Ravangla, a peaceful hill town in South Sikkim, is a destination that blends spirituality with untouched Himalayan beauty. Situated at an altitude of 7,000 feet, it offers panoramic views of the snow-clad Kanchenjunga range, serene monasteries, vibrant prayer flags fluttering against pine forests, and the soothing chants of monks. For both nature lovers and pilgrims, Ravangla has countless treasures. Here is a detailed guide on why these are the Top Tourist Places in Ravangla you must visit.
1. Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal)
Why Pilgrims Love It:
The Buddha Park houses a 130-feet high golden statue of Lord Buddha, consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 2013. It is a revered pilgrimage site, with a peaceful ambience ideal for meditation and prayer. The statue depicts Buddha in a seated meditative posture, radiating calmness and divinity.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
Surrounded by manicured gardens, pathways lined with prayer wheels, and spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks, the park offers stunning photographic frames for nature and landscape lovers.
2. Ralong Monastery
Why Pilgrims Love It:
Located 6 km from Ravangla, Ralong Monastery is an important seat of the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Pilgrims visit to seek blessings, witness rituals, and experience the spiritual power of its ancient murals, scriptures, and giant thangkas.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
The monastery is set amidst dense pine forests with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, creating an environment of serene natural beauty combined with spiritual vibrations.
3. Samdruptse Hill
Why Pilgrims Love It:
Meaning ‘Wish Fulfilling Hill’, Samdruptse near Namchi (easily accessible from Ravangla) is famous for its 135-feet statue of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche), the patron saint of Sikkim. Pilgrims believe their prayers are fulfilled here due to Guru Rinpoche’s divine blessings.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
The hilltop offers breathtaking views of valleys, towns, and Himalayan ranges, ideal for photography and peaceful nature walks.
4. Maenam Hill and Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Why Pilgrims Love It:
Maenam Hill is known as the “Treasure House of Medicines,” believed to be blessed by ancient saints who meditated here. Locals consider it sacred due to the Maenam Gumpa and its historical connection to Buddhist saints.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
The trek to Maenam Hill (10,300 ft) passes through dense forests rich in Himalayan flora and fauna. The Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, leopards, and colourful pheasants. The summit offers unmatched 360-degree views of the Teesta river valley and Kanchenjunga peaks.
5. Ralong Hot Springs (Cha-chu)
Why Pilgrims Love It:
The hot springs near Ralong Monastery are considered sacred, believed to have healing properties that purify the body and spirit. Pilgrims take ritual baths here for spiritual cleansing.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
Set amidst green forests and gurgling streams, the hot springs provide a soothing and natural spa experience in the lap of the Himalayas.
6. Bon Monastery (Bon Yung Dung Monastery)
Why Pilgrims Love It:
Located in Kewzing village, 8 km from Ravangla, this monastery is the only Bon monastery in Sikkim representing the ancient pre-Buddhist religion of Tibet. Pilgrims interested in Himalayan religious history visit to understand Bon teachings, rituals, and spiritual practices.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
The monastery is surrounded by forests and cardamom plantations with pristine views of the mountains, making it a serene stop for those who love quiet cultural walks in nature.
7. Rayong Sunrise View Point
Why Pilgrims Love It:
The rising sun is revered as a life-giver in many traditions, and pilgrims often visit to offer early morning prayers facing Mount Kanchenjunga.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
Located 8 km from Ravangla, Rayong offers one of the best sunrise views over the Himalayan ranges. As the golden rays illuminate peaks like Kanchenjunga, Pandim, and Kabru, nature photographers and travellers are left awestruck.
8. Borong Village
Why Pilgrims Love It:
Borong is known for its hot springs, where locals believe the waters are blessed by deities to cure ailments and purify sins. Annual village festivals include prayers, rituals, and cultural celebrations.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
Borong offers stunning views of Himalayan peaks, peaceful village walks, and a glimpse into authentic Sikkimese rural life surrounded by terraced fields and cardamom plantations.
9. Temi Tea Garden
Why Pilgrims Love It:
Though not directly spiritual, pilgrims visiting monasteries often stop here to relax in the serene tea estates and buy organic tea to carry back as gifts and offerings.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
As Sikkim’s only tea estate, Temi Tea Garden near Ravangla offers breathtaking views of rolling plantations with snow peaks in the background. Nature lovers can stroll along the estate trails, witness tea processing, and capture beautiful landscapes.
10. Kewzing Village
Why Pilgrims Love It:
This village is home to several practising monks and is surrounded by ancient monasteries, making it spiritually enriching for pilgrims.
Why Nature Lovers Love It:
Nature lovers can stay in homestays, enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, and experience village life, bird watching, and organic farming in peaceful surroundings.
Best Time to Visit Ravangla
For both nature lovers and pilgrims, the ideal time is March to May (spring-summer) and September to December (autumn-winter) for clear skies, mountain views, and pleasant weather. Winters are cold with misty mornings, adding to the town’s magical aura.
Conclusion
Ravangla is a rare destination that brings together spirituality and nature in perfect harmony. From monasteries, gigantic statues, and sacred hot springs for pilgrims to panoramic Himalayan views, tea gardens, and trekking trails for nature lovers, these truly are the Top Tourist Places in Ravangla. Include them in your Sikkim itinerary to rejuvenate your soul amidst the tranquillity of the Eastern Himalayas.
