Namchi Attractions

The Home of Guru Rimpoche

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Namchi is the headquarters of South District of Sikkim which is the second most populated district in the State. It is situated at an altitude of 1675 m above sea level and is around 78 Km from the state capital Gangtok. The Namchi literally means 'Sky High'. Namchi is also the closest major Sikkim city to West Bengal. Namchi is just 100 Km from Siliguri. The district headquarter is fast becoming an important tourist destination in Sikkim for some of the best trek routes around. While on the treks, you can witness the magical beauty of this sedate town. Namchi is also an important pilgrimage destination as it has the revered Namchi Monastery.

Attractions - Making Nature Proud

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Namchi is most famous for the tallest statue of Guru Rinpoche situated in Samdruptse just few kilometers from Namchi. It is also visited for the magnificent Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and the Rock Garden. And there is probably no better place than Namchi in Sikkim to taste a hot cup of fresh tea.

Temi Tea Garden

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Temi Tea Garden is the only tea estate in entire Sikkim. It is one of the best tea producing estates in India and its tea is considered of top quality in international market as well. Temi Tea Garden was established in the year 1969 and covers an area of 435 acres. It produces nearly 100 million tonnes of tea every year. It has also been awarded quality award two years in a row. Though the tea from the gardens are priced quite high, they worth every bit of it.

Samdruptse

Samdruptse is a high hill, the name of which means 'The Wish Fulfilling Hill'. Samdruptse is home to the largest statue of Guru Rinpoche in the world. Rising to a height of 135 feet, the statue provides a magnificent view. Samdruptse Hill is situated around 8 Km from Namchi. The statue is an important attraction for tourists who come to Namchi so there is regular transportation to Samdruptse from the town. The statue of Guru Rinpoche is not the only attraction in Samdruptse. On the foothill, there is a beautiful Rock Garden which is famous for its views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in Sikkim situated nearly 25 km from Namchi. The park is a lifeline for Namchi as the sanctuary is the only source of potable water for Namchi throughout the year. The park is rich in both flora and fauna varieties. Three types of forest are found inside the park Moist Temperate Forest, Mixed Broadleaf Forests and Conifer Forests. Species of animals found here are Leopards, Wild dog, Indian Fox, Jackal., Himalayan Black Bear, Wild Boar, Barking Deer, Musk Deer, and Red Panda. More than 100 species of birds are also found here. The park is a splendid destination for trekkers as there are few wonderful treks inside the park. For entry, there is a nominal price that is charged for both Indian an foreign nationals.

Accommodation in Namchi

Though the number of hotels in and around Namchi is less, the few that are there, are quite comfortable, cozy and good enough for even a long stay. Namchi is not exactly a business center so don't expect any splendidly equipped business hotels in the city. Samudruptse Hotel, Hotel Mayal and Hotel Kesang are few of the hotels present in Namchi.

Getting There

By Air

The nearest airport to Namchi is in Bagdogra in the state of West Bengal. You can reach Namchi via Gangtok which is at a distance of 124 Km from the airport. From Gangtok Namchi is around 4 hr drive from Gangtok.

By Rail

New Jalpaiguri is nearest railway station to Namchi. It is connected to Namchi by bus service of both state transport and private operators.

By Road

Namchi is well connected to by road to Gangtok and other nearby important cities like Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri. There is regular bus service from these cities to Namchi and vice versa.

Local Transport

Buses and shared taxis are present in ample number to ensure timely travel inside the city.

Keywords: Travel and tourism, tourist places,Namchi attractions, Guru Rimpoche, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary