 |
| Sikkim Map |
About Sikkim
Sikkim is the least populated state and the second-smallest state in India. It is located in the north-east of India. The state is shares international border with Nepal, China's Tibet Autonomous Region and Bhutan. To the south is West Bengal state of India. Sikkim has a mountainous terrain and the entire state is almost hilly. It is an admired tourist destination owing to its culture, landscapes and biodiversity.
Tourism of Sikkim
Some of the important tourist centres are: Gangktok, Bakkhim- a natural garden, Yoksum- meeting of three great Lamas, Dhubdi monastery, Tashing Monastary, Rumtek monastary, etc.
 |
| Sikkim Travel Map |
Sikkim state in northeastern India, on the southern slopes of the Himalayas Sikkim is bounded on the north and northeast by Tibet Autonomous Region of China, on the southeast by Bhutan, on the south by West Bengal and on the west by Nepal. The area is 7096 sq km. One of the highest regions in India, Sikkim is traversed by the main range of the Himalayas and by several spur ranges. It is entirely mountainous, with one - third of the land covered with dense forests of sal, sambal and bamboo, which are mostly inaccessible and unexploited. Kanchenjunga (8,598 m/28,209 ft) one of the highest peaks in the world lie in Sikkim
| Capital | Ganktok |
| Area ('000 sq.km ) | 7 |
| Population('000 in 1991) | 406 |
| Principal Languages | Lepcha, Bhutia, Nepali and Limbu. |
| Net Domestic Product (Rs. million at current prices in 1992-93) | 2,240 |
Sikkim receives heavy rainfall. It is watered by the perennial river Tista, and its tributaries, which are fed by both snow and rain. The climate ranges from tropical to alpine. Generally the lowlands are hot and humid, the hills are temperate, and the mountains are permanently covered with snow. Average January temperatures in Gangtok, a hill city, range from 4° to 14° C (39° to 57° F); in May the average temperatures range from 14° to 22° C (57° to 72° F). Annual rainfall varies from about 1300 to 5000 mm (about 50 to 200 in), depending on the altitude and region of the state
Sikkim has a single-chamber legislative assembly with 32 members. The state sends two members to the Indian national parliament: one to the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) and one to the Lok Sabha (Lower House). Local government is based on four administrative districts. Gangtok is the Capital of this hilly state.
History
Sikkim is, today, a state of the Indian Union, due to a combination of politically significant events. Ruled by the Gyalpo rulers as a political entity till the 18th century, Sikkim appealed to the British for help to overthrow the emigrant Bhutanese and Nepali Gorkhas, who threatened to outnumber the natives. A series of events led to the state becoming a protectorate of the British. In 1950, three years after India attained independence from Britain, a treaty was signed between Sikkim and India that made Sikkim an Indian protectorate. India assumed responsibility for the external relations, defense, and strategic communications of Sikkim. The terms of the 1950 Indo-Sikkimese treaty, however, included increased popular participation in government, and five general elections based on adult suffrage were held between 1952 and 1974. In the last of these elections, two rival parties merged to form the Sikkim Congress, which swept the polls. The party launched a campaign to obtain greater political liberties and rights that the chogyal attempted to suppress. With the situation getting out of control, the chogyal asked the government of India to take over the administration. India prepared a constitution for Sikkim that was approved by its national assembly in 1974. In a 1975 special referendum, more than 97 percent of the electorate voted for the merger of Sikkim with India. Sikkim became the 22nd state of the Indian Union on May 15, 1975
Society and Culture
The population of Sikkim comprises three main groups of people, the Lepchas, Bhutias and the Nepalese.The Lephhas, also called Kongpa, or the people of the ravines are said to be the original inhabitants of Sikkim. There is a popular legend about them that, from beneath the slopes of Kanchenjunga, God created a man and a woman from whom all Sikkimese descended. These first people were called Lepcha and their land was known as Mayal Lyang. The Lepcha are great industrialists, speak a distinct dialect and have their own names for rivers, flowers, plants, animals, and even insects.
