Ravangla Travel Guide

Discover the serene, scenic beauty of Ravangla, South Sikkim, through our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about must-visit attractions, best things to do, food scene, local culture, and more.


Ravangla is a quaint hill station located in the southern part of Sikkim in Eastern India. It is a popular destination for those seeking peace, serenity, natural beauty, and adventure. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and nestled amidst lush green forests, Ravangla offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Himalayas. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the must-visit attractions, things to do, food, culture, and more that make Ravangla a unique and memorable destination.

Introduction to Ravangla

Ravangla is an ideal getaway for solo travelers, couples, families, and adventure enthusiasts. The town is situated at an altitude of 7000 feet and enjoys a pleasant climate throughout the year. It is known for its pristine natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure activities. The town is accessible by road and is well connected to major cities in India.

List of Places to Visit in Ravangla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

One of the major attractions of Ravangla is its cultural heritage. A few of the must-visit cultural attractions are:

  1. Buddha Park - A serene park with a 130-foot-tall statue of Lord Buddha, that symbolizes the teachings and principles of Buddhism.

  2. Ralang Monastery - A 200-year-old monastery famous for its intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance.

  3. Ravangla Heritage Centre - This centre showcases the history, culture, and traditions of Sikkim through various exhibits and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Ravangla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ravangla offers several adventure options in the great outdoors. Some of the best natural attractions to explore are:

  1. Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary - A nature reserve that is home to several endangered species of animals and birds like the Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bear, Barking Deer, and the Satyr Tragopan.

  2. Tarey Bhir - An offbeat and scenic location known for its breathtaking views of the Teesta River, ranges of Kanchenjunga, and the foothills of Bhutan.

  3. Borong Hot Springs - Natural hot springs surrounded by lush forests and scenic nature trails, offering a perfect spot for unwinding amidst nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ravangla

Ravangla is a haven for hikers and bikers who love to explore the great outdoors. Some of the popular hiking/biking routes you can take are:

  1. Ravangla to Tashiding - A moderate hiking trail that takes you through picturesque villages, dense forests, and gushing streams, finally leading to the revered Tashiding monastery.

  2. Ravangla to Maenam - A steep and challenging trek that rewards you with stunning views of the majestic Himalayas and the undulating landscapes of South Sikkim.

Best Things to Do in Ravangla: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Ravangla also offers several other adventure options:

  1. Paragliding - Experience the thrill of a lifetime by soaring high above the hills, and getting an eagle’s eye view of the landscape around Ravangla.

  2. Mountain Biking - Traverse through the narrow, winding paths of Sikkim, in the midst of exotic flora and fauna.

  3. Sunrise View Point - Witness a breathtaking sunrise amidst the majestic Himalayas at one of the popular sunrise points in Ravangla.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ravangla

Here is a suggested itinerary for those planning a week-long trip to Ravangla:

Day 1: Arrive in Ravangla and explore the town. Day 2: Visit the Buddha Park and Ralang Monastery. Day 3: Take a day trip to the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary. Day 4: Explore Tarey Bhir and Borong Hot Springs. Day 5: Go for a challenging hike up Mount Maenam. Day 6: Try paragliding and mountain biking. Day 7: Depart Ravangla.

Food and Drink Scene of Ravangla

Ravangla not only offers a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. Here’s what you can expect:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Momos - Steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, served with hot chili sauce.

  2. Phagshapa - A traditional pork dish cooked with radish and dried chilies.

  3. Chhang - The local brew of Sikkim made from fermented millet.

Local Beverages

  1. Butter Tea - A warm, creamy beverage made with tea, milk, and yak butter, that is believed to provide warmth and energy to the body.

  2. Tongba - A fermented millet drink that is best enjoyed hot and is often served in a bamboo container with a bamboo straw.

Where to Stay in Ravangla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ravangla has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, and backpacker hostels. Some popular options are:

  1. The Ravangla Star - A luxury hotel with a stunning view of Mount Kanchenjunga.

  2. Buddha Retreat - A premium resort with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

  3. Hotel Zumthang - A comfortable and affordable hotel located in the heart of Ravangla town.

What to Buy in Ravangla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make sure to pick up some authentic souvenirs and local products from your trip to Ravangla. Some of the items to consider are:

  1. Thangkas - Traditional Tibetan Buddhist paintings on cotton or silk cloth that often depict scenes from Buddhist mythology.

  2. Organic Tea - High-quality tea that is grown locally and has a distinct flavor unique to Sikkim.

  3. Handicrafts - Local handicrafts like wood carvings, paintings, and pottery, that make for great decorative pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Ravangla

Ravangla has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the local customs and traditions. The town is home to a sizeable Tibetan and Nepali population, and as such, you will come across several cultural festivals and events throughout the year. Respect the local culture and customs, and remember to dress modestly while visiting religious places.

Best Time to Visit Ravangla

Ravangla is a year-round destination, with pleasant weather throughout the year. However, the best time to visit is between March and May and from September to November, when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ravangla

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Carry warm clothing, as the weather can get chilly.
  3. Hire a local guide to explore the hiking trails safely.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or spoil the natural beauty of Ravangla.
  2. Carry plastic bags, as Sikkim is a plastic-free state.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ravangla

Ravangla is a relatively safe destination, but it’s always wise to take some precautions, such as:

  1. Avoid hiking solo or at night.
  2. Be vigilant while paragliding or mountain biking.

Health in Ravangla

Ravangla is located at high altitude, and as such, you may experience altitude sickness. Take the necessary precautions, such as keeping yourself hydrated, acclimatizing slowly, and carrying medicines if needed.

Getting to Ravangla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ravangla is well connected with major cities in India, with a well-maintained road network.

Airports Near Ravangla

The nearest airport to Ravangla is Bagdogra International Airport, located about 126 km away.

Bus Stations Near Ravangla

The nearest bus station to Ravangla is New Jalpaiguri, which is about 115 km away.

Other Options

You can also hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Ravangla from nearby locations like Gangtok, Pelling, or Darjeeling.

How to Get Around in Ravangla

The best way to explore Ravangla is on foot, and most of the attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Taxis and shared jeeps are also available for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Ravangla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After Ravangla, you can explore other nearby destinations like the following:

  1. Gangtok - The capital city of Sikkim, known for its stunning mountain views, monasteries, and markets.

  2. Pelling - A picturesque town known for its historic sites, stunning natural beauty, and adventure activities.

Conclusion

Ravangla is an idyllic retreat that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, adventure, and serenity. With its pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting adventure options, Ravangla is a must-visit destination for those seeking an offbeat experience. Plan your trip to Ravangla, and create memories that last a lifetime!

A monastery in Ravangla A monastery in Ravangla Large Gautama Buddha statue in Buddha Park Large Gautama Buddha statue in Buddha Park Temi Tea Garden Temi Tea Garden View of the mountains, looking north from Ravangla View of the mountains, looking north from Ravangla Ralang Monastery Ralang Monastery