Introduction
South Sikkim, nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, is a region of unparalleled natural beauty. Sikkim is a picturesque city in the state of India. It is located in the southern part of the state, in the district of South Sikkim. With its lush landscapes, pristine lakes and breathtaking mountain views, it has rightly earned the title of “photographer’s paradise”. In this article, we will take you on a visual tour of the enchanting landscapes of South Sikkim.
Rabangla: Surrounded by green hills. If you want to visit tea gardens, springs, monasteries, you have to come to Rabangla. Rabangla is known for its stunning natural beauty, serene environment and proximity to several tourist attractions in the region. and offers scenic views of the Himalayas including the Kanchenjunga peak. Between Mainam and Tendong hills, Rabangla is the highest town in the district.
If you visit the nearby villages like Yangan, Tinkitam, Kijing, Barput, Bakhim etc. on the way, you will get to know the culture and history of Sikkim. There are few places to visit around Rabangla. The city is known for its clean and serene environment, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.
Tourist Attractions: Rabangla serves as a base for exploring several popular tourist destinations in South Sikkim. Some of the nearby attractions include the Buddha Park (also known as Tathagata Sal), which houses a huge statue of the Buddha, and the Ralong Monastery, a notable Buddhist monastery in the region.
Ralong Gumpha: Borong Hot Springs is 26 km from Rabangla. Ralong Gumpha will be on the way. Legship is located on the bank of Rangit River, 26 km from Rabangla. Nearby are Phur-cha- hot springs and Shiva temple.
Every year in the month of November, the Bal Chaturdashi festival attracts a large number of people. Sikkim’s first hydroelectric project is also here. Ideal for bird lovers.
Namchi: Return from Tendong Hill to the capital city of Namchi. District headquarters Namchi is 26 km from Rabangla. Altitude 4300 feet. In the lap of the Himalayas, the city can be seen from the far-reaching valleys, green forests. The beautiful nature can never be forgotten. no Several trekking routes start from Namchi, so the attraction of this town is considerable for trekkers. This city is 78 km from Gangtok, 100 km from Siliguri. There are some hotels of medium quality. From here you can reach Siliguri by bus or share jeep.
Singtam: Teesta and Ranijhora rivers meet here. The scenery around is amazing. Kanchenjunga can be seen very beautifully from here. Singhtam is 29 km from Gangtok. The share jeep is running for two hours. Also, there are jeeps running from here to Rabangla and Peling. There are few average quality hotels for accommodation.
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary: Maenam was a four-hour walk from Rabangla at a height of 10,300 feet. Tendong on one side, Rabangla on the other. From here it seems as if you can stretch your hands and touch the sky. On a clear day, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, the Chinese border and the towering Kanchenjunga can be seen. Nearby are Vale Dunga, Yangan Village, Mainam Wild Life Sanctuary.
Timi Tea Garden: 16 km from Rabangla is the only tea garden in Sikkim. Very high quality tea is made here. The tea garden on the hillside down from Tendong Hill looks like a pot painting. If you go to the factory here, you can see the method of making tea. Sanmo Cave is 3 km from here. Water is always flowing from this cave. It is very sacred to the people of Sikkim.
Tendong Hill: A green valley at an altitude of 8530 feet. Dense forest around. Tendong Hill is actually an extinct volcano. The local Lepchas believe this mountain saved them during the Great Flood. So at certain times of the year the Lepcharas worship this mountain. It is said that Buddhist lamas used to seek knowledge and achievement in this secluded province. The scenery from Tendong Hill is unparalleled. From Jamthang Bazaar, one has to walk for two hours to reach the top of the hill.
Adventure Activities: The city and its surrounding areas offer a variety of adventure activities including trekking, bird watching and mountain biking. The nearby Mynam Hills are a popular trekking destination.
Accessibility: Rabangla is well connected by road, and is about 2 to 3 hours drive from the state capital Gangtok. The nearest major airport is Bagdogra Airport in the neighboring state of West Bengal, which is about 4 to 5 hours away.
Accommodation and Dining: Rabangla has various hotels, resorts and guesthouses that are essential for tourists. You can find a wide variety of local and Indian cuisines at eateries and restaurants in the city.
Conclusion
South Sikkim is a land of contrasts, where nature, culture and adventure combine to create a wonderful canvas for photographers. Whether you are an amateur with a smartphone or a professional with high-end equipment, this area promises to fulfill your creative desires.
Capture the magic of South Sikkim and let your photographs tell the story of a country that is truly a photographer’s paradise.
FAQs
1. Is South Sikkim safe for travelers and photographers?
South Sikkim is generally considered safe for travelers and photographers. However, like any other destination, it is essential to take standard safety precautions and respect local customs.
2. When is the best time to visit South Sikkim for photography?
The best time for photography in South Sikkim is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.
3. Can I find photography guides or workshops in South Sikkim?
Yes, many local guides and photography workshops are available to help you make the most of your photographic trip to South Sikkim.
