Introduction of Sikkim Travel Guide

Sikkim is a beautiful state in the northeastern region of India, known for its picturesque landscapes, majestic mountains, rich culture, and diverse flora and fauna. The Sikkim Travel Guide is nestled in the Himalayas and shares borders with Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.

Sikkim’s tourism industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, with visitors from around the world coming to experience its natural beauty, cultural heritage, adventure sports, and spiritual retreats. The state has something to offer for every type of traveler, whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains or an adrenaline-filled adventure.

Sikkim is a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The state offers a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more.

Read More #1 : Explore the best Kerala Travel Guide

History of Sikkim

The history of tourism in Sikkim can be traced back to the early 20th century when the state was under the rule of the Chogyal dynasty. During this time, Sikkim was known as a peaceful and remote Himalayan kingdom that was closed off to outsiders.

In the 1950s, Sikkim opened its doors to the outside world, and the first tourist visitors began to arrive. The Chogyal dynasty saw tourism as a potential source of revenue and a way to promote Sikkim’s unique culture and natural beauty.

However, Sikkim’s tourism industry remained small and relatively unknown until the 1980s when the state government began to invest in developing its infrastructure and promoting its tourist attractions. The government initiated measures to attract tourists, including building roads, airports, and promoting adventure sports like mountaineering and trekking.

In 2000, the Indian government declared Sikkim as an organic farming state, which further boosted its tourism industry, as travelers began to seek out eco-tourism experiences and sustainable travel options.

Today, Sikkim’s tourism industry is a major contributor to the state’s economy, and the state has been recognized as one of the top tourist destinations in India. The government continues to promote and develop tourism in the state, with a focus on sustainable and responsible tourism, in order to preserve Sikkim’s natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations.

Read More #2 : Goa Tourism Places Beaches, Food, Culture

Culture of Sikkim

Sikkim has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, influenced by its location in the Himalayan region and its history of being a kingdom ruled by different dynasties. The state’s culture is a blend of various ethnic groups, including Lepchas, Bhutias, Nepalis, and Tibetans, among others.

The traditional dress of the people in Sikkim varies according to their ethnic group. The Bhutias, who are predominantly Buddhist, wear a traditional dress called the “Bakhu,” which is a loose, full-sleeved robe with a silk blouse and a colorful scarf. The Lepchas, who are the indigenous people of Sikkim, wear a dress called the “Dumdyam,” which is a long, loose shirt that is tied at the waist.

Sikkim is also home to many ancient monasteries and temples, which are important cultural and religious sites. The most famous among them is the Rumtek Monastery, which is the largest monastery in Sikkim and is home to many rare artifacts and religious texts.

The music and dance of Sikkim are an integral part of its culture. The traditional music of Sikkim is characterized by the use of unique instruments, such as the Damphu, which is a percussion instrument made of wood and leather, and the Tungna, which is a stringed instrument. The traditional dance forms of Sikkim, such as the Gha-Tokey, are performed on special occasions and festivals.

Read more #3: Andaman and Nicobar Island Tourism India

Gear Used For Photography and Accessories

Festival and Arts

Sikkim is known for its vibrant festivals, which showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage and are celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal. Some of the popular festivals in Sikkim and also include in  Sikkim Travel Guide:

• Losar: Losar is the Tibetan New Year and is celebrated with great fervor in Sikkim, which has a large population of Tibetans. The festival is marked by colorful processions, prayers, and traditional dances.
• Saga Dawa: Saga Dawa is a Buddhist festival that celebrates the life and teachings of Lord Buddha. It is celebrated with great pomp and show, and many devotees participate in religious processions and prayers.
• Bumchu: Bumchu is a unique festival that is celebrated at the Tashiding Monastery, where a pot of holy water is opened once a year. The level of the water is believed to predict the future of the state, and thousands of devotees visit the monastery to witness the event.
• International Flower Festival: The International Flower Festival is held every year in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, and is a celebration of the state’s beautiful flowers and plants. The festival features a range of fascinating flowers, including orchids, rhododendrons, and primulas.

Sikkim is also known for its arts and handicrafts, which are a reflection of its unique cultural heritage. The state is famous for its thangka paintings, which are traditional Buddhist paintings that depict deities and scenes from the life of Lord Buddha. Sikkim Travel Guide shown as Hand-woven carpets, woodcarvings, and handcrafted furniture are also popular handicrafts in Sikkim.

