Statue of Buddha stands tall at this holy park in Sikkim

The northeast Indian state of Sikkim is well endowed with natural beauty and is one of the most charming regions in the country. Apart from its breathtaking landscape, the state's culture and heritage also attract travellers from far and wide. And one of the appealing spots of Sikkim is the stunning Buddha park called ‘Tathagata Tsal’. Scores of tourists flock the revered park, which is situated near Ravangla, a district in south Sikkim, as it provides an inimitable experience to the visitors.

The highlight of the park is the 130-feet high statue of Buddha installed to mark the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha. The facility was put in place with the sole aim of increasing the flow of pilgrims and tourists to the region. The holy statue became a reality due to the concerted efforts of the people of Sikkim and the state government between 2006 and 2013, and Dalai Lama dedicated the statue to the nation on March 25, 2013.

The premises of the centuries-old Rabong monastery house the popular park and the Ralang monastery, which is another important holy place of Tibetan Buddhists, is situated near ‘Tathagata Tsal’.

The Buddha park, which boasts of a lake by the name of Cho Djo on its premises, sits majestically surrounded by verdant forests and the sight of misty Himalayas in the backdrop is ethereal. Serenity takes a new meaning at the park with a Buddhist conclave, meditation center, museum with spiral gallery and wide pathways.

The tourists can reach the holy facility without any hassles as it is well connected by road. The park, which is situated one km to the north of Ravangla town, is 126km away from Bagdogra airport, 122km away from Jalpaiguri, 118km away from Siliguri and 85km from Gangtok.

Ravangla is also a favourite hunting ground for adventure sports enthusiasts. The Ravangla town is located in the valley of the Maenam Hills, which is the gateway to numerous tourist destinations in the southern and westerns parts of Sikkim. The Maenam Hills and Borong are sought-after trekking spots of travellers, and the trekking to Sharchog Beyphug, the holiest cave in Sikkim, is very popular.