From the heights of Kanchenjunga to festivals with locals, discover this north-eastern state of India for its majestic beauty.
Have you ever wanted to travel amidst the serene beauty of nature whilst glancing at the magnificent views that bring peace to your mind and soul? If yes, Sikkim is just the perfect place for you. Although it is among the smallest states of India, its grandeur can be witnessed once you visit the beautiful landmarks of this place. Sikkim is the treasure trove of nature. With its grand Buddhist monasteries, magical valleys and dazzling waterfalls and green forests, Sikkim can win the heart of anyone. This could also be the reason why it sees thousands of visitors every year.
In this article, we answer all your major questions about travelling to Sikkim and what you expect once you reach there. Ready when you are!
How to reach Sikkim?
Sikkim is a part of the Seven Sisters of Northeast India. Reaching Sikkim is quite easy as the state likes to share connectivity with other parts of the country. One of the frequently taken routes is by air. The Bagdogra Airport, located around 125 km from Gangtok, is the nearest to the capital city of Sikkim. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, AirAsia India, SpiceJet and GoAir provide regular flying services to Sikkim from prime Indian cities like Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata and Guwahati. After arriving at the airport, you can choose to book a taxi which would drop you at Gangtok within 5 hours.
Apart from this, you can also travel to Sikkim via Train or Road, as you find convenient. The New Jalpaiguri railway station is 120 km from the capital city.
Reaching Sikkim is quite easy as the state likes to share connectivity with other parts of the country.
Why Visit Sikkim?
Other than its grand monasteries and majestic landscapes, there are several reasons to visit Sikkim. By naming them here, we’ll let you decide why you want to visit this beautiful land.
– To experience Spirituality
If you are someone who loves peace, spirituality and nature, Sikkim is the place for you. This destination has enchanting natural beauty mixed with the greenery and peace of nature. The locals let you experience the state by being a part of various festivals celebrated throughout the year that’ll give you the sacred vibes that you need.
– Delicious Sikkimese Cuisines
Sikkimese Cuisine is a blend of three cultures: Nepalese, Tibetan and Sikkim itself. This makes the food unique and of course, delicious! The Thukpa, Sha Phaley which is a deep-fried bread stuffed with beef and cabbage, Dumplings, Gindruk which is a staple Nepalese food made with leafy vegetables, sinki soup and more make your taste buds dance with joy.
– Adventure sports
From mountain biking to trekking, destinations in Sikkim are packed with adventure sports for tourists. You can try your hand at river rafting, climb some rough mountain terrains, go for a jeep safari, or even just cycle peacefully through lush green fields. Do what you want in Sikkim. Don’t forget Yak Ride.
– Grand Monasteries and Majestic Landscapes
How can we not cover this while talking about Sikkim? Sikkim is the home to Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world which lies 8586 m above sea level. Along with this, Sikkim is also home to various valleys that look like a slice of heaven on earth. Sikkim also houses some of the biggest monasteries that are beautiful inside and out. So, If Buddhism, monasteries and monks fascinate you, visit Sikkim.
Other than its grand monasteries and majestic landscapes, there are several reasons to visit Sikkim.
Where to go in Sikkim?
Sikkim has a lot in store for you. Starting from the capital city Gangtok and moving to Yuksom, and many other spots, Sikkim gives you beauty at every step. When we talk about monasteries in Sikkim, you can find Dubdi Monastery, Phodong Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery and Ralang Monastery among many others.
Along with a place to say your prayers, Sikkim has many beautiful valleys and lakes as well. The Yumthang Valley, Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake are among tourist’s favourite destinations. You can also visit Places like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Do-Drul Chorten and Namchi to get an extended view of Sikkim.
Starting from the capital city Gangtok and moving to Yuksom, and many other spots, Sikkim gives you beauty at every step.
When to visit Sikkim?
Sikkim experiences Summers between April to June, Monsoon between July to September and Winters between October to March. Many suggest that the best time to visit Sikkim is either between March and May or October and mid-December. During the winter season, you can get a perfect picturesque view of the Himalayan Range. Along with that, you can also enjoy various festivals including Maniram Bhanjyang Tourism Festival, Red Panda Winter Festival as well as Cherry Tea Festival. These festivals can give you a different view of Sikkim along with many memorable experiences.
So, if you want to be one with nature and enjoy the rich northeastern culture of India, you must visit Sikkim.
You can enjoy various festivals including Maniram Bhanjyang Tourism Festival, Red Panda Winter Festival as well as Cherry Tea Festival. These festivals can give you a different view of Sikkim along with many memorable experiences.
