7 Things To Do In Sikkim
11
Feb
Feb 11,2020
Home to India’s Highest Mountain Peak And the 3rd Highest Peak in the World, Mt. Kangchenjunga. Sikkim was a Kingdom State before it became the 22nd State of the Indian Union on 16th May 1975. It borders Tibet, Bhutan, Nepal and West Bengal. Sikkim is blessed with alpine meadows, glaciers and around 31 percent of the area is under protected forest cover. It has one National Park and seven Wildlife Sanctuaries. The National Park, Khangchendzonga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sikkim is also a paradise for flora and fauna and avifauna. As late as 2016 a new species of bird was found here, Himalayan Forest Thrush. Sikkim is also a trekker’s delight with the trails passing through some of the most breathtaking views.
Things to Do In Sikkim
Besides its Natural Bio-diversity Sikkim offers a plethora of things to do and see.
1. Gangtok
The City is a hub of activity due to the ever eager trekkers and other International and Domestic tourists. It is one of the most mesmerizing hill-stations you will ever see. With views to Mt Kangchenjunga, submerged in the ringlets of clouds, surrounded by pristine natural beauty with the perfect balance of urban life. If one is in Sikkim, one has to visit Gangtok, as one of the things to do in Sikkim.
2. Yumthang – Valley Of Flowers
Ever wondered how would it feel to see meadows after meadows filled with the most beautiful flowers, as if the world has turned colorful and the nature is providing its natural fragrance. Yumthang is the place and definitely one of the most attractive sights to behold.
3. Pelling
Only next to Gangtok with its urban and nature mix. If you have a few days to simply relax, you will find yourself in some of the best hotels, finest restaurants, and authentic markets. While here one can stroll around in the forests, visit Khangchendzonga and Changey Waterfalls. Pelling has such a charm that you will miss it on saying goodbye to the place.
4. Lachung
Lachung is to the wild side of Sikkim, with astonishing views, at approx. 6 hours from Gangtok. It’s a small town nestled among the snowcapped peaks of Sikkim. One can simply relax in this quaint town which engulfs you with peacefulness. Once relaxed do go in for a 4 Hrs day hike to Gurudongmar Lake. It’s half frozen and is a photographer’s delight; it is also of religious importance which can be felt in the calmness of the place.
5. North Lha-Ri-Nying Phu Cave
Spiritualism is a very important aspect in the lives of the Sikkim People. The North Lha-Ri-Nying Phu Cave is of important significance both religiously and spiritually. This Cave is open to outsiders and one can truly enjoy the adventure it offers keeping in mind not to offend anyone. The Cave is very intriguing, exploring it is totally worth as things to do in Sikkim. Afterwards one can visit the Tashiding Monastery.
6. Tsomgo Lake
One of the most spectacular Lakes you will ever witness in a life time is Tsomgo Lake while another name for it is Changu Lake. It’s a glacial lake which changes it colors according to the seasons. It is highly revered by the Sikkimese people. The lake is surrounded by steep mountain slopes which are covered in snow and it is only in the summers that the lake forms itself otherwise remaining frozen. Visiting the lake is one of the major things to do in Assam
7. Nathang Valley
Some say, “If you do not like Nathang Valley, you would not like Paradise.” In yesteryears it was a part of the Silk Route and still is considered one of the most captivating places to visit. Every Season adds its flavor to it by changing its backdrop color. Major trekking routes also lead out from Nathang Valley. Some of the interesting places to visit while at Nathang Valley are Genmochen, Kupup Lake, Baba Mandir, Thambi View Point and so much more.
Some Of The Trekking Routes From Sikkim
1. Yuksom - Tshoka - Dzongri
2. Bakim - Dzongri - Thangshing - Samuteng - Goechala
3. Dzongri Base Camp - Rathong – Khangerteng
4. Thangshing - Lam Pokhari - Kasturi Orar - Labdang - Tashiding
Special Permit is required which can be obtained from the Wildlife Education and Interpretation center at Yuksom or from the check post.
How To Reach Sikkim
By Air
Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal is the nearest Airport to Sikkim at a distance of 124Kms. Plans are to make one fully functioning Airport in Pakyong at a mere distance of 35Kms from Gangtok.
Helicopter services are available to traverse between Bagdogra and Gangtok.
By Train
Two major train stations that connect Gangtok to the rest of India are in West-Bengal. New Jalpaiguri or the NJP is at a distance of 125Kms from Gangtok and Siliguri Station is at a distance of 114Kms from Gangtok. From here bus / taxi services operate to reach Gangtok.
By Road
The National Highway 31A connects Gangtok with Siliguri. From here a wide number of options are available to reach any part of Sikkim.
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The Most important part is to keep you hydrated, be it after a party or those long walks on the beach. Water is must, so carry a bottle that can be refilled.