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Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the state of Sikkim, is a popular spot amongst environment lovers and wildlife lovers. The sanctuary is spread across an area of approximately 800 sq km. It is a bio-diverse area with explosive growth in plant and animal life. This natural beauty has an attractively wooded area, many natural springs, rivers, and beautiful mountains. From hiking to bird watching to wildlife photography, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect place for everyone who wants to enjoy a wonderful time in nature.
Quick Details About Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary Timings: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Best Time To Visit: The best months to visit are March to June and September to November when the weather is good, and animal sightings are abundant.
Entry Fee: ₹20 for Indian nationals and ₹200 for foreign nationals.
Where To Stay
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For a pleasant stay near Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, you can try the adjacent town of Ravangla, which has a variety of lodgings ranging from low-cost guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Popular alternatives include the Hotel Tathagata and the Buddha Retreat, which offer cosy accommodations and gorgeous views. For a more immersive experience, choose eco-friendly lodges such as the Maenam Hill Retreat, which is close to the sanctuary and provides opportunities to appreciate the natural environs.
Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Sikkim
Where To Eat
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You can enjoy local flavours at Ravangla restaurants such as Karma Café and The Dragon Restaurant, which offer authentic Sikkimese and Tibetan food. For a cosy atmosphere and comprehensive food, you can also visit Café Buddha or Ranka Cafe. If you’re staying at an eco-lodge or hotel, look into their eating options since many provide delicious local food.
Location
Photo: Suman Mukherjee / Wikimedia Commons
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is located in south-eastern Sikkim, India. It is roughly 30 km from Ravangla, the nearest large community. The refuge is set in the Maenam Range, providing breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas and a diverse ecosystem.
Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Sikkim For Your Next Surreal Trip
How To Reach Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
To arrive at Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, you can take these steps:
By Air: Bagdogra Airport (IXB) is the nearest major airport, approximately 120 km from Ravangla. When you arrive, you can take a taxi or arrange a shared cab directly to Ravangla.
By Train: The nearest central railway station, New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), is approximately 115 kilometres from Ravangla. You may take a taxi or a shared cab to Ravangla from the station.
By Road: Taxis and shared taxis are widely available for rent at Bagdogra Airport and the NJP Railway Station. The trip from Bagdogra or NJP to Ravangla is lovely, passing through picturesque scenery and tiny settlements. The road trip takes about 3 to 4 hours.
Things To Do In Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the beautiful heights of Sikkim, provides an exquisite retreat into nature with lively animals, magnificent scenery, and calm hiking paths.
1. Trekking and Hiking
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The sanctuary has a network of routes that weave through dense woods, beautiful meadows, and mountainous terrain, offering trekkers stunning vistas of the Himalayas. Popular paths include the trip to Maenam Peak, which rewards hikers with panoramic views and the opportunity to see uncommon species. The hikes are challenging and appealing to both experienced and casual trekkers. Each tour through the refuge reveals its diverse biodiversity, including unusual flora and secretive species, making each step an unforgettable adventure.
Suggested Read: The Best Adventure Sports In Sikkim To Try On Your Next Vacation
2. Bird Watching
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The Sanctuary’s various habitats, which range from deep woods to open meadows, sustain a large bird population. Observe uncommon and exciting animals such as the blood pheasant, satyr tragopan, and numerous singers in their native habitats. Birds are most active in the early mornings and late afternoons, making these the best times to see them. Binoculars and a field guide will help you make better observations. The sanctuary’s quiet environment provides an ideal setting for admiring the beauty and diversity of Himalayan birds.
3. Wildlife Watching
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The sanctuary’s unique habitat, which includes thick forests and alpine meadows, supports uncommon creatures like the red panda, Himalayan tahr, and endangered clouded leopard. Early mornings and late afternoons are optimal for sightings because many animals are most active during these times. Visitors may spot various creatures, such as birds and insects, with patience and a vigilant eye.
Suggested Read: Cascading Waterfalls In Sikkim That Are Not To Be Missed
4. Photography
Photo: Amritendu Mallick / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Sanctuary’s various environments, ranging from lush woods to panoramic mountain views, provide breathtaking backdrops for landscape and animal photography. Early mornings and late evenings bring mellow, golden light, highlighting the landscape’s natural beauty and fauna. Photographers may catch uncommon creatures like the red panda, magnificent Himalayan tahr, and the region’s diverse vegetation. The clean surroundings and varied geography turn every shot into a masterpiece, making it excellent for photographers looking to capture the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
Places to Visit Around Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover a combination of natural beauty and cultural legacy near Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary with these interesting neighbouring places.
1. Ravangla
Photo: Masum Ibn Musa / Wikimedia Common
Ravangla, a lovely village in Sikkim, provides stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range and is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is located at a height of roughly 2,000 metres and is recognised for its beautiful scenery, vibrant local culture, and tranquil atmosphere. The Ralang Monastery is a prominent Buddhist monument there. Ravangla’s comfortable climate and scenic splendour make it an excellent base for visiting Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary.
Things To Do: Explore the Buddha Park, visit local monasteries, and enjoy panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sikkim In December For Your Next Winter Holiday
2. Buddha Park
Photo: Somnath Dutta / Wikimedia Commons
Buddha Park, located in Ravangla, Sikkim, is well-known for its 40-metre tall Buddha statue, which dominates the landscape and provides a profound tranquillity. Surrounded by well-groomed gardens, the park offers panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga mountain, adding to its tranquil mood. The park also has an exhibition hall filled with Buddhist artefacts, which adds to its cultural value.
Things To Do: Admire the towering Buddha statue, stroll through the landscaped gardens, and meditate peacefully.
3. Pemayangtse Monastery
Photo: Kothanda Srinivasan / Wikimedia Commons
Pemayangtse Monastery, in Pelling in Sikkim, is one of the area’s oldest and most important monasteries. Established in the early 18th century, this hallowed monument is well-known for its fine woodwork, stunning paintings, and bright prayer flags. The monastery has a magnificent three-dimensional mandala model of Buddhist cosmology, which is painstakingly created and presented in the main prayer hall.
Things To Do: Discover the intricate woodwork and murals, view the detailed mandala model, and experience traditional Buddhist rituals.
Suggested Read: Bungee Jumping In Sikkim
Other Factors to Consider
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Average Cost of the Trip
Budget around 4,000 to 6,000 per day for lodging, lunch and local transportation. This estimate covers sleeping in low- to mid-priced hotels, eating at local restaurants, and renting taxis or jeeps. Entry fees, guided tours, and hiking permits might increase your vacation budget by roughly ₹1,000 to ₹2,000.
Tips for Travelers
- Book your lodging and transportation in advance, especially during high seasons.
- Bring layered clothes, robust walking shoes, and rain gear to cope with changing weather conditions.
- When photographing individuals, follow local conventions and traditions and obtain permission first.
- Bring plenty of water and food for hikes and wildlife expeditions.
- Practise eco-friendly travel by reducing trash and adhering to park restrictions.
- Ensure that you have the proper licences for hiking and wildlife activities.
- Consult your doctor about immunisations and carry a basic medical kit in an emergency.
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary provides a one-of-a-kind combination of magnificent scenery, rich species, and peaceful trekking opportunities. This place offers a memorable journey, from wildlife viewing and bird watching to touring neighbouring sites. Plan your trip to Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary with TripXL to ensure a smooth experience. Visit TripXL’s website to arrange your travel, accommodations, and guided excursions, assuring a smooth and pleasurable stay in this Himalayan wonderland.
Cover Photo: Free to use CC0 / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
