Nature/ Scenic

Lakes

Location

There are two lakes or tals, which seem to be interconnected mysteriously even though they are separated by a hillock. The water level in both the tals always remains the same, as there is a hidden channel under the hill connecting them. The larger is about 550 meters long and 460 meters broad and the other about 365 meters either way. Locals consider the lake auspicious and gather here on ceremonial occasions. A small temple on the banks contains a Trimurti (the Hindu Trinity), which dates back to the 12th century AD when a Shiva temple was also supposed to have existed at the site.

Karna Lake

Location

Karna Lake, in Karnal district, lying 125 Km from both Chandigarh and Delhi, is a inviting tourist complex of rich greens. The beauty of the spot is heightened by an artificial lake decorated with a central island. The dark foliage on this island, is the home of a wide variety of birds, like the cormorant, the geese, ducks, some swans and a bevy of kingfishers. The variety of bird life at the small like changes with the seasons. Boating is a special attraction of this center. And for this both rowing and paddle boats have been provided.

Kathok Lake

Location

Kathok lake, a small scummy pond at the top end of town has nothing of the pristine beauty of sister-lake, a small scummy pond at the top end of town has nothing of the pristine beauty of sister lake Khecheopalri, but has views of the snow capped peaks in the distance.

Dzongu valley

Location

This valley is the proud home to numerous trees bearing abundant oranges. The beauty and purity of this valley is still untouched by the damaging pollution of the cities. Earlier it was formidable place for tourists and was restricted to the Lepchas. However, now it has been opened to one and all. The valley has forest and rivers which attracts many tourists.

Tendong Hill

Location

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.

Samdruptse

Location

Samdruptse is a high hill, the name of which means 'The Wish Fulfilling Hill'. Samdruptse is home to the largest statue of Guru Rinpoche in the world. Rising to a height of 135 feet, the statue provides a magnificent view. Samdruptse Hill is situated around 8 Km from Namchi. The statue is an important attraction for tourists who come to Namchi so there is regular transportation to Samdruptse from the town. The statue of Guru Rinpoche is not the only attraction in Samdruptse. On the foothill, there is a beautiful Rock Garden which is famous for its views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Meanam Hill

Location

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.

Helipad

Location

Helipad is located 5 kms away from town at an altitude of around 5000 fts. From here one can get the most panaromic view of Mt. Kanchanzonga with the surrounding mountain a part of Darjeeling Kalimgpong and the rolling plains of Bengal. The visitors can savour the breathtaking view of temi tea garden the one and the only tea estate in the state which produces top quality tea in the international market.