Ronit GaikwadRonit Gaikwad
The 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 β one of the tallest in the world β which can be seen from far away, surrounded by lush green forests and misty hills. The whole environment here feels calming, and itβs perfect for those seeking peace, reflection, or even just a break from the usual tourist spots.
After entering the main gate, youβll 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 βΉ150 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, youβll also see a line of small shops along the pathway β 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, donβt 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 β they cover every stage of Buddhaβs 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, donβt 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 itemβs history and origin. The central walkway of the park has a beautiful fountain, and as you stroll along, youβll find stone slabs inscribed with Buddhaβs teachings. Overall, Buddha Park is not just a tourist attraction β itβs a meaningful and soulful experience. Whether youβre there for the views, the spirituality, or the peaceful vibe, this is a must-visit spot in Namchi.
SANDHIKSHAN DASSANDHIKSHAN DAS
The main tendril of Ravangla for which tourist comes here . But if you refocus on it's history then this whole place was full of forest . Originally Rabangla was a small village in Namchi District. Before the construction of Buddha Park , this entire area was a forest and next to which was the Rabong Gumfa. Later, with the cooperation of the Sikkim government and the people of Sikkim, the construction of this Buddha Park was began in 2006, just right next to the Rabong Gumfa. After the completion of the construction in 2013, the Dalai Lama inaugurated the monastery along with the park to mark the 2550th anniversary of the birth of Gautama Buddha . The entire Buddha statue is made of 60 tons of pure copper and 130 ft in height . Being Rabangla in the South Sikkim, snowfall does not happen here so much but due to nature's crotchety, snow fall sometimes occurs . But the temperature always stay lower than the Pelling or Namchi .
The park stay open for tourists from 9AM TO 6 PM. The ticket price is Rs 80 for all adults, Rs 200 for foreigners, Rs 50 for defense person and Rs 20 for students . If you wanna fly your drone then have to pay Rs 2000 before your take off . There are 4 battery operated car which costs Rs 300 for each up and down ride . One car can hold upto 7 person which will take you upto the main buddha monastery . This is very true accompany for the person who are senior or have knee issue. The car operates upto 5:15 PM .
Inside the main buddha monastery there no photography is allowed . In the middle and inside the glass protected area there are another tall Lord Buddha statue . Surround of the statue there are the ramp which will take you to the 1st floor while can know about the Lord Buddha's Life from the wall paintings .
In the dark, the park looks more enchanting . The light decoration of the whole park is really fantastic . The fountain is also another point of selfie point . At the beginning of the park there one lord shiva temple exists . At the outer part of the main park area , there are restaurants and souvenir shop . From the souvenir shop you can collect various buddhist items , incense stick . meditation items .
It is recommended to stay here at least for one night , There are many hotels infront of park or near the Rabangla taxi stand . From Gangtok to Ravangla it is near about 65Km but if you come here via Namchi and Temi tea garden then it will take approx 6 to 8 hours .
Sourav PatraSourav Patra
π Buddha Park, Ravangla (Tathagata Tsal) β Honest Review
π Highlights
Majestic statue & scenic setting β The 130β―ft copper Buddha statue, consecrated by the Dalai Lama in 2013, is the centerpiece of the park, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas (including Mt. Kanchenjunga) . Itβs truly Instagram-worthy .
Well-designed park β Manicured gardens, paved walkways, a serene meditation centre, a museum with a spiral gallery depicting Buddhaβs life, and a peaceful Cho Djo lake enrich the experience .
Spiritual & tranquil atmosphere β With mantra music playing softly, prayer wheels, secluded meditation corners, and ample space for quiet reflection, the park invites a peaceful visit .
π Visitor Impressions From Reddit:
> **βMagnificent weather, Very clean stateβ¦ Beauty of Natureβ¦ Awesomeβ**
**βRavangla is such a beautiful place away from the hustleβ¦ a great view of the Kanchenjungaβ**
These voices echo the overall vibeβtranquil, clean, beautiful.
β± Practical Info
Location: ~1β―km north of Ravangla bus stand, easily accessible by foot, taxi, or shared cab .
Entry & timings: Entry fee is βΉ50 per person; open approximately 9β―AMβ5β―PM (some sources say till 6 or even 9β―PM, so check locally) .
