The town of Ravangla is visited by travellers for the Buddha Park and Temi Tea Gardens, but the Rayong Sunrise Viewpoint is considered the most famous among travellers and locals. It is the perfect vantage point to observe nature’s dramatic start to the day. As the sun rays penetrate through the sky, the mountain ranges are bathed in natural light, and the view is nothing short of heavenly.
What to see
The sun rises over Bhutan’s Dongkya (Chola) Range, and one can also view part of the Singalila Ridge lit up in the fiery rays of the sun. From an altitude of nearly 7000 ft, Rayong offers travellers breathtaking sights of the Himalayan mountains of Jopuno, Pandim, Rathong, Narsing, and Kabur. If you’re looking for the perfect introduction to the Greater Himalayas, Rayong should be part of your Sikkim list.
When to reach
Make sure you check sunrise timings the night before so that you can plan.
Spring and summer are the best times to visit Rayong Sunrise View Point. That’s when you get the most pristine views, and the sunrise is at its dazzling best. If you’re in Sikkim during September, make sure you plan a trip here as the monsoon is fading and the views are much clearer.
How to reach
If you’re visiting Rayong to catch the sunrise from Gangtok, you will have to make an early start as the viewpoint is situated nearly 70 km from the capital.
Since Ravangla is a tourist town, there are several accommodation options, and you’re better off spending a night here and starting your day with the sunrise at Rayong. The viewpoint is less than 10 km away through the Ravangla-Damthang Road from the Ravangla Bus Stand, where you can opt for a shared cab or jeep.
