Sikkim is a wonderland in the bosom of Eastern Himalayas with its avant garden surroundings and spectacular tableau. The Shangrila, the Mt. Kanchenjunga makes Sikkim a charming land representing a concoction of Buddhism and Tibetology. With Buddhism predominant in the state you will see many monasteries and ruby clad monks here. For you, the nature lovers, the state has eminent orchid’s sanctuary where 500 indigenous species of orchids are found. An adventure tour in Sikkim has many druthers for adventurers. On your way to trekking you will witness many quaint dales and mountain lakes. A base for mountaineering expeditions the rivers of Teesta and Rangeet are superb for river rafting.Sikkim is famous for Kanch-Endzonga, at 598 meters, which is third highest mountain in the world. Being second smallest state in India, Sikkim covers 7,096 sq kms and measures 110 kms from north to south and 64 kms from east to west. It encompasses the upper valley of Teesta river, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. The watershed forms the borders with Tibet and Nepal. Rangit and Rangpo rivers form the border with West Bengal. Sikkim is separated from Nepal in the west by the Singalila range while Donngkya range is the border to the north & north-east.The saying 'Small is beautiful', is amply demonstrated by the tiny mountain state of Sikkim. With the grandeur of her mountain peaks, verdant valleys, fast flowing rivers, terraced hills and floral wealth, a visit to Sikkim is a rare and unique experience. Situated on the eastern Himalayas, in the shadow of the towering Mount Kanchenjunga, which is worshipped as the principal deity, Sikkim measures approximately 100 kms from north to south, and 60 kms from east to west.
Cities of Sikkim
Gangtok: The city is substantiation of “Unity in Diversity” with an admix of various cultures and religions existing in this small and beautiful city at the backdrop of Ranipool River. Gangtok has a ecumenical essence with primitive charm and hospitality allowing a pinch of advancement and adoption of modernization. The major tourist attractions in the city are Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Tsomgo/ Changu Lake, Menmecho Lake, Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies, Mahatma Gandhi Marg (a shopper's delight), Labrang Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Tsulakhang Royal, Deer Park / Rustomji Park, Kechopari Lake (wishing lake) and Phurchachu Reshi Hot Springs.
Pelling: The city derives its name from Pemalingpa monastery. The plush view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, clamorous waterfalls and thick woods make the city a hot destination for tourism. Among the famous waterfalls are Kanchenjunga Falls, Changay Falls (on Sing Shore Bridge), Phamrong Falls and Rimbi Falls. The major tourist attractions in the city are Pemayangtse Monastery, Sangacholing Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Khecheopalri Lake, Tashiding Monastery and Singshore Suspension Bridge.
Yuksom: This exotic village has alluring mountain peaks and is base for Khanchendzonga National Park trek, Dzongri or Goechala Pass. The Heritage site, Coronation Throne, Dubdi Monastery, Tendong Hill, Ravangla, Menam Hill, Borong, Versey, Namchi, Temi Tea Garden, Water Garden, Tsomgo Lake and Tashi View Point is worth visiting here.
Gezing: Gyalshing or Gezing, as it is also called, is an enjoyable town distinctive with its moderate temperature. The ancient town of Yuksom is in close vicinity to the city. You can also enjoy Pemyangtse monastery, Khecheopalri Lake and The Palace of the Chogyals.
Jorethang: A major business center in south Sikkim is also famous for the festivals celebrated here with great fervor. This city is a division between Sikkim and West Bengal. The town is manifestation of diverse cultures and religions.
Mangan: The district headquarters of North Sikkim is a small village with exquisite flora and fauna and miniature gardens. You will enjoy seeing the spectacular view of mount Siniolchu (a range of mount Kanchenjunga) and worth visit are Phensong and Phodong Monastery.
Namchi: The headquarters of the South Sikkim is an embodiment of beauty and splendor. Tourists are attracted to this place for the immense pleasure it offers. This “Sky High” place has many places for enjoying like Tendong Hill, Temi Tea Garden, Samdrupste, Helipad, Doling Gumpa, Rock Garden, and Namchi Monastery.
