Borong in South Sikkim is a newer destination for tourists who want to go a bit offbit. Located at a distance of about 17kms from Ravangla, Borong is perched at an altitude of 5800 feet. Borong can also be reached from Pelling, Gangtok and Rinchengpong. With Himalayan Mountains situated at the backdrop, Borong offers an ideal place for those seeking peace and tranquility.You can stay over at Borong in cottages that are covered by hilly trees on every side. You can catch a mind-blowing view of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains. When the sun kisses the snow peaks during sunrise, it’s a sight that is worth the effort that you put in to visit Borong. You can easily catch glimpses of the Narsingh, Sinolchu and Pandim summits. Watch this beatific scenery while listening to the chirping of birds like the black magpie, the scarlet minivet and the Himalayan pheasants.
Himalayan Pheasants, Blue and Black Magpie, Scarlet Minivet and so many colorful birds are there to welcome you in their empire. The only sound you will listen there are the chirps of them. The view of mighty snow peaks Narsingh, Pandim and Sinolchu will mesmerize you throughout the day.
Maenam peak is also trekkable from Borong and take less time than from Ravangla. Another very nice place to tek from here is Bhanjan valley. Lush green carpet decorated with tiny colorful flowers in between and the fascinating Himalayan peaks in front of you, a breath taking experience. Borong provides a better base for trekkers on their way to Maenam Peak as opposed to Ravangla. If you have already been to the Maenam Peak, try the Bhanjan Valley. This valley is covered with a green carpet, dotted with beautiful flowers. The Himalayan mountains provide the perfect backdrop to the setting.
The Ralong Monasteries are about 5kms from Borong. To see the New and Old Ralong Monasteries you can hire a car to see the places near by like Gurang Monastery, Barmely Bridge, Famtam village, Silver falls etc. Walk 3 Km up to Borong hot fountain. It will take only one hour to reach this hot fountain in the bank of Rangit river. A festival is held in February each year.You can get a car and visit other places like Gurang Monastery, Famtam Village, Barmely Bridge and the Silver Falls. There is a hot fountain at a distance of 3kms from Borong. The fountain is located on the bank of the river Rangit. If you are visiting in February, you can be part of the celebrations that take place here. There is a trekking route that starts off at Namchi and ends in Borong. It takes about 6 days.
Places to see at Borong:
You can catch a glimpse of some extraordinary views of Mt. Kanchenjungha and other the snowcapped peaks. And a spectacular sight of sunrise from the snow-covered mountains is perhaps the main reason behind a visit to this beautiful place. You can also look for glances of Sinolchu, Narsingh and Pandim peaks.
Nearby attractions from Borong:
Some 5 km away is the Ralong Monastery. You can hire a car and visit other places like Famtam Village, Gurang Monastery, the Silver Falls and the Barmely Bridge. Besides, a hot fountain is located at a distance of some 3km from Borong, on the bank of Rangit River.
Things to do in Borong:
Borong offers a very good base for trekking to Maenam Peak. Besides, there is also a trekking route at Namchi that ends in Borong and takes some 6 days to complete. Apart from trekking, you can go for bird-watching as Borong is home to a wide variety of birds like the scarlet minivet, the black magpie and the Himalayan pheasants.
How to reach Borong:
The nearest railway station to Borong is New Jalpaiguri. Then from the station, you need to hire a car that will take you to Borong via Ravangla. You can also reach Jorthang or Singtam from Siliguri bus stand and then head to Borong. Borong can also be reached from Pelling, Gangtok or Rinchengpong by car.
Best time to visit Borong:
Borong can be enjoyed throughout the year. But if you want to see the festival taking place by the bank of Rangeet River, then you must come during the month of February. |