Sikkim

One of the top tourism places in North East India, Sikkim is bestowed with abundance of natural beauty and traditional charm. It is the second smallest state in the country and is said to be home to the warmest hearted people. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world is visible from anywhere you stand in the state. Sikkim is a long list of pristine lakes, gorgeous valleys and colourful monasteries. People often regard it as a peaceful hilly escape from the hot and humid summers of India and is undoubtedly one of the best places in India.

Culture of Sikkim

Sikkim is a small and beautiful state which lies in the Northeast part of India. Sikkim was founded in the 17th century by the Namgyal Dynasty (Chogyal). It is a state which follows multi-culture and tradition as people of different caste reside in the Sikkim. Dashain, Tihar, Losar, Namoona, Losoong, Tendong-Iho-Rum-Fat, Labab Duchen are the main festivals of Sikkimese people. The monks or lamas of the monastery in Sikkim have their belief in their traditional culture, they have huge respect towards ancients and are always ready to follow the path set by their legends.

Cuisine of Sikkim

Food of Sikkim is something that will leave you spellbound and is packed with lots of flavours. It is a unique amalgamation of Tibetan, Nepalese and native Sikkimese food. Maize is one of the major ingredients in Sikkimese cuisine. People in Sikkim mostly prefer non-vegetarian food. Here are some food options in Sikkim.

• Momos
• Phagshapa
• Gundruk
• Sinki
• Kinema
• Dhindo

Best time to visit Sikkim

The best time to visit in Sikkim is both between March and May or October and mid- December. You can also pay a visit during the spring season, to see the state in full blooming conditions.

People of Sikkim

The people of Sikkim are known as Sikkimese. It is a state which is comprised of three main communities i.e. Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese. Many migrant people of India can also be seen in Sikkim like Marwaris, Punjabis, Biharis, and Bengalis.

• Bhutia
• Sherpa
• Lepcha
• Chhetri
• Limbu
• Pradhan
• Brahmin
• Thapa

Places to visit in Sikkim

Gangtok

Nestled in mountains and clouds; Gangtok is one of the best hill stations in the country. It is the state’s capital and acts as a popular base for trekkers. Gangtok houses various tourist attractions such as- Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint and many more.

Rumtek Monastery

One of the largest monasteries in Sikkim, Rumtek Monastery boasts of the finest architecture in the world. Besides being a peace seeker’s abode, it is also a nature lover’s paradise.

Gurudongmar Lake

One of the fifteen highest lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake attracts tourists from far and wide. This place offers with breathtaking scenic views and also holds religious significance. It is believed that the water of the lake has healing powers and thus many people carry it back home.

Yumthang Valley

Located around 140 km North of Gangtok, Yumthang Valley is home to hot springs, yaks and exotic species of Rhododendron flowers. Tourists are not allowed to visit this place from December to March due to heavy snowfall in the region. If you want to witness the flowers in their full bloom, make sure to visit Yumthang Valley in between February and June.

Nathu La Pass

Perched at an altitude of 14450 feet, Nathu La is one of the highest motorable roads in the world. It is one of the biggest tourist attractions in India and is situated on the Indo-Chinese border. Tourists mainly visit this place for trekking and enjoying scenic views.

Lachen

One of the most beautiful towns, Lachen is situated in the northern part of Sikkim. It is a significant place for Buddhist pilgrims and tourists. Lachen is also considered to be the gateway to Gurudongmar Lake and Tso Lhamu lakes.

Namchi

Namchi is one of the most beautiful spot in South Sikkim. It is one destination of the state where the visitors can find lots of Buddhist monasteries. This part of Sikkim is blessed with the enormous beauty of nature, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Sherdup Choeling Monastery, tea gardens, Rock Garden are the main attractions in Namchi.

Yuksom

Yuksom is a beautiful town which lies in the west part of Sikkim. Dubdi Gompa, Tashi Lake, Norbugang Park, and Kanchenjunga National Park are the major attractions of Yuksom. The brilliance of climate and blessed natural environment makes Yuksom the best trekking destination in Sikkim.

How to Reach Sikkim ?

If you are looking to save your time and reach Sikkim as quickly as you can then, the airway is the best transportation that you can choose. Traveling in a flight will take you to Pakyong Airport the greenfield RCS airport near to Gangtok.