The state is also home to many music and dance forms, such as the Singhi Chaam, which is a traditional dance performed by monks at the Rumtek Monastery, and the Maruni dance, which is a folk dance performed during the festival of Tihar.

Read more #4: Mcleod Ganj Himachal Pradesh Tourism

Popular Food of Sikkim

Sikkim has a unique and diverse cuisine, which is influenced by its location in the Himalayan region and its cultural diversity. Some of the popular Sikkim food items include:

• Momos: Momos are a popular street food in Sikkim and are a type of dumpling filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese. They are usually served with spicy tomato or chili sauce.
• Thukpa: Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup that is a staple food in Sikkim. It is made with vegetables, meat, and spices and is often served with momos.
• Phagshapa: Phagshapa is a traditional Bhutia dish that is made with pork, radish, and dried chili. It is usually served with rice and is a spicy and flavorful dish.
• Gundruk: Gundruk is a fermented vegetable dish that is made with leaves of mustard, radish, or cauliflower. It is usually served with rice and is a popular side dish in Sikkim.
• Churpi: Churpi is a type of cheese that is made from yak’s milk and is a popular snack in Sikkim. It is usually served as a hard, chewy cube and has a salty and tangy flavor.
• Saelroti: Saelroti is a traditional Nepali snack that is similar to a donut. It is made with rice flour and is deep-fried to create a crispy outer layer.
• Chang: Chang is a traditional alcoholic beverage that is made from fermented millet or rice. It is usually served in a bamboo container and is a popular drink during festivals and celebrations.

Overall, Sikkim’s cuisine is a unique blend of different flavors and ingredients, and is a reflection of the state’s cultural diversity and rich heritage.

Read more #5: Best places to visit in India in 2023

Sikkim is Famous for

Sikkim is famous for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and unique cuisine. Here are some of the things that Sikkim Travel Guide is known for:

Scenic beauty

Sikkim is famous for its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, which include snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and sparkling lakes. The state is home to some of the most stunning natural attractions in India, including the Khangchendzonga National Park, the Yumthang Valley, and the Gurudongmar Lake.

Adventure sports

Sikkim is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, who can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as trekking, mountaineering, rafting, and paragliding. The state has some of the most challenging treks in the Himalayas, including the Goecha La Trek and the Dzongri Trek.

Culture and festivals

Sikkim is known for its rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its vibrant festivals and traditional arts and crafts. The state has a unique blend of Buddhist, Hindu, and tribal cultures, which are showcased during festivals such as Losar, Saga Dawa, and Bumchu.

Cuisine

Sikkim has a diverse and delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Nepali, Tibetan, and Bhutia flavors. Some of the popular food items of Sikkim include momos, thukpa, phagshapa, and churpi.

Biodiversity

Sikkim is home to a rich and diverse range of flora and fauna, which includes many rare and endangered species. The state has a number of protected areas, including the Khangchendzonga National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overall, Sikkim is a unique and beautiful state that has a lot to offer visitors, from its stunning landscapes to its rich culture and cuisine.

Read more #6: Nag Tibba Trek Guide Uttarakhand 2023

Places to visit in Sikkim

Sikkim is a beautiful state with plenty of attractions for visitors to explore. Sikkim Travel Guide shown some of the top places to visit in Sikkim:

Gangtok

The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok is a bustling town with plenty of attractions to explore, including the Enchey Monastery, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, and the Tashi View Point. The city is also known for its lively markets, where visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

Tsomgo Lake

Located 38 km from Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake is a stunning glacial lake that is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities here, including boating, yak riding, and trekking.

Yumthang Valley

Known as the “Valley of Flowers,” Yumthang Valley is a picturesque valley that is famous for its stunning natural beauty and colorful meadows. The valley is located 150 km from Gangtok and is accessible via a scenic drive.

Pelling

Located in West Sikkim, Pelling is a charming town that is known for its stunning views of the Khangchendzonga mountain range. Visitors can explore the Pemayangtse Monastery, the Rabdentse Ruins, and the Khecheopalri Lake while in Pelling.

Nathu La Pass

Situated on the Indo-China border, Nathu La Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass that is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas. Visitors must obtain a permit to visit Nathu La Pass, and it is closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall.

