Nestled amidst the serene and breathtaking landscapes of South Sikkim lies the enchanting Buddha Park, a hidden gem that captivates the hearts of all who visit. This sacred and tranquil haven is a testament to both natural beauty and spiritual serenity, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the mystical region of Sikkim.
The first thing that strikes you upon entering Buddha Park is the overwhelming sense of peace and tranquility. Surrounded by lush greenery and nestled within the Himalayan foothills, this park exudes an aura of serenity that instantly puts your mind at ease. It's a place where you can escape the chaos of everyday life and find solace in nature's embrace.
The centerpiece of Buddha Park is, of course, the towering statue of Lord Buddha himself. Standing at an impressive 137 feet, this magnificent bronze statue is not only a marvel of craftsmanship but also a symbol of profound spirituality. The sheer size and presence of the statue are awe-inspiring, and it serves as a reminder of the Buddhist principles of peace, compassion, and enlightenment.
As you approach the statue, you'll notice the intricate details that have gone into its creation. From the graceful hand gestures to the serene expression on Lord Buddha's face, every aspect of the statue has been carefully crafted to convey a sense of inner peace and wisdom. It's a sight that leaves a lasting impression and invites contemplation.
One of the unique features of Buddha Park is the beautifully landscaped garden that surrounds the statue. The garden is a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Colorful flowers, lush greenery, and the gentle gurgle of a nearby stream create a harmonious ambiance that is perfect for leisurely strolls and meditation.
For those interested in Buddhist culture and spirituality, Buddha Park offers more than just a visual treat. There is a meditation center on the premises where visitors can learn about meditation techniques and the philosophy of Buddhism. The resident monks are friendly and eager to share their knowledge, making it a great opportunity for spiritual seekers to gain insights into this ancient tradition.
The panoramic views from Buddha Park are nothing short of spectacular. As you stand beneath the towering statue, you can gaze out at the rolling hills, terraced fields, and distant Himalayan peaks. The park's location provides a sense of being at the roof of the world, and it's an ideal spot for capturing breathtaking photographs.
The well-maintained pathways and seating areas make it easy to spend hours in contemplation or simply enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings. It's also a great place for a picnic with family and friends, as there are designated areas where you can relax and savor the tranquility.
One area where Buddha Park could be further improved is its amenities. While the park itself is a haven of peace, the facilities, such as restrooms and food options, are somewhat limited. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and water to ensure a comfortable visit.
In conclusion, Buddha Park in South Sikkim is a place of profound beauty and spirituality. Its serene ambiance, awe-inspiring statue of Lord Buddha, and the opportunity to connect with Buddhist culture make it a destination that shouldn't be missed. Whether you're a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or a seeker of inner peace, this park has something to offer everyone. Just remember to bring some essentials with you, and you'll have a truly enriching experience in this tranquil sanctuary.
I hope this review helps you capture the essence of Buddha Park in South Sikkim. Enjoy your visit to this remarkable...
Read moreThe Buddha Park in Namchi, also called Tathagata Tsal, is one of the most peaceful and spiritual places you can visit in South Sikkim. Entirely dedicated to Lord Buddha, this park is special because it showcases his life journey, teachings, and path to enlightenment in a beautiful, serene setting. The main attraction is the massive statue of Buddha seated above the temple — one of the tallest in the world — which can be seen from far away, surrounded by lush green forests and misty hills. The whole environment here feels calming, and it’s perfect for those seeking peace, reflection, or even just a break from the usual tourist spots.
After entering the main gate, you’ll need to walk a bit to reach the main temple. The path is beautiful but long, and if you're visiting with elderly people or have trouble walking, there are battery-operated vehicles inside the park to help. These carts charge ₹150 per person for a round trip and are very convenient. Make sure you collect the ticket from the main counter at the entrance itself. As you walk in, you’ll also see a line of small shops along the pathway — these sell everything from local food, momos, and snacks, to clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs. If you enjoy trying new food or want to buy something to remember your trip, this is a great place to explore.
In the middle of the park, before reaching the main temple, don’t miss the reclining Buddha statue. This statue shows Buddha in a sleeping position and is painted in golden colour with a black robe, showing peace and detachment. The craftsmanship is outstanding, and the whole area around this statue feels sacred and calm. Right behind it is a smaller convention centre (though it was closed when we visited), which is usually used for Buddhist gatherings during festivals. Many people pause here to admire the surroundings, take pictures, and feel the calm atmosphere before moving ahead.
When you finally reach the main temple, remember that photography is strictly not allowed inside. A guard is also present to ensure that visitors maintain silence and respect the spiritual nature of the place. Inside, there's a large statue of Lord Buddha in a seated position where you can pray and pay your respects. The most interesting part is the storytelling through beautiful wall displays all around the temple — they cover every stage of Buddha’s life: his birth, how he left his royal life behind, his search for truth, the moment of enlightenment, his teachings to disciples, and finally his attainment of salvation. Each of these stages is explained in detail with well-designed art, making it easy to understand even for children or first-time visitors.
Once you exit the temple, don’t miss exploring the rest of the park. Many people skip this part, but on one side, there is a large auditorium used for public events. Next to it is a small but informative museum which holds paintings, rare Buddhist artefacts, and items gifted by countries like Thailand and Indonesia. Every display includes details about the item’s history and origin. The central walkway of the park has a beautiful fountain, and as you stroll along, you’ll find stone slabs inscribed with Buddha’s teachings. Overall, Buddha Park is not just a tourist attraction — it’s a meaningful and soulful experience. Whether you’re there for the views, the spirituality, or the peaceful vibe, this is a must-visit...
Read moreBuddha Park (Tathagata Tsal)
At the base of Maenam Hill is Ravangla, a small township and transit to various tourist destinations in South Sikkim and West Sikkim. It is also a tourist spot, and transit point for trekkers to Maenam Hill and Borong. There are accommodation facilities and numerous short nature trails. A trek down to the sacred cave “Shar Chok Bephu”, one of the holiest caves in Sikkim. The Buddha Park of Ravangla, also known as Tathagata Tsal, is situated near Rabong (Ravangla). It was constructed between 2006 and 2013 and features a 130-foot high statue of the Buddha as its centerpiece.The statue was consecrated on 25 March 2013 by the 14th Dalai Lama, and became a stop on the ‘Himalayan Buddhist Circuit’. The statue of the Buddha marks the occasion of the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha.
On the birth anniversary of Lord Gautama Buddha in 2006 the state government took a policy decision to observe the birth anniversary throughout the year in Sikkim. And as a part of the celebration, the people of Ravangla took the initiative to construct and install a large statue of Lord Buddha and eco -garden to commemorate the event. This would also be a landmark in Sikkim’s unique effort to promote pilgrimage tourism. The Buddha Park hosts a beautiful statue of Sakyamuni Buddha which is clearly visible from all the directions of southwest Sikkim near Ravangla and some parts of west Sikkim. The park area is beautifully landscaped creating ample walkway, gardens and space for visitors to enjoy the serene surroundings. The site commands beautiful views of the mountains and the spiritual ambience of the location adds to the visitor experience. The site also has additional infrastructure created for a museum meditation centre and for Buddhist conclave.
How to reach
By Air
The nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal about 126 kms from Ravangla which is a domestic airport and connected to the nearest international airport being Kolkata in West Bengal. The view point is about 8 kms via road from Ravangla.
By Train
The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Station in West Bengal about 122 kms from Ravangla from where one can avail trains to different parts of the country.
By Road
Ravangla is approximately about 118 km from Siliguri. The Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) buses plies regularly from Ravangla to towns within the state and Siliguri. Private taxis are also available on regular basis for hire or on...
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