Kalimpong: This beautiful hill station is ideal for relaxing vacations. It has many places that attract hordes of tourists like Thongsha Gompa, Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery, Tharpa Choling Monastery, Nature Interpretation Centre, Mangal Dhaam, Colonial Bungalows, Dr. Graham's Homes Campus, Kalimpong Arts and Crafts centre, Dharmodaya Vihar, Kali Mandir, Gauri Pur House. There are some panoramic snow views of Kanchenjunga, Siniolchu, Paunhari, Lama Anden, Chola, Nathu La, Jalep La and Gymochen peaks from Durpin Dara and Deolo View Point, Lava, Lolaygaon, Rikkisum Pedong and Rishap are also equally beautiful.
The four Jewels of Sikkim
East DistrictThe capital city Gangtok is located here and it is the hub of all government activities. The world famous Rumtek Monastery, the Dharma Chakra center and the seat of His Holiness, the Gyalwa Karmapa is located here in addition to the alpine Tsomgo lake and Nathula Pass.
West DistrictThe West District offers all adventure activities. river rafting, trekking, mountaineering etc begin here. The rivers Teesta and Rangeet attract white water rafting revelers in large numbers.
North DistrictThe famous Shingbha Rhododendron sanctuary as well as the Khangchendzonga National Park is located here. During spring time, the meadows of Yumthang abound with wildflowers, which carpet the valley in a riot of colors. The Hot Springs and rich tribal culture and customs are other attractions.
South DistrictMost famous monasteries are located here. A 108 ft high image of the patron saint of Sikkim, Guru Padmashambhava is situated near the district headquarters at Namchi. Ravangla Base Camp offers trekking upto Maenam and Tendong Hill here. Varsey Rhododendrons Sanctuary is also located here.
Tourist Spots in SikkimTourists are attracted to Sikkim for the cherished beauty and serenity of the place. There are many spots for tourists in North, South, East and West Sikkim.
North SikkimIn North Sikkim tourists can enjoy seeing Mangan (the capital of North Sikkim famous for the Phensong and Phodong Monastery), Kabi Longtsok (the place where Sikkimese history incepted), Phodong Monastery, Singhik (offering a picturesque view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and its adjoining peaks), Chungthang Monastery, Lachen (base for mountaineering and trekking expeditions), Yumthang Valley, Chungthang, Lachung, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Thangu, Gurudongmar and Chopta Valley.
South SikkimIn South Sikkim you can enjoy Namchi (the capital of South Sikkim), Ravangla (an ideal destination for village tourism, tea gardens, monasteries, flora and fauna, mountains picturesque view, waterfalls, quaint villages, culture), Temi Tea Garden, Tendong Hill and Maenam Hill.
East SikkimIf you are in East Sikkim do not miss out Government Institute of Cottage Industry, Do-Drul Chorten (Stupa), Deer Park (Rustomji Park), White Hall, Enchey Monastery, Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok (temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha), Hanuman Tok (temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman).
West SikkimIn West Sikkim do check out Gyalshing (Geyzing the headquarter of West Sikkim), Pemayangtse Monastery, Yuksom (the ancient capital of Sikkim), Tashiding Monastery, Pelling, Khecheopalri Lake, Uttaray, Versay, Barshey , Biksthang, Legship, Rinchenpong, Reshi Hot Springs, Rabdentse and Norbhugang.
Monasteries in SikkimGuru Padmasambhava, the great Buddhist saint who visited Sikkim in the 8th century had blessed the state to extract all the negativities from the place. Ever Since then Buddhism is all predominant in the state. Many Monasteries stand a witness to the Buddhist cult of society. The gompas in the state preserve the ancient Tibetan manuscripts, exquisitely carved wood work and icons of silver and gold. Among the famous monasteries in Sikkim some are:
Rumtek Monastery: This is the most enshrined monastery located in East Sikkim. The monastery is a reservoir for the relics (the possessions of the 16th Karmapa), Retreat Center, 'Shedra' (monastic college), Nunnery, Stupas (protector's shrine).
