Namchi, meaning `Sky High`, nestled among the hills at an elevation of 5,500 ft commands panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. It is also the headquarters of the South District.
The area is fast developing into a tourist destination with its immense potential for all round tourist activities. It is about 78 kms from Gangtok and 100 kms from Siliguri.
Tendong Hill
Above Damthang, overlooking South District headquarter town Namchi, there is a small flat stretch of land at an altitude of 8,530 ft surrounded by lush green ancient forest which is popularly known as the Tendong Hill.
Historically, this has been a place of recluse for Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the silent scenic grandeur. Legend says that the Tendong Hill saved the Lepcha tribe from the ravages of deluge when the whole world was flooded - legend similar to Noah`s Ark of the Bible.
Even today, the Lepchas perform pujas to pay reverence to the Tendong Hill. The view form the top of the Tendong Hill is something to be cherished and enjoyed as it spans across the plains of Bengal to the majestic heights of the Himalayan Ranges.
Trek to Tendong from Damthang Bazar, the nearest road head, is just about two hours of casual walk.
But one can also proceed to Namchi by trekking via Tendong Hill following the traditional route used in old days.
Temi Tea Garden
The one and only tea estate existing in the State produces one of the top quality teas in the international market. The tea garden is spread out on a gentle hill slope originating from the Tendong Hill and provides a magnificent view for the surrounding villages. The visit to the factory could be an eye opener for those wanting to know more about the tea processing methods.
A night spent in a old British built bungalow located just below the tea garden could be an enthralling experience of linking the past to the present, A visit to the garden, enroute to the Tendong Hill, could be a rewarding experience for those who want to combine nature and culture as they keep trekking.
Menam Hill
Menam Hill towers above Tendong Hill on the other side over looking the Ravangla bazar settlement. Situated at an altitude of 10,300 ft the scenic view from this height is, perhaps, unmatched in this part of the world. Mt. Khang-chenDzonga and its surrounding ranges loom above to dwarf the richly forested and rugged hill. On a clear sunny
day, it is possible to see the plains of Bengal spanning across Kalimpong and Darjeeling Hills in the South, right across the Indo-China border towards the North. A short distance away is the legendary Bhaley Dhunga, a kind of rocky spur which juts out from the ridge top and remains suspended in the air above Yangang village. The trek to Menam from Ravangla takes about 4 hours and from Menam Hill top one has the option to take the gentle trek to Borong village or follow the more treacherous trails taken by the famous British botanist, Sir Joseph Hooker, down to Yangang village.
Flower Festival Namchi
Flower exhibitions are organised as an annual feature at Namchi during the month of February. The venue is at Children`s Park, Namchi (South Sikkim). One can see the rare species of orchids in a riot of colours.
