#DiscoverTheUndiscovered: If you are jaded by the regular drudgery of city life and want to visit a quiet offbeat place in India, then these hidden gems of Sikkim await you. By Kashish Arora
India’s northeastern state, Sikkim is blessed with captivating Himalayan views and is adorned with many spiritual sites and tranquil ambiences to satiate your thirst to #DiscoverTheUndiscovered. Scroll down.
Our favourite hidden gems of Sikkim for your future travels
1. Ravangla
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Perched between the hills of Maenam and Tendong, Ravangla is a quaint haven offering great opportunities to trek and relax amidst nature. The nearby Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary here gives you great views of Mount Kangchenjunga, Mount Siniolchu and Mount Pandim.
Blessed with verdant greenery, breathtaking waterfalls, and resplendent sunrises and sunsets, this region is known for its exotic flora and fauna. Shopaholics can visit the historical market of Kewzing to learn more about Tibetan culture and traditions. This market is famous for Lhasa, a traditional dress; as well as prayer wheels, Dorjee bells, singing bowls and other souvenirs.
What to see: Temi Tea Estate, Bon Monastery, Rayong Sunrise Viewpoint, Tathagata Tsal (Buddha Park), etc.
When to visit: Ravangla is worth visiting throughout the year. However, to enjoy this place in full bloom and thriving fauna, April to May is the best time to visit.
How to reach: The nearest airports are Pakyong Airport and Bagdogra International Airport (74 kilometres and 127 kilometres away, respectively). New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is closest to Ravangla, which is around 120 kilometres away.
2. Rolep
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Rolep is a picturesque hamlet tucked in the Himalayas. This region is a small cultural juncture of various communities such as Sharma, Rai and Bhutia. A paradise for solitude seekers and trekking enthusiasts, Rolep offers fascinating panoramic views of hilly terrains, perfectly textured mountain peaks, and lush green exuberant hedges. The hamlet’s forests are an ideal destination for bird lovers, too. Labelled as a bird-watching paradise, this region shelters a variety of bird species from across the country.
From here, you can easily take day trips to explore Doban, Zuluk, Sillery Gaon and Gnathang.
What to see: Shokey Khola River, Chochen Natural Lake, Buddha Cave, Dekiling Monastery, Rangkey Bridge, etc.
When to visit: The monsoon and pre-winter months are ideal to gaze at gushing waterfalls and verdant greens here.
How to reach: Pakyong Airport (40 kilometres away) and Bagdogra International Airport (approximately 125 kilometres away) are the closest airports, whereas New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station is approximately 120 kilometres away.
3. Borong
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Nestled in South Sikkim, Borong offers a chance to delve deep into the scenic beauty of the Himalayas, namely Narsingh and Siniolchu peaks. With ample walkways and spaces to explore on foot, this place brings forth plenty of attractions for adventurists, photo enthusiasts, tea lovers and trekkers, alike.
What to see: Samdruptse Hill, Silver Falls, Barmeli Bridge, etc.
When to visit: The weather is generally calm and pleasant between April to June.
How to reach: The closest airport is Pakyong Airport, about 90 kilometres away from the destination. West Bengal’s Bagdogra International Airport is approximately 145 kilometres away. Travellers taking the rail-route can disembark at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is approximately 135 kilometres away.
Related: Here’s Your Ultimate Travel Guide To Gangtok, The Jewel Of Sikkim
