Sikkim

The state of Sikkim stretches below Mount Kanchenjunga (8534 m), the third highest peak in the world and the altitudinal levels of the state ranges from 300 m to over 8540 m above sea level.



Sikkim is a land that appeals to tourists from all over the world with its graceful snow clad mountain peaks, lush green valleys and the pristine landscape. Every year tourists flock to Sikkim to get a view of the majestic Kanchendzonga mountain peak and enjoy the pleasant climate. Sikkim is known to be a favored destination for tourists who want the best out of a holiday vacation. Various tourists from all over the country visit Sikkim to take a break from the polluted city air and experience the rejuvenating climate in this virgin land. Apart from the scenic beauty, Sikkim is famed for its various lakes, the wildlife, and the enchanting monasteries that collectively make up tourism in Sikkim. The tourist attractions in Sikkim include mountains, glaciers, and a varied wildlife among its natural treasures, and monasteries, temples and palaces among the historic and religious places. The Fairs and festivals of Sikkim are also popular tourist attractions in Sikkim.

Apart from the Kanchendzonga mountain peak (the third largest mountain peak in the world), various other mountain ranges offer major tourist attractions in Sikkim. The Chola and the Sangalila form other major mountain ranges. Tourists can indulge themselves in trekking which promises to be the adventure of a lifetime.

Glaciers form a major part in the list of tourist attractions in Sikkim. The most notable glaciers to visit are the Zemu Glacier which incidentally happens to be the largest glacier of the eastern Himalayas. Several frozen waterfalls are seen at the junction of the Zemu glacier. This fantastic sight has a mesmerizing effect on tourists. Other noteworthy glaciers are the Lonak Glacier and the Rathong Glacier.

Sikkim has several monasteries which are of great spiritual importance to the local people. It has more than 194 monasteries which are great places to visit for travelers. These monasteries play a significant role in the lives of the people of Sikkim. Some noteworthy monasteries to visit are Tashiding, Phodong, Rumtek, Pemyangtse and Sangacholing.

The state is known to be home to a variety of rare species of flora and fauna. In the Himalayan environment, it offers virgin forests, and brightly colored wild flowers of various kinds. One would be thrilled to visit the forest and see in the wild, various wild animals like the brown bear, the Himalayan black bear, yaks, wild goats, Tibetan antelope, Bharal (blue sheep), leopards and even tigers. The very rare and endangered Red Panda is found in Sikkim.

The other important places in Sikkim include the Hanuman tok Temple, Kabi Lungchok, Temi Tea garden, Menam Hill, Saramsa Garden, Fambong La Wildlife sanctuary, Borong and Ravangla.

About sikkim



Tsomogo Lake in Sikkim Situated in the Eastern Himalayas, in the vicinity of the Khanchendzonga, Sikkim is a picturesque land with lush green valleys, towering mountain peaks, cascading rivers and hills. Towering over Sikkim is the third largest mountain peak in the world, the Khanchendzonga, which soars to a height of 8586 meters. The climate of Sikkim varies dramatically. In the lower valleys one can experience the sub-tropical hot climate and as one rises to the mountain tops, one would experience a biting cold weather with areas where snowfall is common too. Prior information about Sikkim helps tourists be prepared for their tours to this state. Read on to learn more about Sikkim.

History:
Sikkim was known to be inhabited in ancient times by the Changs, Mons and the Laongs. Later, Lepchas migrated into the country and formed the predominant race. After this, they adapted themselves to their new habitat and even elected leaders among themselves to address to crucial matters in their daily lives. In the 17th century, the Tibetans migrated into Sikkim which forced the Lepchas to shift their habitat to avoid any conflict. The Lepchas chose Phuntsog Namgyal as their spiritual leader. In the year 1975, Sikim was merged among other Indian states.

Tourism in Sikkim:

Sikkim is a land with unique diversities where some rare species of flora and fauna are known to exist to the modern day. It is known to be home to 600 species of birds, 4000 species of flowering plants, 40 species of rhododendrons and over 600 species of orchids. The population of Sikkim is dominated by the Nepalis, Lepchas and Bhutias. Buddhism and Hinduism are the major religions followed.

There are various tourist attractions in Sikkim such as the towering mountain peaks, various monasteries, the serene lakes, wildlife and adventure sports. Apart from these, Gangtok is a city that is highly recommended for tourist visit which is a truly beautiful city with every modern facility available for tourist convenience. Gangtok is reputed to be a land rich with a varied flora and fauna.

Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Sikkim is in the months of March to June and September to December. Among the five seasons that Sikkim experiences, it is recommended that tourists visit this majestic land in autumn or in summer when weather conditions are not too harsh.

In winters, heavy jackets, sweaters, shawls, gloves, and boots are to be worn. Shirts, light cotton and linens would suffice in the summers. A visit in the monsoon time would require umbrellas and raincoats to be used. In spring, light jackets and overcoats would be sufficient and this is the best time to visit Sikkim.

Transportation:
Situated just 124 kms from Gangtok is the Bagdogra airport which is well connected to other cities via a number of connecting flights to Delhi, Kolkata and Guwahati. For tourists’ convenience, various buses, taxis and rented jeeps are available. Mini buses are quite convenient for traveling between cities. Helicopter services are also available for tourists who can afford it. Tourists can reach Gangtok from Bagdogra by helicopters in just 30 minutes. These added advantages have prominently added to the popularity of tourism in Sikkim.

Sikkim