Sikkim maps

 

 

 

SINGHIK : The place offers one of the most spectacular and nearest view points to Mount Kangchendzonga and its ranges. You can also have solo view of Mount Janu which perhaps can be viewed only from this place and from part of Nepal. A well-known tourist wayside accommodation for visitors is also available. The area also has a number of interesting short nature trails for 1 to 3 days along the higher ridges of the surrounding hills.

CHUNGTHANG : Chungthang lies on the confluence of two hilly rivers Lachen and Lachung Chu and the starting point of river Teesta has emerged as a major subdivision settlement in North Sikkim. It is the nodal junction for the two passes Lachen and Lachung. The valley is believed to have been blessed by Guru Rimpoche and one can visit the Holy Guru Ihedu to see the foot and palm left behind by the patron saint. The place, rich in Bio-Diversity with a large variety of orchids, plants & wild life, is 95 kms from Gangtok, 23 kms from Lachung, 29 kms from Lachen, and is predominantly a Lepcha region.

Phoodong Monastery : This monastery is located about a kilometre above the North Sikkim Highway about 40-km away from Gangtok. Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal built the monastery sometime in the first quarter of the 18th century. Lachung : A Bhutia village with a unique local self-governing body called the Zumsa which substitutes the Panchayat. It is located about 25 kms from Yumthang Valley. To get a glimpse of Lachung Monastery you have to come to the opposite slope of the highway.

Lachen : A tourist interesting place in North Sikkim where lies not only the Buddhist monestry, but also the remains of Finish machineries where they came hundreds of years ago to spread Chistianity. Their remains are still found in Lachung. It is also said that the apple plantation has been brought by them in this area.

Yumthang Valley : Some photographs of the natural scenes of Switzerland and Yumthang valley are very hard to distinguish. Yumthang which is at an altitude of 12,000 ft. is situated about 135 km from Gangtok. But the journey there is like travelling in the Garden of Eden. Yumthang is located on a flat valley and is near the tree line, the surrounding mountains seems to kiss the heavens. The route Yumthang from Lachung has a very picturesque landscape and is lined with Rhododendrons and 108 other types of Orchids which bloom in different colours from April to May. "Come as a visitor for a life-time experience." The safari is Ex-Gangtok in the restricted area and hence special permits are required. April and May promise colourful flowers, where as November end to March usually sees snows. Simple village folks spread scarcely admit the virgin landscapes is a food forever. Another peculiar feature of the valley is that, the valley is totally covered with snow during the winter. Hence, while you see the flower bed in summer and snow bed in the winter. A natural hotspring is another attraction of the tourist who are said to have had relief of their skin ailment after having bath there.

Chopta Valley : The Chopta Valley is at an altitude of 13,200 ft. It has breathtaking alpine scenery with lofty snow capped peaks, meandering rivers and alpine flowers that bloom in June-July. It is about 20 minutes drive from Thangu. Gurudongmar Lake is a holy lake at an altitude of over 17,000 ft, it is beyond Chopta and armed with a special permit it is possible to reach the same during a day's excursion ex-Lachen.

Alpine Package Tour : It ( distance : 148 km approx ) will exclusively take you to the carpeted Valley of Flower - Yumthang , at an elevation of 11,800ft , besides covering other parts - Lachung,Lachen , Guru Dogmar Lake , etc . The Valley is also the home for Shingbha Rhododendron Sanctuary with all species of Rhododendrons. Yumthang's "Tsa-Chu" or the hot spring is immensely popular for its curative properties and healing powers.