Best time to visit:
Spring (MarβMay): Rhododendrons, orchids in bloom.
Winter (DecβFeb): Snow adds magic to the statue.
Postβmonsoon (SepβNov): Clear skies, fewer tourists .
π± My Verdict β 4/5 Stars Buddha Park offers a deeply peaceful and visually stunning experienceβperfect for meditation, leisurely strolls, and spiritual photography. Gardens are pristine, and facilities like the museum and meditation hall enrich the visit.
A minor drawback: the shops inside can feel a bit touristy, and poster boards could provide deeper context for the exhibits. But overall, itβs a serene blend of art, spirituality, and nature.
βοΈ Ideal for: Weekend getaways, spiritual seekers, photographers; families will appreciate its calm and accessibility.
β Donβt miss: Exploring the meditation center, browsing local souvenirs, and catching sunrise or sunset for Himalayan panorama.
πΈ Truly a must-visit when in Ravanglaβthe Buddhaβs presence and Himalayan backdrop make it unforgettable.
Isha BiswasIsha Biswas
Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas from all sides, the park offers some brilliant views of the Greater Himalaya range including Kanchenjunga, Mount Pandim, Mount Siniolch and Mount Kabru. The winding pathways amidst beautifully manicured lawns and the lovely water fountain in front of the golden statue make it the perfect place for some instagram-worthy shots.
The 130 feet tall copper statue of the Buddha in the bhumisparsha mudra (earth-touching posture) with his eyes half closed adds to the tranquility of its scenic surroundings. In fact the statue can be seen clearly from all directions of south west Sikkim and even some parts of West Sikkim too.
The park also houses a museum that depicts the story of Buddhaβs life as well as a meditation centre open to tourists and monks. There is also a little curio shop here that sells souvenirs, prayer beads, etc.
Ravangla is a charming little town located at a height of about 7000 feet in South Sikkim. It is at a 65 km distance from the state capital of Gangtok on the way to Gyalshing. You can hire a cab or take a shared taxi from Gangtok to get here. In case you fail to find either of these you can take a taxi to Singtam and take another one from there to Ravangla.
The Buddha Park is at a walking distance from the main town on the way to Ralang Monastery. It is open on all days from 9 am to 5 pm.
Every year in spring, Ravangla becomes the centre of a five day festival called βRabong Discoveredβ. The festival complete with a flower show, traditional music and dance competition, local handicraft and food stalls is quite a cultural extravaganza. It also offers opportunities for adventure enthusiasts including activities such as mountain biking, camping and boating apart from tours to other areas of Sikkim.
Ravangla is at its best in spring during the months of March and April since the entire area is covered with flowers of all kinds including many exotic varieties of orchids. Winter, however, changes the town into a completely different avatar since the higher areas of the town experience snowfall during this time
Prajna PaulPrajna Paul
Last february I visited Buddha Park. Due to the off season, it was not so crowded and climate was freezing cold. After a day long trek to Tendong Hill, we reached Buddha Park at the end of the day. Ample parking space is there outside the campus. There was an entry fee of Rs. 50 per head. We booked battery operated car to visit the entire campus as we were very close to the closing time. Battery operated car can accomodate 5 people at a time and you will have to pay separately Rs. 200 for it. It is always advisable to explore any place by walking but you should opt for battery operated car if you are travelling with aged people and small kids. Because the campus is quite large. There are options for both stairs and slope. Inside the monastry, it's so peaceful and the life of Buddha is well derscribed through several wonderful paintings. Photography is not allowed inside. There is also a meditation hall inside the campus. When we reached there, there was no chance to experience the sunset from there as the sky was cloudy but surprisingly we got some glimpses at the end of the day and the himalayan range became visible at the backside of Buddha statue.The status was glowing like gold with the effect of day end rays of the sun. There is amazing calmness you can witness in the eyes of Buddha. No word can justify the exact beauty of that moment. Although the entire visit was so amazing still I was little upset as I wanted to click some pics of Buddha in the morning light with the presence of mighty Himalaya. So at the time of leaving the place, I was little disheartened but my wish came true on next morning. Enroute Ralong Monastry on next morning, exactly I got that view what I was looking for since long time. Buddha Park should be in your itinerary if you are planning your next trip to Ravangla.