Sout Sikkim is the 2nd largest populated district of Sikkim, its capital is Namchi. The people are mainly of Nepali descent. Other ethnic groups include the Lepcha and Bhutia communities. Nepali is the most widely spoken language in the district. It also has one of the lowest populated regions of the state. Namchi is connected via road to Jorthang town, which is closer to Siliguri. The district is also famous for its Sikkim Timi Tea, which is grown in Timi Garden, near Namchi.

Contents 1 Places of Interests 1.1 Timi Tea Garden 1.2 Namchi Town 1.3 Tendong Hill 1.4 Ravangla 1.5 Maenam Hill 1.6 Borong 1.7 Singchu-Thang 1.8 Sikip 1.9 Phur Tsa Chu 1.10 Statue of Guru Padmasambhava 1.11 Kewzing 1.12 Borong and Ralang Hot Springs

Places of Interests

Timi Tea Garden

One and only renowned Timi tea estate, produces one of the top qualities teas in the international market. The tea garden is spread out on a gently hill slope originating from the Tendong Hill and provides a magnificent view for the surrounding villages. The visit to the factory could be an eye opener for those wanting to know more about tea processing methods. Visitors can spend their night in a old British built bungalow just below tea garden.

Namchi Town

Namchi, in English means "Sky High", as name suggest, Namchi is nestled cuddled among the hills at an altitude of 5,500ft. About 79 kilometers from Gangtok and 98 kilometers from Siliguri, is the home many government headquarters of the South District, the area is fast developing into tourism destination with is immense potential.

Tendong Hill

Above Damthang, overlooking South District headquarter town Namchi, there's a small stretch land at an altitude of 8,530 ft, surrounded by the lush green ancient forest which is popularly known as the Tendong Hill. Historically this has been a place of recluse of Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the silence scenic grandeur. Legends have it that Tendong Hill saves the Lepcha tribe from the ravages of deluge when the whole world was flooded – similar to Noah's Ark of the Bible. Even today, the Lepchas perform rituals to pay reverence to the Tandong Hill. The view from the top of Tendong Hill is something to be cherished and enjoyed as it spans across the plains of Bengal and the majestic heights of the Himalayan Ranges . One can proceed to Namchi by trekking via Tendong Hill.

Ravangla

Ravangla town is located at 7000 ft, the base of Maenam and Tendong Hill . Ravangla is emerging as the hot destination for the travelers. From Ravangla one can see the clear view of the snow ranges of Mt. Kanchenjunga , Mt. Pandim , Mt. Sinialchu , Mt. Kabru . Upper parts of Ravangla experiences snowfall during winter. Hundreds of flowers are in full bloom during April-May. The beauty of it's landscape and its location as a transit point to rearby destinations had made Ravangla a must-visit place. Ravangla stages Pang Lhabsol festival in a grand manner every year around August-September. The festivals last for three days, culminating in the traditional dances knowns as "Chaam" on the last day. One can also visit Ralong monastery as well as the Tibetan Carpet Center, the traditionally designed and woven carpets are said to be the best one can get here. 8 km from Ravangla is a Rayong sunrise viewpoint that offers spectacular views of the first rays of the sun falling on the snow peaks. In April Ravangla stages its own Tourism, Culture and Craft Festival.

Maenam Hill

Meanam Hill Situated at an altitude of 10,300ft rises higher above Tendong Hill on the other side over looking the Ravangla Bazar. Trek to Maenam from Ravangla is about 12 km trek through thick forest of oak, chestnut, mangolia and rhododendron trees. On the clear day once can see the plains of Bengal spanning across Kalimpong and Darjeeling Hills. Further from Maenam hill one can trek to Borong village, or follow the trails taken by the famous British botanist, Sir Joseph Hooker down to Yangang Village .

Borong

There is a motor-able road from Ravangla to Borong via Menam. One can also trek to Borong from Namchi or Demthang, takes atleast 5 to 6 days. It's a beautiful village with magnificent landscape and is the home to a hot spring called "Borong TsaChu".

Singchu-Thang

45 Kms from Gangtok at an altitude of 3,500ft on the banks of River Teesta. And Singchuthang in English means “the plain of plenty with dwarf fish, plants and shrubs”. Singchuthang is ideal for water sports and picnics.

Sikip

Sikip is on the shore of River Rangeet in the South District. 5 hours drive from Gangtok to Sikip via Legship and is also reachable from Siliguri and Darjeeling via Jorthang. This place is Anglers paradise, and also has charming natural surrounding. One can also opt for rafting on the river.

Phur Tsa Chu

This hot spring "Phur Tsa Ch" is located on the Rangeet's riverbank, one hour drive from Jorthang and half hour drive from Legship. All walks of life come here to take a dip in this hot spring during month of January to March.

Statue of Guru Padmasambhava

135 ft tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava is located just above the Namchi Town at Samdrubtse .The statue is the tallest of its kind in the world, even taller than the famous bronze Buddha at Kamakura in Japan.

Kewzing

8 km from Ravangla is Kewzing village which offers an opportunity to experience the rural life of Sikkim. Once can stay here with a local family village home stays and experience the warmth of Sikkimese hospitality. The Bon monastery here is the only one of its kind in Sikkim and is a symbol of the determination of a community to preserve their religious traditions. Located 2 km from Kewzing bazaar is the Mangbrue Gompa, which follows the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism. The invading Bhutanese army used this strategic location in the 19th century and the ruins of their bunkers and outpost can still be seen.

Borong and Ralang Hot Springs

Borong and Ralong hot water springs are located within a distance of 7 kms from each other. Popular with visitors from all over the region, these natural spas are said to have curative powers. Ralang Cha-chu can be reached after and hour long walk from Ralong monastery while Borang Cha-chu is reached after 7 km drive to Ralong and then a 40 min walk downhill. For overnight stay temporary huts are available.