Sikkim
Travel Information
Travel Information
The Tsomgo Lake, which is also known as the Changu Lake, is undoubtedly one of the top tourist destinations in Gangtok. With an altitude of 12310 feet, it is one of the highest-altitude lakes in India and an epitome of natural beauty. The Tsomgo Lake is situated at a distance of 38 km from Gangtok while en route to the Nathula Pass. It is a water body made of a glacier, and its awe-inspiring landscape makes it a must-visit attraction in Sikkim.
At an impressive altitude of 14140 feet, Nathula Pass is an absolute must-visit destination for those who love trekking in Sikkim. It is also home to the well-known border trade market, Sherathang, where visitors can purchase various Tibetan items at very reasonable prices. This particular Sikkim point of interest is extremely popular among travelers and for good reason!
Gangtok boasts an abundance of natural beauty and a plethora of natural attractions, including the breathtaking Tsomgo Lake, the stunning Ban Jhakri Falls, the mesmerizing Tashi Viewpoint, and many more. In addition to these, there are several other must-visit places such as the Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten, and the world-renowned Rumtek Monastery.
The Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park in Sikkim, India is a must-visit for tourists seeking recreation and adventure. The park features an impressive collection of statues and displays that document the Ban Jhakri, a traditional shamanic healer who venerates the spirits residing in the caves around the falls. Whether you're interested in history, spirituality, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, you won't be disappointed by the Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park.
If you're looking for a lively and safe tourist destination in Gangtok. This bustling spot is known for its vibrant atmosphere, fantastic shopping, and mouth-watering food options. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking a happening spot to spend their time.
Hanuman Tok, also known as Hanuman Temple, is a prominent religious site in the capital city of Sikkim. The temple exudes a tranquil atmosphere that is truly mesmerizing and makes it hard to resist spending some time here. In addition to this temple, the Indian Army has also built another Hanuman Temple in the city.
Ganesh Tok temple, located 7 km uphill from Gangtok, is a remarkable shrine dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This magnificent temple was built between 1952 and 1953 by the notable Shri Appa B Pant, the former Political Officer of Sikkim. Besides offering prayers, visitors can relish the breathtakingly panoramic views of the city of Gangtok from this vantage point. Without a doubt, Ganesh Tok is one of the most spectacular sites in the region that you don't want to miss.
The magnificent monastery in Sikkim is the largest of its kind, showcasing the finest examples of Tibetan architecture. It is an almost replica of the original monastery in Tsurpu, Tibet. With an exceptional collection of rare Buddhist religious art objects, it has earned worldwide recognition as a hub for Kargyu teachings.
Pakyong Airport stands as the sole airport in Sikkim, catering to domestic flights. The nearest international airport is Bagdogra Airport, located at a distance of 121 km from Gangtok.
Sikkim does not have any railway tracks within its state borders. However, the nearest railway station is the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is located only 118 km away from Gangtok.
Travelers can easily reach Sikkim via National Highway 10, which efficiently connects Siliguri to Gangtok within a 4-5 hour journey.
Sikkim boasts a diverse climate that extends from sub-tropical in the south to tundra in the north. The majority of the inhabited regions of Sikkim enjoy a pleasant temperate climate, with the summer temperatures rarely exceeding 28 °C (82 °F). Throughout most parts of Sikkim, the average annual temperature is approximately 18 °C (64 °F).
The history of Sikkim dates back to the 17th century when the first king of the Namgyal dynasty, Phuntsog Namgyal established the state in the year 1642. The state got its name from two Limbu words “su him” which means “new house”. Sikkim once used to be the part of Nepal which was annexed by the British after the Gurkha War in 1814.
Tourism in Sikkim has gained immense popularity owing to its breathtaking natural beauty. It's worth noting that until the early '90s, very few tourists would visit this landlocked state and even those who did seldom ventured beyond Gangtok, the state capital. However, the last two decades have seen a remarkable surge in tourism in Sikkim, with close to a million tourists flocking to this region every year.
Sikkim is a beautiful state with a unique culture and stunning landscapes. The Lepchas, Nepalese, and Bhutias are the major tribes that have occupied Sikkim, each with their interesting features, art forms, dances, and religious rituals. Sikkim's culture and tradition are reflected in its festivals, dances, and garments. The Sikkimese people consider nature as the most powerful God, which is why they strive to preserve the state's lush greenery, forests, mountains, and rivers.
Sikkim is a state that boasts of a diverse array of communities, cultures, religions and customs. Despite the differences, the people of Sikkim are known for their warm, simple and friendly nature, with a natural gaiety that is infectious. This state is an exemplary model of India's "Unity in Diversity" philosophy, as it has a well-established mechanism for fostering harmony between people of different communities. The three main communities in Sikkim are the Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese, and they coexist peacefully, setting an inspiring example for the rest of the country.
Sikkim, a hilly state in India, has a cuisine that blends Tibetan, Nepali, and Lepcha dishes. The food is mostly rice-based with vegetables like Fern, Wild Lily, and Bamboo-Shoot. Meat, including mutton, beef, pork, chicken, and fish, is also common. Locally fermented beverages and organic raw materials are popular. The food is generally stir-fried, boiled, or steamed with limited spices and herbs.
Sikkim boasts of an abundance of thrilling activities that one can indulge in. Here are some of the most popular activities to explore
Embark on a journey of a lifetime with the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek! This moderately tough trekking route, spanning over 90 km and taking about 11 days to complete, offers adventure lovers from around the world a fulfilling and magical experience in the scenic Sikkim region.
Experience the thrill of a lifetime with rafting in the Teesta River - the lifeline of the Sikkim region. With the perfect setting created near the Teesta Bazar area, adventure enthusiasts must take part in this exciting activity and explore the mesmerizing beauty of the region.
Soar high like a bird in the sky with paragliding, fast becoming the most popular adventure activity in Gangtok and other parts of Sikkim. Enjoy the thrill and the feeling of freedom as you glide over the stunning landscapes of the region.
Are you ready for the ultimate adrenaline rush? Head to Singshore Bridge, the highest bridge in Sikkim, hanging at a height of 198 m, for an unforgettable bungee jumping experience. Feel the joy and thrill of jumping from a suspended bridge and making memories to last a lifetime.
Take in the breathtaking views of the stunning landscapes of Sikkim with a cable car ride in Gangtok. Set between two mountains, this ride offers an unforgettably spectacular view, and with three stations to take a ride from, it's a must-try activity for everyone.
Indulge in the pedestrian-friendly design, shopping options, dining variety, and cultural events that make MG Road in Gangtok a must-visit and most happening place in the region. Spend hours shopping, eating, and drinking at the numerous eateries, both upscale and budget-friendly.
Take your adventure to new heights with a helicopter ride in Sikkim and get the perfect bird’s eye view of the mountains, alpine forests, and Mountain Rivers below. With a helicopter carrying up to 5 people, this is a great way to discover the region and make unforgettable memories.
Get to know the heart and soul of the Sikkimese culture and history by visiting the monasteries and spending time with the monks. The humble monks are always happy to entertain all kinds of questions and share their knowledge with visitors. Learn first-hand about the state’s culture and history and share your experiences with friends and family.
