South Sikkim, Sikkim

Namchi - Namchi, meaning Sky High, nestled among the hills at an elevation of 5500 ft, commands panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. It is also the HQ of the South district. The area is fast developing into a tourist destinationwith its immense potential for all round tourist activities. It is about 78 kms from Gangtok and 100 kms from Siliguri.

Tendong Hill - Above Damthang, overlooking South Ditrict Headquarter town Namchi, there is a small flat stretch of land at an altitude of 8530 ft, surrounded by lush green ancient forest which is popularly known as the Tendong Hill. Historically, this has been a place of recluse for Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the silent scenic gradeur.

Temi Tea Garden - The one and the only Tea Estate existing in the state produces one of the top quality teas in the International Market. The Tea Garden is spread out on a gentle hill slope originating from the Tendong Hill and provides a magnificent view of the surrounding villages. The visit to the factory could be an eye opener for those wanting to know more about the tea processing methods.

Ravangla - At the base of Menam Hill is Ravangla, a small township and transit to various tourist destination in South and West Siikim. It is also an upcoming tourist spot, and transit point for trekkers to Menam Hill and Borong. There are accommodation facilites and numerous short nature trails. A trek down to the sacred cave "Shar Chok Bephu", one of the four holiest caves in Sikkim, would be memorable experience.

Menam Hills - Menam Hills towers above Tendong Hill on the other side overlooking the Ravngla bazar settlement. Situated at an altitude of 10,30 ft, the scenic view from this height is, perhaps, unmatched in this part of the world. Mt Khangchendzonga and its surrounding ranges loom above to dwarf the richly forested and rugged hills. On a clear sunny day, it is possible to see the plains of Bengal spanning across Kalimpong and Derjeeling hills ini the South, right across to the Indo-China border towards the North.

Borong - Facing the snow capped mountains is Borong, motorable from Ravangla or a trek via Menam. A picturesque vellage with beautiful landscape and magnificent view is also host to the hot-spring "Borong Tsa-Chu". The Trek trail, originating from Namchi or Damthang to Tendong-Ravangla-Menam Borong (5 to 6 days) is one of the most interesting trails scaling all the hills tops along the route. The Trek can continue to Tashiding or terminate at Borong and drive back to Ravangla.

Versey - It lies at an elevation of 10,000 ft and has motorable road access upto Hilley. An easy 4 kms trek from there takes one up to the Versey Rhododendron Sanctuary. One can also trek from Soreng or Dentam in West Sikkim. The place provides a magnificent view of the mountains. Visitors can halt at "Guras Kunj" trekkers hut.