Temi Launches Zipline and Tourism Activities Led by Local Youths
The scenic Temi Tea Garden has taken a leap into adventure tourism with the launch of a 370-meter zipline at Mela Tar.
The new service, inaugurated on June 21, marks the beginning of a broader community-driven tourism initiative promoted by the Temi Tea Board.
Nearly 30 local youths, led by Sunil Rajalim of the village, spearheaded the project and approached area MLA BS Panth, who recommended the plan to the Board.
Following this, the area was leased to the group for tourism activities, enabling youth-led self-employment initiatives.
Alongside the zipline, visitors to Temi can now enjoy horse riding, camping, photography, and star-gazing experiences.
A key attraction is the innovative telescope-based terrestrial and celestial viewing, introduced by local youth Prashant Lamechaney. His telescope allows visitors to observe distant celestial bodies, including nebulae and Saturn.
Radha Pradhan, the Managing Director of the Temi Tea Board, has announced plans to soon launch a community-based tourism model, further expanding opportunities for local engagement.
Temi Tea Board Chairman R.K. Waling emphasized that today’s launch aligns with the Chief Minister’s vision of empowering Sikkimese youth through self-reliance and entrepreneurship.
Roshan Rai, BDO of the region, highlighted that Temi Tea Garden records the highest number of touch-and-go tourists in Namchi District and remains one of the safest places for trekking and cycling.
Meanwhile, SKM CLC President Phurba Tshering Bhutia shared that a meeting will soon be called to involve more direct stakeholders in Temi’s tourism future.
He confirmed that a Tourism Development Committee will be formed to oversee and guide tourism activities in the area.
The entry fee to Mela Tar is set at ₹100 per person, with the zipline ride priced at ₹400, as informed by Sunil Rajalim. Other recreational services will also carry nominal charges. During the inaugural run, the zipline recorded its lowest rider weight at 30 kg, setting an exciting precedent for adventure enthusiasts in the region.
