Namchi

A small and beautiful habitat in south Sikkim, Namchi or Namtse is known among the travelers for the lush green slopes, snow-capped Himalayan mountain range, roads ornamented with hair-pin curves , tea and momo stalls.

The name Namchi means ‘sky high’ in local language. The small town, located at 5,500 ft high from the sea level, is also the district headquarter of South Sikkim District and a religious and cultural hub.

The locals believe that a Sikkimese princess Pende Ongmoo was killed by the ruling Chogyal family, who then ruled both Sikkim and Ladakh. The place Pende Ongmoo was killed and cremated is believed to be present day Namchi.

How to visit: Namchi is very well connected by road. The nearest airport is 124 kms away from Gangtok and 190 kms from Mangan. Helicopter services are available to connect Namchi and Gangtok. One can avail cars, jeep or buses, both luxury and route buses to reach the small mountain-enveloped town.

Nearest rail station is New Jalpaiguri, commonly called NJP. NJP is well connected by train with all major cities of India.

If one wants to visit Namchi by road, it is a good option. The roads are good plus resting places are available.  While Gangtok is located at a distance of 124 km, Kalimpong is 49 km away and Darjeeling is situated at a distance of 45 km. Namchi is accessible from Gangtok, Yukosom and Pelling through NH31A by bus and car. One can hire a car or simply avail share taxis to reach Namchi. Bookings for bus are done at SNT terminus, Siliguri.

When to visit: The best time to visit the picturesque Namchi is summer, between March and October.

Places to visit: Apart from the natural properties, one can visit the Namchi Monastery, Temi tea garden and Guru Padmasambhava Statue, Darjeeling, Pelling, Gangtok and Kalimpong when touring Namchi. Namchi helipad, Chardham Complex and Namchi Rock Garden are few other places of interest.

Places to stay: Namchi is full with hotels, rest houses and home stays. Start hotels are not available at the small town, but several budget hotels and mid-range hotels are available here. Namchi have ample number of eateries and restaurants with delicious range of momos, noodles and pork meat items.