector deity of the state, often held in August/September.
Losar: The Tibetan New Year celebrated with traditional music and special food across all local households. ...Pang Lhabsol: A festival unique to Sikkim celebrating the protector deity of the state, often held in August/September.
Losar: The Tibetan New Year celebrated with traditional music and special food across all local households.Best Photo Spots:
Cho-Dzo Lake: A small lake reflecting the mountains, perfect for landscape photography enthusiasts.
Buddha Statue: Best photographed during sunset when the golden light hits the copper surface. ...Cho-Dzo Lake: A small lake reflecting the mountains, perfect for landscape photography enthusiasts.
Buddha Statue: Best photographed during sunset when the golden light hits the copper surface.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
The Ralang Monasteries, comprising the old and the new, are significant Buddhist monasteries located near Ravangla. The Old Ralang Monastery is historically important, while the New Ralang Monastery is larger and more recently constructed. Both monasteries belong to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism and house impressive collections of Buddhist art, including thangkas, statues, and murals. The annual Pang Lhabsol festival is celebrated with great fervor at the New Ralang Monastery. The serene atmosphere and the intricate artwork make these monasteries a must-visit for those interested in Buddhist culture and spirituality.
The hills and forests surrounding Ravangla offer several trekking opportunities for varying fitness levels. Short hikes to viewpoints like Rayong or longer treks into the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary provide a chance to explore the natural beauty of South Sikkim up close. These trails often pass through rhododendron forests (best during spring), offer panoramic mountain views, and the possibility of encountering local flora and fauna. Hiring a local guide is recommended for safety and to enhance the trekking experience. Permits may be required for certain trails, especially within protected areas.
Rayong Sunrise View Point offers breathtaking views of the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga range. Situated at a high vantage point, it provides an unobstructed panorama of the snow-capped peaks bathed in the golden light of the rising sun. It's a photographer's delight and a must-visit for nature lovers. The crisp morning air and the tranquil atmosphere add to the experience. The viewpoint is accessible by road and might involve a short walk from the parking area.
Kitam Bird Sanctuary, located in the Rangit River valley, is a haven for birdwatchers. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of avian species, including many endemic to the Eastern Himalayas. Exploring the trails within the sanctuary offers excellent opportunities for bird sightings. Hiring a local guide with expertise in bird identification is highly recommended for a rewarding experience. The lush forests and the riverine habitat support a rich variety of birdlife.
Revisiting Namchi from Ravangla allows for a more detailed exploration of its attractions, including the Chardham complex, the Samdruptse statue, and the Namchi Rock Garden. The town's spiritual significance and panoramic views make it a compelling destination. You can spend more time at each site and perhaps explore the local markets.
Soreng, being a border town with Nepal, offers a unique cultural and commercial experience. While the town itself might not have traditional tourist attractions, exploring the border area (with necessary permissions and respecting regulations) can be interesting. You can witness the cross-border trade activities and observe the interaction between the two nations. The local markets in Soreng often have a mix of Indian and Nepali goods. It's an opportunity to experience the life and culture of a border town in the Himalayas.
Pelling, with its stunning Kanchenjunga views and attractions like Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins, is easily accessible from Ravangla. You can plan a day trip or an overnight stay to explore Pelling's highlights.Show All
Temi Tea Garden, Sikkim's only tea estate, offers picturesque landscapes of rolling green hills covered in tea bushes. Visitors can take guided tours of the garden, learn about tea processing, and enjoy fresh Temi tea. The garden also provides stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. A heritage bungalow within the estate offers accommodation for those seeking a unique experience. The serene environment and the aroma of tea make it a refreshing destination.Information
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Why Famous:
Tathagata Tsal: Known for the iconic Buddha Park which attracts thousands of Buddhist pilgrims and tourists every year.
Temi Tea Garden: It is the gateway to the only organic tea estate in Sikkim, famous for its high-quality produce. ...Tathagata Tsal: Known for the iconic Buddha Park which attracts thousands of Buddhist pilgrims and tourists every year.
Temi Tea Garden: It is the gateway to the only organic tea estate in Sikkim, famous for its high-quality produce. -
Architecture:
The Buddha Park: The main statue is made of copper and gold, surrounded by a complex featuring a museum and prayer halls with murals.
Monastic Style: The New Ralong Monastery follows traditional Tibetan architecture with vibrant colors and...The Buddha Park: The main statue is made of copper and gold, surrounded by a complex featuring a museum and prayer halls with murals.
Monastic Style: The New Ralong Monastery follows traditional Tibetan architecture with vibrant colors and extensive use of stone and wood in its foundation. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Fly to Bagdogra and hire a taxi for a 4. 5-hour drive through the hills.
By Train: NJP station is the main railhead; shared jeeps are available from the station to Ravangla.
By Road: Reachable fr... -
Near Tourist Places:
Namchi (26 km), Borong (17 km), Kewzing (8 km), Temi Tea Garden (20 km), Maenam Hill (12 km), Legship (28 km), Ralong (11 km), Gangtok (67 km), Pelling (52 km), Tashiding (35 km).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: The altitude can cause mild dizziness; carry light snacks and water while trekking.
Packing: Heavy woolens for winter and light jackets for summer evenings are essential for comfort.
Accommo...
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Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
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