Namchi is the capital of district Sikkim of Sikkim. Namchi is derived from two words Nam and Chi. Nam means Sky and Chi means High. Major attraction of this place is Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche statue. This statue is world’s largest statue belongs to the saint of Sikkim. Namchi place is famous for Bio-diversity, Scenic locals and Buddhist monastery. This place offers the view of Kanchenjunga. This is the 3rd highest mountain in the world. To promote tourism, Namchi Mahotsav will be held every year. Worth buying things in Namchi are Craft items and Souvenir items.
What to see in Namchi:
Namchi Monastery: This is the major attraction of this town. It is located at Ahaley locality. This is well known for Buddhist monastery. Original name of this monastery is Decchen Choyling Gumpa.
Guru Padmasambhava Statue: This place is popularly known as Wish Fulfilling hill. In the world this is the highest statue whose height is 135 feet.
What to see around Namchi:
Solophok: This place is located 5kms away from Namchi. Major attractions of this site are Big statue of Lord Shiva and Chota Char Dham Pilgrimage.
Rock Garden: It is located 5kms away from the town. This garden offers the best view of Mount Kanchendzonga. Major attraction of this place is rare species of trees, flowers and Plants.
Helipad: This offers the best view of Mount Kanchendzonga. It is located very close to Temi tea garden which is 5kms away from the town. This is the only tea garden in Sikkim.
Char Dham: Char Dham is located on Solophok hill which is 5kms away from the town. People believe that persons who visit this place will wash off their sins.
Temi Tea Garden: This is the only tea garden in Sikkim. Area covered by this garden is 435 acres. Annual turnover of this garden is 100 million tonnes. This was established in 1969.
Ralong Monastery: This was built to commemorate the successful Pilgrimage of the 4th chogyal to Tibet. It is located 6kms away from Ravangla.
Doling Gumpa: This is the most beautiful monastery. It was built by Nyimpa Followers.
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary: It is situated above the Tendong hill. This place is famous for flora and fauna. Trekking activity is the other attraction near this place.
Borong and Ralong Hot water Springs: Natural springs are said to have curative powers. It is located 7kms away from the town. For overnight stay huts are available.
Rimbi Waterfalls: During the summer seasons tourists rush is more near these waterfalls. This is the best picnic place.
Getting to Namchi: Namchi is well connected through road ways. From the cities such as Pelling, Yukosom and Gangtok buses are available to reach this place. Nearest railway station is at Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri. From the cities such as Patna, Ranchi, Puri, Trivandrum, Bangalore trains come to New Jalpaiguri. Bagdogra is the nearest airport.
Getting around Namchi: Private Jeeps, Taxis and buses are available to visit the surrounding places of Namchi.
Best time to visit Namchi: Best time to visit Namchi is from mid February till the end of May and mid September till the end of December.
Where to stay in Namchi: Plenty of hotels are available to stay in Namchi. Temperature in Namchi is always cool so air conditioned rooms are not essential in Namchi. 24 hour travel information counter is available in all the hotels.
Where to eat in Namchi: Very limited restaurants are available to have food in Namchi. Almost all the restaurants serve only non vegetarian. Vegetarian is available on demand. Famous food of this place is Pork and other meat items.