Sikkim: Paradise of beauty

Among the loveliest destinations in India, Sikkim which is also known as “The Land of Peace and Tranquility” is surely the topmost blissful paradise and heaven on earth. This uniquely beautiful, small hilly state encloses what not like the snow-clad mountains, magnificent waterfalls, exotic flora and fauna and the breathtaking array of views, with undisturbed peaceful valleys, five climatic zones, friendly environment, hospitable and smiling people and of course the indigenous architecture and a rich cultural heritage. This place is abundantly blessed with all the natural bounties that are sufficient to fall in love with the mesmerizing surroundings and that’s why holds the global appeal for the tourists and sought after destination in the northwest of India.

Located in the lap of eastern Himalayas Sikkim envelops unparalleled beauty that is absolutely hard to find anywhere else. And due to it’s this amazing rustic and natural beauty with the addition to the old monasteries and friendly cultural fusion the state becomes invitingly a must visit place either with friends or family during a lifetime. Here are some not to be missed places that you must visit when you are there at Sikkim.
1.Gangtok: The capital city of Sikkim nestled among the high peaks of Himalayas holds some of the prominent attractions like the Tashi view point, Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok, Tsomgo Lake, Nathu-La-Pass, Rumtek Monastery etc. Also, this city offers a marvelous panoramic view of the Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest mountain peak with beautiful valleys, gorgeous greenery and snow-capped mountains that are sure to give you a perfect holiday destination. The Gangtok ropeway is another point where you can enjoy the thrilling rise that takes tourists to the highest point in the city of Gangtok, covering a distance of about one kilometer in only ten minutes which is very interesting and fun filled.

 

2.Yuksom and the Dzongri Trail: This is the most popular trekking paradise of Sikkim. The wonderful trek path takes you through the forests, magnificent rhododendron gardens, and mighty rivers. Once you make up your mind for trek challenge you can go from Yukson to Dzongri peak and further to Goecha peak.

3. Monasteries: As Sikkim is popularly known as the most sacred place for Buddhists monasteries so, it houses around 200 old monasteries that make it a perfect place to meditate on the divine hilltops. Some of the most popular monasteries are Rumtek, Pemayangtse, and Tashiding and one must visit these to have a glance of countless precious metal statues, gem-studded cenotaphs and exotic ritualistic paraphernalia.

4.Teesta River Rafting: One of the safest river rafting destinations, this river offers its long stretches tributaries to get involved in enjoyable icy crystal water with hamlets on the head and a pair of oars for white river rafting that has recently been as one of the latest adventure sports of Sikkim.

5. Flora and Fauna Sanctuaries: Sikkim has a collection of flowers that are absolutely breathtaking. Noble orchid is the state flower and Red Panda is the state animal. While Musk Deer and Yak are the animals that you could mainly found in Sikkim. Its geographical positioning has made it possible to own a repository of over 5000 species of angiosperm. Two of the best places to must visit are the Deorali orchid Sanctuary in South Gangtok and Kyongnosia Alpine Sanctuary that is an hour away from Gangtok. Even, there is a Flower Exhibition Center that is located near the white hall complex in Gangtok; that you must visit, which displays a variety of orchids, seasonal flowers as well as bonsai. The Flower exhibition Center is open in specific months like between April to June and then from September until the end of November so, plan your vacation during this time of the year.

The best time to visit Sikkim is from March to June and September to December. Sikkim has a lot many options for hotels to make your stay pleasurable and comfortable. While you visit Sikkim definitely have those lips smacking hot steamed Momos and another popular dish that is Thukpa a typical Tibetan style noodles in soup, based on vegetables or meat.

Now, if you are wondering how to reach this paradise, then it’s absolutely convenient to be here either by air where the closest airbase would be Bagdogra, in West Bengal. Another option could be by helicopter. While if you are commuting by train the close by railway stations is Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri. While for those traveling by Road the state of Sikkim has a good network of roads connected to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Siliguri but with a regular bus service from here too.