Day 01 Gangtok to Lachung (Visit Chungthang Monastery , Water falls, Lachung typical village) Day 02 Lachung to Yumthang and return to Lachung (Including Hot Spring, Lachung Monastery, Singba Rhododendron forest , Yumthang valley) Day 03 Lachung to Lachen (Including Lachen monastery, Lachen typical village) Day 04 Lachen to Thangu and return to Lachen (Including Thangu valley) Day 05 Lachen to Gangtok (Including Labrang monastery, Phodong Monastery, Singhik view point)

1 night/2 days - Gangtok/Lachung/yumthang tour Day 01 Gangtok to Lachung. Lachung hault Day 02 Lachung to Yumthang explore valley then drive back to Gangtok

2 nights/3 days - Gangtok/Lachung/Yumthang tour Day 01 Gangtok to Lachung, Lachung Hault Day 02 Lachung to Yumthang then drive back to Lachung Hault at Lachung Day 03 Lachung to Gangtok

3 nights/4 days - Gangtok/Lachen/Lachung/G.Lake/Yumthang tour Day 01 Gangtok to Lachen, Lachen Hault. Day 02 Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake then drive to Lachung via Lachen & Hault at Lachung. Day 03 Lachung to Yumthang & drive back to Lachung Hault at Lachung. Day 04 Lachung to Gangtok

2 night/3 days - Gurudongmar Lake & Yumthang Valley Tour Day 01 Gangtok to Lachen Hault at Lachen. Day 02 Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake & drive to Lachung Hault Lachung. Day 03 Lachung to Yumthang & Drive back to Gangtok.

Pax 1 N/ 2 D (Gangtok,Lachung & Yumthang) 2 N/3 D (Gangtok,Lachung & Yumthang) 2 N/3 D (Gangtok, Lachung, Lachen, Yumthang, Thangu & Chopta valley) 3 N/4D (Gangtok, Chopta, Lachen, Lachung, Yumthang & Thangu)   2 to 3 Pax 8500/- 11300/- 14500/- 16900/- 4 to 5 Pax 9500/- 12500/- 15200/- 17800/- 6 to 7 Pax 10000/- 13700/- 16800/- 19800/- 8 to 10 Pax 11000/- 14800/- 17500/- 22500/- Note: - Gurudongmar Lake, Katao & Yumusamdong are not included in Above rates Above rate are net payable to us Drivers Extra Point Katao                         : 1800/- full car Yumusamdong        : 1800/- full car Gurudongmar lake : 2500/- Full car Extra Vehgicle         : For 1 Night  / 2 days  4000/-                                   2 Nights / 3 days  5000/-                                   3 Nights / 4 days  7500/-

 

 

Pemayangtse Monastery : It is the oldest monastery of Sikkim established by Lhatsun Chempo. It belongs to the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is located at hill top of 6840 ft. Originally it was established as a high class monastery for "Pure Monks". From the monastery one can have a panoramic view of Himalayas. It is a monastery of wooden structure. Rabdentse Ruins : It was the second capital of erstwhile kingdom of Sikkim after Yuksom and till the year 1814 A.D., the King of Sikkim had ruled the State from this place. The scenic view from the top of the ruins scanning across deep valley. To the mystic heights of Kanchendzonga ranges is something to be cherished and etched in memory.

Pelling : Pelling is fast growing urban settlement situated at an altitude of 6800 ft. It offers a good view of the entire mountain ranges and due to its locational advantages many hotels and lodges have mushroomed in and around Pelling offering various categories of accommodation facilities. We arrange jeep transport from gGangtok to pelling which is a journey of 5 hours maximum.

Sanga-Choling Monastery : This Monastery is situated on a ridge above Pelling and the famous Pemayangtse Monastery. Built in 1697 A.D., it is considered as one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. In order to reach this Monastery, one has to be prepared to spend at least 40 minutes walking up the steep hilly slope which leads through rich forest covers.

Khecheopalri Lake : Khecheopalri lake is considered as one of the sacred lakes of this state both by the Buddhist and the Hindus. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover. It is believed that the birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface. There is a motorable road from Pemayangtse right up to the lake area. We arrange accomodation for those desiring to spend a night or two at this peaceful environment.

