SIKKIM is a tiny hill state tucked in North Eastern part of . Known for its lofty mountains, quaint villages, pristine scenery, holy lakes and vibrant Buddhist Monasteries, a holiday in is sure to bring you close to nature providing you ample peace and solitude. Sikkim is also a paradise for adventure freaks, trekkers and mountaineers owing to its myriad adventure activities. Whether you are looking for a laid back break, taking in the extravaganza of nature’s beauty or seeking a fun- filled adventurous holiday, Sikkim will not leave you disappointed.

How to Reach

BY AIR: The Pakyong Airport in has commercial flights connecting from Kolkata and . To fly in from any other location Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal is the closest to Sikkim. Regular cabs are available to Sikkim from the Bagdogra airport.

BY RAIL:New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri are the two rail stations nearest to Sikkim located in West Bengal. NJP is 125 Kms and Siliguri is 114 Kms from Gangtok and is well connected to all the major cities.

BY ROAD: The lifeline of Sikkim, which is National Highway 31A connects Gangtok with Siliguri and this picturesque highway runs through the lush green forests along the bank of river Teesta on one side and sky touching mountain ranges of Eastern Himalaya on other side. This unique ride of almost two hours will gives you the opportunity to enjoy the valley carpeted with numerous wild flowers.

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DESTINATION

east sikkim GANGTOK

Sikkim’s modern capital is layered along a precipitous mountain ridge, descending the hillside in steep tiers. As well as a handful of minor sights, there are countless viewpoints with panoramas that encompass plunging green valleys and, if you’re lucky weather-wise, glimpses of Khangchendzonga on the distant skyline.

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DESTINATION

Rumtek Tsomgo Lake Nathula Pass

Monastry

Rumtek monastery is one of the Tsomgo Lake is one of the Located at a distance of around largest in Sikkim. The architecture of interesting attractions in 55 km. from Gangtok and at an the monastery is one of the finest in Sikkim tourism. The idyllic altitude of 14,500 ft. is the world and resembles the original surroundings of this waterbody an important trade link between one in Tsurphu, . From the top attracts everyone. In winter, it India and China. Spectacular of the monastry the whole Gangtok remains frozen and in summer views of the snow-capped peaks town can be seen on the opposite it is enclosed by the blossom of of the Eastern from hill. However from the gate at the flowers. Nathu La, lures thousands of base, it requires an uphill walk (about tourists every year to this scenic half a kilometer) to reach up to the place. main monastery.

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DESTINATION north sikkim LACHUNG

Lachung is a mountain village close to the Tibetan border, in the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim. It’s divided by the Lachung River. The village is home to the 19th-century Buddhist Lachung Monastery, surrounded by apple orchards. Nearby, the Yumthang Valley’s Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary protects many species of rhododendron. The valley is also known for its waterfalls, pine forests and hot springs.

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DESTINATION

Yumthang Lachung Valley Gompa

The Yumthang Valley is a nature sanctuary with Lachung Gompa’s small but colourful monastery river, hot springs, yaks and grazing pasture on prayer hall is a two-storey affair with twin metal rolling meadows surrounded by the Himalayan dragons above the porch, which contains a pair mountains in North Sikkim. It is popularly known of extra-heavy prayer wheels. Walking here is as ‘Valley of Flowers’ and is home to the Shingba a great way to get a better sense of Lachung Rhododendron Sanctuary, which has over village; you’ll pass several great viewpoints from twenty-four species of the rhododendron, the which to appreciate the town’s magnificent state flower. setting.

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DESTINATION

north sikkim

LACHEN

Undulated mountain air, stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and tranquil settings of this small hamlet attract thousands of tourists every year. Situated in the North of Sikkim, Lachen is a home to many itineraries along with Lachung as a base to some of the popular Eastern Himalayan treks. The town forms the base to the Chopta Valley and .

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DESTINATION

Gurudongmar Lake

One of the highest alpine lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake is not only known for its spectacular beauty, but is also revered as a sacred lake by Buddhists, Hindus and . The lake can be reached via a rugged terrain with little vegetation and human population. Occasional views of high alpine pastures covered with rhododendrons and yaks and sheep grazing can be seen from a distance. As you reach the lake, you are welcomed by mesmerizing views of the emerald blue lake surrounded with snow covered peaks of the Eastern Himalayas.

