Sikkim

Sikkim: An Enchanting Destination in Northeast India

Sikkim, a small state in Northeast India, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and adventure. With its snow-capped peaks, lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant Buddhist monasteries, Sikkim has something to offer for everyone. In this article, we will explore the top things to do and see in Sikkim.

Explore Gangtok, the Capital of Sikkim

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a bustling city that offers a glimpse into the state’s rich culture and history. The city is home to several tourist attractions such as the Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. Take a stroll along the MG Marg, the main market of Gangtok, which is lined with shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Sikkimese food.

Visit the Beautiful Lakes

Sikkim is home to several beautiful lakes, each with its own unique charm. The most popular lakes in Sikkim are the Tsomgo Lake and the Gurudongmar Lake. Located at an altitude of 12,400 feet, the Tsomgo Lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular destination for boating and yak riding. The Gurudongmar Lake, located at an altitude of 17,800 feet, is one of the highest lakes in the world and is believed to have religious significance.

Trek to the High Altitude Passes

Sikkim is a trekker’s paradise, with several high altitude passes that offer breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. The most popular trekking routes in Sikkim are the Goechala Trek, the Dzongri Trek, and the Singalila Trek. These treks take you through alpine forests, rhododendron valleys, and high altitude passes, offering a unique experience of the Himalayas.

Experience the Rich Culture and Tradition

Sikkim is home to several ancient Buddhist monasteries, which are an integral part of the state’s rich culture and tradition. The Rumtek Monastery, located on the outskirts of Gangtok, is the largest monastery in Sikkim and is home to several precious artifacts and religious scriptures. The Pemayangtse Monastery, located in the town of Pelling, is another popular monastery that offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga peak.

Go on a Wildlife Safari

Sikkim is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, which offer a unique opportunity to explore the state’s rich biodiversity. The Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to several rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan black bear. The Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary and the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary are two other popular destinations for wildlife safaris.

Indulge in Adventure Activities

Sikkim offers several adventure activities such as river rafting, paragliding, and mountain biking. The Teesta River, which flows through Sikkim, is a popular destination for river rafting, offering a thrilling experience amidst the stunning Himalayan landscape. Paragliding and mountain biking are popular activities in Gangtok, offering a unique way to explore the city’s scenic beauty.

Experience the Local Cuisine

Sikkimese cuisine is a unique blend of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian flavors. Momos, a popular Tibetan dish, are a must-try when in Sikkim. Thukpa, a hearty noodle soup made with vegetables or meat, is another popular dish. The local cuisine is dominated by non-vegetarian dishes, but vegetarians can also find plenty of delicious options.

Apart from momos and thukpa, there are several other dishes that you must try when in Sikkim. Gyathuk, a noodle soup made with meat or vegetables, is another popular dish. Chhurpi soup, made with yak cheese, is a unique and delicious dish that is a must-try. Sael roti, a deep-fried bread made with rice flour, is another popular snack in Sikkim.

Sikkim is also known for its local alcohol, especially the traditional brew called chhang. It is made from fermented millet or rice and is a staple in many Sikkimese households. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try the local firewater called raksi, which is made from distilled rice.

Overall, the local cuisine in Sikkim is a unique blend of flavors and textures, and offers a delightful culinary experience.

Experience the Local Culture

Sikkim is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is a unique blend of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian cultures. The state is home to several ethnic groups, each with its own distinct culture and traditions.

The best way to experience the local culture in Sikkim is by visiting the various monasteries and temples that dot the landscape. The Rumtek Monastery, located just outside of Gangtok, is one of the most famous monasteries in Sikkim. It is the largest monastery in the state and is home to over 200 monks. The monastery is known for its beautiful architecture, intricate murals, and ancient scriptures.

The Enchey Monastery, located in Gangtok, is another popular monastery that’s worth visiting. It is known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Apart from the monasteries, Sikkim is also home to several festivals and events that celebrate the local culture. The Losar festival, which marks the Tibetan New Year, is one such festival that’s celebrated with great enthusiasm in Sikkim. The Bumchu festival, held at the Tashiding Monastery, is another popular festival that’s worth experiencing.

Overall, the local culture in Sikkim is a unique blend of traditions and practices that have been passed down through generations. Visiting the various monasteries and temples, and participating in local festivals, is a great way to experience the local culture firsthand.

Experience Adventure Sports in Sikkim

Sikkim is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, with its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes. The state offers a wide range of adventure sports activities, including trekking, mountaineering, river rafting, and paragliding.

Trekking is one of the most popular adventure sports activities in Sikkim, with several trekking routes that offer stunning views of the Himalayas. The Goecha La trek, which takes you to the base of the Kanchenjunga peak, is one of the most popular treks in Sikkim. The Singalila Ridge trek, which takes you along the border of India and Nepal, is another popular trek that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Mountaineering is another popular adventure sport in Sikkim, with several peaks that offer a challenging climb. The most popular peak for mountaineering in Sikkim is the Kangchenjunga peak, which is the third highest peak in the world.

River rafting is also a popular adventure sport in Sikkim, with several rivers that offer a thrilling experience. The Teesta River and the Rangit River are the most popular rivers for rafting in Sikkim.

Paragliding is another popular adventure sport in Sikkim, with several sites across the state offering scenic views and thrilling experiences. Some of the popular sites for paragliding in Sikkim include Gangtok, Jorethang, and Yumthang Valley.

For those looking for a more leisurely experience, Sikkim has plenty of options for nature walks and treks. The Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers several trekking routes that take you through lush forests and stunning landscapes. You can also visit the Yumthang Valley, known as the “Valley of Flowers,” which is home to several rare species of flowers and plants.

Experience the Culture

Sikkim is home to several different communities, each with their own unique culture and traditions. The state celebrates a number of festivals throughout the year, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the local culture and customs.

One of the most important festivals in Sikkim is Losar, the Tibetan New Year. Celebrated in February or March, Losar is a time for family gatherings, feasting, and traditional dances. Another important festival is Saga Dawa, which celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. During this festival, locals take part in religious ceremonies and processions.

Explore the Monasteries

Sikkim is known for its many Buddhist monasteries, which are not only religious centers but also architectural marvels. The Rumtek Monastery, located near Gangtok, is one of the most famous monasteries in Sikkim. Built in the 16th century, it is the largest monastery in Sikkim and is home to several important relics.

Another important monastery is the Pemayangtse Monastery, located in Pelling. Built in the 17th century, the monastery is one of the oldest and most important in Sikkim. It is home to several important artifacts and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate wood carvings.

Visit the Lakes

Sikkim is home to several beautiful lakes that offer stunning views and tranquil surroundings. The Gurudongmar Lake, located at an altitude of 17,800 feet, is one of the highest lakes in the world. The lake is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Another beautiful lake is the Tsomgo Lake, located near Gangtok. The lake is considered sacred by the locals and is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains. You can take a ride on a yak or pony to explore the surrounding area or enjoy a picnic by the lake.

Conclusion

Sikkim is a truly unique destination that offers something for everyone. From stunning natural landscapes to vibrant cultural experiences, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this beautiful state. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a culture enthusiast, Sikkim is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Sikkim today and experience all that this beautiful state has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Sikkim:

The summer season between March and June is the best time to visit Sikkim.

Why Visit Sikkim?:

For uninterrupted view of Mt Khangchendzonga; Buddhist pilgrimage tour; adventure activities like trekking, mountaineering and river rafting; high altitude lakes and mountain passes; opulent culture; rejuvenation; honeymoon; fairs & festivals and gastronomic treat.