Temi Tea Garden, nestled in the serene landscapes of South Sikkim, is the state’s sole tea estate and one of the world’s finest tea producers. Spanning approximately 440 acres, this tea garden established in 1969 by the Government of Sikkim is a haven for tea lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Known for its organic tea production and lush greenery, Temi Tea Garden is a must-visit destination during your South Sikkim tour.
How to Visit Temi Tea Garden
Temi Tea Garden is situated between Damthang and Temi Bazaar, near Namchi, the main town of South Sikkim. It is easily accessible from Namchi by rented car.
Here’s how you can reach this picturesque spot:
- By Car: It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive (approximately 55 kilometers) from Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. You can hire a rented car and cover Temi Tea Garden as a part of South Sikkim sightseeing; alternatively, you can take a shared cab to Namchi and then proceed to the tea garden by hiring a private taxi.
- By Bus: The Sikkim State Government transport service offers buses throughout the state. Take a bus to Namchi and then hire a taxi to continue your journey to Temi Tea Gardena part of your Namchi sightseeing.
- By Air: Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, about 125 kilometers away, is the nearest airport. From there, hire a taxi to Namchi and then visit Temi Tea Garden as a part of your Namchi sightseeing.
- By Train: The closest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) or Siliguri in West Bengal, about 115 kilometers from Namchi. Taxis are readily available from the station.
Entry Fees:
- INR 60 for adults
- INR 30 for children
For taxi bookings, contact:
- Suman Gurung: +91-7797686316 (A reliable travel agent and car owner)
- Krishna: +91-6294019247 (A polite and experienced driver/car owner based in Pelling)
Best Time to Visit Temi Tea Garden
- Spring (March to May): This period marks the first flush of tea leaves, offering visitors a chance to witness the plucking process amidst blooming rhododendrons and orchids across the valley.
- Autumn (October to November): Immerse yourself in the magical charm of the garden adorned with pink cherry blossoms. The weather during these months is mild and inviting, making it perfect for sightseeing and leisurely strolls.
- Winter (December to January): Marvel at the clear, crisp skies and panoramic views of snow-clad mountains. The tranquil atmosphere of the tea garden during this time is ideal for those seeking peace and breathtaking vistas.
Why Include Temi Tea Garden in Your South Sikkim Tour
Scenic Beauty: Rolling tea bushes set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains create a mesmerizing view.
Cultural Experience: Take a factory tour to learn about the tea-making process and enjoy tea-tasting sessions.
Nature Walks: Explore the narrow paths winding through the garden for a refreshing experience.
Horse Riding: A delightful activity for kids, available for INR 300.
Tasting Temi Tea: Sip on authentic Temi tea at roadside stalls while enjoying the serene ambiance.
Best Stay Options Near Temi Tea Garden
Here are some accommodation options near Temi Tea Garden:
The Temi Bungalow
Situates at a different part of the tea garden, this property offers stunning views of the lush estate and the surrounding mountains. Known for its excellent maintenance, delicious food, and warm hospitality, it provides an unforgettable stay experience.
Cherry Resort
Located within the tea garden, Cherry Resort offers panoramic views of the estate and surrounding mountains, providing guests with an immersive experience amidst nature. You can plan to spend a night here at Cherry Resort.
Temi Tea Lodge
Located at the base of the tea garden, this budget-friendly option ensures a comfortable stay with friendly service. While the views may not rival Cherry Resort, its affordability and convenience make it a popular choice.
Sarika Homestay
Situated 2-3 kilometers from the garden’s entrance, this pocket-friendly homestay offers a tranquil environment and exclusive views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
For luxury or budget-friendly accommodations, you can also explore hotels in Namchi, which is just a short drive away. From your base in Namchi, you can easily plan a day trip to Temi Tea Garden.
The complete list of the best hotels in Namchi is coming soon.
How to Plan Your Trip to Temi Tea Garden
- Duration: Allocate at least 2 hours to explore Temi Tea Garden; if you want to participate in activities like factory tours and tea tasting, at least half of a day is required, preferably morning session.
- Transportation: Hiring a private taxi is recommended for flexibility. The contact numbers of drivers, and tour operators are already given above. They can take you to Temi from any part of Sikkim. Also, they provide drop and pickup services from NJP or Siliguri Railway station and Bagdogra Airport.
- Permits: While visiting Temi Tea Garden doesn’t require special permits, traveling in Sikkim may necessitate certain permits, especially for foreign nationals. It’s advisable to check with local authorities or travel agencies if you are a foreign citizen.
Other Places to Visit Nearby
- Samdruptse Monastery: Home to a towering statue of Guru Padmasambhava, offering panoramic views of the hills.
- Char Dham (Siddhesvara Dham): A major pilgrimage site featuring replicas of the four Dhams of India.
- Ravangla: A picturesque town known for its Buddha Park and serene landscapes.
- Namchi Rock Garden: A beautifully maintained garden with diverse flora, pathways, and viewpoints.
Conclusive Remarks
Temi Tea Garden is not just a destination but an experience that encapsulates the natural beauty and cultural richness of Sikkim. Whether you’re a tea enthusiast, nature lover, or seeking tranquility, including Temi Tea Garden in your South Sikkim itinerary promises a memorable journey.
For a visual glimpse of Temi Tea Garden, you might find this video helpful:
Dr. Suvankar Das is a scientific advisor by profession, associated with a CRO organization. He pursued his doctoral degree in Chemistry in 2015. Later, he worked as a postdoctoral researcher & scientist in a couple of institutes/companies.
Besides his scientific journey, Dr. Das is also a passionate traveler and travel blogger. He loves to share all his travel experiences with other travelers so that everyone can enjoy hassle-free holidays with their own tour plans.
He believes, the most beautiful thing in this world is the WORLD itself. so there is no way to live like a clock; rather live it like a compass!
