Introducing Sikkim
Bordered by China, Nepal and Bhutan, Sikkim has long been regarded as one of the last Himalayan Shangri-las. Because of its remoteness and the fact that permits are required, Sikkim isn't the most accessible area to visit in India. However, it certainly is one of the most energetic and refreshing. There's something very soothing to the soul about the mountainous beauty and ancient Tibetan Buddhist culture in Sikkim.
Sikkim is conveniently divided into four regions – East, West, North and South. The most populated area is the eastern part which includes the capital town of Gangtok
It's always better to start your tour from the capital of Sikkim, GANGTOK. Plenty of good hotels and very good sight seeing arrangments are available from and around Gangtok. All the details I've given here are collected on January 2013. I have travelled Sikkim 3times. So most of the hotel names and contact nos. are up-to-dated. Here I have given only the most popular tourist spots which are truly fascinating.
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| Rumtek Monastery |
Rumtek Monastery 24 km from Gangtok in East Sikkim the main seat of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism in Sikkim. Originally built by the 9th Karmapa Wangchuk Dorje in 1740, but fell into disrepair. The current structure dates from 1959.
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| Changu Lake |
- Tsongmo Lake 40 km from Gangtok in East Sikkim on Nathula route Tsongmo Lake (also called Changu Lake or Tsomgo Lake) is a large lake in the East Sikkim district of India.
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| Silk Route |
- The Nathu la pass lies on the Indo-Chinese border and is only open for Indian tourists. People who wish to visit Nathu la should get special permission one day in advance. Please note, however, that the pass is not open on Mondays & Tuesdays every week.It closes in the winter and opens in May.
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| Harbhajan Baba Mandir |
- Baba mandir - Eight kilometers from Nathu la pass is the original Harbajan Singh Baba Temple from which the Indo-Bhutan border is approximately 6 km and the India-China border is around 5 km. A must visit place for all those who like to explore places.
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| Chumthang |
- Chungthang - is in the northern part of Sikkim. It is located at the confluence of Lachen and Lachung Chu and is the starting point of the river Teesta. It is believed that Chungthang is blessed by a guru Rimpoche.
All the places I've mentioned above are accessible from Gangtok directly. You might want to stay 2/3 days in Gangtok for other local sight seeings. Now get prepared for northern side of Sikkim.
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| Glimpse of Yumthang Valley |
- Yumthang at an elevation of 11,800 ft and 140 kms from Gangtok is a paradise for nature lovers with a fascinating blend of flora and fauna and breathtaking scenic grandeur. The valley boasts a large variety of Rhododendrons and other alpine flowers.
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| Lachen |
- Lachung/Lachen the village, spread out on either side of Lachung Chu, has managed to retain its unique culture and tradition. The Lachung Monastery on the slope opposite to the highway is a focal point of all religious function of the local inhabitants. Lachung lies on the way to Yumthang Valley as we move from Gangtok. Yumthang is just 25 kms away.
South Sikkim tourist spots
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| Namchi ( Must View) |
- Namchi, meaning 'Sky High', nestled among the hills at an elevation of 5,500 ft commands panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. It is also the headquarters of the South District. The area is fast developing into a tourist destination with its immense potential for all round tourist activities. It is about 78 kms from Gangtok.
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| Temi Tea Garden |
- Temi Tea Garden- The one and only tea estate existing in the State produces one of the top quality teas in the international market. The tea garden is spread out on a gentle hill slope originating from the Tendong Hill and provides a magnificent view for the surrounding villages.
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| Budda Park at Ravangla |
- Ravangla At the base of Menam Hill is Ravangla, a small township and transit to various tourist destinations in South and West Sikkim. It is also an upcoming tourist spot, and transit point for trekkers to Menam Hill and Borong. There are accommodation facilities and numerous short nature trails. A trek down to the sacred cave 'Shar Chok Bephu', one of the four holiest caves in Sikkim, would be a memorable experience. Main spot "Buddha Park".
- Kanchenjunga Falls Situated at a distance of 25 km from Pelling, the Kanchenjunga Falls is a perennial waterfall and takes about an hour to reach. There are small steps which lead to the base of the water fall.
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| Banjhakri Falls |
- Banjhakri Falls (meaning Nature Spirits) is a waterfall park located close to Gangtok. It has a waterfall and some interesting statues. Banjhakri Falls as its popularly known is located on Gangtok Ranka road.
Will post some more information on Northern part of Sikkim. One of my favorite place is Dzongu. Not many heard about this place and that's why it's much more beautiful than other places of Sikkim. Will post soon.
Let me know how informative my blog is. Your suggestions will help me to post more descriptive information.
Thanks
Pallab