Lachung

Located in North Sikkim, Lachung is a picturesque village that is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and waterfalls. Visitors can explore the Yumthang Valley, the Lachung Monastery, and the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary while in Lachung.

Sikkim Travel Guide offers few of the many beautiful places to visit in Sikkim in this article, and visitors can easily spend several days exploring the state’s natural and cultural attractions.

Read more #7: Barot Valley Himachal Pradesh, Stay & Weather

Things to do in Sikkim

Sikkim offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Sikkim:

• Trekking: Sikkim is a popular destination for trekkers, with a range of challenging treks through the Himalayan mountains. Popular treks include the Goecha La Trek, the Dzongri Trek, and the Singalila Ridge Trek.
• River Rafting: The Teesta and Rangeet rivers offer thrilling white-water rafting experiences in Sikkim, with rapids ranging from grade 2 to grade 4.
• Visit Monasteries: Sikkim has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore a range of Buddhist monasteries, including Rumtek Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, and Tashiding Monastery.
• Explore National Parks: Sikkim is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including the Khangchendzonga National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species.
• Visit Lakes and Waterfalls: Sikkim is home to several stunning lakes and waterfalls, including the Gurudongmar Lake, the Khecheopalri Lake, and the Banjhakri Falls. Visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, and picnicking in these scenic spots.
• Taste Local Cuisine: Sikkim’s cuisine is a unique blend of Nepali, Tibetan, and Bhutia flavors, and visitors can enjoy a range of delicious dishes, including momos, thukpa, and phagshapa.
• Attend Festivals: Sikkim has a vibrant festival calendar, with celebrations throughout the year. Popular festivals include Losar, Saga Dawa, and Bumchu, which offer visitors a chance to experience the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Sikkim Travel Guide offers few of the many things to do in Sikkim in this article, and visitors can easily spend several days exploring the state’s natural and cultural attractions.

Read more #8: Atal Tunnel Rohtang Pass Himachal Pradesh

Best Time to visit in Sikkim

The best time to visit Sikkim is from March to June and from September to November, as the weather is pleasant and the skies are generally clear during these months. During these months, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Sikkim, including the stunning views of the Himalayas and the lush green valleys.

In the spring months of March to May, the rhododendrons and other flowers are in full bloom, making it a great time for nature lovers and photographers to visit. The summer months of June to September can be a bit rainy, but the landscape is still lush and green, and visitors can enjoy trekking and other outdoor activities.

In the fall months of September to November, the weather is cool and dry, making it a great time for outdoor activities like trekking and rafting. The skies are also generally clear during this time, offering stunning views of the Himalayas.

During the winter months of December to February, the weather is cold and many areas of Sikkim are covered in snow. While it can be a beautiful time to visit for those interested in winter sports, many areas may be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

It’s important to note that some areas of Sikkim may be closed or inaccessible during the monsoon season from June to August due to landslides and other weather-related issues, so it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.

Read more #9: Hadimba Devi Temple Manali History, Timing

Stays in Sikkim

Sikkim offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Sikkim Travel Guide offers some popular stays in Sikkim in this article here are:

Luxury Hotels

Sikkim has several luxury hotels and resorts, including the Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, The Elgin Nor-Khill, and The Denzong Regency. These properties offer world-class amenities, including spas, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Mid-Range Hotels

Sikkim also has several mid-range hotels and guesthouses that offer comfortable rooms and amenities at affordable prices. Popular mid-range options include Hotel Mount Siniolchu, Hotel Golden Heights, and Summit Sobralia Resort & Spa.

Homestays

For a more authentic experience, visitors can stay in homestays in Sikkim. Homestays offer a chance to stay with a local family, experience their lifestyle, and enjoy homemade meals. Popular homestays in Sikkim include Yangthang Heritage, Bhumzang Guest House, and Chalamthang Homestay.

Camping

Sikkim offers several camping options for visitors who want to experience the great outdoors. Several tour operators offer camping trips, including trekking and rafting, with campsites in scenic locations throughout Sikkim.

Eco-Friendly Stays

Sikkim is committed to eco-tourism, and several properties offer eco-friendly stays. These properties use sustainable practices and offer guests a chance to experience responsible tourism. Popular eco-friendly stays in Sikkim include The Cherry Resort, The Bamboo Retreat, and Martam Village Resort.