Pemayangtse Monastery: This monastery of Nyingma sect of Buddhists is located in West Sikkim and provides a magnificent view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. The main attraction here is the Sculpted painting of 'Sangthopalri'.
Enchey Monastery: This religious site of Nyingma sect of Buddhists is located in East Sikkim.The name of the monastery literally means “Solitary Temple” . This monastery also nestles prehistoric idols and images of Gods, Goddesses and other religious things. Buddha, Loki Sharia and Guru Padmasambhava are worshiped here.
Tsuk La Khang Monastery: It is the sovereign gompa of the erstwhile Royal family of Sikkim. A major place of worship and assembly for the Buddhists. The two-storeyed monastery is the storekeep of collected works of Buddhist scriptures.
Labrang Monastery: This leading monastery of the state is located in North Sikkim. Gyalshe Rigzing Chempa made this monastery built to to commemorate Latsun Chembo of Kongpu who initiated and propagated Nyingmapa School of Tibetan Buddhism. The name of the monastery literally means “The Lamas Dwelling”.
Phensang Monastery: This monastery of Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism is located in North Sikkim and is famous for the annual festival held in December. People are amused by the 'Chaam' (mask dance) dance performances of the Lamas. People come to this monastery to pay homage year after year.
Phodong Monastery: Deemed as the first monastery of Kagyupa sect in Sikkim, this is situated in North Sikkim on a hill top. This most monastery of Sikkim was built by Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal. Here also a annual festival is celebrated where Chaam is performed.
Ralang Monastery: This legendary monastery of Sikkim is the most significant and most revered one. Located in South Sikkim the prime attraction of this monastery is the wonderful agglomeration of paintings and 'Pang Lhabsol' festival.
Tashiding Monastery: This monastery located in the West Sikkim was erected by Ngadak Sempa Chembo. The main attraction of the monastery is the sacred chorten (stupa) known by the name of 'Thong-Wa-rang-Dol' which literally means 'Saviors by mere sight'. As per beliefs, the very sight of the stupa purges away the sins. The monastery has Buddhist Mantras, old edifices, stupas and stone plates. Celebration of 'Bumchu' adds to the charm of this monastery.
Fairs and Festivals in SikkimMaghe Sankranti MelaA three day holy festival of the Hindus celebrated along the river banks with huge fairs.
BumchuIt is held in the month of January/February in the monastery of Tashiding. The abbot of the monastery unveils a pot of holy water and foretells the future of the state.
LosarThis festival is held around the festive month of February to celebrate and welcome the Tibetan New year with feasting and merry-making.
Saga DawaHeld during the month of May, this festival celebrates the triple blessed day of Buddha's Birth, Enlightenment and Maha parinirvan in most of important monasteries in Sikkim.Buddhist Festivals: The famous Buddhist festivals are Saga Dawa (the Triple Blessed Festival and is considered as the holiest of the holy Buddhist Festivals), Lhabab Dhuechen (symbolizing the Descent of Buddha from the heaven), Drukpa Tsheshi (o mark the event when Buddha first turned the Wheel of Dharma ), Phang Lhabsol (popularised by the third Chogyal of Sikkim, Chakdor Namgyal and celebrated on the 15th day of the 7th month around the end of August), Losoong (marks the culmination of harvest season), Losar (the advent of New Year), Bumchu (celebrated at the monastery at Tashiding in the month of January or February), Guru Rimpoche's Trungkar Tshechu, Kagyed Dance (performed on the 28th and 29th day of the 10th month of the Tibetan Calendar, around December) and KalChakra Puja.
Pang LhabsolUnique to Sikkim, this festival worships the snow peaks of Mount Kanchendzonga. An important feature of the celebration is the warrior dance with its intricate steps and leaps accompanied by martial war- crimes.
