Maenam Hill and Bhaley Dunga, South Sikkim in India

Maenam Hill and Bhaley Dunga

Maenam Hill is at an elevation of 10,300 feet (3,140 meters) and traditionally, this hill has been used by monks for meditation and retreat.

Maenam Hill is a 12 kilometer (7.5 miles) trek from Ravangla. This trail is a nature lover’s delight as it winds through a wooded area of oak, chestnut, magnolia and rhododendrons. This area has been designated a wildlife sanctuary (Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary) and is the natural habitat of the monal pheasant (the state bird of Sikkim), rare red panda, Himalayan black bear and many types of deers. On a clear day it provides unparalleled views of the Himalayan range, Mt. Kanchenjunga (Mt. Khangchendzonga, the third highest mountain in the world), the plains of Bengal, Kalimpong, Darjeeling and the Indo-China border.

Another attraction of the Maenam Hill is the Bhaley Dunga (literal translation: Rooster Rock) which is a spur that protrudes out of the ridge top and remains suspended in mid-air over the village of Yangang.

Downhill there is an option to either take a gentler route to Borong or the more difficult trek down to Yangang village.

Important Note

Foreigners must be in a group of 4 or more to visit Maenam Hill and other restricted places.

See information on Permits and Entry Requirements to visit various places within Sikkim.

How to get there (transport)

Approved local travel and tour agents provide transportation and treks to Borong.

The trek to from Ravangla to Maenam Hill takes about 3 to 4 hours covering a distance of roughly 11 kilometers (6.8 miles).

Where to stay (accommodation)

Not Applicable

What to see (attractions)

The flora, fauna and scenery from the top of Maenam Hill and Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary.

The Bhaley Dunga rock which suspends in mid-air over the village of Yangang.