Lying on the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, the sleepy state of
Sikkim is small but a picture perfect destination. So enchanting is its
Alpine beauty, it is often dubbed as the "Switzerland of the East".
A travel to Sikkim would take you to the land of ice-capped mountains, rolling slopes clad in thick Alpine woods. Steep heights and plunging gorges, stretched covered in snow - that is what Sikkim sums up.
Travel to Sikkim to see the lovely interplay of clouds and mountain peaks in the sapphire sky. Take a peek at the Mount Kanchendzonga as the sun rises and the beams lend it a golden hue. It is the third highest peak in the world and also the guardian deity of the land.
This is the land of quaint little hamlets peeping out from the towering junipers and rhododendrons. Drive uphill to the placid lakes and mystic old monasteries. Listen to the clang of prayer bells as the prayer flags flutter in the wind. Here legends and natural splendor lies entwined into each other.
Travel to Sikkim to raft through the turbulent and foaming white waters of the Teesta and the Rangit as they rush down to the plains.
Best Time to Visit Sikkim
Keeping in mind the above mentioned climatic conditions, the best time to visit the mountaineering state are the months of April and May. This is the time of the year, which observes the full bloom of orchids and rhododendrons.
How to Reach Sikkim
On the foothills of the Himalayas, the tiny state of Sikkim is often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East". Lofty, mist-clad mountains dominate the skyline of Sikkim. The gurgling river of the Teesta rushes through the hilly terrains lending the region breathtaking beauty.
By Air
Sikkim does not has its own airport. The nearest Airport is Bagdogra (near Siliguri) in West Bengal, which lies only 125 km away from Gangtok the capital of Sikkim. Bagdogra is connected to cities like Delhi and Kolkata by regular flights.
By Road
Although the state of Sikkim lies at the foothills of the Himalayas, it has a good network of roads. Sikkim can be entered through northern areas of West Bengal. Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri are directly connected to Gangtok and other cities of the state. But during the monsoon seasons sometimes, landslides create temporary problems in road transport.
By Rail
Sikkim does not have any rail network in its boundary. The nearest Railways Station is New Jalpaiguri (near Siliguri), which is connected to Gangtok by road. New Jalpaiguri boasts of an extensive rail network with major Railway Stations in India, such as Kolkata, Delhi. It is also conveniently linked to the cities of Northeastern India like, Guwahati.
Sikkim Handicrafts and Markets
Sikkim's claim to fame lies in woven woolen carpets and blankets embellished in unique designs and traditional Sikkimese motifs.
These articles are durable plush and are dyed not with synthetic dyes but traditional vegetable Sikkimese dyes.
Sikkim also boasts of its traditional paintings called Thangkas on cotton canvas and often framed with silk. Along with that wood-carved artifacts are also interesting items for shopping in Sikkim. Exquisite Choksee table designed in Tibetan style is also a must buy for avid shoppers.
While shopping in Sikkim, look for:
The best place for shopping in Sikkim is Gangtok, the capital city. Many Government Emporia and private run shops are located in the main market area on Mahatma Gandhi Marg.
Tibetan Handicrafts centre is also a good place for shopping in Sikkim.
Gangtok
Category : History & Culture
The capital of Sikkim is a charming and picturesque town, straddling
with striking houses spilling down the hillside. The city has a fusion
of traditional customs and modern way of living which makes the place
unique. It's a beautiful town with all modern amenities that one can ask
for.
Tsomgo Lake
Category : Nature
The lake is about a kilometer long, oval in shape and is considered very holy by the locals. Between May to August, the lake area is spectacular with a display of rare flowers including the primulas, iris and blue & yellow poppies. The lake has a number of aquatic and aerial species and is a perfect habitat for the red panda. The lake freezes in winter.
Nathula Pass
Category : Nature
At an altitude of 14200 ft, the pass is located on the Indo-China border and connects Sikkim to Tibet Autonomous Region in China. The journey itself is an exhilarating experience, with mist covered peaks, zigzag roads and roaring waterfalls, the passage is simply amazing. Visitors are required to get a permit to visit the place.
Pelling
Category : Nature
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.
Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden
Category : 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.
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.
Apart from these popular places, Sikkim provides various other places that are popular among tourist. These are:
Darjeeling
One of the most captivating tourist places near Sikkim with popular toy train ride to famous Darjeeling tea plantations. There are lots of tourist attractions at this place.
Siliguri
With its exquisite landscape, distant views of the snow capped peaks and
myriad vegetation, Siliguri is a place where tourist can enjoy nature
fully.