Sikkim Travel Guide offers few of the many accommodation options in Sikkim in this article, and visitors can choose the option that best suits their needs and preferences. It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

Read more #10: Tungnath Temple History, Opening Date & Travel tips 2023

Itinerary of Sikkim

A typical itinerary for a visit to Sikkim might look something like this:

Day 1: Arrive in Gangtok

Check into your hotel

Take a stroll through Gangtok’s main market, MG Road

Visit the Enchey Monastery

Enjoy the nightlife at a local bar or pub

Day 2: Gangtok sightseeing

Visit the Rumtek Monastery

Explore the Hanuman Tok and Ganesh Tok viewpoints

Visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Visit the Tashi Viewpoint for stunning views of the Himalayas

Day 3: Day trip to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

Head out to Tsomgo Lake, a stunning high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains

Visit the nearby Baba Mandir, a shrine dedicated to an Indian army soldier

Day 4: Travel to Lachen

Travel to the small mountain town of Lachen

Stop for a photo opportunity at the Seven Sisters Waterfall

Visit the Thangu Valley and Chopta Valley en route

Day 5: Excursion to Gurudongmar Lake

Take a day trip to the stunning Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world

Enjoy the scenic drive through the snow-capped mountains

Day 6: Travel to Lachung

Travel to the town of Lachung

Visit the Yumthang Valley and hot springs en route

Enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas

Day 7: Excursion to Zero Point

Take a day trip to the stunning Zero Point, a high-altitude area with panoramic views of the Himalayas

Enjoy a picnic lunch and soak up the stunning natural beauty

Day 8: Return to Gangtok

Travel back to Gangtok

Spend the day exploring any areas of the city you may have missed earlier in the trip

Shop for souvenirs and gifts to take home

Day 9: Departure

Check out of your hotel

Depart for your next destination

Of course, this itinerary can be customized to fit your interests and schedule this is sample itinerary of Sikkim Travel Guide in this article, and you can add or subtract days as needed. Sikkim is a beautiful place to explore, and there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy for much longer than a week.

Read more #11: Chandi Devi Temple Haridwar, How to reach

Tour Packages of Sikkim

There are many tour packages available for visitors to explore the beauty of Sikkim. Here are some popular tour packages:

• Gangtok and surrounding areas: This package includes a visit to Gangtok and surrounding areas, including Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathula Pass. Visitors can also visit the Rumtek Monastery, Hanuman Tok, and other popular sites in Gangtok.
• North Sikkim: This package focuses on the beauty of North Sikkim, including Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake, and Lachung. Visitors can also explore the Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, and other scenic areas in the region.
• Adventure tour: For visitors looking for adventure, this package includes activities like trekking, river rafting, and camping. Visitors can trek to the Goecha La Pass, raft down the Teesta River, and camp in scenic locations.
• Monastery tour: Sikkim is home to many beautiful monasteries, and this package focuses on visiting some of the most famous ones, including Rumtek Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, and Tashiding Monastery.
• Cultural tour: Sikkim has a rich cultural heritage, and this package allows visitors to experience it firsthand. Visitors can participate in cultural activities, including traditional dance performances, music, and handicraft workshops.
• Luxury tour: For visitors looking for a luxury experience, this package includes stays in some of the finest hotels and resorts in Sikkim. Visitors can enjoy spa treatments, fine dining, and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Sikkim Travel Guide offers just a few examples of the many tour packages available for visitors to Sikkim. Visitors can choose the package that best fits their interests and budget. It’s always a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.

Read more #12: Tadkeshwar Mahadev Temple Uttarakhand

How to reach Sikkim

Sikkim can be reached by air, rail, and road.

By Air

The nearest airport to Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is about 124 kilometers from Gangtok. From the airport, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Gangtok.

By Rail

The nearest railway station to Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station in West Bengal, which is about 148 kilometers from Gangtok. From the railway station, visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Gangtok.

By Road

Sikkim is well connected by road to nearby cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong. Visitors can take a taxi or bus to reach Gangtok. Private taxis and shared jeeps are also available.

