Gangtok
The capital city of Sikkim offers a captivating blend of culture and natural beauty. Perched amidst the Himalayas, it's a gateway to stunning landscapes, serene monasteries, and thrilling adventures. From iconic temples and monasteries, the city of Gangtok is home to numerous attractions making it one of the most visited tourist sites in the state.
Tsomgo Lake
A pristine glacial lake located at an elevation of 3,753 m is another popular tourist sport. The lake boasts its beauty with mirror-like waters reflecting diverse colours and the majestic views of the snowcapped mountains. The lake also allows tourists to indulge in numerous activities such as yak rides and cable car rides offering unique experiences.
Lachung
Lachung is a picturesque village situated in the northern valleys of Sikkim. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, it's the perfect starting point to explore the enchanting valleys and glacial lakes such as Yumthang and Gurudongmar Lake. With a backdrop of snow-covered mountains, rich alpine vegetation and dense villages, Lachung is one of the popular stops for travellers of Northern Sikkim.
Ravangla
Nestled amidst verdant forests and stunning landscapes Ravangla is an amazing destination that has emerged as one of the prominent tourist spots of the region. The place is home to Buddha Park, known for housing a 130 ft tall statue of Buddha that is considered the major highlight of the region.
Rumtek Monastery
A spiritual and architectural masterpiece is a pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. Its intricate details and serene atmosphere offer a glimpse into Sikkim's rich cultural heritage. Established in the year 1734, the monastery offers tourists to witness the old traditions and culture of the bygone era.
Gurudongmar Lake
Placed at an elevation of 5,425 m, the Gurudongmar Lake is one of the sacred lakes of the state. The lake is believed to have been blessed by Guru Rinpoche on his way back from the Tibet die to which a particular part of the lake never freezes even in harsh freeing winters.
With its unparalleled beauty, Sikkim is a place of breathtaking contours that is likely to amaze every visitor. Together with the roaring rivers, serene lakes, and thundering waterfalls, its rough mountains, deep valleys, and dense forests form a visual feast that uplifts the spirit. The state is home to the world's steepest ascent over the shortest distance, making it a singular sight that cannot be found anywhere else. Sikkim is a veritable heaven on earth, showcasing a symphony of natural beauty within its 7,096 sq. km boundaries. Sikkim has a wide variety of climates, ranging from arctic to subtropical. The areas that are inhabited experience a mild climate, with summertime highs that rise over 28 degrees and an average yearly temperature of about 18 °C.
The state of Sikkim is renowned for its varied populations, ethnicities, faiths, and traditions. The Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepali ethnic groups make up the majority of Sikkim's population and are renowned for being hospitable, straightforward, and kind. The Sikkimese people have a contagious laugh and a well-developed system for coexisting peacefully. Sikkim is a state where people from all backgrounds live in harmony and peace with one another. Sikkim is renowned for being home to a varied range of racial and tribal populations that coexist according to unique customs and cultures. Every group has its own languages, customs, dances, and crafts. Lepcha and Sikkimese are the languages spoken in the northeastern region of Sikkim, whereas Nepali is the state's official language. Music and Dance forms are a major part of their culture which can be witnessed at the time of celebrations.
Sikkimese cuisine is a delightful blend of Nepali, Tibetan, and local flavours. Known for its simplicity and freshness, it features hearty dishes like momo, Thukpa, and chowmein. Prepared with a mixture of unique ingredients such as fermented vegetables and preserved pickles, the Sikkimese cuisine adds a distinct taste to each of your plates. Unlike many Indian cuisines, Sikkimese food is often less spicy and focuses on natural flavours with most of the food being prepared using organic and homegrown food items. This culinary fusion creates a satisfying experience for those seeking a taste of the Himalayas. Some of the popular food dishes of Sikkimese cuisine include
Sikkim's festivals are a vibrant reflection of its diverse cultural heritage. Unlike many other parts of India, Sikkim's celebrations are deeply rooted in Buddhism, with events like Phang Lhabsol honouring the protective deities. The state also observes Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar but with a distinct Sikkimese touch. What sets Sikkim's festivals apart is their intimate connection to nature and spirituality. Unlike the grand celebrations in other parts of India, Sikkim's festivals are often quieter, and more deeply connected to spirituality, showcasing the state's unique identity. Following are some of the most popular festivals in the state.
Air : The sole airport in Sikkim that runs domestic flights between the country's major cities is Pakyong Airport. The closest international airport is Bagdogra Airport, situated 121 km from Gangtok.
Train : There are no train tracks in the state of Sikkim. The closest station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is situated 118 km away from Gangtok.
Road : One of the best and most common ways to get to Sikkim is by road. Travelers can get to Sikkim via National Highway 10, which links Siliguri and Gangtok in 4-5 hours, with a rental car or a local cab.
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Sikkim is a small northeastern state which is famous for its magical snowfall.
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