The Namchi (meaning “Sky High”), commonly known as South Sikkim, is an important administrative and economic region, recognized as the most industrialized district in the state due to the availability of flat land and stable geology resulting in good roads. Its headquarters, Namchi, is situated among hills at an elevation of 5,500 feet (1,675 m), offering scenic views of snow-capped mountains and valleys. Historically, the district was under Nepalese occupation for 30 years during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.

South Sikkim is highly important for tourism and tourists due to its unique cultural and natural sites. Major urban centres include Ravangla, Jorethang, and Melli. Key tourist attractions include the imposing 108 ft statue of Guru Padmasambhava and the Siddhesvara Dham complex, which replicates the four revered Hindu Dhams (Jagannath, Dwarika, Rameshwaram, and Badrinath). Other notable locations are the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and the organic Temi Tea Gardens. 

Namchi is situated 78 km from the state capital Gangtok and 100 km from Siliguri, the nearest railway station and airport are at Bagdogra, west BengalSouth Sikkim is a perfect one-night stopover before heading to West Sikkim and acts as a gateway to West Sikkim.