Sikkim

Sikkim an amazing place, a hidden paradise that no has really heard of, was once a small kingdom ruled by Kings in North Eastern part of Indian Sub Continent. It became a part of the India only in the year 1972. Nestled in the Indian Himalayas, Sikkim is bordered by Nepal to the West, Tibet to the North, Bhutan to the East and Indian State of West Bengal to the South. The Invading Gorkhas called it Sikhim or crested while the Tibetans called it Denzong, valley of rice. A part of the Eastern Himalayan Range, most of the landscape in Sikkim from the sub- tropical to alpine like zone falls in the Himalayas. Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim and this is where all the major administrative offices are located.

What is Sikkim Famous for ?

Sikkim is noted for it’s rich bio-diversity and as well for being home to Mt.Kanchenjunga, the highest mountain in Indian Himalayas and the third highest peak in the world. Almost 35% of the area in Sikkim is covered by the rich forests of the world heritage Kanchenjunga National Park. Sikkim is a favourite place to rejuvenate and relax amidst its tranquil Himalayan surrounding.  

Sikkim is also famous for it’s trekking destintions, high altitude lakes and captivating Himalayan Scenery.  Since, most of it’s land fall in the Himalayas, Sikkim provides some of the most interesting Trek routes in Indian Himalayas.  Goechala Pass Trek, ranked sixth strenuous trek in Indian Himalayas is one such trek. Highlights of  Goechala Pass Trek is Goechala Pass at the foot of Mt.Kanchenjunga at an altitude of 4990m. Similarly Yuksom Dzongri Ridge Trek a short trek in Sikkim Himalayas  or  Singalila Dzongri Goechala Pass Trek a long strenuous trek is what Sikkim is famous for.

Apart from Trekking in Sikkim and Tours in Sikkim, this small state is also famous for Monasteries and  Pilgrim destinations for both Buddhist and Hindus. Pemayangtse Monastery and Tashiding Monastery are the two holiest and famous monasteries in Sikkim, a pilgrimage centre for Buddhist. The Char Dham Temple is equally an important place for Hindu Pilgrims.

Sikkim- Religion, Language and Culture

Sikkim is basically a Buddhist state but is tolerant to other religions too. Buddhists comprises of a large chunk of the population, followed by Hindus, Christians and other minor religion. But modern Sikkim is multilingual and multiethnic. English, Hindi, Nepali and Lepcha language are the official language of Sikkim.

Nepali is the local dialect and widely spoken. English is also spoken and understood by all.

What is the best time visit Sikkim ?

Sikkim is open to travellers all the year round but the best time to visit Sikkim is from March to May when the weather is mild and sunny. September to November is another season for the crystal clear views of the Kanchenjunga Range and also for it’s mild weather.

Is it safe to visit Sikkim ?

It is totally safe to visit Sikkim. Even when the border issue with China was taking place in North Sikkim and Darjeeling, in the neighbouring state of west Bengal was having problems, there was no issues for travellers travelling in Sikkim.

What are the documents required to travel and Trek in Sikkim ?

Foreign Visitors will require an Inner Line Permit over and above the Indian Visa to Travel and Trek in Sikkim. The Inner Line permit will be issued for a period of thirty days and cannot be renewed. The Inner line Permit readily available on arrival in India. The Inner Line Permit will be issued at the Sikkim House in Delhi, Kolkata, Siliguri and the inter- state police check post at Rangpo and Melli. Foreign Nationals will have to fill in a form and submit the same with a copy of the Passport, Indian Visa and three Passport photos attached with the same.

Indian Nationals do not need any permits to travel in Sikkim. But if you are travelling to restricted areas than one will need a special permit eg. Tchangu Lake, Nathula and North Sikkim.