About Sikkim

Sikkim the tiny Himalayan state is a wonderland by all accounts. Overlooked by Mt. Kanchenjunga , the world's third highest peak , Sikkim is attractive equally for the sightseer, the adventure sports enthusiast and those interested in Buddhism and Tibetology .

From a low of 800 ft. Above sea level to the Summit of Mt. Kanchendzonga (28,169 ft.), the guardian deity of Sikkim and the third highest peak in the world. Mountains criss-cross the country that is rich in flora and fauna, stunning mountains, beautiful valleys, clear lakes and lush evergreen forests . In high altitudes where yaks graze are found the snow leopard, the blue sheep, goral, tahr and the red panda the state animal of Sikkim. Some 600 to 1000 species of orchids alongwith a variety of plants and flowers create visual delight, all of which the Goverment of Sikkim helps to protect by creating a national park , two wildlife sanctuaries, an alpine sanctuary and a rhododendron sanctuary .

GYALSHING

Gyalshing is a beautiful place set in the picturesque Himalayan state of Sikkim. Its main attractions, other than trekking up to Dzongri at the base of the Kanchenjunga, are the two old monasteries of Pemayangtse and Tashiding.

MANGAN

Mangan is the district headquarters of North Sikkim , a place of stunning beauty. The little hamlets with their flower patches, and the water wheels strung with bells set in exquisite miniature gardens more than compensate for the primitiveness of the region.
The region is famous for the Phensong and Phodong Monastery , the latter being considered one of the six main monasteries of Sikkim .

NAMCHI

Namchi , meaning ' sky high ', is nestled among the hills at an elevation of 5,500 ft, commands panoramic view of the snow capped mountains and vast stretch es of valley.

It is also the district head-quarters of south Sikkim . With it's immense potential for all round tourist activities, it is fast developing as a tourist destination.

GANGTOK

Gangtok , the capital of Sikkim since the mid-19th century, sprawls down the west side of a long ridge flanking the Ranipul river. The scenery from this hill town is spectacular and there are excellent views of the entire Kanchenjunga Range from many points within the city. North of Gangtok is the Enchey Gompa and the telecommunication tower. The palace of the former Chogyal, or ruler of Sikkim , and the impressive Royal Chapel are lower down along the ridge. Then there is the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, an Orchid Sanctuary and a large chorten (Tibetan stupa) with an adjoining gompa.

Gangtok is a very popular hill station resort with many fine hotels filled with visitors from all over the country.