A captivating state located on the foothills of eastern Himalayan ridges, Sikkim attracts its visitors with stunning landscapes, rich spirituality, and serene climatic conditions. From the verdant greenery of Yumthang Valley to the sparkling glacial lakes of Lachung, the state is simply a heaven for nature lovers. The state is also home to the third highest mountain in the world, Mt Kanchenjunga which offers a splendid skyline of the Himalayan region. Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim and is among the most visited cities in the region that attracts it visitors with vibrant festivals and energetic nightlife. While the majority of the people follow Buddhism, the state is also home to people from other religions such as Hinduism, Christianity, Islam and others. Apart from natural wonders, Sikkim is also highly popular for a wide range of exciting and adrenaline-rushing activities such as paragliding, cable car rides, trekking and many more attracting adventure seekers throughout the year.
Sikkim boasts a homogeneous blend of numerous tribes and communities with Nepali, Bhutia and Lepchas, being the dominant ones. Although the state has gone through various development and disaster phases, it has still been able to preserve its local culture which helps Sikkim to stand out from the rest of its neighboring states. Dance and music are the part of the culture that is mostly seen during celebrations and festivals. Tourists can also experience the richness of Sikkimese culture with its district cuisine known for its rich flavours and high level of spiciness which can be a challenging task for unfamiliar pallets.
Gangtok is a city that tops the list of every traveller visiting Sikkim. Whether you are a nature lover seeking to explore splendid nature or an adventure enthusiast with a desire to indulge in exciting activities, the city is sure to fill all of your wanderlust. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife attracting the younger generations.
Nestled in the eastern Himalayan ridges with an approximate elevation of 3,500m, Yumthang Valley is a serene mountain. The main highlight of this region is the diverse range of exotic and wildflowers due to which Yumthang is also known as the Valley of Flowers. From blooms to rhododendrons to vibrant poppies, the flower beds offer a unique experience.
With an altitude of over 10,000ft above sea level, Zuluk is among the least explored destinations in Sikkim. The people of Sikkim take huge pride in this region as it was part of the ancient silk route used for trade between India and Tibet. The region is known for its beautiful roads and hairpin bends which makes it one of the best places for bike riders and travellers.
Also named Tso Lhsmo Lake, Gurudongmar is a sacred lake located at an elevation of 17,800ft. The lake is believed to have been graced by the Tibetan saint Guru Padmasambhava due to which some parts of the lake never freeze even in harsh winter and is among the major attractions for Buddhist devotees.
Situated in the west Sikkim, Pelling is a beautiful valley popular for its rich heritage and natural beauty. Home to Pemayangtse monastery, the valley attracts devotees throughout the year. The glass skywalk is also a major highlight that offers a thrilling experience. Apart from this, tourists can also indulge in other major activities such as bike riding, mountain climbing village treks and many others.
Namchi is a beautiful city of Sikkim that offers its visitors a panoramic view of the nearby valleys and glimpses of the Himalayan peak. Located at a distance of 75 km from the city of Gangtok, Namchi is considered to be a pilgrimage centre for Buddhists. The place is also home to a 108ft tall statue of Lord Shiva which has been a major attraction for tourists.
Although tourists can visit Sikkim throughout the year with each offering unique perspectives, March to June is considered to be the best time for exploring the wonders of this Himalayan paradise. Tourists can also visit Sikkim from October to December of winter when the region experiences snowfall. However, it is better to check the weather report as heavy snowfall and rain can lead to prolonged road closures and landslides.