SIKKIM, commonly called as the "Kingdom of Flowers" is situated in the eastern Himalayas. It is spread below Mount Khanchendzonga (8586 meters), the third highest mountain peak in the world. One can ease oneself from the sub tropical heat of the lower valleys to the cold of the rugged snow capped mountain slopes. Sikkim is a land rich in culture, tradition and steeped in religion. One cannot help but marvel at the numerous stupas, monasteries and temples.
Flight drops you at Bagdogra in the town of Siliguri in West Bengal which is the nearest gateway airport for the entire State of Sikkim. Bagdogra Airport (code name : IXB) is approximately 124 kilometers away.There is a BIG chinese market at bagdogra. You can get chinese items at damn cheap rates, as china border is not far. Prefer to shop for chinese items at bagdogra on the wa back from Gangtok. Also please be warned that if you purchase electronic items, please ensure that they are working, before you buy.
If you are availing train travel facility, your train journey ends at NEWJALPAIGURI Railway Station.
GANGTOK is the capital of Sikkim. Gangtok, the land of monasteries, is also the largest town of Sikkim. Situated in the ShivalikHills and lying at an altitude of 1437 m, it’s an important Buddhist Pilgrimage Centre. Gangtokgained religious significance among the Buddhists after the construction of the Enchey Monastery in the latter part of the 19th century.
Gangtok is full of souvenir and curio shops. One of the best areas for shopping is the road nearLal Bazar which not only has many shops but prices are also cheaper by 30-40% than theshops on M.G. Road. The Sikkim Handloom and Handicraft Emporium sells masks, wallhangings, carpets, leather goods and Tibetan, Bhutia and Lepcha dresses. Other items that arepopularly bought include thankas, silk paintings, prayer wheels, Tibetan jewellery etc.
The drive from the airport to Gangtok takes approximately 3 ½ - 4 hours with a breathtaking view of the Himalayan ranges, the Teesta Valley and the tea estates.
Sikkimese food is a mix of Nepalese, Tibetan and Indian cuisine with rice being the staple.Some of the local delicacies of Gangtok are ningro (fern rings), shisnu (nettle soup), phing(glass coloured noodles) and churpi (yak cheese) cooked with a lot of chillies. Apart from these, momos are available round the corner.
Sikkim offers a wide range of sightseeing opportunities. These include local sightseeing within and around the capital city - Gangtok, visits to monasteries, tea plantations and estates, adventure tours including, treks, walks, cycling trips, white water rafting etc.
Sikkim 's capital is Gangtok. To my experience, Gangtok is a neat and clean city, though small in area. The roads are ups and downs, but without any gutter.
You will need atleast 10 days stay in Gangtok to have a good sight of places in and around Gangtok.
You must not omit to visit ice covered NATHULA PASS, on the India - Tibet boarder about 55 Kms away. Though the journey is a bit tough,with constantly land sliding muddy ghat roads it is worth going there. But, for visiting Natula, you have to get permit, which has to be applied and made ready well in advance. It may take up to a week to get the permit. please contact the persons, whose mobile numbers are given above to assist you to get a permit. You need to send them a passport size photograph and a photostat copy of your voters' identity card for applying for permit. You can see YAK only in Sikkim.
Zoo in Gangtok is not good to visit. only a few animals are there. There is a view point called the TASHI VIEW POINT, from where you can see Himalayas.
There are very many Buddist Monastries, like RUMTEK MONASTRY, INCHEK MONASTRY in and around Gangtok. There is a water park and a Theme Park. ROPE WAY journey is another attraction in Gangtok. You hve to spent evenings in M.G. Marg and markets nearby.
Another plase littlebit far like Natula is YUMTANG VALLEY. But thrill lies only if you proceed further to GURODONGMAR LAKE. But one visiting the lake will find it difficult to breath on account of 17,100 ft altitude, where oxygen availability is very less. You will never see a tre or even a plant at that place.