It is important to note that visitors to Sikkim must obtain a special permit from the Sikkim government, known as an Inner Line Permit (ILP), to enter the state. The permit can be obtained from the Sikkim House in Siliguri or from the Sikkim Tourism Office in Gangtok. It is also possible to obtain the permit online in advance.

Read more #13 : Har Ki Pauri Haridwar History & Aarti timing

Budget Required For Sikkim Trip

The cost of a Sikkim trip can vary depending on several factors such as the duration of the trip, the type of accommodation, the mode of transportation, and the activities you choose to do. Here’s a rough estimate of the cost of a Sikkim trip:

• Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Sikkim can vary from budget to luxury options. Budget accommodations such as guesthouses and homestays can cost around INR 800-1500 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost between INR 2500-5000 per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can cost upwards of INR 10,000 per night.
• Transportation: The cost of transportation depends on how you choose to travel in Sikkim. Shared taxis are a common mode of transportation, and they can cost around INR 500-1000 per person for a day trip. Hiring a private car or taxi can cost upwards of INR 2000-2500 per day.
• Food: The cost of food in Sikkim can vary depending on where you choose to eat. Local eateries and small restaurants offer budget meals for around INR 100-200 per person, while mid-range restaurants can cost between INR 300-500 per person.
• Activities: The cost of activities such as trekking, rafting, and sightseeing tours can vary. A day trek can cost between INR 1000-2000 per person, while a rafting trip can cost around INR 2000-3000 per person.

Overall, a budget trip to Sikkim can cost around INR 10,000-15,000 per person for a week, while a mid-range trip can cost around INR 20,000-30,000 per person. A luxury trip to Sikkim can cost upwards of INR 50,000-60,000 per person for a week. These are just rough estimates of Sikkim Travel Guide shown in this article, and the actual cost of your trip may vary depending on your preferences and travel style.

Read more #14 : Best places to visit in Lansdowne Uttarakhand – Photostic Enthusiast

Nearby Places to visit in Sikkim

Sikkim is surrounded by many beautiful places that are worth a visit. Here are some of the nearby places to visit in Sikkim:

• Darjeeling: Darjeeling is a beautiful hill station located in West Bengal, which is known for its tea gardens, panoramic views of the Himalayas, and colonial architecture.
• Kalimpong: Kalimpong is a small town located in West Bengal, which is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayas, Buddhist monasteries, and flower nurseries.
• Pelling: Pelling is a small town located in West Sikkim, which is known for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and several beautiful monasteries.
• Namchi: Namchi is a small town located in South Sikkim, which is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayas, traditional markets, and cultural sites, such as the Samdruptse Monastery and the Namchi Rock Garden.
• Ravangla: Ravangla is a small town located in South Sikkim, which is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayas, several monasteries, and the Ralang Hot Springs.
• Nathula Pass: Nathula Pass is a mountain pass located on the border between Sikkim and China, which is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas and the old Silk Route.

Sikkim Travel Guide offers a few examples of the nearby places to visit in Sikkim. Visitors can plan their itinerary based on their interests and time available.

Read more #15 : Sidhbali Mandir Kotdwar history and location

FAQ

Disclaimer

To all of you, I would like to take a special note that all the information in all these articles is a mixture of internet social media and my own experience while photographing. Because the more you read about something, the more you will keep getting information.

These information will increase your interest about nature, try to understand the stories behind them through its beauty and photos and increase your knowledge as much as possible.

 So how did you like the information, will definitely tell us about it, thank you.

Welcome all to Sikkim, come here and see beautiful and fascinating scenes here, you will surely like the culture here.

If you enjoyed reading my blog or got some information, follow me so that we can connect with you all.

For More Pictures Of this place or any place which we have blog you can direct message me on Instagram.

Buy images for your own personal work without any copyright you can download from our shop at low price :

Visit our website: https://photosticenthusiast.com

Thank you so much for reading this article . If you enjoyed this article share with us for giving your feedback and beautiful comments .

Connect with us

Also Read

• Mauritius Travel Guide: Visit, Stay, and Tour Packages
• Singapore Travel Planning: Your All-in-One Guide
• Exploring Maldives Marine Life: Visit and Tour Packages
• Indonesia Bali Travel Guide: Visit, Stay, and Tour Packages
• Best places to visit in India in 2023
• Explore the best Kerala Travel Guide
• Goa Tourism Places Beaches, Food, Culture