Yuksom: This was the first capital of Sikkim where the first chogyal kingodm of Sikkim was coronated in 1641 AD by three learned Lamas. The evidence of coronation is still intact at Norbugang Chorten. Dudbi Monastery : This monastery was established soon after the coronation ceremony of first Chogyal. A trek of 35 mins through step slope will take you to this monastery. It is an ideal place for meditational recluse. Tashiding Monastery : According to Buddhist scripture, Guru Padma Sambhava (Guru Rimpocha) blessed the sacred land of Sikkim in 8th century from here. A Monastery was built there in 18th century AD. Tashiding has a holy chorten and it is famous for 'Bhumchu' festival i.e., sacred water festival after every three years.

Varshay : It is located at 10,000 ft altitude. A motorable road connects upto Hilley and then an easy 4 km trek takes you upto Varshay Rhododendron Sanctuary.   7 Nights / 8 Days - Sikkim Darjeeling Package Day 01 Kolkata arrival and transfer to train from NJP/siliguri transfer to Darjeeling Hotel. Day 02 Early morning sunrise at Tiger Hill and full day sight-seeing. Day 03 Darjeeling to Pemayangtse. Day 04 Pemayangtse sight-seeing and transfer to Yuksom. Day 05 Yuksom village walks and sight-seeing. Day 06 Yuksom to Ravangla via Teemi tea garden. Day 07 Ravangla to Ralang monastery, Mainam peak and back. Day 08 Depart from Ravangla for NJP. 4 Nights / 5 Days - West Sikkim Package Day 01 pickup from Gangtok,Njp or Bagdogra & transfer to Pelling. Night hault. Day 02 Explore Pelling sight seeing 8.00am to 1.00pm (First Half) - Rimbi Water Falls, Rimbi Power Project, Kanchenzonga Water Falls & Kechopari Lake. 2.00pm to 5.30pm (Second Half) - Pemayantse Monastry or Sanga Choling Monastry, Chongay Water Falls, Singshore Bridge (World second highest hanging Bridge), & Dentam Valley then drive back to Pelling for night hault. Day 03 Pelling to Yuksum. Nighjt hault. Day 04 Explore yuksum sight seeing Fambong Water Falls, Kartheke Lake, Norbu Gang Stupa, Coronation throne, Rabdentse Ruins, Tashiding Monastry, & Dubdi Monastry. Day 05 Yuksum to Gangtok,Ravongla,Njp or Bagdogra as you like