The famous Bollywood actor, Tshering Phintso whom we call DANNY DENGZONGPA hails from Gangtok and he resides there. The vegetable Market near the Cinema Theatre owned by the film star, is very large with even south indian vegetables sold in it.
Liquor is damn cheap in Gangtok.
There are very many places worthseeing atleast once in lifetime. the climate of sikkim is pleasantly cool. the public of sikkim are verymuch loving, co-operative and helping. Anybody who can speak Hindi and English will find no difficulty in passing in and around many places in sikkim.
Major attractions in Sikkim
The Cottage Industries Emporium – Known for traditional handicrafts, woodworks and handlooms. It is situated at Zero point just below Raj Bhawan.
Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology – Known for one of the world’s largest collection of books and rare manuscripts on Buddhism. It is a nationally well known centre of Tibetan Studies & Research. The institute is renowned for its huge collection of rare manuscripts, Buddhist books and icons. The building is an excellent example of Tibetan architecture, surrounded by small forests of oak and birch trees. The institute also houses religious works of art and amazing silk embroidered paintings.
Enchey Monastery – Located on a hilltop, it was once the hermitage site of Lama Drupthob Karpo who was renowned for his power of flying.
Tashi View point – Situated at a distance of 6 kilometers from Gangtok on the North Sikkim Highway, this location offers a clear view of Mount Khanchendzonga and the surrounding hills.
Ganesh Tok – It is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, a deity worshipped by Hindus. It is located on the hill adjoining the TV Tower. From here one can have a view of Gangtok town and the mighty Mount Khanchendzonga.
Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center - A short drive from Gangtok will take you to Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre. Built in 1960 by His Holiness the late 16th Gyalwa Karmapa , it is a replica of the original Kagyurpa Monastery in Tsurphu, Tibet, the seat of His Holiness the Gyalwa Karmapa Rinpoche, head of the Karmapa sub sect of Kargyudpa order of Tibetan Buddhism. It now functions as the headquarters of the Dharma Chakra Religious Centre Located within the complex are the main monastery, the memorial stupa of the XVI Gyalwa Karmapa inlaid with gold plate and semi precious stones.
Tsomgo/ Changu Lake - The drive from Gangtok takes about 2½ hours. The lake is about 1 km. long and oval in shape, 50ft deep. This is an alpine zone and snowbound from December to April and the lake is regarded extremely Holy and head of all lakes in Sikkim remains frozen from January to April, and attracts 99% of tourists visiting Gangtok, Sikkim. It is also a home of Brahmini ducks besides stopover for various migratory ducks.
Nathula Pass - The days for tourist visit is restricted and needs to be applied at least 24 hrs in advance and limited days of operation. The days permitted to visit Nathula are Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays. The pass Nathula means the whistling pass. Nathula is the Indo-Tibet (China) border at Jawahar Lal Nehru Road whereby Indian troops and the Red army stand face to face. This is the closest an Indian Tourist can travel and pose a photo or two with the Red Army.
Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial - Built In memory of Harbhajan Singh, a sepoy in the 23rd Punjab Regiment, the temple lies between Nathula and Jelepla passes.
Lachung - At a height of 8610 feet is an exquisite valley town, resplendent in its crown of snowcapped mountains, breathtaking waterfalls and sparkling streams. It has been described as the ‘most picturesque village of Sikkim by Joseph Dalton in his ‘Himalayan Jounal’(1855).
Yumthang - At the height of 11,800 feet is where the tree line ends and the rhododendron groves cover the landscape in a surreal shade. Also called the Valley of Flowers as in spring wild alpine flowers carpet the land. Yumthang is also well known for its hot springs, which have healing medicinal properties.
Yumesamdong - 15300 feet where the sweet fragrance of Ezilia (used as incense ) permeates the air.
Lachen (9200feet) - stands on an alpine meadow from which rise the pine clad mountains with their snowy peaks.Consisting of barely 180 houses inhabited in winters by owners who spend the summers on the alpine pastures in their summer huts tending to their flocks of yak. Lachen is one of the most picturesque hamlets of Sikkim.