Bhutias, the next major community had their original home in Tibet, and came and settled in Sikkim about seven centuries ago. They introduced Buddhism in Sikkim, and this is today the state's major religion. The Bhutias are successful traders and agriculturists, are generally more tough than the others, and can be found tending cattle even at very high altitudes.
The Nepalese form the third major ethnic group in Sikkim, and today form the dominant population. They came to Sikkim as recently as two centuries ago, many during the Gurkha invasions and they are Hindu by religion.
The population is mostly rural, living in scattered hamlets and villages. Gangtok, with fewer than 30,000 people, is Sikkim's largest settlement; other towns, in descending order of population, include Singtam, Rongphu, Jorthang, Nayabazar, Mangan, Gyalshing, and Namchi.
Hindi is the official language, with English as the working language of the government; Lepcha, Bhutia, Nepali, and Limbu are also spoken.
The Sikkimese, are by nature, a simple, polite and non - aggressive people. Being devout Buddhists, they celebrate their festivals with a characteristic mixture of abandon and reserve. Life in Sikkim is according to some, a never - ending festival, for there are vibrant festivities throughout the year. They are the reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the state, which combines Buddhism and Hinduism with the original traditions of the Lepchas. The major monastries like Pemayangtse, Tsuklakhang, Enchey and Rumtek are important venues for Buddhist festivals. Pang Lhabsol, Drukpa Tseshi, Losoong, Saga Dawa and Dasain are the most popular festivals. A favourite form of celebration is drinking of 'Chang', the millet beer of the Himalayas. Packed into tall bamboo containers, the drink is sipped through a bamboo pipe.
One of the most colourful performances in the world are Sikkim's mask dances, performed by Lamas in the 'gompa' (monastery) courtyards. The fascinating dances of Kagyat and the masked Rumtek, and Enchey 'Chaams' (ritual dance of the lamas), are the popular dances, which recreate legends and myths, connected with Buddhism, and the eternal triumph of good over evil.
Knotted woollen carpets with the dominating dragon emblem, and eight auspicious signs; wood carvings, Lepcha handlooms in traditional designs and rich colours for clothes, bags, linen and accessories; leather jackets and handbags, articles of homemade paper, Thanka (religious scroll paintings) and Sikkimese Dragon Jewellery make a fascinating collection of handicrafts, inspired by an age old culture.
Economy and Infrastructure
The economy of Sikkim is basically agrarian. Maize, rice, wheat, potato, large cardamom, ginger and orange are the principal crops. Ginger, potato, orange and off season vegetables are the other cash crops. Sikkim is one of the world's main producers of cardamom.
Livestock includes cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and poultry. Cattle and buffalo are limited mainly to the subtropical humid belt, while yaks and sheep are herded in the higher elevations in the north.
Copper, lead, zinc, coal, graphite, and limestone are among the minerals found in the state, though not all are commercially exploited. Forest resources and hydroelectric potential are considerable. A number of industrial units have also come up in the state in the area of fruit jams and juices, bakery products, beer, plastic goods, wrist watches and leather goods.Traditional handicrafts, tourism, and the development of new industry are also important to Sikkim's economy
Roads, though not extensive, are the primary mode of travel. Ropeways have also been provided at many points. The capital of Gangtok is nearly 75 miles from the nearest airport at Baghdogra and 70 miles from the railhead at Siliguri, both in West Bengal.Important hydel power projects include Kalez Hydel Project and Lachung in North Sikki.
Hotels of Sikkim
The State has hotels of star and non star category catering to the needs of the tourists visiting Sikkim. Besides it has resorts, restaurants and cafes which cater to the needs of all segment of travelers. Catch info on Hotels in Gangtok
Sikkim, nestled in the snow-capped Himalayan range, is a mystical place of picturesque natural beauty. Its spectacular view of the high mountains, flower-festooned meadows, varied flora and fauna along with its vibrant culture will ensure you have one of your best holiday trips.
Where is Sikkim?
Sikkim, the second-smallest Indian state is geographically located at 27.33° N and 88.62° E. Landlocked in the Himalayan range, the state is bordered by Tibet towards north-east, Nepal in its west, Bhutan in the south-east and West Bengal in the south.
 |
| Gangtok City Map |
Capital City of Sikkim
The capital of Sikkim is Gangtok, which is even the largest city of the state.
