Sikkim is a beautiful state full of scenic beauty and vibrant culture. Located in the northeastern part of India this colorful state is a giant hub for tourists from all around the world. Known for its beautiful scenery, majestic mountainous views, and amazing food, this alluring state is a delight to travelers. Full of attractive places and enthralling activities, Sikkim is at top of everyone’s vacation list. Split into four equally captivating quadrants, it is lush with nature and filled with exotic flora and fauna. Sikkim has fascinating historical sites, amazing monasteries and temples, diverse culture, and countless dazzling places to see. The unmatched beauty and the gripping atmosphere of this state make it one of the most recommended tourist destinations. Visiting Sikkim is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Good Time To Visit
Anytime is a good time to visit this beautiful state but the spring bloom of March to June and the cool weather conditions of October to December add more to its charming nature.
How To Get To Sikkim
By Flight
Currently, the state of Sikkim has no fully functioning airports so the closest airport is the Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal. Travelers can book a cab to Sikkim or go in the local day-to-day running cabs from Siliguri to reach Sikkim.
By Train
As of now, there are no railway stations in Sikkim so the closest one is the NJP Railway Station from where travelers can book a cab to Sikkim.
Culture Of Sikkim
Sikkim is made up of different communities with a unique blend of different customs, religions, and traditions. Since ancient times Sikkim was occupied by the Lepchas, the Bhutias, and the Nepalese with Nepali being the most common language of the state in the present.
Foods Of Sikkim
The Sikkim quinine has been majorly influenced by Nepal and Tibet, so rice is the staple food with soups, dumplings, stews, meats, and a whole lot of vegetables also being immensely popular.
Festivals And Activities to Witness
All the major Hindu festivals like Holi, and and Diwali among many others are celebrated with many major Nepali festivals and Buddhist festivals like Dasain, Losar, Manghe Sankranti, and Saga Dawa to name a few.
Sightseeing Places in Sikkim & DarjeelingShow / Hide
Tsongmo Lake
About 40 km away from Gangtok and at an elevation of 3735 meters is where the exquisite Tsongmo Lake resides. This lake is among the most stunning places to visit in Sikkim. During winter the lake freezes over due to heavy snowfall and creates the most picturesque view. The lake's surface reflects different colors with the change of season and during spring the lake blooms full of rhododendron trees of different colors. Activities around the lake include joy rides on decorated yaks and mules with a variety of foods and drinks.
Yumthang Valley
Located in Lachung the Yumthang valley or the valley of flowers is home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary which contains 40 varieties of Rhododendrons. It is a heavenly destination full of natural wonders and unbelievable immaculate beauty. The majestic mountains, countless flowers, and magical surroundings make Yumthang Valley one of the best places to visit for a holiday. Tourists can visit the breathtaking zero point which is about 23 km away, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, or just take in the serene environment of this gorgeous valley.
Himalayan Zoological Park
The first zoological park of Sikkim the Himalayan Zoological Park is a place that preserves wildlife by keeping them in their natural habitats. Located in Bulbuley at a distance of 5km from Gangtok, this fascinating zoological park is famous for being home to some of the most exotic animals and the splendid view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Himalayan Red Panda, Snow Leopard Cat, Himalayan Black Bear, and Himalayan Palm Civet are some examples of the fauna present here. The outside of this park contains various shops and restaurants filled with delicious local cuisine and traditional dresses for tourists to buy.
Ravangla
At an altitude of 7000 ft, Ravangla offers an unmatched view of the Greater Himalayan Range. Being close to Maenam Hill and Borong makes this place a base for trekkers in South Sikkim. Ravangla is blessed with natural beauty and is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. Tourists can visit Buddha Park and stare in awe at the architectural marvel of a 130-foot statue of Buddha and wander around the pathways enjoying the surrounding greenery. Titanic viewpoint, Rayong Viewpoint, Ralang New Monastery, and Temi Tea State are just some of the places this beautiful destination offers.
Pelling
A joyful town in the West district of Sikkim, standing only behind Gangtok Pelling has become the second biggest tourist destination in Sikkim. This place offers a stunning view of the Kanchenjunga and its neighboring peaks. Tourists can visit the famous Pemgmayangste Monastery and enjoy the holy and peaceful environment while taking in the beautiful Himalayan scenery. The Sky Bridge of Pelling is also a very famous tourist attraction with the entire bridge being see-through and the beautiful Himalayan background accompanying it. Some activities include mountain biking, rock climbing, tours, meditation, and treks.
Gangtok
Being the capital city of the state, Gangtok is the most visited place in Sikkim. This city attracts huge amounts of tourists as it has the best locations, fascinating activities, and amazing views. Offering its various beautiful attraction it is also the closest to a lot of major tourist locations like the Tsongmo Lake, Nathula Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, and the Himalayan Zoological Park to name a few. Gangtok has the best mix of cultural and modern things and tourists are recommended to visit the peaceful MG Marg, the Rumtek Monastery, and Ganesh Tok to name a few.