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DESTINATION

west sikkim

YUKSOM

Yuksom is a historical town in Geyzing subdivision of West Sikkim .The unspoilt natural charm, peaceful settings and an undulated mountain air, makes Yuksom an ideal holiday destination for people seeking extreme quiet and solitude. Apart from the tranquility and serenity, Yuksom also offers a plethora of trekking options.

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DESTINATION

Kanchenjunga Dubdi National Park Monastery

The park is a must visit for the nature , is a Buddhist shrine near lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. It is home to Yuksom. Established in the year 1701, it is numerous glaciers, huge variety of flora and considered to be the oldest monasteries fauna, rare varieties of birds and many wild in Sikkim. The literal meaning of the word animals like snow leopards, musk deer, red ‘Dubdi’ is ‘the retreat’ which clearly be seen panda and Himalayan black bear. authenticating itself through its mesmerising hilltop location amidst the thick chestnut forest.

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DESTINATION

west sikkim

PELLING

West of Sikkim, lies at a distance of 115 km. from Gangtok. Snow- covered peaks of Kanchenjunga range can be best viewed from this tiny hamlet. Tranquil environment and picturesque settings of this enchanting town lures thousands of tourists from all across the country.

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DESTINATION

Pemayangtse Singshore Monastery Ruins Bridge

The Former capital of Sikkim, Located at 5 km. from Pelling, is a Buddhist monastery in Rabdentse was destroyed by the the Singshore Bridge is the Pemayangtse, near Pelling in the Nepalese invaders . second highest hanging northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, The town and its royal palace bridge in Asia connecting two located 110 km west of Gangtok. now lies in ruins, close to the mountains. Feel of the swing Planned, designed and founded by Pemayangtse Monastery. It is across the bridge as you walk Lama Lhatsun Chempo in 1705, it surrounded with thick forest along combined with some mind is one of the oldest and premier cover. boggling sights around. monasteries of Sikkim.

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DESTINATION

south sikkim

RAVANGLA

Ravangla is known for its laid back atmosphere and magical beauty. Snow clad mountains, gushing waterfalls, quaint villages and fresh mountain air attracts lots of tourists to have a relaxing holiday in Sikkim.

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DESTINATION

Ralang Buddha Park Hotsprings Monastery

Ralang Monastery is an attraction The giant statue of the Buddha A very popular site among that needs to be visited by every marks the event of the 2550th visitors, the Ralong Hot Water traveller wishing to explore conception commemoration of Springs are natural hot springs Ravangla. Ralang Monastery has an Gautama Buddha. The Buddhist believed to hold curative extensive collection of paintings Park is a State government properties. These springs are and thangkas that reflect the venture which was built for located on the banks of the opulence of the Buddhist art. boosting pilgrimage tourism. This Rangit River. site is of great spiritual importance and thus even the ambience gives a divine experience to the visitors.

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EXPERIENCES IN SIKKIM

LOCAL VILLAGE STAY click link to accsess The lush green slopes of this charismatic west Sikkim village beckons you with an array of activities you can engage in, ranging from processing butter and cheese, gardening in the fields, or milking a cow or two. As you immerse yourself in the bucolic lifestyle of the people, go down to the Yuma Meditation Centre or make a visit to the 200-year-old Limboo traditional house.

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EXPERIENCES

BEER BREWING click link to accsess Tongba is a millet-based alcoholic beverage which is quite popular in the Sikkimese region. Witness the brewing process and taste this popular local beer.

TREKING

Treking in Sikkim allows you to explore some of the unknown parts of the region with the distant valleys, scenic meadows and the snow-capped mountains. Bordered by Nepal, Bhutan and China and is regarded as the Himalayan Shangri La, Sikkim is celebrated as one of the lavishly kept secrets in the range of Himalayas. Goecha La Trek, Base Camp Trek, Sikkim Dzongri Trek are some of the most famous treks in Sikkim.