Gangtok : Gangtok is the capital of the state of Sikkim, situated at an altitude of 5,800 feet. Being the capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is geared to provide all modern facilities promising of the best monasteries and landscapes. Rumtek Monastery & Dharma Chakra Centre : The largest monastery of Eastern Himalayas, located 24 kilometers from Gangtok and about an hour drive. It was constructed by His Holiness the late 16th Gyalwa Karmapa in 1960. It is believed that the monastery is an excellent replica of the original Kagyurpa Monastery in Tsurphu, Tibet. Traditional in design, it is almost a replica of the original Kagyu Headquarters in Tibet. It has over 300 centres overseas. Tsomgo Lake : The literal meaning of TSOMGO is the source of the lake in Bhutia language. TSO means lake and MGO means head. This unforgettable lake is located at an altitude of 3780m. A 40 km drive from Gangtok will take you to the lake. The lake is about 1 km long. Oval in shape, 15 mtr deep and is considered extremely sacred by the local people. You can see water in the lake from May to October. The lake remains frozen between November and May. One can have an experience of Rhododendrons, Primulas, Red Pandas, Blue and Yellow Poppies. A Yak Safari is also possible there. Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology, (SRIT) : It is a treasure house of rare Tibetan, Sanskrit & Lepcha Manuscript, Statues, Thankas, more than 200 Buddhist Icon. It is a renowned centre for the study of Buddhist philosophy and religion. Government Institute of Cottage Industries, (GICI) : It is located at about a kilometre uphill from the main market of Gangtok. It was established, in 1957 with the purpose of promoting the manufacture and sell of local handicrafts, carpets and furniture. Apart from the shops, there is a small display of the craftwork on the ground floor of the tourist office, which is worth a visit. It helps to preserve traditional art and craft producing cottage crafts of authentic Sikkimese designs and promotes and teaches the ancient crafts of Sikkim (like painting, mask making, weaving, wood carving), to keep them alive. It was started during the time of the Chogyals of Sikkim, as a venture to protect and propagate the craft and skills of local and village artisans. Timing : Monday to Saturday from 9.30 a.m. - 12.30 and 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. (Sales Emporium remains open throughout the year) Tashi View Point : Situated along the North Sikkim Highway, it is only 8 kms from Gangtok. Sunrise Point from here you could have a view of Khangchendzonga and Mt. Siniolchu, one of the most graceful peaks in the world. One can have an experience of the changes of colour of snow of mountain there. White Hall Complex : The White Hall only has historical value and is situated on the Ridge. It is a two storeyed structure and has typical British architecture and was built in 1932. Till the 1960s, all important functions used to be held in this hall. It is so called not because it is painted white but because it was built in memory of the first Political Officer of Sikkim, Claude who is amous fornururing a unique orchid garden. Ganesh Tok: It is situated on a ridge and is only 7 kms from Gangtok. From this spot one gets bird's eye view of sprawling Gangtok town down below, while across the hills like Mt. Khangchendzonga and Mt. Siniochu loom over the horizon. Hanuman Tok : It is 11 kms away from Gangtok town, above Ganesh Tok with a Hindu Temple where the devotees come and offer prayers. Because of its locational advantage the view of the mountains along with the horizon is just magnificent, especially in a sunny clear morning. Enchey Monastery : An important seat of the Nyingma border, the Enchey Monastery is built on the site blessed by Lama Druptob Karpo, a tantric master known for his power of flying. This 200-year-old Monastery has in its premises images of Gods, Goddesses and other religious objects. Every year around January 'Chaam' or religious masked dance is performed with great fanfare for two days. It is situated adjoining the Siniolhu Tourist Lodge, 3 kms from Gangtok town. Do-Drul Chorten (Stupa) : Built in 1945. Inside Chorten there are complete mandals sets of Darjee Phurba a set of Kangyar relics (Holy books), complete Zung (mantras) etc. Around this Chorten which is one of the most important Stupas in Sikkim, are 108 Mani-Lhakor (Prayer wheels). Saramsa Garden : About 14 kms from Gangtok is the Saramsa Garden, the home of Sikkim's many exotic orchids and other rare tropical and temperate plants. Established and maintained by the Department of Forest, it is an excellent recreation and picnic spot and a leisure spot. Fambong La Wild Life Sanctuary (WLS) : This Wild Life Sanctuary is located at a distance of 25 kms from Gangtok and has an area of 51.76 sq. km. The main vegetation is Oak, Katus, Kimbu, Champ, Bamboo, Wild orchids, Rhododendrons etc. The best season for visit is between October and April. Deer Park : This park provides a commanding view of the expansive valleys surrounding the city of Gangtok. The charming Himalayan spotted and musk deer may be seen here. It is a heaven for nature lovers. One can view the Red Panda and fleet footed deer in their natural habitat. It is maintained by the Forest Department and is not a part of city-town. Quite often travellers on the highway can see through the wire netting, little groups of deer. Visitors can take a ride inside the park sitting inside a van and get quite close to the deer, but then a small amount of fee is collected if one goes in by van or car. As such there is no entry fee. They can climb a tower and look at the animals. Timings: 9 a.m to 5.30 p.m, daily except Monday. Safari rides 9.30 a.m to 5.00 p.m. 3 nights/4 days - Gangtok Tour Day 01 Pickup from Njp or Bagdogra & drive to Gangtok. Day 02 Visit Gangtok Local sight seeing Morning Points 5.00 to 8.00am Tashi View Point / Burtuk Water Falls, Hanuman Tok & Ganesh Tok. Day Points 9.30 to 2.30pm Rumtek Monastery & Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden / Shanti View point, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology NIT), Do-Drul Chorten, Golden Stupa, Hur-Huray Dara (Nam-Nam,Flower Show, & Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom. Drive back to gangtok for night hault. Day 03 Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mindir & Nathula & drive back to Gangtok. Day 04 Gangtok to North Sikkim, west Sikkim, South Sikkim, Njp or Bagdogra as you like.

