Sikkim is one of the small former Himalayan kingdoms now integrated into India. Sikkim is probably one of the best known, which is due to the famous tea of the same name. Tucked away in the foothills of the Himalayas, Sikkim is a Himalayan wonderland with its lovely views, exotic orchids and its forest-trails. A virtual Shangrila 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.
Buddhism is the predominant religion here, with many fine old monasteries rich with frescoes, religious paintings on silk and statues of the Buddha’s various incarnations. In Gangtok, the delightfully quaint capital, are pagoda like roofs of many buildings and the presence of crimson robed monks in the bazaars. The Institute of Tibetology, the only one of its kind in the world, was set up by the erstwhile ruler to promote research on Mahayana Buddhism, and on the language and traditions of Tibet. Lower down the hill is the famous orchid sanctuary where 500 species of orchids indigenous to Sikkim are cultivated.
Sikkim offers several treks that lead through pine forests, through picturesque valleys, monasteries and to mountain lakes. It is also the base for mountaineering expeditions and the rivers Teesta and Rangeet offer excellent river rafting. For those who wish to experience the lovely surroundings but don't have time to go on an extended trek, the "Local Trek" takes in four villages in four days of moderate walking. Walks to Kechopari lake are also possible.
Prior permission must be sought from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, by all foreigners wishing to visit Sikkim – though travel formalities are being relaxed gradually. Permission may, therefore, be sought from Indian Missions overseas, or from offices of Sikkim Tourism, A number of good hotels and lodging houses exist in Gangtok.
At first glance, Gangtok, Sikkim's bustling capital, is like most Indian cities much noisier and much dirtier than you might care for. A little ways into town, however, the city reflects more of the peace and tranquility you might expect from its picturesque setting in the Himalayan foothills.
Gangtok is a transit hub as well as one of the few places in Sikkim where you can check your e-mail. Most of the tourist-friendly hotels, restaurants, and services run along MG road or Tibet Road. Popular amongst the backpacker set is the clean, friendly Modern Central Lodge on Tibet Road, while those looking for isolation make the steep climb to the government-run Sinolochu Lodge above the city just below the entrance to Enchey Goompa (monastery).
Most people stay in Gangtok for only a day or two on the way to the more picturesque Sikkimese villages of Pelling or Yuksom. Gangtok also has access to the beautiful Rumtek monastery as well as Chaggu/Tsomgo Lake about two hours away by jeep.
Changu or TsomgoLake is a small, sacred lake far above the treeline on the Chinese-Indian border. Because of its sensitive location, a special permit is required to venture to the lake. Foreigners can obtain the permit in a day or two from local tour companies.
The route to the lake winds for hours through high mountain passes and next to sharp cliffs on roads built by the intrepid Border Roads Organization (masters at signage who miss no opportunity for self-promotion along the roadside).
Upon arriving at the lake you will be beset by hordes of competing yak-wallahs, each of whom wants you to part with 10 rupees to be trotted around on a placid, garishly decorated yak. Tea and momos are available from the disturbingly large number of vendors clustered around the otherwise-serene lake.
Although most of the region is off-limits, a brisk hourlong hike to the top of the hill overlooking the lake is the best part of the visit. The views take in not only the lake but much of the Himalayan peaks and valleys surrounding it.
The lake itself freezes during the winter.
The Indian military closes the region to hiking on days when it conducts patrols. Verify with your guide that you will be able to hike around the lake before paying for your trip.
Pelling is the jumping-off point for most trekkers in Sikkim. With easy access to the popular four-day "Local Trek," the village has basic amenities as well as spectacular views. Don't miss the lovely walks and awesome vistas from the nearby monasteries.
Some tourists stay at the Hotel Garuda (which might be mentioned by the hotel's owner here) which gives out a handy trekking map and has a detailed logbook with other travellers' notes. It also boasts the village's best views of Kanchenjanga from its rooftop terrace. The restaurant has a wide and varied menu, including excellent warm Tibetan bread. There are many other places to stay and eat in Pelling, and thus it is recommended to turn to your handy guidebook for more impartial information.
Like all of Sikkim, Pelling is plagued by frequent and unpredictable power cuts, so bring a flashlight.
Wonderful blog about your travel experience to sikkhim.I loved reading your post ,it has great information for the travellers who are planning to travelling to different places.If you dont know how to book tickets then book tickets in Kallada Travels which provides you the conmfortable facilities
We just don’t simply believe in booking trips; we are in this industry since 60 years building ourselves and our expertise in creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences for our clients.We believe, going on travel or expedition is remembered forever and we hence believe that attention to detail and providing the highest level of comfort during travel is of paramount. We ensure to create an experience that will stay with our clients for the rest of their lives.
Pelling Travel Guide[edit this] 
7 comments:
Thanks for this post, Bhutan is really fantastic place. Bhutan is the perfect destination for travelling also for trekking to Bhutan.
Wonderful blog about your travel experience to sikkhim.I loved reading your post ,it has great information for the travellers who are planning to travelling to different places.If you dont know how to book tickets then book tickets in Kallada Travels which provides you the conmfortable facilities
We just don’t simply believe in booking trips; we are in this industry since 60 years building ourselves and our expertise in creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences for our clients.We believe, going on travel or expedition is remembered forever and we hence believe that attention to detail and providing the highest level of comfort during travel is of paramount. We ensure to create an experience that will stay with our clients for the rest of their lives.
Very Nice post and informative too. I would like to visit Sikkim someday and also looking for customised Sikkim tour packages
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