Damthang Tendong Trek
Damthang is a small town located fourteen kilometres from Namchi, the main town of South Sikkim, and is also accessible by vehicles. Once in Damthang, you can start a trek to Tendong Hill, which takes about two hours along a footpath through the thick forest. This trek offers a unique experience of diverse vegetation and exclusive wildlife.
Situated above Damthang, Tendong Hill overlooks Namchi and can only be reached by trekking, starting from Damthang. Tendong is at a height of 8,530 ft, surrounded by lush ancient green forest. The trek covers around 6 km and passes through dense forests teeming with diverse flora and wildlife. This forest is home to over 90 bird species, as well as Himalayan Bears, leopards, and the elusive Red Pandas. The hilltop, at an elevation of 8,660 ft, offers breathtaking views of the entire eastern Himalayas.
Trip Highlights & Attractions
Historically, this area has been a place of retreat for Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the silent and picturesque surroundings. According to Lepcha folklore, Tendong Hill gets its name, which means "Upraised Horn". The legends passed down through generations among the Lepcha people state that Tendong saved them from a great deluge that submerged the entire world. This tale bears a striking resemblance to Noah’s Ark, with Mount Ararat serving as the saviour akin to Tendong Hill. It is considered a sacred place, and to this day, Lepchas pay homage to Tendong Hill on the occasion of Lho Rum Faat.
At the top, there is a small monastery and a three-storied watchtower. The 360-degree view from the watchtower is truly breathtaking. Nowhere else in Sikkim will you find such a stunning view of the entire range. The Singalila range in the west, Chola range in the east, part of Gangtok town, Nathu La, Darjeeling, and part of the plains of West Bengal are all visible from this vantage point.
Trip Facts
- Trip id: SKTR-10
- Trip type: Sikkim Trekking
- Trip grade: Moderate
- Starting from: Gangtok
- Ending at: Gangtok
- Trip duration: 3 Days
- Base price: 320
- Max. altitude: 2600 Meters
- Accommodation: Lodge/Tea House
- Group size: 2-16 Person
Damthang Tendong Trek — Itinerary
Cost Includes
- Airport pick up & drop, including all necessary transportation
- Neat and clean good category hotels Accommodation in Gangtok & Yuksom with Bed & Breakfast (CP Basis)
- Trekking support with trekking guide, cook, potters, yaks
- Accommodation during trek with meals & beverages as per company rules
- Services for trekking permits
- Khangchendzonga National Park fees & other necessary services
- While on the trek, we will provide you with Dome/Alpine trekking tents on a sharing basis
- During the trek, we ensure your comfort with camping mattresses, stools, tables, and a kitchen tent
Cost Excludes
- Expenses of a personal nature, such as laundry, telephone, alcohol, etc.
- Personal insurance, however, covers immediate medical facilities
- Extra expenses due to unforeseen circumstances such as landslides/strikes/accidents/natural calamities
- Ropeway, airfare ticket, internal flight, tips, etc.