Namchi

Namchi is a recent addition to tourists’ itinerary for Sikkim. At some 78 km from Gangtok, it attracts nature lovers and the followers of Buddhism. Other than offering lush green vistas of the Rangit Valley, Namchi also houses two revered monasteries — the Sherdup Choeling Monastery and Dichen Choeling Monastery. The world’s highest statue, that of Guru Padamasambhava (45 m), is near Namchi and deserves a dekko as well. Perched atop Samdruptse hill, a dormant volcano, this statue makes for gorgeous picture postcards. You can also go to Sikip, which is 5 km from Namchi, for angling at River Rangit. The winding road from Gangtok to Namchi turns all the more gorgeous and colourful from April to August every year, since the stretch sees blooms of rhododendrons and orchids. You can drive off to Namchi for a weekend away from the more touristy Gangtok and be happily lost in the wilderness.