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The crowning glory of Sikkim is Mt. Khangchendzonga, the third highest mountain in the world. The panoramic perfection of the snow-capped Himalayas, the heady scent of flower-bedecked meadows, the vibrant culture and joyous festivals, the infinite variety of its flora and fauna makes it a holiday that is at once fascinating and challenging.
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Gangtok at a latitude of 1780 m is the state's capital and the hub of activity. Initially a visitor was visiting Sikkim was restricted to Gangtok and its sorroundings, but now many more parts of Sikkim has been opened up including the Tsomgo lake and the historic Nathu la pass which lies beyond.
How to reach
The nearest airport is Bagdorga 124 kms away. Private taxis are available from the airport. There are daily helicopter services Gangtok - Bagdorga - Gangtok. Nearest Railway station is New Jalpaiguri (125 kms away).
From Siliguri one starts for Gangtok on NH31 and then branches off to NH 31 A from Sevoke, 20 kms from Siliguri. The main link between Siliguri, Kalimpong or Darjeeling is exhilarating with the road running along the Teesta river, passing the forests and beautiful picnic spots.
What to see
A very important part of the history and culture of Sikkim are the many monasteries in the state. There are over 200 monasteries big and small. people from all religions are welcome but one must respect the traditions and shrines here. The monasteries have been built by various sects of the Buddhist faith and include those built from the 17th century to the 20th century. Most monasteries in Sikkim belong to either Nyingmapa sect or the Karugpa sect with one monastery each of Gelugpa, Sakyapa and Bon faith. Lets have a look at a few famous ones :-
Enchey Monsatery
Located above Gangtok near the Siniolchu Tourist Lodge and the TV tower there are spectacular views from here.
Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre
On a hill opposite Gangtok 24 kms away is the seat of the Kagyu order. The largest monastery in Sikkim with beautiful murals and artifacts this monastery was set up by the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa head of the Kagyu order in 1960. The monastery has 200 centres all over the world.
Permayangtse Monastery
118 kms and at an altitude of 2,085m and being the second oldest monastery it has antique idols and other objects. Nearby are the ruins of the Rabdentse, Sikkim's original capital. Not far is the Sanga Choling Monastery (the oldest built around 1697) and the crystal claer Kechopari lake.
Tashiding Monastery
Built in 1717 is it is 103 kms away. It was set up by the Ngadak Sempa Chempo, one of the three lamas who consecrated the first Chogyal (the king of Sikkim). On top of a hill ithas many chortens and plates with mantaras carved by mastercraftsman Yanchong Lodil.
Sikkim still retains its mystique of its earlier days. Lepchas, the original inhabitants, The Bhutias who came later and so on. The name sikkim finds its origin in the Tsong work " sukkum which means new or happy house. Sikkim's guardian deity 8686 mt high Kanchanjunga dominates the landscaped and provides a very significant charm and exerts a powerful influence on the land and lives of the people. The sacred Tsomgo lake and the mighty Teesta river, exotic flora and fauna including the Red Fauna, butterflies, orchids and the Buddhist monasteries, the colourful lifestyles of Lepchas, Bhutias and the Nepalis are some rare attractions to this state.