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FESTIVALS IN SIKKIM

Sikkim International Flower Pang Lhabsol Festival The most popular regional and cultural International Flower Festival, Gangtok festivals of Sikkim, Pang Lhabsol attracts showcases different varieties of flower that countless tourists and visitors from across are native to Sikkim. This festival is held the nation and parts of the world. The during the peak flowering season in Sikkim vibrant festival exudes a matchless aura of and attracts tourist from all over India. positivity and colours all around, bringing all the people of the state at a platform where they can just immerse their souls in celebrations and festivities.

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BEST TIME TO VISIT:

The best time to visit Sikkim is either between March and May or October and mid-December

If you want to witness the blooming of amazing flora in Gangtok best season to visit would be in spring, from March to May

Autumn, on the other hand, brings the clear view of Himalayan Range. If you want to capture the picturesque view of Himalayan Range, then October to December is the best season to visit Sikkim

Permits required in Sikkim

As an Indian, you do not require any permits for general travel to West or South Sikkim.

The permit system is really only applicable for travel to North Sikkim (i.e. Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley and Zero Point) and East Sikkim (i.e. Tsomgo (Changu) Lake, Baba Mandir, Nathu La pass and Zuluk).

Permits for individuals (who are NOT taking their own vehicles) are issued by the police department and can be obtained in several places across Sikkim.

The numbers of the Tourist Information Centers are listed HERE

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Permits required for Foreigners All foreign nationals require Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit any part of Sikkim. This permit is also known as Inner Line Permit (ILP). The standard ILP is valid for 15 days, though it can be extended upto 60 days. The permit allows you to travel to:

1. Gangtok, Rumtek and Lingdum 2. Southern parts of East Sikkim as far east as Rhenock and Aritar 3. All of South Sikkim 4. North Sikkim as far as Singhik and Most of West Sikkim

A special permit needs to be obtained to visit the Tsomgo Lake and the Yumthang valley - provided you go in groups of more than 4 . Entry to Nathula pass and Baba Mandir is not permitted.

Nationals of Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Nigeria and Myanmar will not be issued Inner Line permits without the prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

For more details on permits click here.

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Faqs

Do you tip in Sikkim? In Sikkim, tipping is pretty much expected but at different levels. Generally, you add a 10% gratuity to your restaurant bill and leave your hotel housekeepers Rs. 100 a day.

What is the internet access like? Wi-Fi connection is available in some hotels and cafes. But the connections are not of the highest speed. You may use Wi-Fi if you really need to at these hotels. You can also purchase SIM cards which may give internet conncetivity but that will not be available everywhere.

Is the tap water safe to drink? Tap water is NOT safe to drink. Maintain hydration, but only with bottled mineral water.

Why do foreign tourist have to be in group of two or more to travel around in Sikkim ? The practice is being followed in pursuance of the guidelines / instructions issued by Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

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Can I use my credit cards? Cards are not accepted in most places except for major establishments which accept Visa and MasterCard, with some even accepting American Express. Do make sure you’re not being charged a surcharge or in a foreign currency as these practices are illegal.

Is Sikkim safe for solo travellers? As with many destinations, visitors must always use common sense and practice due caution and vigilance when travelling. However, it is generally advised for travellers to travel in groups and not alone because of the harsh weather conditions and geographical challenges that might turn up.

Is Sikkim safe for families? Sikkim is a safe and child-friendly placea . However, we advise you not to travel with small children because of the high altitude air and weather.

What kind of food is available in Sikkim? Veg as well as non-veg is easily available in the more accessible regions of Sikkim. Indian, Tibetan and Chinese cuisine, and a limited range of continental cuisine is available. In North Sikkim veg as well as non-veg is available but there is a very limited choice of dishes beacuse of difficulty of access to resources.

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Can we tour Sikkim on our two wheeler bikes? As per the rules of Sikkim State Government, two wheeler motor bikes are to obtain permission from Home department of Govt. of Sikkim. You can get more information HERE.

As a border state, how safe is Sikkim? It is the one of the safest states in India with one of the lowest crime rate.

EMERGENCY HELPLINE NUMBER :100

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