Namchi : Namchi meaning Sky High. It is located at 5500 ft. altitude, commands a panoramic view of snow capped mountains. It is also Head-Quarter of the South Sikkim. It is about 78 kms from Gangtok and 100 kms from Siliguri. Tendong Hill : It is situated at 8530 ft. altitude. It is a place of recluse for Buddhist lamas. It is associated with the legends of Lepcha. Temi Tea Garden : Only tea estate of the Sikkim where one can see tea plantation, cultivation, production, processing and testing as well. Ravangla : Ravangla(7000 ft), saddled on the ridge between the Menam(10800 ft) and Tendong (8500 ft) peaks, is the Subdivisional Headquarters of the South Sikkim. Situated on the state highway between Gangtok and Pelling / Pemayangtse, Ravangla town and the surrounding villages are ideal destination to experience the rich cultural & natural heritage of Sikkim. It is famous for its scenic beauty, which is a combination of green forest, rocky and snowy mountain. Menam Hill : It is situated at a 10,300 ft. altitude. On a clear sunny day from here, it is possible to see the plains of Bengal, Kalimpong and Darjeeling hills and Indo-China border. Borong : A small typical Sikkim Village with a picturesque of paradise. There is a hot spring which is known as 'Borong-Tisa-Chu'. 4 nights/5 days - South Sikkim Tour Day 01 Pickup from Njp, Bagdogra or Gangtok & transfer to Ravongla. Overnight at Ravongla. Day 02 Explore Ravongla sightseeing i.e. Samdruptse( world highest statue of Guru Padmasambhava), Rock Garden, Ralong monastery, Bon monastery, & tea garden. Then drive back to Ravongla for night hault. Day 03 Visit Borong village & Borong hot spring 1 hour walk from road. then drive back to ravongla for night hault. Day 04 Treak up to tendong hill & menamla hill. Day 05 Ravongla to Gantok,Njp or Bagdogra as you like.

 

Gangtok Topography Total Area 954 sq kms Altitude 5,500 ft. Temperature Summer : Max 28°C Min 13.1°C Winter   : Max 18°C Min 05.3°C Population 2,50,000 appx Annual Rainfall 3,894 mm Best Season March to late May & October to December Clothing Summer : Light Wollens Winter   : Heavy Wollens

Gangtok, the "Lofty Hill" capital of Sikkim, lies at an altitude 1600 meters and is occupied on the west side by Ranipool River. Gangtok has a very spectacular setting and offers excellent views of the entire Kanchenjunga range from various points in its vicinity. Sraddling a ridge, Gangtok has a cosmopolitian flavour with a lively mix cultures and has undergone rapid modernization in the last two decades or so. Being the capital of state, Gangtok contains all modern facilities. There are good schools, a railway out agency, an Indian Airlines Counter, cinema halls, well-equipped hospital, fast food centers and telephone booths for making outstation calls and sending faxes.

The Private Bus Terminus and the Main Taxi Stand are located half a minute walk from the Tourist Information Centre and the main market on the M. G. Marg. The Govt. Buses are run by Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT). The Terminus is located about 5 minutes walk away from the M. G. Marg. An imposing manmade landmark of Gangtok is the 60ms high TV tower, which overlooks the town and is situated near the Enchey Monastery below Ganesh Tok. The Main market, which has hotels, restaurants, curio, garment, footwear and grocery shops lines the flat M. G. Marg.

