Namchi is a small town in the southern part of Sikkim, perched at a height of 1675m above sea level. It is a popular place for travelers as it is the district headquarter of south district. Just 78km from the state capital Gangtok, this is the closest Sikkimese town to West Bengal. The landscape overlooks panoramic view of the snow capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. The place is primarily important for trekkers as it is renowned for some best trek routes around. Also it is an important pilgrimage center for Buddhists because of highly revered Namchi monastery.

Namchi is also famous for the tallest status of Guru Rinpoche, located at Samdruptse. The statue is about 118ft in height. Namchi is also good place to visit for its Rock Garden, Cottage Industry, Doling Gompa and Namchi Monastery. Every year in February Namchi hold a beautiful flower show. There are other attractions like magnificent Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and a soccer stadium made Namchi a nice place to hitch for couple of days.

Sights And Activities

Samdruptse
The place signature highlight is the 45m shimmering copper and bronze toned statue of Padmasambhava. The statue was completed in 2004 and laid down by Dalai Lama. The place is just 7km from Namchi. Further step down, you will reach a fantastic rock garden. Further following the path next attraction is Ngadak Gompa.

Solophok
Interestingly in midst of Buddhist ambiance, Solophok boast of gigantic 33m tall Shiva status. It is absolutely new constructed statue and expected to become a major pilgrimage spot. Surrounding the Shiva Status there is a temple complex that is half completed.

Maenam wildlife Sanctuary
There are few wildlife sanctuaries in Sikkim and Maenam is not only a riveting wildlife park but also a lifeline for Namchi because it is the only source of portable water for Namchi throughout the year. The main vegetations are moist temperate forest, mixed broadleaf and conifer forests. Leopards, wild dog, Indian fox, jackal, Himalayan bear, wild boar, barking deer, musk deer and red panda are some of the wild animals found in the park. bird lovers don’t be disappointed because it is a home to more than 100 species of birds.

Helipad
The place is situated at an altitude of 5000 ft and a wonderful place to get a view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, parts of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and rolling plains of Bengal. Also you can see relish the undulating Temi Tea Garden.

Cottage Industry
2km from the town, the place houses Sikkimese arts and crafts of authentic Sikkimese design.

Temi Tea Garden
The only tea estate in the state is also become of the best tea estates in India. Its tea quality is also renowned in international market. Covering an area of 435 acres, the tea estate produces nearly 100 million tea every year.