Adventure · Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Over the top: Maenam traverse to Borong
Climb from Ravangla to Maenam's summit and descend the far side to Borong village, ending at a homestay and, the next morning, the hot spring by the Rangeet. A one-way day across the ridge for fit walkers.
Instead of retracing your steps, cross Maenam. After reaching the summit from Ravangla in about 4 hours, the trail drops down the far side through forest and then farmland to Borong, a village at about 1,770 m with views across the Rangeet valley. The descent takes 3–4 hours and is hard on the knees.
Arrange in advance for your luggage to be driven to Borong and a homestay booked. You arrive tired, to a hot meal with the family. The next morning, walk down to the Borong tsachu on the Rangeet for a soak, especially welcome from December to February.
A guide is essential for this route. Start early, carry plenty of water and food, and use poles for the long descent. Total walking time is 7–9 hours, with roughly 1,100 m up and 1,500 m down. Not suitable in the monsoon or after heavy rain.
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Questions travellers ask
Before you book
How long is the Maenam to Borong traverse?
Typically 7–9 hours of walking: about 4 hours up from Ravangla to the summit and 3–4 hours down to Borong. With rests and lunch, plan for a full day. You climb about 1,100 m and descend about 1,500 m.
How do we get our bags to Borong?
Send them by car from Ravangla to your Borong homestay; we or your hotel can arrange it for about ₹800–1,200. Carry only a daypack with water, food, layers and rain gear on the trek.
Is the descent to Borong difficult?
It is long and steep in places, hard on the knees, and slippery when wet. Walking poles help a lot. Go slowly and stay with your guide. Do not attempt it in the monsoon or with heavy rain forecast.
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