Sikkim is like a beautifully wrapped gift of nature — once unwrapped, it reveals countless surprises. From hills and hot springs to wildlife, forests, and rivers, it offers much more than one could imagine. Travel to Jorethang to explore one such hidden gem of Sikkim waiting to delight you.
It is one of the major towns in South Sikkim, known for its scenic vistas and picturesque landscapes. This charming hill station lies at the foothills of River Rangeet and is also one of the most thriving business hubs of South Sikkim.
Jorethang Tour allows you to indulge in nature walks, wildlife exploration, trekking, river rafting, bathing in natural hot springs, and other adventure activities. The town comes alive every January during the much-awaited Maghe Mela Festival, which celebrates local culture and traditions.
The history of Jorethang dates back to the 6th century when it was part of the Sikkim kingdom. It is believed to be the home of the highly revered saint Rinpoche. The tea plantations here boast a rich legacy, and the town has long been known for being well-organized and commercially vibrant.
Momo lovers must travel to Jorethang to savour its delicious varieties. The town reflects a blend of Bhutanese, Nepalese, and Tibetan cultures, so visitors can find a fascinating mix of cuisines, traditions, and handicrafts. Many good hotels here are managed by Sikkim Tourism.
Following are the main travel attractions of Jorethang:
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
The word ‘Maenam-la’ literally means ‘treasure house of medicines.’ Established in 1987, this sanctuary is famous for its rich flora and fauna. Various plants of great medicinal value can be found here.
The temperate forests of the sanctuary are home to several exotic wild animals such as the red panda, civet cat, barking deer, leopard, and marbled cat. Colourful birds like magpies, sunbirds, and blue-necked pittas are also spotted frequently. A historic monastery called Maenam Gompa sits on a ridge within the sanctuary and is well worth a visit.
The site is also popular for trekking. The state government has announced plans to develop India’s first wildlife skywalk here — likely inspired by the world-famous Grand Canyon Skywalk in North America.
Akar Suspension Bridge
This is one of the prime tourist attractions of Jorethang, drawing visitors who come to admire its splendid construction. About 400 metres north of the bridge lies the sacred Lord Shiva Temple. The bridge spans the Rangeet River, which is the largest river flowing through Sikkim.
You can enjoy river rafting or plan a picnic along the scenic banks of the river. Several high-quality spas are located nearby — perfect for relaxing after an adventurous day of trekking or rafting.
Jorethang Hot Springs
Located mainly in the northern part of Jorethang, these hot springs offer a soothing experience, especially during the chilly winters. Tourists enjoy splashing around and taking a natural sauna bath. The springs are also believed to have healing and medicinal properties.
Excursions from Jorethang
Darjeeling (25 km) and Singtam (35 km) are two nearby getaways that travellers can easily explore during their visit to Jorethang.
Shopping in Jorethang
Local markets are filled with canvas paintings, clothes, handmade décor items, and Buddhist religious artefacts. You can also shop for exquisite silver, gold, and stone jewellery crafted by local artisans.
When to Reach
The best time to visit Jorethang is during May, September, and December. The famous Jorethang Mela (January) marks the onset of spring and offers a wonderful opportunity to witness local culture, festivities, and traditional performances.
How to Reach
Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (55 km).
Rail: The closest railhead is Siliguri Junction (52 km), which connects Jorethang to major cities across West Bengal and North-East India.
Road: Regular buses operate from other towns in Sikkim to Jorethang. Private cars and jeeps are also available for local travel and sightseeing.
So, plan your trip to Jorethang and experience the best of Sikkim’s scenic beauty and cultural charm — you’re sure to fall in love with it!