Gurudongmar Lake (17,100 feet) - a sacred lake , the water is believed to possess the miraculous powers of granting issues to barren couples. The lake freezes during winter except at one spot believed to be specially blessed by Guru Rinpoche (the second Buddha).
Samdruptse - The 135 ft. high statue of Guru Padmasambhava at Samdruptse is the on the most popular place among tourists and locals alike.
Rock Garden - Around 6 kms. from Namchi town, just above Ngadak Monastery, is the beautiful Rock Garden. The Rock Garden is created artificially and has a children’s playground, which may be among the highest in the world.
Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden
Established in 1987 the Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is situated near Rumtek Monastery and is looked after by the Forest Department of the Sikkim Government. The garden is distinguished by enchanting lush woodlands of Oak, different kinds of trees and orchids.
Do-Drul Chorten
Built by the head of Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism in 1945, it has one of the most beautiful Stupas of Sikkim consisting of 108 prayer wheels. It stores various Mandala sets, a set of relics and some other religious possessions. Statues of Gurus are also present there.
Temi Tea Estate - Situated 18 kms. from Ravangla is the Temi Tea Estate, the only tea garden in Sikkim. Established in the 1960’s by the last King Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal,the tea produced here has a rare combination of liquor and flavor and fetches some of the highest rates offered in the international markets. Visitors can observe the processing of the tea in the factory and buy tea there at the sales outlet.
Pemayangtse monastery - Pemayantse monastery is special because it is meant only for ‘ta-sang’ lamas (pure monks). Believed to have been conceptualized and designed by the pioneer of Buddhism in Sikkim, Lhatsun Chhembo, Pemayangste soon became the nucleus of monasteries in Sikkim. Today, it is considered as the Premier Monastery in the State.
Sangacholing Monastery - This monastery is located on a ridge above Pelling and the famous Pemayangtse Monastery. To reach the Monastery one has to walk on steep hilly slope which lead through rich forests area.
Kecheopalri lake - Khecheopalri Lake is considered as one of the sacred lakes of Sikkim by the Hindus and Buddhists. The lake remains hidden in the forests. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface.
Singshore hanging bridge - Located about 25 km from Pemayangtse, the Singshore hanging bridge is an engineering feat made possible by connecting two hills. A trip to the bridge is worth it just for the spectacular views it offers of green hillsides and beautiful waterfalls.
Yuksom - Yuksam , the gateway to Shangri-La or Ney-Pemathang is located in the far western corner of Sikkim. Perched at the base of high, forest-covered mountains. The village and surroundings of Yuksam offer plenty of opportunity for relishing the history of Sikkim. Yuksam is fascinating with inviting people, majestic mountain peaks and immense natural diversity. Yuksam was the first capital of Sikkim. This was the place, where according to the historical records, the first Chogyal of the Kingdom of Sikkim was enthroned in 1641 AD by the three learned lamas. It is from here that the trek to Dzongri and to the base camp of Mt. Kanchenjunga begins.
Dubdi Monastery - The first Monastery established soon after the consecration, it is located on a hill top above Yuksam surrounded by verdant forest.
Tashiding Monastery - This Monastery is constructed on the top of a heart-shaped hill with the backdrop of the sacred Mount Kanchenjunga. It is basically known for two reasons - the Holy Chorten called 'Thong-Wa-Rang-To'and sacred water festival.
Tendong Hill - Tendong Hill is a small flat expanse of land lying at an altitude of 8,530 ft. surrounded by lush green ancient forest. Historically, this has been a place of recluse for Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the peaceful scenic grandeur.
Ravangla - At the base of Menam Hill is Ravangla, a small township and transit to various tourist destinations in South and West Sikkim. It is a transit point for trekkers to Menam Hills and Borong. A trek to 'Shar Chok Bephu' cave would be a unique experience.
Menam Hill - Menam Hill towers above Tendong Hill on the other side overlooking the Ravangla bazar settlement. Situated at an altitude of 10,300 ft. the scenic view from this height is, perhaps, unmatched in this part of the world.
