LEGSHIP TRAVEL GUIDE

Legship is the gateway to West Sikkim. It is located on the bank of River Rangeet, and falls in the way of the routes to many prominent cities in Sikkim. Typical of small towns in Sikkim, it is abundant in natural beauty, options for adventure sports and treks, and is surrounded by sights that draw tourists in large numbers.

The spiritual and religious significance of the town, combined with its prime location and access, make it a great halt or a short break for any traveller.

Climate And Best Time To Visit

Legship experiences cold and humid climate throughout the year. The best time to visit is February-May.

Getting There & Getting Around Legship

Legship lies on the route to several important towns and cities. The closest airport is Bagdogra airport and closest rail head is New Jalpaiguri. Incoming travellers can book taxis from the entry points to Gangtok or any other prominent town, and make the onward journey via taxi from there.

Best time to visit LegshipHow to reach Legship

Legship is a small town, and the best way to get around is by a pre-booked taxi.

SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES

Legship is best known for some of its popular attractions like the Rangeet Dam, and the Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple.

RANGEET DAM

The Rangeet dam is located on the Rangeet river, which is a tributary of the Teesta river. The catchment area of the dam is 979 sq km. The Rangeet Water World is built on the reservoir of the Rangeet Dam. It has a paid entry, and is open on all days of the week. Those who are looking for an adventurous break, must visit this place while there. It makes for a great attraction for children and adults alike

KIRATESHWAR MAHADEV TEMPLE

This is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a Hindu pilgrimage site. It is one of the oldest temples in Sikkim. The temple finds mention in the epic Mahabharat. Arjun, the warrior prince, is mentioned has having done severe penance at this spot. Pleased with his penance, Mahadeva appeared in the form of a hunter of “Kirat” and tested Arjun’s warrior skills. Arjun finally accepted defeat and it is here that Mahadev gave him the divine weapon of “Pashupatastra.” The temple has a self manifested Shiva linga as the main deity. The temple also houses deities of Devi Durga and Lord Ram. It draws large number of devout visitors every year. It is also famous for the Bala Chaturdashi Festival, which takes place in November-December every year. Shiva Ratri, which falls in the month of February or March, is also a crowd puller. It is located in a serene spot amidst the mountains, making it the ideal place for meditation. It has a deeply spiritual ambiance, and even the non-religious traveller will find this temple worth a visit.

PHU CHA CHU SULPHOROUS HOT SPRINGS

These are sulphurous hot springs, which are well known for their medicinal properties. Located amidst lush green forests, the hot springs form a natural water pool. The arrangement of the surrounding rocks makes this a naturally formed bath, which can accommodate several people. Legend has it that during the 7th century, Guru Padmasambhava meditated at the same spot. This adds to the spiritual sanctity of the place. Overlooking the Rangeet river, these hot springs are a unique feature of the topography of the Himalayas in Sikkim.

LHO KHANDO SANG PHO

Lho Khando Sang Pho are sacrosanct caves in the Himalayas, where the revered Guru Rempoche meditated in the 8th century. These are surrounded by Nub Dechenphu, Chyang Lhari Ngingphu and Sharcho Phephu, in other directions. They carry religious importance for Buddhists, and see a huge number of visitors. This is the most apt place to spend some time in the Himalayan forest and caves, and be in a meditative space. The sounds of the flowing Rangeet river, the pine trees all around, and the quiet of the caves make these a natural silent retreat.

Though Legship is a small town, the popularity of its tourist attractions are enough to make it worth a visit.