Travel to Namchi the amazing statue of Guru Padmashamva.

PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST IN SOUTH DISTRICT. 

1.Bio Diversity Park:   It is 14 km from Namchi at the southern part of Maenam Tendong ridge. The park covers 255 hectares and this park has come into existence to conserve the genetic stock available in the existing site of the garden. To multiply rare species of threatened and endangered Sikkim plants and to generate public awareness among them.  

2. Rock garden (Chamgaon park):  It is 4 km from Namchi stretched within 6 hectares of land at 5500 ft. It is a park where one can have picnics and take in the breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Namchi town, West Sikkim and Darjeeling. Many a rare species of plants, with medicinal value can be seen here, with a corner dedicated for herbal garden too.   

3. Tendong hill: Above Damthang over looking south district headquarter town Namchi is a small flat stretch of land at an altitude of 8530 ft surrounded by lush given ancient forest known as Tendong Hill. Historically, this has been a place to rest for Buddhist lamas who spent years in meditation amidst the silent scenic grandeur legend says that the Tendong hill saved the Lepcha tribe from the savages of deluge when the whole world was flooded – similar to Noah’s Ark of the Bible. Every year Lepchas perform pujas to pay remembrance to the Tendong Hill. The view from top of the Hill is something to be cherished and enjoyed.

4.   Temi Tea Garden: The one and only tea estate existing in the state produces one of the top quality teas for the international market. The tea garden spread out on a gentle slope originating from Tendong Hill provides a magnificent view of surrounding hills. A visit to the factory could be an eye opener for these wanting to know about the processing methods.

5. Ravangla: At the base of Maenam Hill is Ravangla a small township and tourist point to various tourist destinations in south and west Sikkim. It has developed into a popular tourist destination and a transit point for trekkers to Maenam Hill and Borong. A trek can be made to the sacred cave Shar Chok Bhepu one of the 4 holiest caves in Sikkim.

6. Ralang Monastery: This monastery belong to the Karma Kagyur order and was built after the return of tenth Chogyal from his pilgrimage to Tibet. The Karmapa performed the Rapney (blessing) on its completion from Tsurpu (Tibet) and grains from the ceremony fell on the ground at Ralang and were witnessed by the devotees. Between 1975-81 the government reconstructed the monastery and chaams are performed on the tenth month of the lunar calendar.

7. Ngadak Gumpa: This Gumpa is 2 km from Namchi and was constructed in 1717, it was initially the palace of princes Pendey Ongmu. After her death it was converted into a Gumpa.  A new Gumpa has been built adjacent to the previous Gumpa and all prayer services are held there. This Gumpa follows the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism . 

8. Boomtar Gumpa: Khamdroling Gumpa was first started in 1926 by lama Kama Chyoikyab. Due to land slide this was damaged and the present Gumpa was constructed in 1958 by lama Dhonzang & Sangay Choikyab. This is a Nyingmapa sect. Religious treasure like Rinchen Terjoy, Kagyur, Tegyur and the valuable riches are kept in this Gumpa. Presently it is managed by lamas & local members.  

9. Serdrup Chorling Gumpa: This Gumpa is 1 km from Namchi established in 1952 by the 8^th Drungrap Ven Serdup Jigmee Wangchuk Rimpochee and Ven Kherodchen Rimpoche. In 1964 the monastic school was established at the monastery. This Gumpa follows the Nyingmapa tradition of Buddhism. At present the 9^th Drungrap i.e. Ven Gnawang Lodey Chopel rimpochee manages the Gumpa and has constructed a mainilakhang and hostel for the monks.

10.Handloom center: It is 2 km from Namchi where it is a training center/production center with sale emporium. It was started in 1991 to conserve traditional art and craft and train unemployed youth for self-reliance. All sort of carpets, handlooms, woodcarving are produced here.  

11. Jorethang Bazar: This town is 19 km from Namchi and a major business center for both south and west Sikkim It is along the main Rangit and is fast developing as a tourist center.

12. Nagi Dara (Namthang): It is about 24 km from Namchi and at an altitude of 7500 ft. There is a natural pond on top of the hill which is reserved by the locals, a devi than has been constructed where puja’s are performed.

13. Bhale Dunga: It is within the Maenam wildlife sanctuary about 4 hours trek from Ravangla. Bhale Dunga means Roosters Rock. Legend has it that a rooster used to crow at all odd times and a lot of ill luck fell on villagers living below this ridge, the villagers gathered one day and killed the rooster. From that day, prosperity flourished. It is piece of rock which joins out from the ridge a few meters walk from Maenam trek route. A breath taking view of Kanchenjunga can be seen from here which is at eye level with all the surrounding hills below it.