Ravangla, a charming hill station in South Sikkim, is nestled between the famous tourist destinations of Pelling and Gangtok. Perched at 7,000 feet, it offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a perfect mix of natural beauty, spiritual serenity, and adventure.
Whether you’re here for its temples, ancient monasteries, trekking opportunities, or simply to soak in the tranquility, Ravangla has something for everyone.
Top Attractions in Ravangla
1. Buddha Park
Your trip to Ravangla is incomplete without a visit to Buddha Park, also called Tathagata Tsal. This serene park features a 130-foot Buddha statue surrounded by landscaped gardens and walkways. Nearby, you’ll find the picturesque Cho Djo Lake, adding to the park’s charm.
2. Bon Monastery
The Bon Monastery, one of only two in India, is a tranquil retreat. Established in 1980, it showcases beautiful paintings of Bon deities and offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills. A visit here is a must for anyone seeking peace and cultural insights.
3. Ralang Monastery
Located just 10 km from Ravangla, this monastery is known for its Tibetan-style architecture, vibrant murals, and a large Buddha statue. If you visit in September, you can witness the colorful Pang Lhabsol festival celebrated here.
4. Maenam Hill
Trekkers will love Maenam Hill, standing at 3,140 meters. This spot offers stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga and a chance to explore the nearby Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, home to Red Pandas, Barking Deer, and exotic birds like the Blood Pheasant and Black Eagle.
6. Rayong Sunrise Viewpoint
For a magical sunrise experience, head to Rayong Viewpoint, 9 km from Ravangla. Watch the first rays of sunlight illuminate the Himalayan peaks—a sight that will stay with you forever.
7. Ralong Hot Springs
Known locally as “Ralang Cha-Chu,” these hot springs are perfect for rejuvenation. The sulfur-rich water is believed to have healing properties, and the lush green surroundings create a peaceful ambiance.
8. Temi Tea Estate
A 20-minute drive from Ravangla, this tea estate sprawls over 440 acres on the slopes of Tendong Hill. Visitors can enjoy tea-tasting, stroll through the gardens, and even witness the tea production process.
9. Kewzing Village
This quaint village offers stunning views of Mount Narsing and Mount Kabru. Known for its serene atmosphere and friendly Lepcha community, Kewzing Village is ideal for those seeking an offbeat experience.
Things to Do in Ravangla
Go Trekking: Explore trails leading to Maenam Hill, wildlife sanctuaries, and viewpoints.
Soak in Hot Springs: Relax in the therapeutic waters of Borong or Ralong Hot Springs.
Meditate in Sacred Caves: Visit the sacred caves in Sangmoo village for a peaceful retreat.
Taste Local Tea: Savor world-class organic tea at Temi Tea Estate.
Explore Monasteries: Visit Ralang, Bon, and other nearby monasteries for a spiritual experience.
Shop Local Crafts: Check out Tibetan handwoven carpets and woolens at Kheunpheling Carpet Centre.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ravangla is from September to November, when the skies are clear, and the weather is pleasant. Other seasons, except the monsoon, also offer great opportunities to explore this serene hill station.
Ways to Reach Ravangla
By Air
The nearest airport to Ravangla is Bagdogra Airport, located about 127 km away. It’s a busy airport with regular flights connecting to major cities. From Bagdogra, you can hire a car for a scenic 5-hour drive to Ravangla.
By Rail
The closest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), 124 km from Ravangla. From NJP, a car ride will take you to Ravangla in approximately 5 hours.
By Road
Travelers can reach Ravangla by renting a car from Bagdogra or NJP. Alternatively, you can break your journey with an overnight stop in Gangtok, which is 65 km from Ravangla.
