Is Ravangla Sikkim’s hidden gem?

The South Sikkim town of Ravangla is not at all big in terms of area or population, but when it comes to beauty and character, it’s as big as they come. Ravangla is located 8000 ft above sea level in the South Sikkim district. You can’t miss the town because it sits right in the middle of Gangtok and Pelling, two major tourist destinations in the state of Sikkim.


Though in the middle of two tourism giants, Ravangla is a surprisingly quiet getaway where you go just because it is such a different experience. A quiet getaway, as most visitors will say, Ravangla is where you can relax among the locals, experience the local traditions, visit some of the most impressive Buddha temples and gaze at some of the most beautiful views of Mt Kanchenjunga.


Like most of the northeastern destinations, Ravangla too can be a bit harsh during the rainy season, but an absolute delight from September to December. My first visit to Ravangla was in the month of January. It wasn’t a bone chilling experience as one would feel in North Sikkim, but comfortable cool weather, with just a touch of chill in the air. It was the perfect time to be out and about.


One of the star attractions in Ravangla is the Buddha Park, also known as Tathagata Tsal. The park features a 130-ft high statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, with an impressive view of the snow covered mountains for a backdrop. The statue was consecrated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and it marked the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha. Now, the place is one of the most important stops on the Himalayan Buddhist Circuit.



When you are in Sikkim, take out a couple of days for Ravangla because after you are done visiting the main attractions that the town has to offer, you will want to experience the nearby Ralong hot spring. Popularly known as Ralong Cha Chu, the hot spring is believed to have therapeutic properties. I suppose, at this point, anything that has a view as gorgeous as the one you see from this part of the world and air as clean as it can be, anything will be good for one’s health.

1. Are there any other tourist attractions in and around Ravangla?
   Ralong Cha Chu, Ralong Monastery, Bon Monastery and Temi Tea Estate are some of the attractions located close to Ravangla that one must visit.
2. Can we see Mt Kanchenjunga from Ravangla?
   Yes, Mt Kanchenjunga is clearly visible from Ravangla. And not only that, Mt Pandim, Mt Siniolchu and Mt Kabru are also visible from Ravangla.
3. When is the best time to visit Ravangla?
   Autumn (September to December) and early summer (March to June) is the best time to visit Ravangla.