Kalimpong
A fascinating tourist destination near Sikkim which acknowledges its rustic charm, dotted with numerous orchids and monasteries. It's an ideal place for relaxed vacations against the picturesque backdrop of the Himalayas and also a great place for adventure junkies.
Mirik
Popular for its famous Lake and lovely surroundings, this exotic place is perfect for romantic holidays for the newly weds.
Tourist Map Of Sikkim
Cuisine of Sikkim
It is famous to food lovers for its traditional cuisine of Himalayas.
Rice is the basis of Sikkim cuisine. Besides that, the famous
restaurants here even serve non-vegetarian Indian, Tibetan, Nepalese,
Chinese and Italian cuisines along with brewed beer and other beverages.
The Sikkim restaurants serve mouth-watering Momo, Pakku (Mutton curry),
Thukpa, Chhurpi (conventional cottage cheese) etc. Following are the
names of a few famous restaurants found there:
Although Sikkim is a
small state posited in the Himalayan ranges; yet, we come across a
number of hotels in Sikkim. These hotels at Sikkim enable the tourists
to find a peaceful abode in the territory of Sikkim. In fact, the hotels
in Sikkim help the tourists to find a second home in the state of
Sikkim.
Thus, it goes without mention that the hotels at Sikkim are an indelible part of tourism at Sikkim. Some of the important hotels in Sikkim are:
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| Travel to Sikkim |
A travel to Sikkim would take you to the land of ice-capped mountains, rolling slopes clad in thick Alpine woods. Steep heights and plunging gorges, stretched covered in snow - that is what Sikkim sums up.
Travel to Sikkim to see the lovely interplay of clouds and mountain peaks in the sapphire sky. Take a peek at the Mount Kanchendzonga as the sun rises and the beams lend it a golden hue. It is the third highest peak in the world and also the guardian deity of the land.
This is the land of quaint little hamlets peeping out from the towering junipers and rhododendrons. Drive uphill to the placid lakes and mystic old monasteries. Listen to the clang of prayer bells as the prayer flags flutter in the wind. Here legends and natural splendor lies entwined into each other.
Travel to Sikkim to raft through the turbulent and foaming white waters of the Teesta and the Rangit as they rush down to the plains.
Best Time to Visit Sikkim
Keeping in mind the above mentioned climatic conditions, the best time to visit the mountaineering state are the months of April and May. This is the time of the year, which observes the full bloom of orchids and rhododendrons.
How to Reach Sikkim
On the foothills of the Himalayas, the tiny state of Sikkim is often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East". Lofty, mist-clad mountains dominate the skyline of Sikkim. The gurgling river of the Teesta rushes through the hilly terrains lending the region breathtaking beauty.
By Air
Sikkim does not has its own airport. The nearest Airport is Bagdogra (near Siliguri) in West Bengal, which lies only 125 km away from Gangtok the capital of Sikkim. Bagdogra is connected to cities like Delhi and Kolkata by regular flights.
By Road
Although the state of Sikkim lies at the foothills of the Himalayas, it has a good network of roads. Sikkim can be entered through northern areas of West Bengal. Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri are directly connected to Gangtok and other cities of the state. But during the monsoon seasons sometimes, landslides create temporary problems in road transport.
By Rail
Sikkim does not have any rail network in its boundary. The nearest Railways Station is New Jalpaiguri (near Siliguri), which is connected to Gangtok by road. New Jalpaiguri boasts of an extensive rail network with major Railway Stations in India, such as Kolkata, Delhi. It is also conveniently linked to the cities of Northeastern India like, Guwahati.
Shopping in Sikkim
Although Sikkim is not an ideal shopping hotspot, still shopping is
Sikkim may turn out to be a true pleasure if you know what to shop and
where. Sikkim has its fair share of traditional arts and crafts that may
lead you to a shopping spree in Sikkim. Sikkim Handicrafts and Markets
Sikkim's claim to fame lies in woven woolen carpets and blankets embellished in unique designs and traditional Sikkimese motifs.
Sikkim also boasts of its traditional paintings called Thangkas on cotton canvas and often framed with silk. Along with that wood-carved artifacts are also interesting items for shopping in Sikkim. Exquisite Choksee table designed in Tibetan style is also a must buy for avid shoppers.
While shopping in Sikkim, look for:
The best place for shopping in Sikkim is Gangtok, the capital city. Many Government Emporia and private run shops are located in the main market area on Mahatma Gandhi Marg.
