Borong Hot Spring: Unveiling The Treasure Trove of South Sikkim

Scenic snapshot of the majestic Waterfall amidst the dense forest of the Borong village

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

Snapshot of the scenic hot spring of Borong village amidst lush greenery of hills

Photo: Mackay Kendrick / Pexels / Image For Representation only

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.

Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Sikkim For Your Next Surreal Trip

How to Reach Borong Hot Spring

Picture of the Borong Highway passing through the scenic landscape in South Sikkim

Photo: Peterdownunder / Wikimedia Commons

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

An Image of idyllic Buddha’s Statue in Ravangla Buddha Park near the Borong Hot Spring

Photo: Joydeep / Wikimedia Commons

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

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South Sikkim

2. Ralong Monastery

Snapshot of the beautiful Ralong Monastery in South Sikkim - Near Borong Hot Spring

Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons

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

Snapshot of a beautiful Red Panda walking on a Branch in their Natural Habitat, Sikkim

Photo: Harper Swan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

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

Suggested Read: Cascading Waterfalls In Sikkim That Are Not To Be Missed

4. Temi Tea Garden

Picture of idyllic Temi Tea Garden with Himalayas in Backdrop, Near Borong Hot Spring

Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons

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

Beautiful Snap of a Blackbird sitting on a Ploe in the Sanctuary - Borong Hot Spring

Photo: Harsh Suthar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

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

Panoramic Snapshot of the beautiful greenhouses on the shores of the Mountain Lake

Photo: Nans K / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

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

Aerial snapshot of the idyllic building on the Hills in Sikkim - Borong Hot Spring

Photo: Harsh Suthar / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

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.

Suggested Read: Bungee Jumping In Sikkim

Best Time to Visit Borong Hot Spring

Picture of the beautiful natural hot water spring amidst the foothills of a Mountain

Photo: Vlad Chețan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

  • 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

A beautiful picture of a three-handed Buddha with a clear blue sky in the background

Photo: Arani Mukherjee / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

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

Frequently Asked Questions

The hot spring waters are believed to have therapeutic properties that may help with skin conditions, joint pain, and stress relief. However, it's important to note that these are traditional beliefs and not necessarily scientifically proven.
Early morning or late afternoon are often considered the best Borong Hot Spring timings to visit. The springs are less crowded, and the temperature is more comfortable for soaking.
There are basic changing facilities available, but it's advisable to bring your towels and toiletries.
Visitors should dress modestly and be respectful of local customs. It's also important to follow any posted rules about behaviour in and around the springs.
While children can visit, they should be closely supervised at all times. The water temperature may be too hot for young children, so it's best to check with local authorities or your accommodation for specific guidelines.

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