Sikkim recently got its first airport which will be operational very soon. This means that you can take a direct flight to Gangtok and explore the wilderness of the state.
Whether you are looking for a break, taking in the extravaganza of nature’s beauty or seeking a fun-filled adventurous holiday, Sikkim will not disappoint you.
Here are 15 reasons why Sikkim should be your next getaway.
1. The picturesque landscape and scenery of the state will take your breath away.
You can also take a ride on the ropeway. The cable ride starts from the Deorali Market and takes you to highest point of Gangtok, Tashiling. Providing you with the bird’s eye view of the Gangtok city and the surrounding Himalayan peaks
2. The towering mountains that soar high above the sky will make you feel on the top of the world.
3. The traditional Sikkimese delicacies cater to the taste buds of any adventurous foodie.
The cuisine of Northeast is quite different than the rest of the country. From momos and Syabhaleys to steaming bowls of Thukpa and Piro Aloo Dum you will get a wide variety of dishes here.
The 9ine Native Cuisine Restaurant, Paris Kalimpong Restaurant and Shuffle Momos Restaurant are a few popular places to eat the best food in Sikkim.
4. It is one of the best places for meditation.
Sikkim is also known as the ‘land of monasteries’. These monasteries are the best places to do some soul searching and indulge in prayers and meditation.
The Rumtek monastery is one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim. It is also a great example of Tibetan architecture.
5. You can indulge in a host of adventure sports that will leave you wanting for more thrill.
From mountain biking and river rafting, to kayaking and paragliding, you can indulge in a plethora of adventure sports while you are in Sikkim.
You can know more about them here.
6. You can treat your eyes to the mesmerising views of the snow clad Mt. Kanchenjunga.
While the entire state offers you stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, you can best view the snow-covered peak from the tiny village of Pelling, 115 km from Gangtok.
7. It hosts the strategic military post of the Indian Army at the Nathu La Pass.
Located at an altitude of 14,500 ft, Nathu La attracts thousands of tourists every year. This pass connect India and China through Tibet. You can see the Indo-China border here after taking special permits.
8. You can witness the enchanting frozen Lake Gurudongmar which is also one of the highest lakes in the world.
The lake remains completely frozen in the winter months, from November to Mid-May. It is equally beautiful during summer months and attracts a lot of tourists.
9. Its only tea garden is also one of the best in India and the world.
Temi Tea Estate is the only tea garden in Sikkim and is known widely for its variety of organic tea plantations.
10. Its splendid mountains offer you ample opportunities to go trekking.
If you love high-altitude trekking, Sikkim is the place for you. There are several trekking routes that will take you through the lush green alpine meadows and snow-covered trails. You can find out more about the treks here.
11. It is the least populous and the cleanest state in India.
Sikkim became India’s first fully organic state apart from being the cleanest in the country and best in education.
12. You can relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot springs.
Sikkim has many hot springs known for their medicinal value. The most important are the ones located at Reshi, Yumthang & Ralang.
13. You can lose yourself amidst the rolling meadows filled with rhododendrons.
You can witness the fantastic spectacle of unique flowers in full bloom on your visit to Yumthang Valley of Flowers. It is a sanctuary with a river, hot springs, yaks surrounded by the Himalayan mountains in Sikkim.
14. You can visit the Khangchendzonga National Park which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Khangchendzonga National Park will enthral you with its unique wildlife and fascinating landscapes which had made it a global biodiversity hotspot. It provides a critical refuge for a range of endemic, rare and threatened species of plants and animals.
15. You can explore the historic places on the Silk Route that connected India and China.
You can stay in Zuluk and cover various places on the Silk Route. Once a transit point to the historic Silk Route from Tibet to India, Zuluk is one of the best offbeat destinations to visit.