Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Ravangla is perfectly placed for short, scenic day trips that combine spiritual depth, natural beauty, and cultural charm. Whether you're craving a quiet walk in a tea garden, monastery visits, or panoramic views of the Himalayas, here are the best places to visit from Ravangla within a few hours.

1. Namchi – Spiritual & Cultural Capital

 ~25 km | ~1 hour

• Visit iconic sites like:
  ✅ Char Dham (Solophok) – replica shrines of India’s four holy dhams
  ✅ Samdruptse Hill – 135-ft golden statue of Guru Padmasambhava
  ✅ Namchi Rock Garden – beautiful flowers, walking trails, and scenic views

 Tip: Combine Namchi with Temi Tea Garden for a fulfilling full-day circuit.

 2. Temi Tea Garden – Sip & Stroll Through Sikkim’s Only Tea Estate

 ~18 km | ~45 mins

• Famous for lush green slopes, cherry blossom-lined paths (in Nov), and views of Kanchenjunga.
• Enjoy:
  ✅ Walks through the tea fields
  ✅ Tea tasting at the estate café
  ✅ Shopping for fresh organic Sikkim tea

 Best Time: October to April for clear skies and scenic beauty.

 3. Borong Village & Hot Springs

 ~15 km | ~45 mins

• A quiet village known for its natural hot springs, birdwatching, and mountain serenity.
• Soak in the Borong Tsachu (hot spring) especially during winter months (Nov–Mar).
• Great for those who want to unplug and enjoy slow mountain life.

 Local Tip: Stay back for the night at a homestay if you enjoy village life and stargazing.

 4. Ralong Monasteries (New & Old)

 ~6 km | ~20–30 mins

• Visit the beautiful New Ralang Monastery, home to vibrant murals and sacred Buddhist relics.
• A short walk takes you to Old Ralang Monastery, one of the oldest in Sikkim.
• Attend prayer sessions or simply soak in the peaceful, spiritual ambiance.

 Festival Highlight: Visit during Pang Lhabsol or Tendong Lho Rum Faat for cultural dances and rituals.

 5. Maenam Hill Trek – For Hikers & Nature Lovers

 Trek from Ravangla Forest Checkpost

• A half-day trek (~3 hours one way) through Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, reaching an altitude of ~10,300 ft.
• Offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Teesta valley.
• Trail filled with orchids, rhododendrons (in spring), and rare birds.

 Trek Tip: Go with a guide; start early and carry water, snacks, and layers.

 6. Tashiding Monastery – Spiritual Detour

 ~40 km | ~2 hours

• Considered one of the holiest monasteries in Sikkim, located on a hill above the confluence of rivers Rangit and Rathong.
• Famous for its white mani (prayer) stupa and peaceful surroundings.
• Perfect for those on a spiritual journey or monastery circuit.

 At a Glance: Best Day Trips from Ravangla

✅ Travel Tips for Day Trips

✔️ Start early — fog and clouds roll in by noon, especially in monsoon or winter
✔️ Carry ID proof if crossing into other districts
✔️ Bring snacks, water, camera, and a small umbrella or poncho
✔️ Dress in layers – weather can change quickly in the hills
✔️ Hire a local driver or guide for flexible timing and insider knowledge