Sikkim
Where Nature Paints a Mesmerizing Canvas
All you need to know about Sikkim
Get a taste of the rich culture and beautiful landscape of Sikkim
Treks you must try in Sikkim
People in Sikkim
Welcome to Sikkim, a land where nature’s grandeur unfolds in the lap of the Himalayas. Nestled in the northeastern part of India, Sikkim is a jewel waiting to be discovered. We’ll introduce you to the captivating beauty and rich culture of Sikkim, inviting you to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Explore the Magic of Sikkim
Sikkim is a land of diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to snow-clad peaks, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The state’s unique geographical location blesses it with a wide variety of flora and fauna. With its numerous trekking trails, pristine lakes, and wildlife sanctuaries, Sikkim offers an incredible array of outdoor experiences.
Cultural Riches: Sikkim is not just about natural beauty; it’s also a treasure trove of culture and heritage. The state is home to various ethnic communities like the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis, each contributing to its vibrant culture. Explore ancient monasteries like Rumtek and Pemayangtse, where you can witness centuries-old traditions and rituals.
Adventurous Escapades: For adventure seekers, Sikkim provides an adrenaline rush like no other. The rugged terrains offer opportunities for trekking, river rafting, mountain biking, and paragliding. The world-famous Goecha La trek takes you close to the majestic Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.
Gastronomic Delights: Sikkim’s cuisine is a reflection of its multicultural heritage. Taste the delectable momos, thukpa, and other local dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t forget to try the famous Sikkimese tea, known for its unique flavor.
Festivals and Celebrations: Sikkim’s cultural calendar is adorned with colorful festivals. Witness the grand celebration of Losar (Tibetan New Year) or the Chaam dance during Pang Lhabsol, celebrating the unity of different communities in the state.
Sustainable Tourism: Sikkim takes pride in its commitment to eco-tourism and sustainability. It was the first state in India to become fully organic, and it continues to prioritize conservation and responsible tourism.
Getting to Sikkim: Sikkim is well-connected by road, with the nearest airport being Bagdogra in West Bengal. The state’s road network offers scenic drives, with winding roads through forests and valleys.
Popular Places To Visit in Sikkim
Sikkim offers a diversify number of places that you can’t miss to visit if you are in Sikkim. View All
Gangtok (Capital City)
A bustling hill town perched at an elevation of 5,800 feet, is the capital of Sikkim.
Zuluk
A hidden hamlet nestled amidst the lower Himalayas, offers stunning mountain vistas, a unique culture, and a chance to escape the crowds.
Lachung
A picturesque village nestled amidst the Himalayas, offering stunning scenery, pristine waterfalls, and a gateway to higher reaches of North Sikkim.
Namchi
The capital of South Sikkim, is a vibrant town nestled amidst rolling hills and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
History of Sikkim
Sikkim’s history remains shrouded in mystery before the 17th century. The name “Sikkim” finds its roots in the Limbu word ‘Su him,’ meaning “new house.” The Bhutias began migrating from Tibet to this region in the 14th century. The establishment of the Kingdom of Sikkim in 1642 marked a significant turning point, with Phuntsog Namgyal, a Bhutia, becoming the first Chogyal (king). The Namgyal dynasty ruled Sikkim until 1975.
Throughout the 18th century, Sikkim engaged in territorial conflicts with Bhutan and Nepal, leading to a significant influx of Nepalese into the region. British involvement in the early 19th century saw Sikkim’s territories restored in exchange for assistance during the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814-16). However, by 1817, Sikkim had effectively become a British protectorate.
In the year of India’s independence in 1947, political movements emerged in Sikkim. In 1950, the Indo-Sikkimese Treaty established Sikkim as an Indian protectorate, with India taking charge of its foreign relations, defense, and key communications. Finally, on May 16, 1975, Sikkim was conferred the status of India’s 22nd state. It’s a landlocked state enclosed by formidable mountain walls on three sides.
Transportation and Resources
Roads dominate as the primary mode of transportation in Sikkim, offering breathtaking vistas along the way. Ropeways, resembling ski lifts, have been established at various points to enhance connectivity. The capital, Gangtok, is approximately 75 miles from the nearest airport in Bagdogra and 70 miles from the railhead in Siliguri, both in West Bengal. Recently, Sikkim inaugurated its first airport in Pakyong, opening new gateways to the state.
Sikkim boasts significant mineral resources, including copper, lead, zinc, coal, graphite, and limestone. The Teesta River system’s hydroelectric potential plays a crucial role in the state’s power generation, with several large hydroelectric stations and numerous smaller plants supplying energy to various towns.
Don't miss these Attractions if you are in Sikkim
Sikkim offers a diversify number of places that you can’t miss to visit if you are in Sikkim. View All
Intriguing Facts About Sikkim
A Melting Pot of Origins: Sikkim stands out as the only Indian state where a majority of its population traces its origins to other countries, primarily Nepal. Lepchas and Bhutias also form significant ethnic groups.
Floral Wonderland: Sikkim hosts the International Flower Festival every summer, showcasing a stunning array of flowers, orchids, and plants. With around 600 types of orchids, 240 tree species, 150 gladioli varieties, and 46 rhododendron species, it’s a floral paradise.
Avian Diversity: Sikkim boasts over 552 bird species and around 690 butterfly species. The Himalayan Griffon, Impeyan Pheasant, and the majestic Bearded Vulture are among its avian treasures.
Bhum Chu: Predicting the Future: The unique Bhum Chu festival at Tashiding Monastery is believed to foretell Sikkim’s destiny.
Sikkim’s Signature Drink: Chaang, a mild alcoholic beverage made from oats, is Sikkim’s renowned drink, savored during social gatherings.
Nature’s Spa: Natural hot springs are abundant in Sikkim, offering therapeutic baths. Yumthang Hot Spring, Yume Samdong Hot Spring, and more await your rejuvenation.
Protective Scrolls: Thankas, intricate religious scrolls, hang in monasteries and homes to ward off evil spirits.
A Temple to a Soldier: Major “Baba” Harbhajan Singh is honored with a temple, a rarity as temples are usually dedicated to gods and goddesses.
Kanchenjunga: The Third Highest Peak: Mount Kanchenjunga, at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet), ranks as the third-highest mountain globally.
Asia’s Second Highest Bridge: The Singshore Bridge in Pelling, with a length of 198 meters and a depth of 220 meters, claims the title of Asia’s second-highest bridge.
India’s First Organic State: Sikkim proudly stands as India’s pioneer in implementing organic farming.
Top Things to do in Sikkim
Sikkim offers a diversify number of places that you can’t miss to visit if you are in Sikkim. View All