Districts of Sikkim
Sikkim, being one of the smallest states of the country, is divided into just 4 districts:
- North Sikkim
- South Sikkim
- West Sikkim
- East Sikkim
Population of Sikkim
Stretched over an area of 7, 096 sq. km., the state has got a total population of 6, 07, 688 (according to the 2011 census). The density of Sikkim's population stands at 85.6 per sq. km; 76.6 % of the total population is literate.
Time Zone in Sikkim
Sikkim falls within the time zone of Indian Standard Time (IST), which is calculated as UTC + 05:30.
Different Climatic Conditions in Sikkim
Being located in the Himalayas, the residents of Sikkim experiences two kinds of climate. The northern part of the state experiences tundra type of climate, whereas, the southern part observes sub-tropical climatic conditions. Because of the tundra type of climate, the northern Sikkim remains covered by snow for almost 4 months in a year, when the night temperature goes below 0° C.
The weather condition of the state is mainly divided into 5 seasons, which are:
- Spring
- Summer
- Autumn
- Monsoon
- Winter
Monsoon in Sikkim sets in during the month of June and continues till September, when the place receives heavy rainfall. The chances of landslides increase during monsoon, which makes transportation risky.
The state experiences chilled winter season in between December and February especially in its northern part, where the temperature even drops down to -40° C. During that time, the state receives regular and huge snowfall ranging from 16, 000 feet to 20, 000 feet.
Best Time to Visit Sikkim
Keeping in mind the above mentioned climatic conditions, the best time to visit the mountaineering state of Sikkim is the months of April and May. This is the time of the year, which observes the full bloom of orchids and rhododendrons.
How to Reach Sikkim?
Sikkim, being bordered by national as well as international destinations, is well-connected to the neighboring Indian states and foreign countries. In spite of the fact that rail tracks and airports could not be made easily available in the state due of its uneven terrain, Sikkim manages to maintain an overall smooth transport system.
Road transport: Proximity to National Highway 31 and National Highway 31A connects the state to Siliguri. Western Sikkim is connected through a division of the highway near Melli. The mountain pass called Nathu La connects the state to China. Buses and trucks run by Sikkim National Transport (SNT) is the main medium of road transport in Sikkim. Besides that, bus, local cabs and jeep services are provided by private transport companies.
Rail transport: The state of Sikkim is connected to the other parts of India mainly by the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. Located at just 117 Km from Gangtok, this is the nearest railway station to Sikkim.
Air transport: Sikkim is domestically connected mainly to Kolkata by the Bagdogra Airport, which is around 124 km from Gangtok. The state is about to have it own airport at Pakyong (30 Km from Gangtok) by this year. As of now, civilians use the Gangtok helipad, operated by the Sikkim Helicopter Service to reach the Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri.
Main Tourist Attractions in Sikkim
- Sikkim, being a place located in the Himalayas, is famous for its high snow-capped mountains covered by lush green forests. Trekking in those mountains amidst the roar of the sprinkling waterfalls will give you a lifetime experience. Some of the places, which you need not miss while in Sikkim are:
- Ghati-Tso or Aritar Lake: Aritar Lake, located near Rhenock is said to be the trekker's hub. It will take just 3 hrs from Gangtok to be in the peaceful environment to enjoy boating or visiting the Lingsay Monastery. A short trek or a night's stay in the nearby resorts or the British Bunglow will give you an enthralling experience.
- Bakthang Waterfalls: Originating from the Ratey Chu, Bakthang Waterfalls is the main source of water in Gangtok. This cascading waterfall is just 20 mins drive from the capital of Sikkim.
- Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary: Sprawling over an area of 51. 76 sq. km., Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the varied species of plants, birds and animals. The place along with its famous wild rhododendrons and orchids as well as vegetation like oak, kimbu, katus, champa, ferns and thick bamboos will make you fall in love with nature.
