Situated in the beautiful landscape of South Sikkim, India, Borong Hot Spring represents some untouched natural phenomenon having therapeutic and leisure value. Nestled by the great Himalayas and surrounded by verdant forests, Borong Hot Spring offers guests the chance to spend a unique, refreshing moment soaking in the warm waters amidst tranquil nature. Other than being one of the preferred tourist spots, this spring is of paramount importance in the locals’ customs, and it is believed to have healing effects for many diseases.
Location
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Situated in the picturesque village of Borong, in southern Sikkim, Borong Hot Spring lies next to the Rangit River, with dense forests and mountain ranges. The natural hot spring finds the ideal setting in this calm area, which enhances its therapeutic value.
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How to Reach Borong Hot Spring
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Here are the ways to reach the Borong Hot Spring location:
By Road
From Gangtok: Borong is approximately 120 kilometres from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The journey by road takes around 5-6 hours, passing through picturesque landscapes and charming villages.
From Bagdogra Airport: The distance from Bagdogra Airport to Borong is about 135 kilometres, with a travel time of approximately 6-7 hours by car or taxi.
From New Jalpaiguri Railway Station: The distance is roughly 130 kilometres, with a travel time of 6-7 hours by road.
By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, located around 135 kilometres from Borong. Travellers can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Borong from the airport.
By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), 130 kilometres from Borong. From NJP, travellers can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Borong.
Places to Visit Around Borong Hot Spring
Borong Hot Spring is one of the most alluring destinations in Sikkim, India. Several places around Borong hot spring can be visited, enhancing its natural beauty and therapeutic significance.
1. Ravangla Buddha Park
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Situated close to Borong Hot Spring is the serene and spiritually soothing Ravangla Buddha Park, also known as Tathagata Tsal. The park, developed in 2006, has a vast 130-foot statue of Buddha at its centre. The view of the Buddha statue in the background of Mt. Kanchenjunga is simply spellbinding. With lush green, well-maintained gardens and tranquillity. The visitors can also view the Buddhist shrine under the statue, which is filled with murals on the life of Buddha.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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2. Ralong Monastery
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Situated near Borong Hot Spring, Ralang Monastery is one of the significant Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. Founded in the 17th century and is affiliated with the Kagyupa School of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery has multicoloured prayer flags, murals, and beautiful statues. A big prayer hall is open to visitors, which houses valuable religious artefacts and ancient scriptures. This monastery is famous for its colourful festivals, particularly Pang Lhabsol, which attracts devotees and visitors from all over the state.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
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It is a biodiversity hotspot located near Borong Hot Spring. The sanctuary was established in 1987 and spanned an area of about 35 square kilometres. This is the homeground to almost all varieties of the rhododendron species whose flowers are available in different colours during the spring season. It is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts since many animals like red pandas, Himalayan black bears, leopard cats, and many different species of birds are found here. The sanctuary also offers hiking options, with trails leading up to the Maenam Peak.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
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4. Temi Tea Garden
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Temi Tea Garden, the only tea estate in Sikkim, is located near Borong Hot Spring and offers a unique experience for visitors. The garden is renowned for producing some of the finest quality tea in the world, including the famous Temi Tea. Visitors can take guided tours of the tea plantation, learning about the tea-making process from plucking to processing. The estate also houses a tea factory where guests can witness the production process and participate in tea-tasting sessions.
Timings: 9:00 Am – 5:00 PM
5. Sidkeong Tulku Bird Sanctuary
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Sidkeong Tulku Bird Sanctuary near Borong Hot Spring is a haven for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Named after Sikkim’s first crown prince. The sanctuary’s diverse habitat, ranging from subtropical to temperate forests, supports a rich avian population. Visitors can spot various species, such as the Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, and different types of hornbills. The sanctuary also features well-maintained trails for nature walks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene forest environment.
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Suggested Read: Your Travel Guide Into Barsey Rhododendron Wildlife Sanctuary
Where to Stay
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There are accommodations available both in and around Borong that cater to all kinds of travellers. The Borong Tsachu Resort features luxurious rooms with excellent facilities and a view of the Himalayas. The mid-range visitor may like to try out the Borong Hot Spring Resort, which has comfortable rooms and good access to the hot springs. Most of the accommodations in this place reflect traditional Sikkimese architecture, which presents facilities such as baths in hot springs, Wi-Fi, and in-house dining.
Where to Eat
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The rich cultural heritage of Sikkim is evident from its cuisine around Borong Hot Spring. Traditional Sikkimese food is served at local eateries. There are several multi-cuisine restaurants such as “Taste of Ravangla and Roots and Shoots” in the nearby town of Ravangla, catering to various tastes. Restaurants come with outdoor seating areas that produce beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, which enhances the dining experience.
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Best Time to Visit Borong Hot Spring
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- Springtime, from March to May, is the best time to visit because of mild temperatures and rhododendrons in full bloom, creating a colourful landscape.
- During autumn clear skies are suitable for mountain views and other outdoor activities. These are the months with good conditions for taking in the hot springs and sightseeing.
- Summer is rainy since it is a monsoon season, but it is green from June to September. Also, Winter can be pretty cold, but it’s quite interesting to soak in a hot spring amidst a snow-clad environment from December to February.
Other Factors to Consider
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Average Cost of the Trip
The Borong Hot Spring entry fees itself is relatively cheap, about INR 50-100. But you will have to budget the accommodation, which will cost you about INR 1,500-5,000 per night, food and drinks that will cost you INR 300-1,000 per day, and finally, the local transport will cost you another INR 1,000-2,000 per day. An average day in Borong may cost you anything between INR 3,000 and 7,000 per person, again based on your choices. Do not forget to keep the money for extra activities or buy local handicrafts.
Tips for Travellers
- Pack layers of clothing since temperature differs a lot during the day and at night.
- Respect the locals—dress modestly when you visit religious sites.
- Take some time to acclimate to the altitude.
- Pack complementary swimwear and towels for the hot springs.
- Rent a local guide who can give you information regarding the culture and natural features in that area.
- Care about the environment; be a responsible tourist.
- Taste traditional local herbal teas that grant health benefits.
- Check the etiquette for visiting the hot springs and the best visiting times with your accommodation.
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In East Sikkim For An Incredible Experience
Borong Hot Spring offers a unique blend of natural healing, scenic beauty, and cultural richness. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, it provides a rejuvenating experience for both body and mind. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural insights, Borong Hot Spring and its surrounding areas promise a memorable Sikkimese experience. Plan your trip with TripXL to make the most of this hidden gem in the Eastern Himalayas.
Cover Photo: Felix Dance / Wikimedia Commons