Top Places to Explore in South Sikkim En-Route West Sikkim
South Sikkim, with Namchi as its headquarters, is one of the most developed and accessible districts in the state. The name Namchi means “Sky High,” and the town sits at an altitude of around 5,500 feet, offering beautiful views of rolling hills, deep valleys, and distant snow-capped mountains. Thanks to relatively flat terrain and stable geology, South Sikkim has some of the best road connectivity in the region. Historically, the area was under Nepalese occupation for about 30 years during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.
Today, South Sikkim is known for its rich blend of spirituality, culture, and nature, making it an important stop on any Sikkim itinerary. Some of the top places to explore in South Sikkim include Namchi, Ravangla, Jorethang, and Melli. Major attractions such as the 108-ft statue of Guru Padmasambhava at Samdruptse, the Siddhesvara Dham (Char Dham) complex, the serene Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, and the lush organic Temi Tea Garden attract travelers throughout the year.
Located about 78 km from Gangtok and around 100 km from Siliguri, South Sikkim is easily accessible. The nearest airport and railway station are at Bagdogra, West Bengal. Due to its strategic location, South Sikkim serves as an ideal one-night stopover and acts as a gateway for travelers heading towards West Sikkim.
TAREY BHIR (CLIFF)
NAMCHI CHARDHAM
SAMDRUPTSE
TITANIC VIEW POINT
BUDDHA PARK
RALANG MONASTERY
TEMI TEA GARDEN