- Dubdi Monastery: Dubdi Monastery is the first monastery built after the sanctification ritual of the first Chogyal. Located on the top of a hill above Yuksom, this monastery can be reached solely by trekking. The surrounding green forest will mesmerize you.
Other Places to Visit in Sikkim
Sikkim has got numerous places to visit in like monasteries, lakes, waterfalls, natural parks etc. Ropeway, which takes one on a joy ride over the snowy mountain peaks, forests and waterfalls, is the most famous attraction among tourists. Other tourist spots in Sikkim include:
- Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple
- Ban Jhakri Falls
- Borong Ralong Hot Spring
- Buddha Park
- Botanical Garden
- Chogyal Park
- Chakung
- Do Drul Choten
- Enchey Monastery
- Ganesh Tok
- Gonjang Monastery
- Gangtok Ropeway
- Gurudongmar Lake
- Bulbuley (Himalayan) Zoological Park
- Hanuman Tok
- Hurhuray Dara
- Khecheopalri Lake
- Khangchendzonga Waterfalls
- Kongri-Labdang
- Labrang Monastery
- Menmecho Lake
- Maenam Hill
- Namchi Rock Garden
- Nathula Pass
- Pelling
- Pal Zurmang Kagyud (Lingdum) Monastery
- Phensang Monastery
- Phamrong Waterfalls
- Phodong Monastery
- Rangit Water World
- Rimbi Waterfall & Karchen Power House
- Rumtek Monastery
- Sang-Choling Monastery
- Sa-Ngor Monastery
- Saramsa Garden
- Seven Sisters Waterfalls
- Sawaro Rock Garden
- Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
- Sikkim Science Center
- Shiva Mandir
- Tashi View Point
- Temi Tea Garden
- Tashiding Monastery
- Tendong Hill
- Tsomgo (Changu) Lake
- Versey Rhododendron Sanctuary
- Water Garden
- Yumthang Flower Valley
Where to shop in Sikkim?
The shopping areas of Sikkim are famous for goods like handicrafts, dragon designed earrings and pendants, woolen carpets from Tibet, tea and cardamom. The capital city of Gangtok is the best place to shop. However, the District headquarters, nowadays, are gradually housing handicraft shops. The main market in Gangtok is the Gangtok Market. Apart from that, Directorate of Handloom & Handicrafts offers products like handlooms, carpets, paintings, wooden masks, bamboo and cane products, embroidered items and many more.
Cuisine of Sikkim
Sikkim is famous to food lovers for its traditional cuisine of Himalayas. Rice is the basis of Sikkim cuisine. Besides that, the famous restaurants in Sikkim even serve non-vegetarian Indian, Tibetan, Nepalese, Chinese and Italian cuisines along with brewed beer and other beverages. The Sikkim restaurants serve mouth-watering Momo, Pakku (Mutton curry), Thukpa, Chhurpi (conventional cottage cheese) etc. Following are the names of a few famous restaurants in Sikkim:
- China Palate in New Market
- Dragon's Den on M. G. Marg
- Little Italy in Deorali
- Oberoi's Barbeque in New Market
- Parivar Restaurant in M. G. Marg
- Metro's Fast Food at NH 31A
- Krishna Restaurant
- Fusion Lounge Bar & Restaurant in Tadong
- Glenary's in New Market
- The Square in Paljor Stadium Road
Where to stay in Sikkim?
Sikkim, being on of the world famous tourist place, houses a number of hotels ranging from premium to budget ones. Besides providing comfort and classy facilities, the location of these hotels provides an opportunity to view the beauty of mountains. Some of the famous hotels in Sikkim are:
Premium hotels: The Norkhill Elgin Mount Pandim
Luxury hotels: Denzong Regency De Regency
Deluxe hotels: Hotel Sidlon Residency Chiminda International
Standard hotels: Asian Heights Aryan Regency
Budget hotels: Hotel Yatung Hotel Touristo
| Sikkim Images |
 |
 |
 |
| Football Uniting Sikkim | Ganesh Tok Temple | Himalayan Zoological Park |
 |
 |
 |
| Khecheopalri Monastery Village | Lal Bazaar | Rumtek Monastery |
Last Updated on 05 May 2011
