Ravangla, a scenic hill station nestled in South Sikkim, is an emerging travel destination known for its pristine beauty, peaceful monasteries, and panoramic views of the Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 7,000 feet, this small town offers a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and natural grandeur. If you are planning a Sikkim trip, here is a guide to From Buddha Park to Ralong Monastery: Top Tourist Places in Ravangla that you should not miss.
Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal)
Starting your journey with Buddha Park, Ravangla’s most iconic attraction, is a must. The park is home to a magnificent 130-feet tall statue of Lord Buddha, constructed in 2006 to mark his 2550th birth anniversary. The statue is seated amidst manicured gardens with prayer wheels, walking trails, and viewing points offering breathtaking Himalayan vistas. The serene environment, combined with spiritual calmness, makes Buddha Park one of the Top Tourist Places in Ravangla for meditation, photography, and peaceful contemplation.
Ralong Monastery
A few kilometres away from Buddha Park lies Ralong Monastery, an equally significant spiritual site. Known for its exquisite Tibetan architecture, vibrant murals, and intricate thangkas, this monastery is among the largest in Sikkim. It hosts the famous Pang Lhabsol festival, celebrating the guardian deity of Sikkim, and the annual Kagyed Dance, where monks perform masked dances depicting Buddhist teachings. For travellers seeking cultural immersion, Ralong Monastery remains an unmissable spot among the Top Tourist Places in Ravangla.
Maenam Hill
Beyond its spiritual attractions, Ravangla is also a haven for trekkers and nature lovers. Maenam Hill, situated at an altitude of 10,600 feet, offers a moderately challenging trek through dense forests filled with oak, chestnut, and rhododendron trees. The trail culminates at Maenam Hilltop, which provides panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and surrounding Himalayan peaks. The Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary here is home to Himalayan black bears, red pandas, and exotic birds, adding to the adventure and wilderness experience.
Ralong Hot Springs
After trekking, soothe your body at Ralong Hot Springs, locally called Ralang Cha-chu. These natural sulphur springs, located near Ralong Monastery, are believed to have medicinal properties that cure skin and joint ailments. Surrounded by forests and river streams, the hot springs offer a rejuvenating spa-like experience in the lap of nature, making them one of the most relaxing among the Top Tourist Places in Ravangla.
Borong Village
A visit to Ravangla is incomplete without experiencing its rural life. Borong, a small village near Ravangla, is known for its natural beauty, traditional homestays, and panoramic Himalayan views. The village is also famous for its hot springs and birdlife, with species like Himalayan pheasants, sunbirds, and black magpies frequently spotted here. Spending a night at Borong offers travellers an authentic taste of Sikkimese hospitality, local cuisine, and quiet village life away from tourist crowds.
Rayong Sunrise View Point
For photographers and nature lovers, Rayong Sunrise View Point is a must-visit. Located a short drive from Ravangla, this viewpoint offers mesmerising sunrise views as the first golden rays touch Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, and Mt. Kabru. Watching the Himalayas bathed in hues of orange and pink is a surreal experience that remains etched in travellers’ memories.
Temi Tea Garden
If you love tea and scenic landscapes, Temi Tea Garden is the place to visit. Situated about 18 km from Ravangla, it is the only tea estate in Sikkim, producing world-class organic tea. The lush green terraced gardens set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks create postcard-perfect scenery. You can walk through the plantations, visit the processing factory, taste fresh Temi tea, and buy authentic organic tea as a souvenir.
Samdruptse Hill and Guru Padmasambhava Statue
Although closer to Namchi, Samdruptse Hill is often covered along with Ravangla due to its proximity. The hill features a 135-feet tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim. It is believed to be a wish-fulfilling hill by locals and offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The peaceful environment here makes it a perfect spot for reflection and photography.
Best Time to Visit Ravangla
The ideal time to explore the Top Tourist Places in Ravangla is from March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather remains pleasant, skies are clear for mountain views, and rhododendrons bloom in vibrant colours. Winters (December-February) are cold with chances of snowfall, while monsoons (July-August) bring lush greenery but may cause landslides.
How to Reach Ravangla
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport (around 70 km away) or Bagdogra Airport (around 130 km away).
- By Rail: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest railway station, 125 km from Ravangla.
- By Road: Ravangla is well connected by road to Gangtok, Namchi, and Pelling via shared jeeps and private taxis.
Conclusion
From the divine aura of Buddha Park to the cultural grandeur of Ralong Monastery, Ravangla offers a unique blend of spirituality, adventure, and nature. Exploring these Top Tourist Places in Ravangla promises a fulfilling getaway where you can meditate, trek, soak in hot springs, and immerse yourself in authentic Sikkimese culture. If you are seeking a destination that calms your soul and energises your spirit, Ravangla awaits with its timeless Himalayan charm.