Road Map of Sikkim
ITINERARY
Day - 1 :
To Gangtok from Bagdogra Airport / New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. (125 kms / 4 hrs)
On arrival at Railway Station / Airport, transfer to Gangtok (5,480 ft.) & check-in hotel & at leisure for rest of the day. Overnight stay at Gangtok
Day 2: - Excursion to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
After early breakfast start for Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft.) Nathula Pass (14,140 ft.) & Baba Mandir (13,200 ft.) which is 60 kms trip from Gangtok city. Return & Overnight stay at Gangtok.
(In case of Land slide or any other reason Tsomgo Lake is closed alternate sightseeing to be adopted.)
Day 3: - Gangtok – Lachung (116 kms / 6 hrs)
After breakfast pick up from hotel & transfer to Lachung (8,800 ft.). Enroute visit Tashi View point, Seven Sister Water Fall, Naga Water Fall, and arrive Lachung by evening. Dinner & Overnight stay at Lachung.
Day 4: - Lachung to Yumthang Valley
After breakfast drive to Yumthang Valley (11,800 ft. known as Valley of Flowers). On the way back, visit Hot Spring considered to have medicinal properties. Back to resort for lunch. Overnight stay at Lachung.
Day 5: - Lachung - Gangtok (116 kms / 6 hrs)
After breakfast departure for Gangtok, enroute witness the wonderful Bheema & Twin water falls. On arrival at Gangtok check-in to your hotel. Overnight stay at Gangtok.
Day 6: - Gangtok Local Sightseeing - Pelling (117 kms / 5 hrs)
After early breakfast start Gangtok city trip covering Banzakhri Falls, Cottage Industry and Handicraft Centre, Flower show, Dro-dul Chorten & Institute of Tibetology (maximum 3-4 hours). Afternoon drive to Pelling (6,100 ft.). On arrival check-in to your hotel. Overnight stay at Pelling.
Day 7: - Pelling Sightseeing
After breakfast start for full day sightseeing. 1st Half tour - Darap village, Khangchendzongha waterfalls, Sewaro Rock Garden, Rimbi water Falls & Khecheopalri Lake. Afternoon start for 2nd Half tour - Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdantse Ruins, New Halipad Ground. Overnight stay at Pelling.
Day 8: - Pelling - Darjeeling (75 kms / 4 hrs)
After breakfast drive to Darjeeling (6,710 ft.). On arrival check-in to your hotel & rest of the day at leisure. Overnight stay at Darjeeling.
Day 9: - Darjeeling Sightseeing
Early Morning (at 4.00 am) drive to Tiger Hill to watch the spectacular Sunrise over Mt. Khangchendzongha (28,208 ft., world's 3rd highest peak), on your way back visit Ghoom Monastery and Batasia Loop. After breakfast visit Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, P.N. Zoological Park (Thursday closed) Tenzing Rock, Tibetan Refugee Self-help Centre (Sunday closed), Tea Garden (outer view only permitted), Ava Art Gallery and Japanese Temple (4 hrs from 9.00 to 13.00 hrs). Evening free for shopping & leisure. Overnight stay at Darjeeling.
Day 10: - Darjeeling – Kalimpong (57 kms / 2 hrs) Sightseeing
After Breakfast transfer to Kalimpong (4,100 ft.). On arrival check-in to your hotel. Afternoon enjoy half day tour of Kalimpong Visiting Mangal Dham, Deolo Hill, Dr. Graham’s Home, Golf Garden, Durpin Dara Hills & Flower Nurseries. Overnight stay at Kalimpong.
Day 11: - Kalimpong – NJP Rly Station / Bagdogra airport (45 kms / 2 hrs)
After breakfast check out from hotel on time and take the departure transfer to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station / Airport for your onward journey.
Pelling
Pelling is rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination. At an altitude of 6800 ft, it's the most excellent place to get a closest view of the world's 3rd highest peak Mt. Kanchendzonga. Apart from the innate beauty of the place, other attractions in Pelling are the Sanga Choeling Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery and the Khecheopalri Lake.