subject: Sikkim- nestled in the Himalayas [print this page] Sikkim- nestled in the Himalayas Sikkim- nestled in the Himalayas
Sikkim is located in the interiors of Eastern Himalayas, and has spectacular beauty. Its flawless natural beauty is the master piece of The Creator. It is the 2nd smallest state after Goa and is bound by Tibet (China) in the north, West Bengal in the south, Bhutan in the east and Nepal in the west. The magic of Sikkim is attracting the tourists all over the world. Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak of the world stands tall in Sikkim.
Best time to visit Sikkim is from October to mid June. In October & November the weather is very clear. In December it starts getting terribly cold. Then again in March to June orchids are in full bloom. In monsoons, from mid June to September the roads are impassable so it's advisable not to plan your trip during that time.
A 15 days Restricted Area Permit is needed for a foreign traveller.
Cities of Sikkim:
Gangtok, Yuksom, Jorethang, Kalimpong, Mangan are some of the major cities of Sikkim. Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and is the largest city in Sikkim. The cities of Sikkim are very different from each other. The weather in the cities offer such contrast that within few hours you can shift from hot weather of the lower valleys to the cold mountain slopes that reach up to the region of snow. Hinduism and Buddhism are the two main festivals practiced by the people of Sikkim. Different festivals are celebrated in the cities, but Diwali and Dussera are two Hindu festivals commonly celebrated. Besides that Buddhist festivals are also celebrated in celebrated with great joy.
Adventure sports in Sikkim: Trekking: Sikkim offers many fascinating trekking routes for the trekkers. It is a life time experience to go trekking in Sikkim. Trek to the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary takes one through the jungles of silver fur, hemlock, magnolia and the rhododendron. Mount Kanchenjunga adds beauty to the view. The Dzongri Goechala Trek is the most popular trek of Sikkim. Monastic Trek, Rhododendron Trek, Khangchendzonga Trek, Coronation Trek, Khedi Trek, Kosturi Orar Trek, Rinchenpong or Soreng Trek, Himalayan Trek, Tosha Trek are also some of the popular trek in Sikkim. Trekking in Sikkim will surely be one of the most memorable experiences for the trekkers.
River rafting:
The white water waves of the river Teesta and Rangit gives you the adventurous experience of River Rafting. Teesta River offers one of the finest rafting stretches in the world. Rangit, a tributary of the Teesta, offers more challenges to the experienced rafters
Kayaking:
Kayaking is done on the Teesta River and is arranged specially for the groups. This particular sport requires expertise. Avery good Fiberglass kayak is available on hire. Mountaineering in Sikkim:
The land is blessed with Himalayas. Jopuno, Tinchenkhang, Frey's Peak, Lamo Angden and Byrmkhangse are the popular peaks of Sikkim. One needs to obtain permit for mountaineering on this peak.
Monasteries in Sikkim:
Buddhism is pre-dominant in the state. The great Buddhist saint, Guru Padmasambhava, who visited the land in 8th century, had blessed the state, which has blessed the state to stay away from all the negativities. Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Tsuk La Khang Monastery, Labrang Monastery, Phodong Monastery are some of the famous Sikkim Monasteries.
Shopping in Sikkim:
The most beautiful place for Shopping in Sikkim is Gangtok. One can shop for some of strikingly exclusive things including woven woolen carpets and blankets. Thangkas are the traditional paintings on cotton canvas, Choksee table designed in Tibetan style, Wood Carved artifacts are some of the interesting items for shopping in Sikkim.