Tendong Lho Rum FaatThis festival celebrates the event, when according to legend; the Thedong Hill had risen to save the Lepchas, during a great flood.
DasainIt is the main festivals of Hindu Nepalese in Sikkim. It signifies the victory of good over evil. The elders of the family apply 'Tika' on the young and bless them.
Hindu Festivals: The popular festivals of Hindus are Dasain/ Dusshera/ Durga Puja (usually celebrated in October symbolizing the victory of good over evil), Tihar or Tyohar/ Diwali (celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama, his consort Sita and brother Lakshmana, to their kingdom after 14 years of exile), Saraswati Puja (celebrated in January to honor the Goddess of Knowledge Saraswati), Janamashtami (celebrated in August or September to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna), Vishwakarma Puja (observed on 17th September every year to honour Vishwa Karma - the God of Machines), Maghe Sankranti (Makar Sankranti celebrated in January), Holi (marks the advent of spring season) and Ramnavami /Chaite Dasain (to commemorate birth of Lord Ram).
TihaarThis festival is celebrated as the festival of lights with the lighting of lamps accompanied with traditional carols called Deusi and Bhakti.
Losoong FestivalThis Bhutia festival marks the end of harvest season and also the end of the Tibetan year. It is celebrated with religious dances (Chaams) in the monasteries of Tsug Lakhang, Phodongand Rumtek along with family gatherings, feasting and archery contests.

Wildlife in Sikkim
Sikkim's local name 'Denzong', which means the 'Valley of Rice’, is apt, since rice is the main crop here. The jungles abound in plantains, bamboo tree ferns, walnut, oak, pine and silver fir. Sikkims Orchids are known the world over and number more than 450 species. The state flower is the Nobile Orchid. Also, there are around 36 species of Rhododendrons found at heights of 10000 ft.
Since the area of Sikkim ranges from the tropical to the Alpine, the flora and fauna is unique. There are more than 500 species of avifauna, ranging from the majestic Bearded Vulture to the few inches long Olive Ground Warbler. Other species include the Emerald Dave, Woodpeckers, Cuckoos and Kingfishers. The forests are the habitat of the Barking Deer, Red Panda, Leopard Cats and Flying Squirrels, among other animals.
Shopping in Sikkim
Sikkim is a good spot for shopping freaks. Just know where and what to get hold of, and your shopping will be complete fun. The land is proud of its traditional arts and crafts that may allures you to posses them at random. Exploring the state for the local assets will be pleasurable thing to do. Gangtok has The Old Market, Lall Market, M.G. Road, Gangtok Market, Gramin Vikas Agency and New Market which are the main shopping places, where you can shop the aristocratic articles of Sikkim. While treasuring a memento on your trip to Sikkim, do not forget to bargain with the shopkeepers, who generally quote higher price tags. Else go to the Tibetan Handicrafts Centre which is a trusted name to shop in Sikkim. The not-so-good bargainers can go to Government Emporiums, where they will get right price as well as quality assurance.
In the local markets check out for Woven Woolen Carpets and Blankets, Thangkas – traditional paintings on cotton canvas and often framed with silk, Choksee or small wooden tables, Sweaters and Jackets, Wall Hanging and Antiques with Buddhist motifs, Wooden and Bamboo Artifacts, Jewelery, Sikkim Tea ('Solja' and Khangchendzonga') Cardamom or Elachi, Yak's cheese (chhurpi), Lepcha Weave bags, in addition to the Tibetan and Sikkemese Garments.

How to Reach Sikkim
Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra in North Bengal, 124 km from Gangtok, Sikkim's capital. Indian Airlines operates flights from Calcutta, Delhi, Patna, Imphal and Guwahati.
Rail: The nearest railheads are Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri, 114 km and 126 km respectively, from Gangtok.Road: Gangtok is well connected by road with Calcutta (721 km), Darjeeling (139 km), Guwahati (589 km) and Patna (584 km).

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