Sikkim:
The Most Preferred Destination In N-E
If one was asked to select the best tourist destination among
the north-eastern states, then Sikkim would surely walk away with
all the laurels. The tiny state on the foothills of the Eastern
Himalayas is a perfect destination for vacationers in quest of
enchantment, tranquillity or adventure.
The state tourism department in spite of several constraints has
worked relentlessly to make Sikkim, a preferred tourist destination.
As soon as one enters Sikkim, there is a change in the air. Not
only has nature been kind to the state in bestowing great scenic
charm but it is a perfect mix of hilly mountains, rugged terrains,
Buddhist monasteries and a delight for tourists seeking solace
in adventure tourism like surfing, white water rafting, mountain
cycling and the like.
From a sleepy little capital of a secluded kingdom, Gangtok is
fast turning into a bustling city. Hordes of hotels, restaurants
and lodges dotting the city make it evident that it has captured
the imagination of tourists worldwide.
The major attraction of Sikkim is its mountains. Adventure sports
like rock climbing, trekking, mountaineering and camping are being
encouraged in a systematic manner. Water sports are also being
promoted in a big way.
Another important facet of Sikkim’s tourism potential is
its famous monasteries. The shrines are not merely of great religious
significance, but most of them are located in surroundings and
spots, which possess exceptional beauty. Just visiting a monastery
is a serene and satisfying experience. One hopes that the beautiful
areas around the many monasteries are identified as tourism spots
and facilities are created there. The important ones are Tashiding,
Phodong, Rumtek, Enchay, Pemayangtse and others. Another important
place is the Research Institute of Tibetology in Gangtok.
There has been an effort to spread tourism in other parts of the
state in developing or promoting new destinations. Due to these
efforts, Tsomgo/Changoo Lake has become very popular among the
tourists. While Peling is becoming increasingly popular. The tiny
state for which tourism is a big revenue earner has put its bits
and pieces to put the infrastructure of the state in place. Gangtok
has several luxurious hotels, restaurants and bus services for
tourists. The roads too have improved considerably in the last
couple of years.
Gangtok is easy accessible by road and air from Siliguri. There
is also a helicopter service from Bagdogra, the nearest airport.
It is located at an altitude of 5,500 feet. There are numerous
places of interest in and around the city.
Sights Worth Your While
Enchay Monastery: The 200 years old monastery, located
on the top of a beautiful view point is just three kilometres
from the city limits.
Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology (NRIT): The most
prestigious of its kind in India, this Buddhist institute is a
treasure trove of a vast collection of rare Lepcha, Tibetan and
Sanskrit manuscripts, statues and rare thankas.
Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre: About 45 minutes drive from
Gangtok, Rumtek is the seat of the Kagyu order, one of the four
major Tibetan Buddhist sects, since the late 1960s, after the
arrival of His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa. The centre houses
some of the world’s most unique religious scriptures and
rare religious objects. The traditionally designed centre is almost
a replica of the original Kagyu headquarters in Tibet. It has
300 centres worldwide.
Tsomgo/Changoo Lake: It is literally known as the ‘source
of the lake’ in Bhutia language. Just about 40 kilometres
away from Gangtok, the capital of the state, this serene lake
is situated at a height of 12,400 feet on the highway to Nathula
Pass, which prior to 1962, was the old trade route between India
and China. Like all lakes and mountains in the state, Tsomgo too
is a holy lake. Fishing in the lake is prohibited and it is said
that earlier monks used to forecast the future by studying the
colour of water. The lake is about one km long, oval in shape,
15 meters deep. The lake captivates the imagination of both the
young and old. The journey through the meandering hilly roads
is enchanting and tourists often come across Indian army camps
during the journey.
North
Sikkim
Yumthang: At an altitude of 11,800 feet and 140 kilometres
from Gangtok, it is a paradise for nature lovers with a fascinating
blend of flora and fauna and breathtaking scenic grandeur. The
valley is also the home of Shingbha Rhododendron Sanctuary with
24 species of Rhododendrons.
Chungthang: The valley is believed to have been blessed
by Guru Rimpohe and one can visit the Holy Guru Lhedo, to view
the foot and palm prints left behind by the patron saint.
Kabi Lungchuk: The place where the historic treaty of blood
brothers hood between the Lepcha and Bhutia chiefs took place,
is on the way from Gangtok to Chungthang.
Singhik: This place offers one of the most spectacular
views of Mount Khanchendzonga and its range. The two famous monasteries
of the North Sikkim, the Phensang monastery and the Phodong monastery,
located not far away from Singhik are a ‘must see’.
West
Sikkim
Pelling: The most sought after tourist destination in the
state after Gangtok. It is a destination for all tourists heading
for West Sikkim. Pelling situated at an altitude of 6,800 feet
offers a terrific view of the entire mountain range.
Yuksom: The first capital of Sikkim, where the first Chogyal
of the kingdom of Sikkim was consecrated in 1641 AD by three learned
lamas.
The other important monasteries of West Sikkim, which are all
located on beautiful view points are Pemayangtse monastery, Sangacholing
monastery, Dubi monastery and Tashiding monastery.
South
Sikkim
Namchi: Namchi, meaning ‘sky high’, nestled among
the hills at an elevation of 5,500 feet, offers a panoramic view
of the snow-capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. It
is also the district headquarters of South Sikkim. During the
month of February, the Sikkim tourism in association with the
government of Sikkim organises an annual flower exhibition at
the Children Park, which attracts huge tourist inflow.
Apart from these frequented tourist spots, the government of Sikkim
is promoting other tourist destinations like Singchu-thang, 45
kilometres from Gangtok situated at an altitude of 3,500 feet
on the banks of river Tista. Singhchu-thang is ideal for white
water sports and its picturesque picnic spot.
Sikip located on the banks of the river Rangeet in the south District
is a five hours drive from Gangtok. This place is an anglers paradise
and also has a charming natural surrounding.
Another added attraction for tourists is the majestic Kanjenchunga
and the world’s most beautiful peak - Mount Siniolochu by
the helicopter service provided by Sikkim Helicopter Service.
Getting
There
Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra in north Bengal, which
is 124 kilometres and approximately five hours drive from Gangtok.
There are regular Indian Airlines and other private airline services
operating from Bagdogra linking the state with other parts of
the country.
Rail: The closet railway station from Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri,
which is 125 kilometres from the capital city.
Road: Gangtok is connected by road to all the major cities
through the national highway.
