Sikkim is a tiny Indian state nestled in the mighty Himalayas. Where you get to experience nature in all its pristine glory. Blessed with lush forests, snow-covered peaks and clean mountain air, Sikkim is a traveler’s joy with its unique culture. When you visit this mountain paradise, be sure to include the following in your itinerary:
Trekking:
Kangchenjunga Pic courtesy: en.Wikipedia.org/Ashinpt
With its rugged mountains, Sikkim offers some spectacular trekking options. The majestic Mt. Kangchenjunga is the world’s third highes peak. Start from Yuksom and trek all the way to the Dzongri peak. You traverse through unspoiled mountainous terrain, rivers and rhododendron valleys. It is an experience of a lifetime. Catch some spectacular views in the process.
Monasteries:
Rumtek Monastery Pic courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Indrajitdasin
With its Buddhist heritage, Sikkim is home to some lovely monasteries. Rumtek Monastery in particular is very famous. It has a great collection of precious artefacts, statues and other paraphernalia. Pemayangtse and Tashiding are other frequented monasteries.
Tsongmo Lake:
Tsongmo Lake Pic courtesy: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Indrajitdasin
This is a glacier lake at a height of 3780 m. It is frozen in winters. It offers some spellbinding views of the valley. A 2-hour drive from Gangtok will take you to this delightful lake. Go in spring or autumn to enjoy the thawed lake with frozen portions. Quaint little stalls serve hot tea and momos. Do not miss out on the yak ride here.
River rafting down Teesta river:
Teesta river offers some breathtaking opportunities for river rafting. It has Level 2 and Level 4 rapids interspersed with placid stretches. Do try rafting or kayaking. It is an incredible experience.
River rafting on Teesta river. Pic courtesy: Wikipedia.org
Sikkim’s way of life:
Temi Tea Garden Pic courtesy: Wikipedia.org http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Donvikro
Sikkim is the first state in India to go organic. Whether it is information about organic practices or organic produce, this is your go-to place. Sikkim also has its own tea growing region in Temi in South Sikkim. So explore the tea gardens and get your own sip of the world-famous brew right where it originates. Try the simple life of Sikkim, explore its cuisine and also explore the capital, Gangtok. It is a lovely city which offers opportunities of street food, shopping and nightlife.
Reference Links:
http://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/sikkim/travel-tips-and-articles/top-15-travel-experiences-in-sikkim-india