Tibetan Handicrafts centre is also a good place for shopping in Sikkim.
Places to See in Sikkim
Sikkim is situated at the foot of Mount Kanchendzonga and boasts of an
unexplored beauty. The lofty mountains dominate the skyline of Sikkim
and invites tourists in its snow clad peaks, green emerald slopes,
rushing streams, tall Rhododendrons and sparkling orchids. Hilltop
monasteries emerge from the rugged terrains while multi-colored prayer
flags wave in the mountain breeze. Gangtok
Category : History & Culture
The capital of Sikkim is a charming and picturesque town, straddling
with striking houses spilling down the hillside. The city has a fusion
of traditional customs and modern way of living which makes the place
unique. It's a beautiful town with all modern amenities that one can ask
for.Tsomgo Lake
Category : Nature
The lake is about a kilometer long, oval in shape and is considered very holy by the locals. Between May to August, the lake area is spectacular with a display of rare flowers including the primulas, iris and blue & yellow poppies. The lake has a number of aquatic and aerial species and is a perfect habitat for the red panda. The lake freezes in winter.
Nathula Pass
Category : Nature
At an altitude of 14200 ft, the pass is located on the Indo-China border and connects Sikkim to Tibet Autonomous Region in China. The journey itself is an exhilarating experience, with mist covered peaks, zigzag roads and roaring waterfalls, the passage is simply amazing. Visitors are required to get a permit to visit the place.
Pelling
Category : Nature
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.
Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden
Category : 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.
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Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology
Category : History & CultureIt 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.
Apart from these popular places, Sikkim provides various other places that are popular among tourist. These are:
- Enchey Monastery
- Sa-Ngor-Chotshog Monastery
- Tashiding Monastery
- Phodong Monastery
- Phensang Monastery
- Saramsa Garden
- Tashi View Point
- Rabdentse Ruins
- Soreng
- Lachung
- Yumthang
- Guru-Dongmar Lake.
Tourist Destination Near Sikkim
DarjeelingOne of the most captivating tourist places near Sikkim with popular toy train ride to famous Darjeeling tea plantations. There are lots of tourist attractions at this place.
Siliguri
With its exquisite landscape, distant views of the snow capped peaks and
myriad vegetation, Siliguri is a place where tourist can enjoy nature
fully.
Kalimpong
A fascinating tourist destination near Sikkim which acknowledges its rustic charm, dotted with numerous orchids and monasteries. It's an ideal place for relaxed vacations against the picturesque backdrop of the Himalayas and also a great place for adventure junkies.
Mirik
Popular for its famous Lake and lovely surroundings, this exotic place is perfect for romantic holidays for the newly weds.
Tourist Map Of Sikkim
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Cuisine of Sikkim
- China Palate in New Market
- Dragon's Den on M. G. Marg
- Little Italy in Deorali
- Oberoi's Barbeque in New Market
- Parivar Restaurant in M. G. Marg
- Metro's Fast Food at NH 31A
- Krishna Restaurant
Hotels in Sikkim
The hotels in Sikkim are another feather in the cap of Sikkim
tourism. Sikkim tourism implies a vivid tour across the different
destinations housed throughout length and breadth of the territory. The
hotels of Sikkim help the tourists to lodge and board in the territory
of Sikkim. Thus, it goes without mention that the hotels at Sikkim are an indelible part of tourism at Sikkim. Some of the important hotels in Sikkim are:
- Hotel Tashi Delek (4 Star)
- Hotel Central (3 Star)
- Denzong Inn
- Hoteles De Bhutan
- Turismo Del Bhutan
- Vacances Du Tibet
- Ferias De Tibet
- Giri Del l Himalaya
- The Hidden Forest Retreat
- The Oriental
- Curso De l' Himalaya
- Voyage De l'Himalaya
- Hotel Rendezvous
- Vacacciones De Tibet
- Giri Dell Himalaya
- Nor-Khill Hotel (Heritage)
- Hotel Tibet (3 Star), etc.
Luxury Hotels in Sikkim
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- Aashishkhim Guest House
Address : Indira Bypass, Helipad Road
City : Sikkim
State : Sikkim
Pin Code : 737101
Phone No : 91-03592 - 284500 / 9932308551 / 9933027052
Fax No. :
Email ID : info@aashishkhim.com
Website : http://www.aashishkhim.com
Type : Luxury
Rooms in Hotel : 4
Minimum Room Rate : 600
Maximum Room Rate : 1200
Budget Hotels in Sikkim
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