Maenam Hill, Ravangla - Timings, Accessibility, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 12 km from Ravangla, Maenam Hill is a hill situated inside the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary in Ravangla, Sikkim. It is one of the popular places of trekking in Sikkim and among the best places to visit in Ravangla.

Situated at an altitude of 10,300 feet, the scenic view from the hill is unmatched. Mt. Khangchendzonga and its surrounding ranges loom above to dwarf the richly forested and rugged hills. On a clear sunny day, it is possible to see the plains of Bengal spanning across Kalimpong and Darjeeling hills in the South and right across the Indo-China border towards the North.

The trek starts at an altitude of 7000 feet (2133 m) from Ravangla and goes up to 10,500 feet (3200 m). It is around 12 km trek (one way) that starts from Ravangla and takes around 4 hours to climb up and 2 hours to climb down. The path of the trek is really steep and the trek trail goes through Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary where one can spot rhododendron, oak, chestnut and magnolia trees. Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bears and different varieties of deer are also can be seen in the sanctuary. One can see 4 resting points on the way and an abandoned monastery at the top of the Maenam hill.

Another 1.5 km uphill trek leads to the legendry Bhaley Dunga, a kind of rocky spur which juts out from the ridge top and remains suspended in the air above Yangyang village. The path to Bhaledunga passing through Maenam La and it takes 1 hour. One can complete the whole trek in one day or can stay overnight at the summit. One can continue the trek to nearby villages of Borong and Yangyang or can come back by the same route to Ravangla.

Trekkers have to acquire permit from the Forest Office Department at Ravangla before starting the trek. Guides are compulsory for this trek and they are available at the forest barrack entry near the Ravangla Monastery. Guides will help in arranging Sleeping bags, food, beverages and entry permit.

The months of March to May offer the best of the weather condition to go for a trek to Maenam hill. The trails will be embellished with well-groomed trees and enchanting views of orchids and rhododendrons all around.

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary Timings: 8 AM - 4 PM

Entry Fee: Rs. 100 per day per person