SIKKIM

SIKKIM

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM SIKKIM

Sikkim is a beautiful state located in the northeastern part of India. It shares borders with Bhutan, Tibet (China), and Nepal. The region is nestled in the mighty Himalayas and is renowned for its awe-inspiring landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and rich cultural heritage. One of the prominent features of Sikkim is Kangchenjunga, the highest mountain in India and the third highest in the world, standing at an impressive height of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet). Its snow-covered peaks form a breathtaking backdrop to the state’s picturesque scenery. Sikkim’s mountainous terrain also gives rise to numerous glaciers, alpine meadows, and pristine lakes, adding to its natural splendor. The state is famous for its vibrant biodiversity, boasting a wide range of plant and animal species. Sikkim’s forests are home to thousands of varieties of wildflowers, including orchids and rhododendrons, which bloom in a riot of colors during the spring season. The region’s rich flora and fauna have led to the establishment of several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Khangchendzonga National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sikkim holds a significant place in Buddhism, and its hilltop monasteries are an integral part of its cultural and religious fabric. Pemayangtse Monastery, dating back to the early 1700s, is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. It is located near the town of Pelling and offers a serene and tranquil environment for spiritual seekers and visitors alike. The monastery is renowned for its ancient Buddhist scriptures, exquisite wall paintings, and a seven-tiered painted wooden structure known as the Zangdog Palri. Apart from its natural and cultural attractions, Sikkim offers numerous adventure opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, and paragliding are popular activities that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s breathtaking landscapes and explore its hidden gems. Sikkim’s unique blend of natural beauty, diverse flora and fauna, and spiritual heritage make it a sought-after destination for travelers seeking an offbeat and enchanting experience in the lap of the Himalayas.

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THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN SIKKIM

Helicopter Ride: Experience breathtaking aerial views of Sikkim’s valleys, rivers, and mountains from a helicopter.

Mountain Biking: Explore the rugged and dramatic terrain of the Himalayas on thrilling biking trails.

Camping: Enjoy the beauty of Sikkim’s landscapes, set up a camp, and unwind around a bonfire.

Nature Tours: Embark on guided tours to explore the pristine natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna of Sikkim.

Rock Climbing: Test your strength and agility by scaling the rocky cliffs and boulders in Sikkim.

Stargazing: Witness the mesmerizing night sky of Sikkim and admire the countless twinkling stars.

Ropeway: Take a ride on a ropeway to get a bird’s-eye view of the city and its surroundings.

Cycling: Pedal through the picturesque landscapes of Sikkim, feeling the refreshing air brush past you.

Trekking: Satiate your adrenaline rush by embarking on treks through Sikkim’s beautiful trails and mountains.

Bungee Jumping: Experience the thrill of jumping from a great height with a secured bungee cord.

Hang Gliding: Soar high in the sky and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the landscapes while hang gliding with an experienced pilot.

Caving: Explore the mysterious underground caves of Sikkim and unravel their secrets.

Monasteries: Immerse yourself in the spiritual charm of Sikkim by visiting the monasteries and interacting with the monks.

National Parks: Discover the wildlife and natural habitats of Sikkim by visiting its national parks.

Rafting: Challenge the white waters of Sikkim’s rivers and enjoy the thrill of rafting.

Yak Riding: Experience an authentic Sikkimese activity by riding a yak, a peaceful animal, and enjoy a safari around the lake.

Gondolas: Take a delightful cable car ride and witness panoramic views of the valleys and mountains.

Paragliding: Glide through the skies and enjoy the adrenaline rush while paragliding in Sikkim’s scenic landscapes.

Shopping: Explore the thriving markets of Sikkim and buy handicrafts and souvenirs.

Authentic Cuisine: Indulge in the flavors of North-Eastern delicacies and savor the local cuisine of Sikkim.

Long Drive: Embark on a scenic drive along the ancient Silk Route to Nathula Pass, enjoying the breathtaking views.

Do Drul Chorten: Seek blessings and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this Buddhist stupa.

Lakes: Visit the enchanting lakes of Sikkim, such as Changu Lake and Khecheopalri Lake, and enjoy their tranquil beauty.

Goecha La: Undertake the challenging Goecha La Trek, which offers majestic views of the mountains, including Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Yumthang Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate by taking a dip in the natural hot springs of Yumthang.

Temi Tea Gardens: Explore the lush tea plantations of Temi and learn about the tea-making process.

Yumthang: Immerse yourself in the beauty of flower-filled valleys and meadows in Yumthang.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek: Embark on an exciting trek to the base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
These activities offer a diverse range of experiences that cater to different interests and ensure an unforgettable time in Sikkim.

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DESTINATIONS WORTH VISITING IN SIKKIM

North Sikkim:

Khangchendzonga National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its rich biodiversity, including the majestic Mt. Khangchendzonga, high-altitude lakes, and diverse flora and fauna.

Gurudongmar Lake: Located at a high altitude of 17,800 feet, it is a sacred lake with stunning views of snow-capped mountains and colorful wildflowers.

Yumthang Valley: Known as the Valley of Flowers, it offers picturesque landscapes, hot springs, and a wide variety of alpine flowers during the summer season.

Lachung: A peaceful village situated at the confluence of the Lachen and Lachung rivers, it serves as the gateway to the Yumthang Valley and is known for its monasteries.

 

East Sikkim:

Enchey Monastery: A prominent Buddhist monastery located in Gangtok, offering a peaceful ambiance and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Nathula Pass: A mountain pass at the Indo-China border, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance as a part of the ancient Silk Route.

Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden: A botanical garden in Gangtok, featuring a wide variety of exotic and indigenous plants, as well as a glasshouse and a flower exhibition.

Tashi View Point:A popular viewpoint near Gangtok, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains, including Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Hanuman Tok Temple: A hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its serene atmosphere and panoramic views of Gangtok and the surrounding hills.

 

West Sikkim:

Khecheopalri Lake: A tranquil lake surrounded by forests, known for its clear waters and considered sacred by the Lepcha and Buddhist communities.

Yuksom: The first capital of Sikkim, known for its historical significance, ancient monasteries, and as the base camp for several treks, including the popular Dzongri-Goecha La trek.

Pelling: A picturesque town in the Himalayan foothills, offering stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, waterfalls, monasteries, and the Khecheopalri Lake.

Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple: A revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Legship, offering scenic surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere.

Okhrey: A serene village in West Sikkim, known for its natural beauty, lush greenery, and as a base for trekking and bird-watching activities.

 

South Sikkim:

Borong: A quaint village known for its natural beauty, hot springs, and trekking trails, offering a peaceful retreat in the lap of nature.

Solophok: A religious and pilgrimage site, home to the famous Siddheswar Dham, which features replicas of the Char Dhams of India and a towering statue of Lord Shiva.

Sikip: A small town on the banks of the river Rangeet, offering opportunities for river rafting, angling, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

Namchi: The capital city of South Sikkim, known for its stunning views of the mountains, replicas of the four major Indian Dhams, and the serene Namchi Monastery.

Ravangla: A hill station offering panoramic views of the mountains, monasteries, tea gardens, and the Buddha Park, featuring a giant statue of Lord Buddha. These are just a few of the many attractions in each region, and Sikkim as a whole offers a wealth of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure opportunities.

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WHY VISIT SIKKIM

Sikkim is a captivating state with a plethora of reasons to make it your next travel destination.

Natural Beauty and Lakes: Sikkim’s lakes, waterfalls, and lush green forests offer a breathtaking natural landscape. Tsomgo Lake, surrounded by alpine forests and rhododendron flowers, is a prime example of the state’s natural charm.

Buddhist Monasteries: Sikkim is home to remarkable Buddhist monasteries. The Rumtek Monastery, with its peaceful ambiance and stunning golden stupa, showcases Tibetan Buddhist architecture and craftsmanship.

Nathula Pass: This ancient Silk Route pass, located at an altitude of 4,310 meters, served as a crucial trading route. It offers a glimpse into Sikkim’s historical significance and international relations.

Yumesamdong (Zero Point): Situated along the Indo-Chinese border, Yumesamdong is a snow-covered area that provides a unique experience of the snow-capped mountains and grazing yaks.

Seven Sisters Falls: The powerful cascades of the Seven Sisters Falls, flowing down in seven stages, create a breathtaking sight, especially during the monsoon season.

Local Cuisine: Sikkim offers a delectable range of indigenous dishes. From momos and thukpa to Gundruk and Saelroti, the local flavors with locally-sourced ingredients are a treat for food enthusiasts.

Beautiful Valleys: The valleys of Sikkim, such as Lachen Valley, Lachung Valley, and Yumthang Valley, each have their unique charm, from snow-covered landscapes to rhododendron-filled meadows.

Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden: This garden near Gangtok showcases the indigenous ecosystem of Sikkim, with a variety of orchids and towering alpine trees that create a picturesque setting.

Teesta River: Flowing through West Bengal and Sikkim, the Teesta River offers stunning views throughout the year. Fishing, angling, and water sports activities can be enjoyed along its banks.

Cultural Diversity and Folk Arts: Sikkim is a melting pot of cultures and communities, each with its distinctive folk songs, dances, and colorful costumes, providing a vibrant cultural experience.

Suggested daily budget – 50-60 EUR / 52-62 USD (Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation. Using the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)

WHEN TO VISIT

Summer (March to June): Sikkim experiences pleasant temperatures ranging from 5-25°C during summer. This is the best time to visit for trekking, exploring the Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary, camping, river rafting in the Teesta River, and visiting Buddhist monasteries like Rumtek and Pemayangtse.

Monsoon (July to September): While Sikkim receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, it can still be a good time to visit if you don’t mind getting wet. The Temi Estate with its tea gardens and the Pang Lhabsol festival are worth experiencing during this time.

Winter (October to December): Winter in Sikkim brings heavy snowfall and is perfect for snow lovers. The Dzongri-Goecha La trek and other treks in the North East Himalayas offer stunning views. Festivals like Diwali, Kagyed, and Namsoong add cultural richness to the visit. Make sure to pack heavy woolen clothes as temperatures can drop to -5°C. It’s important to note that the monsoon season may bring landslides and road blockages, so it’s generally not recommended for travel. However, each season in Sikkim has its unique attractions and experiences, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the region throughout the year.

MONEY SAVING TIPS

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France truly is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art and history, food and wine, or just the natural beauty of the countryside, you’ll find it all here. Some of the top reasons to visit France include the iconic landmarks and architecture, world-class museums, delicious cuisine and wine, and charming countryside villages. Additionally, France offers a diverse range of experiences, from bustling cities to quiet rural areas, so you can tailor your trip to your preferences. Whenever you choose to visit, France is sure to enchant and inspire you with its beauty and culture.

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