Getting in, Around & Away AIR : Gangtok does not have an airport, but the Bagdogra (124 kms from Gangtok) airfield serves it. RAIL : The nearest railhead is at NJP, which is 125-km (about 4 hours drive) from Gangtok. NJP is well connected with all major cities of India. Gangtok, railway bookings can be made at the booking counter of the Sikkim nationalised transport terminus. Road: Most of the major places of North Bengal are connectd with it by the national highway 31A. The language used for communication is Nepali. However everybody seems to know a smattering of Hindi. Written Official correspondences take place in English. Indian tourists require no entry permits into Sikkim, except for the restricted areas. Foreign tourists require a special permit, which is easily available at all Indian missions abroad who are authorized to issue a 15-day permit. The same can also be obtained from any of the Sikkim Tourism offices. The tourist officer at the border town of Rangpo is also authorized to issue a 2-day permit to foreign tourists to enable them to enter the state and acquire the full 15-day permit.

Communities, Culture, Religions and Customs of different hues intermingle freely here in Sikkim to constitute a homogeneous blend. The "ruling" family is of Tibetan origin. Sikkim was a dependency of Tibet until the British Government in India established its protectorate in 1890. In 1974 Sikkim was merged with India, and became India's 22d state. Sikkim is statistically the safest state in India. Lowest property crime rate, bodily harm rate. Due to China  Border proximity, there is a huge army presence which gives mixed benefits of many non-native persons not respecting local traditions, but also economic advantage to small shops and public projects especially roads. The people of Sikkim are simple and friendly with natural gaiety. The customs and rituals of Sikkim are as diverse as the ethnic that inhabit the land. The predominant communities are the LEPCHAS, BHUTIAS, NEPALESE and smaller proportions of LIMBUS. All communities live in perfect harmony sharing each other's culture, ethos, and traditions with the result there is now a Sikkimese culture, which is composite of all the three prominent communities. Most of the people speak Nepali, which is also the state language. It is the harmony of the place that provides justification to the name of the state derived form "Sukhim", meaning "happy home, a place of peace". The Sikkimese culture finds expression in it's beautiful art and craft. Knotted woollen carpets with the dominating dragon emblem, and eight auspicious signs; wood carvings, Lepcha handlooms in traditional designs and rich colours for clothes, bags, linen and accessories; leather jackets and handbags, articles of homemade paper, Thanka (religious scroll paintings) and Sikkimese Dragon Jewellery make a fascinating collection of handicrafts, inspired by an age old culture. Those who have lived in Sikkim long enough will testify that life here is, in a sense, an ongoing festival. Life in Sikkim, like in the rest of India, is rooted firmly in religion. Everything a person does is related to his faith. His daily life is governed by the patterns and customs of his religion. The majestic Mount Khangchendzonga- earth's third highest mountain range, plays a dominant role in the Sikkimese life. For those visiting Sikkim, the festivals of this place, offer a unique opportunity to participate and sample the rich traditions of an ancient culture; as well as the warmth and hospitality of a friendly people. The people of Sikkim love to celebrate. Be it the chasing away of the evil spirit or the celebrations on the occasion of the New Year, the Sikkimese do it all with a gay abandon. And if you're fortunate you could persuade the Sikkimese to offer you 'Chaang' a preparation from fermented millet. The drink is served to you in hollow bamboo pipe. There is an incessant row of festivities in Sikkim. Buddhism and Hinduism, are the main religions, as is exhibited in many of the celebrations. The traditions of the Lapchas display rich cultural heritage. Enchey, Phoodong, Lachung, Pemayangtse, Tsuklakhang, and Rumtek are some of the beautiful monasteries where festivals are held. Pang Lhabsol, Drukpa Tseshi, Losoong, Saga Dawa and Dusain are the main festivals. Buddhism has been practiced in true sense on Sikkim. People visit the monastery to interact with the Buddhist monks to know more about Buddhist cult.