One of the major cities and the district center in south Sikkim is Namchi. It is less congested and touristic than Gangtok, yet it is just as developed and still has its own unique character. It is situated 1675 meters above sea level. Most of Namchi’s population is made up of Sherpas, Bhutias, and Nepalis. In Bhutia, the term “namchi” literally means “the top of the sky.”
As a result, the city is a wonderful spot to explore and get back in touch with nature. It also has breathtaking vistas of the hills, particularly Kanchenjunga and the Rangeet valley. The experience is more refreshing when there are less visitors.
One of Sikkim’s more populated cities is Namchi. Praised by Buddhists for some of its magnificent views, Namchi is home to several Buddhist sites. A number of tales, some strange and others humorous, circulate around these sites.
Table of Contents
Best Time to Visit
Namchi in Sikkim between March-May or September-November for a great time! The weather rocks during these months – sunny and pleasant, with amazing views of the Himalayas, especially the killer Kanchenjunga peak. March-May is springtime, with loads of flowers like rhododendrons and fancy orchids adding a burst of color to the already vibrant landscape. The cool weather and lack of rain make it perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and outdoorsy stuff.
September-November is fab too. With the monsoon done and dusted, everything looks fresh and vibrant. The coolness and clear sky make for great photography. Also, it’s party time with local festivals like Dashain and Diwali.
You can totally join in! But heads up, June-August can be rainy, and travel might be tricky due to possible landslides and blockages. And December-February? It’s winter, pretty cold, and the high places might even see snow.
How To Reach Namchi
By Road
When visiting Namchi by car, tourists have the flexibility to stop anywhere they like and take in the expansive scenery. Namchi’s route with other Indian cities is facilitated by the NH10 via Siliguri. It takes 90.9 kilometers from Siliguri to Namchi, and depending on traffic and weather conditions, this trip might take up to 3 hours. Additionally, there are two buses that depart from Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus, which is located 3.4 kilometers from Siliguri.
In addition, you may take a sharing taxi or a private taxi from the taxi stand next to the Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus. For those who like a little more excitement, renting a bike is another alternative. The ride to Namchi is a picturesque route that covers 90.4 kilometers in around 2 hours and 45 minutes. The cost of a rental bike may range from Rs 1500 and above each day, depending on the type.
By Train
The New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), which is located 95.8 kilometers away, is the station closest to Namchi. Once you arrive at NJP, you have two options: take a private cab and drive to Namchi, or use local transportation to go the 3.3-kilometer Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus.
Once you get at the bus terminal, you may choose a route based on your preferences and financial situation. Travelers may also hire bikes from a variety of rental bike service companies. The cost might begin at Rs. 1500 per day, depending on the kind of bike.
By AIR
Pakyong Airport (PYG), the closest airport to Namchi, is located 65.2 kilometers away and can be reached in around 2 hours and 15 minutes. You may take a private cab to Namchi after landing at Pakyong airport.
It will take around 35 minutes to go to Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus, which is 14.2 kilometers from the train station. You have two alternatives for getting to Namchi: you may take a shared cab or one of the bus options.
Also Read : Rumtek Travel Guide
Activities to do in Namchi
Namchi is a fascinating destination for tourists since it offers both man-made and natural tourist attractions. There are other sites and things to do in Namchi, even if the city’s location—which offers stunning vistas of the Himalayas—is its main attraction.
Solophok Chardham
Under the direction of the Chief Minister of Sikkim, the Sikkim government built this tourism destination. It was opened in 2011 and goes by the name Siddheshwar Dham as well. Situated atop the Solopok Hill, the temple/cultural complex is a stunning and otherworldly site.
The complex includes a 108-foot-tall statue of Shiva and a reproduction of the four Hindu holy sites of pilgrimage: Badrinath, Jagannath, Dwarka, and Rameshwaram. There is a Nandi with the Shiva god. There are also twelve Shiva lingas in this compound, which stand in for the revered Jyotirlingas.
The god Kirteshwara, a different manifestation of Lord Shiva, stands in opposition to the Shiva deity and bestowed divine weapons to Arjun so that he may prevail in the Mahabharat conflict. There is a Sai Baba Temple there as well. Anyone who visits the place has a spiritual experience since it is so silent.
The whole facility is kept up very nicely and is consistently seen to be tidy. Delicious, entirely vegetarian cuisine is served at restaurants. Accessible by paid parking, it offers amenities for those with disabilities.
Also Read : Rangpo Travel Guide
Samdruptse Statue
On the Samdruptse Hill next to Namchi, there is an impressive 26-foot-tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava. This is yet another magnificent spectacle that draws sizable visitors. Situated atop a mountain, the area is serene and provides stunning views of nearby mountains.
There are faint cries of “Om Mani Padme Hum” echoing around the room. H. H. Dalai Lama personally placed the statue’s foundation stone in 1997, and the Chief Minister dedicated it in 2004.
Ngadak Monastery
An ancient monastery close to Namchi, it was constructed by Tensung Namgyal under the rule of Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal. Following significant damage from the 17th-century earthquake, the monastery erected a new Gompa. According to folklore, everybody who visits the monastery must swear to return. The name “Ngadak” means “promise” in Tibetan.
It is a stunning monastery with characteristic Tibetan architecture, tucked up in the hills with towering trees all around. It is the perfect location for engaging in meditation.
Also Read : Jorethang Travel Guide
Temi Tea Estate
It was founded in 1969 by the Sikkim government and is the sole tea garden in the state. It is one of India’s top tea farms and supplies tea to markets across the world. It is breathtaking to see, spanning 177 hectares of land. Visitors who are curious in the tea-making process are welcome to see the tea processing facilities. The tea is an excellent organic cultivar that is cultivated on Tendong Hill.
Namchi is a haven for adventure-seeking tourists and a relaxing location with stunning views in every direction.
Conclution
Namchi provides a striking fusion of scenic beauty, cultural variety, and serene spirituality in the centre of Sikkim. Every area invites investigation, from the imposing monument of Guru Padmasambhava to the tranquil Tendong Hill.
Namchi is a place worth revisiting because, when guests leave, they take with them priceless memories and a profound appreciation for its distinct charm and meditative atmosphere.
Also Read : Ravangla Travel Guide
Buy Sikkim Tour Packages Here: Sikkim Tour Packages TripFactory
What is Namchi famous for?
In the area, you can find three Buddhist pilgrimage spots: Tendong Hill, Ralang Monastery, and Namchi Monastery. Over at Samdruptse hill, you’ll find it’s also known as The Wish Fulfilling hill. It’s just across from Namchi. Here sits the world’s largest statue, a tremendous 118 feet tall! This monument represents the Buddhist Padmasambhava. He’s also called Guru Rinpoche and is Sikkim’s cherished patron saint.
How high is Namchi above sea level?
Namchi is located 1,675 meters (5500 ft) above sea level. The closest trainhead and airport are in the town of Siliguri, which is about 100 kilometers (62 km) from the state capital Gangtok and 78 kilometers (48 mi) from it.
How much is a taxi from Gangtok to Namchi?
The approximate taxi charge from Gangtok to Namchi for a decent sedan (such as an Etios or Dzire) is ₹2500, while an SUV would cost you about ₹3000.
How do I go from Gangtok to Namchi?
The most economical method to go to Namchi, which is 78 kilometers from Gangtok, is to take a plane to Gangtok and then a car to Namchi. The railway station is served by regular trains that go to many of the major cities in India. In Gangtok and at the station, taxis are available for hire. State-operated busses are another way to go to Namchi.
