Nestled in the majestic splendor of the Himalayan Mountains, Sikkim is a haven of beauty. You will find in Sikkim a calming presence of white snow and a refreshing view of emerald forests.
According to a popular legend, Sikkim was regarded as among the last utopias still on earth by the holy Buddhist teacher Padmasambhava. The state of Sikkim was once the domain of a royal Himalayan kingdom. It is now one of the most beautiful states in India.
In Sikkim, you can almost dive into the deep valleys that dot the landscapes. These valleys are rife with local vegetation that seemingly carpets the valleys in a greenish hue. There are dense forests of alpine trees to get lost in. Sikkim also offers you the chance to get entranced in the sight of rhododendrons blooming in all their varied shades. Of course, you can always enjoy the picturesque sight of the grand Mount Kanchenjunga looming over the horizon almost everywhere in Sikkim. Mount Kanchenjunga, the third tallest peak in the world at 8598m, seems close enough to touch.
Buddhism is ingrained in not only the populace but the landscape as well. Most of the fascinating buildings and monuments in Sikkim are of a Buddhist origin. Everywhere you go, you are bound to run into the shades of gold, blue, vermillion and green of the Buddhist monasteries and buildings. The people here are extremely hospitable and they can make your trip all the more memorable
The beauty of Sikkim can inspire poets, photographers, trekkers and explorers. It is difficult to be bored here when you have so many scenic sights to enjoy.
The beautiful land of Gangtok is interspersed with forests and monasteries. Spread over the Shiwalik Hills, Gangtok is the scenic capital of the fascinating state of Sikkim.The city offers you an inspiring glimpse of the Kanchenjunga Peak which towers over the horizon in the west. The range of monasteries adds a spiritual aura which adds to the tranquility of the city. You will love the relaxing atmosphere of the place while you enjoy the interesting local culture.
Gangtok has an inescapable Tibetan influence. In fact, it was populated by Tibetans before the English defeated and conquered the region. However, their legacy lives on through the incredible monasteries that stand stoutly against the serene surroundings.
Enchey Monastery
Do drul Chorten
Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology (NRIT)
Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre
Tsomgo (Changu) Lake
Nathu La Pass
Baba Mandir
Tashi View Point
One of the most frequent things you may end up doing in Pelling is to stop suddenly and stare at the spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The resplendent beauty of nature here is just one among the many fascinations of Pelling. It is nestled among a beautiful landscape that can only be found in the Himalayas. You are going to be rewarded intensely by Mother Nature here. Sparkling waterfalls crash and roar, enchanting all of your senses at the same time. The beautiful Khecheopalri Lake will render you speechless as you will simply be lost in its beauty. You should feel free to indulge your adventurous self with seem exciting activities that will take you closer to nature. A trek through the fascinating landscape or skiing through the snowy landscape can fill you with ecstasy.
Khecheopalri Lake
Rabdentse Ruins
Pemayangtse Monastery
Yuksom : Glory to Himalayan Nature
Dubdi Monastery
Sanga-Choling Monastery
The quaint village of Lachung is surrounded by picturesque mountains. Taken together, it seems that you have stepped into a painting. Sparkling streams flow down from the snowy mountains. In Lachung, you can listen to the musical orchestra of the scenic waterfalls which can take your breath away with their beauty. Distant mountainous peaks glitter under the sun creating an enchantment which is hard to escape. Orchards of apples, apricots and peaches fill the area with the delicious fragrance of ripe fruits.Inside the town, you can shop around for the local handicrafts. The blankets and rugs here are exquisitely woven by the local craftsmen.
Lachen is one of the most amazing places that Sikkim has to offer. The smallness of the town creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for relaxing in the bosom of nature. In fact, the natural beauty of the region is going to mesmerize you. The Buddhist monastery here is fascinating in its splendor.The valleys of Lachen are carpeted with emerald pine forests. Sometimes, you may only end up seeing a blanket of white snow from which these evergreen trees poke out as if shy. The view of the Eastern Himalayan Mountains is startling and the panorama of the snowy covered peaks can make your heart skip a beat or two. The landscape of Lachen is perfect for hiking.
Yumthang : Valley Of Beauty
Kabi Lungchok
Thangu : A True Rustic Mountain Village
Gurudongmar Lake
The spectacular town of Ravangla is perched right on the edge of a ridge that overlooks an incredible panorama of Western Sikkim. You can simply be lost gazing at the endless sweeping hills and mountains that fall in your view. In fact, Ravangla can gift you some of the most amazing mountain views in Sikkim. Ravangla is famous for the sheer multitude of avian life it attracts.
It is a paradise if you love these feathery friends. Some rare and beautiful birds can be seen here. Most of these birds are native to the Himalayan regions. They include the Dark-Throated Thrush, the Blue-Fronted Redstart, the Verditer Flycatchers, the White-Browed Fantail and the Blue Whistling-Thrush amongst others.
Phur Tsa Chu
Namchi : Buddhist Skies
Temi Tea Garden
